Just over an hour away from the bustling metropolis of Abu Dhabi lies the flourishing city of Al Ain. Part of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, this tranquil expanse of desert is home to more than pretty flowers and roundabouts – there’s an abundance of attractions for all ages.
Dubbed The Garden City, Al Ain – which means ‘the spring’ – is neatly filled with an oasis, gardens, amusement parks, exotic animals, museums and world-class sports facilities. So let’s start our list of what to do and where to go from the top, literally…
Jebel Hafeet
The UAE boasts some spectacular terrain, with Jebel Hafeet being one of the most popular landmarks for residents and visitors of The Garden City. It is the second highest peak in the UAE, rising 1,240m and formed from craggy limestone. Most of its visitors take the drive up to its peak, although some fitness fans choose to cycle or even run up the 11km of winding roads to reach the summit. But once you’re at the top, you’ll be breathless either way thanks to the stunning views of Al Ain city and Oman over the border. You’ll also find a small café at the peak that sells refreshments and light snacks to help you refuel before your descent. The area is also home to the Mercure Grand Jebel Hafeet Hotel (www.mercure.com/Al_Ain), an upmarket four-star venue 3km from the mountain itself. The silence and views go hand in hand, making this a peaceful stay for any family or couple. Archaeologists are also drawn to Jebel Hafeet and over the years they have discovered more than 500 burial tombs in its foothills, some of which date back 5,000 years or more, while the unearthing of fossils keeps adding to the area’s intrigue.
Al Ain Oasis
You may think the sweltering heat has caused a mirage, but the Al Ain Oasis is certainly not a trick of the eye. The oasis is one of several in the city and is located centrally, with eight entrances dotted around the 3,000 acres of land. Inside, you’ll be able to saunter around the walkways that are pleasantly shaded thanks to the palm trees – all 147,000 of them. There are almost 100 different varieties of date palm tree in the oasis, which are set out amongst the falaj irrigation system – a 3,000-year-old technique employed by the local population. So let the rustle of the palm fronds and trickle of the falaj waters distract you from the buzz of the city centre.
Entrance is free. For more information call 03 712 8429.
UNESCO sites
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) has recognised Al Ain as a World Heritage Site. This means locations across the city, including the six oases, archaeological sites, buildings, palaces and tombs are to be preserved and maintained to a UNESCO standard. For a taste of what to expect you can take a 360-degree virtual tour around the Hafeet Tombs that date back to 2500 BC at www.visitabudhabi.ae.
Museums
If you’re craving some culture, Al Ain will have that box ticked in no time. There are a couple of museums here, with Al Ain Palace being a major draw for any visitor. Why? Well, it used to be home to the late His Highness Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Founder of the UAE, of course. The beautiful property, built in 1937, was once a political and social hub for local inhabitants. In 1998 it underwent renovations before finally becoming a museum in 2001. The venue is now open to the public and houses an impressive collection of material, giving visitors a greater insight into the ruling family’s history. You’ll be able to tour private gardens and even rooms that were once occupied by the ruling family. It’s a place you simply can’t afford to miss.
Free. Open Tue-Sun, 8.30am-7.30pm, Fri 3pm-7.30pm. Mon closed. Al Ain Street, near commercial area on the road to Sinaiyya (03 751 7755).
Souq Al Qattara
Take yourself on an age-old shopping trip at the Souq Al Qattara. This was essentially a mid-20th Century shopping centre, founded by the late Sheikh Shakhbut bin Sultan Al Nahyan. It’s been renovated and is open for business from October to May on Thursday, Friday and Saturdays. This market was introduced to encourage local families to promote and preserve Abu Dhabi’s traditions. Expect to see plenty of handicrafts, artwork and more in the 30 internal and 20 external shops. The souq is connected to Al Qattara Fort, also known as the Al Qattara Arts Centre. Organised by TCA Abu Dhabi, the arts centre was originally designed to be a place for Emiratis to immerse themselves in cultural and creative studies, but has since become a space for all Al Ain residents and visitors to enjoy. There are also workshops, a café and a library to check out.
Prices vary. Open daily 8am-1pm, 4pm-10pm. Souq Al Qattara and Al Qattara Arts Centre, 120th Street, Al Qattara area (03 711 8292).
