Attractions

Al Ain Central Market

This is the last souk of its kind in the UAE and is an excellent opportunity to see camels up close, and to see and hear the traders discussing the price and merits of their animals. There are some excellent photo opportunities, but be careful where you point your lens and always ask permission first. In the livestock section, watch locals arrive in pickups laden with goats and sheep, ready to do some hard bargaining. Be prepared to be the object of a certain amount of curiosity, and try not to become too upset with the rough treatment of livestock.

 I


n the heart of the city, this impressive oasis is filled with palm plantations, many of which are still working farms. The cool, shady walkways transport you from the heat and noise of the city to a tranquil haven – all you’ll hear is birdsong and the rustle of the palm fronds. Picnic tables are available at the main entrance to the oasis, and there is a restaurant in the centre of the plantation. You are welcome to wander through the plantations, but it’s best to stick to the paved areas, which will take you on a relaxing meander through the trees. Farms occasionally have signs welcoming tourists to walk around. The farms have plenty of working examples of the falaj, the UAE’s traditional irrigation system, which has been used for centuries to tap into underground wells. There are eight different entrances, some of which have arched gates, and entry is free.

Al Jahili Fort

 

The picturesque Al Jahili Fort is one of the UAE’s most historic forts and is the birthplace of the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan. It was erected in 1891 to defend the city and protect precious palm groves. The former headquarters of the Oman Trucial Scouts, the force that protected the mountain passes and kept inter-tribal peace, it also served as a residence for the local governor. It is set in beautifully landscaped gardens, and visitors are encouraged to explore it. It has been carefully restored and now houses a permanent exhibition of the work of British adventurer Sir Wilfred Thesiger (whom the locals affectionately refer to as Mubarak Bin London) and his 1940s crossings of the Rub Al Khali (The Empty Quarter) desert.

Nr Public Garden, close to centre of town

Al Ain Wildlife Park & Resort

This is home to over 4,000 animals; at least 30% of its 180 species are considered endangered. Conservation efforts have been strengthened by partnerships with San Diego Zoo, the Fairchild Tropical Botanical Garden in Miami, and the World Association of Zoos & Aquariums. The park covers 900 hectares near the base of Jebel Hafeet. Visitors can see the large animal collection in enclosures that resemble their natural habitats as closely as possible. Giraffes, zebras and rhinoceroses co-exist in the mixed African exhibit, while wildlife typical of the local region, such as the indigenous Arabian Oryx and sand gazelle also share a habitat. There are plenty of green public spaces ideal for picnics and also playgrounds, a cafeteria and a train tour of the wildlife area.

In summer, the park is also open nightly from 4pm - 10pm, with a special bird show at 7.30pm.

Nr Traffic Police, Jebel Hafeet

Green Mubazzarah Hot Springs

 

At the bottom of Jebel Hafeet, Abu Dhabi’s highest peak, lies one of the UAE’s most surprising sights. Green Mubazzarah is a park of undulating rocky terrain that has been landscaped, giving the impression of rolling grassy hillsides with streams, hot springs and waterfalls. Accommodation is available in chalets. Advance reservations are taken.

Nr the base of Jebel Hafeet, Tel : +971 3 783 9555

Just 10 kilometres outside Al Ain (on the road to Dubai) are the Hili Archaeological Gardens. Combining both a public garden and the archaeological site, this is a popular place for tourists and residents alike. The archaeological site has remnants of a Bronze Age settlement (2,500-2,000 BC), which was excavated and restored in 1995. It is the source of some of the richest finds in the area, many of which are believed to be over 4,000 years old. There are other archaeological structures around the park, but it is chiefly a garden with plants, fountains, and a small children’s play area. Hili is near Fossil Valley, an area rich in a variety of fossils dating back many thousands of years to when it was covered by sea.

Mohammed Bin Khalifa St

Hili Fun City

 

 

This flagship family entertainment destination has been a firm favorite since opening in 1985 when it became the Gulf’s first theme park. Recently renovated, the expansive park now boasts 28 attractions for all ages, with roller coasters and rides such as Twister Mountain, Hili Swinger, Circus Train and Lighthouse a family show amphitheatre for 1,400 people, and beautiful landscaped gardens with picnic and play areas. 

Timings:                        

Entrance fee gives entrance to the Theme Park plus unlimited access to 25 attractions.

