The city of Al Ain is about a two-hour drive from Abu Dhabi and an hour and a half from Dubai. According to 800zipcodes, Al Ain is part of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi and is the second largest city within this emirate after Abu Dhabi. Most travelers arrive via Abu Dhabi, Dubai or fly directly to Al Ain International Airport. There are several taxis and buses at the airport to take you to your destination. Al Ain is a special destination, also known as ‘Garden City’. The green character of the city is very striking in the generally dry and arid desert environment of the United Arab Emirates. Born in Al Ain, former ruling Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan was a man of clear vision. As the first president and thus founder of the UAE, he was able to give the country and the cities a good start. As a city, it has managed to distinguish itself with beautiful green and fertile hills, hot springs, beautiful parks and archaeological sites of which people are very proud. Culture still plays a very important role, but modernization is also given sufficient space. Al Ain is therefore truly a destination where past and present are harmoniously displayed. Culture still plays a very important role, but modernization is also given sufficient space. Al Ain is therefore truly a destination where past and present are harmoniously displayed. Culture still plays a very important role, but modernization is also given sufficient space. Al Ain is therefore truly a destination where past and present are harmoniously displayed.
Do you want to visit Al Ain in one day? Via Ticketbar you can already book a one – day excursion to Al Ain.
Top 10 sights of A l Ain
#1. Jebel Hafeet
The Jebel Hafeet mountain is largely located in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi and partly on the border with neighboring Oman. This part of Al Ain is frequently visited for the hot springs of Green Mubazzarah and the amazing view from Jebel Hafeet mountain. It is possible to reach the top by car. Are you looking for a little more challenge? Then you can also make the trip by bicycle. Various archaeological finds have also been made in the mountainous landscape of Jebel Hafeet.
#2. Al Ain National Museum
East of Al Ain Oasis, is the National Museum. The museum was founded in 1971 by Sheikh Zayed. All kinds of archaeological finds from the region of Al Ain are exhibited here. The museum includes objects from the Bronze and Iron Ages. In addition, there is also an ethnographic department with various objects such as jewelry, clothing, make-up and other objects from traditional Bedouin tribes. An interesting museum where you get more insight into the history, life and culture around the region of Al Ain. The museum is closed on Mondays.
#3. Sheikh Zayed Palace Museum
The former palace ‘Qasr al-Ain’ of Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, now serves as a museum. Around 1910 the palace was built where the sheikh lived until 1966. It was then turned into a museum in 1998. In the Sheik Zayed Palace Museum you can see with your own eyes the rooms where the founder of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) received his guests. Other personal spaces are filled with various objects that come from the family. Think of art, gifts and furniture. His predilection for the Bedouin lifestyle is also particularly highlighted. An authentic tent has been set up in the garden in which he regularly received guests.
#4. Al Ain Zoo
The Al Ain Zoo was also founded by Sheik Zayed. In 1968 the doors were festively opened and visitors could enjoy different animal species. According to his vision, the enclosures should represent the natural habitat of the animals as closely as possible. In this way he was also able to secure endangered species such as the Arabian oryx. In the Al Ain Zoo you can also enjoy bird shows, exhibitions and you can participate in educational programs.
#5. Al Ain Oasis
In the center of Al Ain is the green oasis ‘Al Ain Oasis’. The famous and thousands of years old falaj irrigation system ensures that the oasis remains beautifully green. The date and palm trees certainly benefit from it. The Al Ain Oasis is excellent for a lovely walk. The Al Ain National Museum is also located at the park, which is located in a former fort. Entrance to Al Ain Oasis is completely free.
#6. Hili Archaeological Park
About twelve kilometers north of the center of Al Ain you can visit the Hili Archaeological Park. Hili Archaeological Park is a public park where you can visit different legacies from the past. There are various structures and tombs that are said to come from the Bronze Age. Around 1960, the area was often visited by universities that conducted various archaeological investigations. To make it attractive for tourists and the local population, a park has been built around it.
#7. Al Jahili Fort
At the end of the nineteenth century, the Al Jahili Fort was built. The location on this excellent fertile area was an excellent choice for building this large complex. The function of the fort was to protect the city and the area. Also, the history of the influential Al Nahyan family lies here, as it also became the residence of Sheik Zayed and his family. In addition, the Al Jahili Fort was also used by the government. Today, the restored fortress is an important tourist site, where you can enjoy exhibits created by the British explorer Wilfred Thesiger, the Arabic architecture and the stories about the history of this place.
#8. Wadi Adventure
A real water park is always very welcome at a destination in the Arab Emirates. Wadi Adventure in Al Ain is therefore often visited during the sometimes particularly hot days. But besides the cooling water, you can experience even more adventures. The adventure park also has a climbing wall, opportunities to learn surfing, rafting, kayaking and ziplining. The Wadi Adventure Park is located at the foot of the Jebel Hafeet mountain.
#9. Mubazzara Park
The green hills of Mubazzara Park are a welcome change from the desert environment of Al Ain. The soil here is fed by the underground water sources. This park was also an initiative of Sheik Zayed, one of his last. Now today, families, families and tourists enjoy the beautiful surroundings here during a picnic. It is a particularly beautiful resting place where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Joggers, cyclists, walkers and swimmers also like to come here to work on their fitness.
#10. Camel Souk
The Arab culture of the United Arab Emirates is fully expressed at the Camel Souk ‘Souq Al Jamal’ in Al Ain. The locals try to buy or sell cattle here, which is often accompanied by heated negotiations. Tourists are often asked if they want a tour or if they want to take a picture. Of course they want to get paid for this. Unsolicited photography is therefore strongly discouraged. It is a busy and chaotic place where you can experience contemporary activities, culture and traditions up close.