Tel: +971 3 784 5542

hilifuncity.ae

 

 

 Jebel Hafeet

 

 

This towering rocky height, which stands guard over Al Ain and borders Oman, is forged out of craggy limestone that has been weathered over millions of years. Significant fossil discoveries have been made in the area, which are vital pieces in the jigsaw of the city’s ancient history. Over 500 ancient burial tombs dating back 5,000 years have also been found in the foothills of Jebel Hafeet. Jebel Hafeet, rising 1,240 metres, is the UAE’s second highest peak. You can drive, or if you have the stamina, cycle to the top via a winding highway, which edmunds.com (the automotive information online source) described as “among the world’s greatest driving roads.” Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with magnificent views over Al Ain, where you can take a break at the Mercure Jebel Hafeet hotel near the mountain’s peak.

 

PARKS & GARDENS

Al Ain Ladies Park

Commonly known as Basra Park, this quiet and attractive garden is for women and children only (boys under the age of 10). If you are looking for somewhere to sit and enjoy the peace, there are plenty of benches under the shady trees. Play areas with swings, slides and climbing frames are sure to keep the kids busy. A dry wadi, crossed by wooden bridges, runs through the middle of the park and there is also a small snack bar to satisfy the day’s cravings.

Zayed Al Awwal St

 

 

Al Ain Paradise Garden

Created in only 90 days to commemorate the spring season, the Al Ain Paradise

Garden’s other claim to fame is the world record for the most hanging flower baskets (a total of 2,500).

 

alainparadise.com

 

Al Ain Public Garden

The main park in Al Ain, this is a tranquil spot amid the hustle and bustle. Walkways meander under shady trees, fountains are attractively lit at night and areas for younger children have a variety of play equipment. For the older kids, there’s a small amusement arcade tucked away near the back entrance. Zayed Bin Sultan St

Tel : +971 3  708 4832

 

Silmi Garden

Silmi Garden is a popular spot with locals. Like all other parks in Al Ain, it is well cared for with plenty of trees, shrubs, flowers, fountains and a play area with swings and slides. Unfortunately you have to park on the street and all the signs are in Arabic. Even if you are unfamiliar with Arabic, the park is quite easy to find, especially at night as the walls are lit with multi-coloured lights. Mohammed Bin Khalifa St

 

 

HERITAGE

Al Ain National Museum

On the edge of Al Ain Oasis, this museum was opened in 1971, and is the showcase for the city’s unique heritage and history. It is housed in the same compound as the Sultan Bin Zayed Fort (also known as the Eastern Fort), which was built in 1910 and is very well preserved. Divided into three main sections – archaeology, ethnography and gifts – its presentations illustrate various aspects of life in the UAE and include an interesting selection of photographs, as well as Bedouin jewellery, musical instruments, weapons, and a reconstruction of a traditional majlis. The archaeology displays are extensive, and include many artefacts from the nearby Hili Gardens so it is helpful to visit the museum before the gardens. Some of the displays, such as the one from Garn Bint Saud (12 kilometres north of Hili), date back to the first millennium BC. The gifts section houses an unusual collection of gifts that Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan received during his lifetime. It includes golden swords, silver daggers and a golden palm tree, among others. The labelling on all displays is in English and Arabic.

 

Opening

 

8am - 7.30pm every day

3pm-5.30pm on Friday

Closed on Monday

Nr Al Ain Oasis

Tel : +971 3 764 1595

Al Ain Palace Museum

The Al Ain Palace Museum (also known as the Qasr Al Ain Museum) is near the commercial area on the road to Sinaiyya. Built in 1910, the museum was once the home of the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan and was also a hub of the city’s political life. The palace was turned into a museum in 1998 and now holds a large collection of material concerning the ruling family. The museum is open from 8.30am – 7.30pm Tuesday to Sunday and between 2.30pm - 7.30pm on Friday. Al Ain St

Tel : + 971 3 751 7755

aam.gov.ae

 

Al Ain University Natural History Museum

For those interested in the UAE’s flora and fauna, this museum is a small but informative centre run by the university. It includes a herbarium and collections of various species of animals and birds. A collection of rocks, minerals and fossils is also on display.

Muraijib Fort

Built in 1816, Muraijib Fort is the oldest in Al Ain. It is on Al Jimi Street and its restored remains are within beautifully landscaped gardens, which are reserved for women and children. Al Jimi Street

 

SPORTS & RECREATION

Al Ain’s greatest asset is its beautiful setting. Nearly all of the activities available in the Oasis City capitalise on the unique beauty of its surroundings.

Al Ain Sportplex

Aside from motorsports, cricket, soccer, paintball and other attractions, the Al Ain Sportplex is home to the 1.4km Al Ain Raceway go-karting track - the largest of its kind in the Middle

East. Kattam Al Shaklah Street

Tel : + 971 3 768 8888

 

Go-Karting

The state-of-the-art Al Ain Raceway is ranked as one of the world’s top three go-karting tracks and is host to major international events such as the Rotax Max Challenge Grand Finals, the biggest annual event on the global karting calendar. The fully floodlit circuit features three distinctive configurations, providing an exhilarating challenge for drivers of all abilities. Open to the public, drivers can hone their skills on top-of-the-line Intrepid brand rental karts. The Al Ain Raceway also boasts a restaurant, shisha lounge and meeting rooms equipped with the latest technology and is an ideal venue for team-building and corporate events. Exclusive use of the circuit needs to be booked in advance. Al Ain Sportplex

Kattam Al Shaklah Street 03 768 6662, alainraceway.com

 

GOLF

Al Ain Golf Club

Near the InterContinental Hotel, this club boasts an 18-hole sand course, a clubhouse and a floodlit driving range. Handicaps gained here are valid internationally. Visitors are welcome, but should phone ahead.

Nr InterContinental Al Ain Resort

Tel : + 971 3 768 6808
aagc0071@yahoo.com

 

Hilton Al Ain Golf Club

This par three course has an average distance of about 80 yards between each hole and, although short in length, it can play tough. The course has nearly 30 bunkers and very small quick greens. It is open to nonmembers, and lessons are available. Hilton Al Ain

Palm Sports Resort

This has an 18-hole, all-grass golf course under the shadow of Jebel Hafeet, first-class equestrian facilities and a stunning clubhouse with an excellent restaurant. Signposted from the ‘Horse Roundabout.’

Tel : +971 3 768 4888

HIKING

The areas surrounding Al Ain are perfect for day hikes or long walks. The plantations scattered around the city provide gorgeous, shaded settings for long walks and quiet picnics. More experienced hikers shouldn’t miss the Hanging Gardens hike, which showcases some of the most unusual and unexpected rock formations and plant life in the country.

Horse Riding and Racing:

The Palm Sports Resort has excellent facilities for the equestrian. Whether it’s learning to ride, looking to take part in competitions or be a spectator at regular races, this is the resort for you.

MALLS

Al Ain Mall

Al Jimi Mall

Al Jimi offers hundreds of shopping options in over 70 shops, including Womens’ Secret, Early Learning Centre, Nine West, Areej and Body Shop.

Bawadi Mall

The largest mall in Al Ain, Bawadi Mall has over 400 shops, representing both international and regional brands, and a range of high street and designer names, a food court and many casual dining outlets. Family entertainment includes a ski village, rollercoaster, an eight-screen cinema and a bowling alley. The Heritage Village features beautiful Islamic architecture and shops selling classic souvenirs like gold, carpets and handicrafts in a traditional souk environment. There are also two outdoor markets, Bawadi and Al Qaws (see below).

Emirates Commercial Complex

Nearly 50 shops line the pavements of this mixed-use complex that is particularly handy if you’re looking for souvenirs. One of the most popular outlets is Odel Style, where you can buy fabrics and ready-made garments with a distinct Arabian feel.

Safeer Mall

Revolving around the popular supermarket of the same name, Safeer Mall is on the way to Hili Archaeological Park. There are plenty of clothing and accessory shops to satisfy every shopper.

Tel : +971 3 763 3215

AL AIN SOUKS

Al Ain Souk

Also known as the Central or Old Souk, this is a great place to explore, savour the local atmosphere and practise your bargaining skills. The souk itself is a rather ramshackle affair but it is certainly different from many of the modern, air-conditioned markets found elsewhere.

Muwajei Souk

This modern souk is a long strip of handy shops, including big guns like Choithram, Shoe Mart and The Body Shop. There is also a bakery, a baby shop, a butcher’s and a toy shop – even more outlets can be found across the road.

Souk Al Bawadi & Souk Al Qaws

Souq Al Zafarana

This is a jewel of a find which reflects true Emirati culture and tradition while being new. Whether you’re looking for abayas (ladies outer garment) or kanduras (men’s white flowing garment), incense or spices, henna or ouds, dallah (Arabian coffee pots) this is the marketplace for you. This is the new home of Al Ain’s old souk and features Mubdia Village, a section exclusively for women that is staffed by female shopkeepers. It's the place to get traditional souvenirs and watch the Emiratis bargain. Open 10am - 1pm and 8pm until midnight.

Round the corner from Al Jimi Mall

Tel : +971 3 762 1868