Al Jahili Fort
Arguably the most iconic building in Al Ain is Al Jahili Fort. It’s definitely a spot for shutterbugs as the sunsets make the perfect backdrop in which to capture the building that was built back in 1891, initially to defend the city and protect the palm groves which were a key export for the local people. The fort was also the former headquarters of the Oman Trucial Scouts, the force that protected the regional mountain passes and kept inter-tribal peace. The fort has had several restoration periods and now houses a permanent exhibition dedicated to British adventurer Sir Wilfred Thesiger, affectionately referred to by the locals as Mubarak Bin London. Thesiger was known for crossing the Rub Al Khali (The Empty Quarter desert area) in the 1940s.
Open Sat-Sun 9am-5pm, Fri 3pm-5pm. Mon closed. Between 137th Street and 143rd Street. Close to Al Ain Rotana.
Qasr Al Muwaiji
This amazing structure is both pleasing to the eye as well as having a history that makes it an enthralling place to visit. The birthplace of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, Qasr Al Muwaiji is now open to the public as a museum with a permanent exhibition. It was built in the early 20th century and originally used as a diwan (a council) and as a place for the community to gather. In 1946 His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan converted the diwan into his family home. Today, an exhibition that’s housed in a glass-walled construction in the Qasr’s courtyard tells visitors about the creation of the fort, its inhabitants and the restoration process that has returned it to its former glory. Tours are available for individuals and groups.
Open Tue-Thu 9am-7pm, Fri 3pm-7pm, Sat 9am-5pm; Mon closed. Qasr Al Muwaiji, E22 Road, Sharet Al Muwaiji area (03 767 4444).
Wadi Adventure
Water babies, listen up. One of our favourite days out in the whole of the UAE has to be a trip to Wadi Adventure. This was the first man-made white water rafting, kayaking and surfing facility in the Middle East. It is home to world-class facilities and activities. So what exactly is here? Let’s start off with a couple of world records, shall we? Wadi Adventure has the planet’s longest man-made white-water channels at a combined length of 1.2km. Then there’s the world’s largest surf pool, perfect for beginners and advanced surfers looking to ride the crest of a wave. If you’re after something slightly less extreme, check out the family swimming pool and kids’ splash area, which is heated in winter and chilled in summer. And if you’re looking to keep yourself dry, the venue also has an aerial obstacle course which includes a two-storey airpark, zip line, climbing wall and giant swing. It’s basically an obstacle course in the air. This may not be quite suitable for your youngsters, so a family-friendly, low ropes obstacle course has been installed to make sure they are entertained too. And with all this energy being burnt off, you’ll no doubt need somewhere to refuel. Its variety of food and beverage outlets, serving freshly prepared food and drinks, will give any Wadi Adventure visitor plenty of options to set you up for more activities.
Open Sat-Thu 11am-8pm, Fri 10am-8pm. Book activities in advance to avoid disappointment. Just off Jabel Al Hafeet St, base of Jebel Hafeet (03 781 8422).
Al Ain Raceway
Who would have thought this peaceful city was ready to burn some rubber? Al Ain Raceway is a state-of-the-art karting facility with a fully flood-lit circuit. It has several distinctive configurations, giving all drivers an exhilarating challenge, whatever your ability. The venue offers a range of experiences for both corporate and casual guests, including the Arrive and Drive experience, junior driving and tuition, as well as professional racing. If you’re really into this mini-motor madness, there are karts for sale if you fancy becoming the next world champ. The raceway is located about 20 minutes south east of the city centre and reopens on August 31 after being shut for the summer.
Open Mon-Fri 4pm-10pm, Sat-Sun closed. Al Ain Raceway, Khatam Al Shiklah Street (02 768 6662).
Al Ain Zoo
This enormous 900-hectare park near the base of Jebel Hafeet is where you’ll find a large collection of fascinating animals in enclosures that closely resemble their natural habitats. And when we say large, we’re talking more than 4,000 animals, with at least 30 percent of its 180 species considered endangered. Along with plenty of green space for picnics, there are playgrounds, a cafeteria and a train tour of the wildlife area, making it a perfect day out for the whole family. For those wanting a more interactive experience, you can enjoy feeding giraffes treats such as carrots and lettuce five times daily. Plus the Elezba petting zoo, designed in the style of a local farm, lets families feed and play with sheep, goats, camels, llamas, chickens and ducks. You can even take a ride on one of the camels. However, this attraction is so much more than just a zoo. The park’s new Al Ain Safari experience is destined to be one of the world’s largest man-made African-style safaris, with a range of native African animals and plant species, all of which you can learn more about thanks to the expert guides who will join you during the experience.
Dhs30 (adults), Dhs10 (kids three-12). For more info and prices for various other packages visit www.alainzoo.ae. Near Traffic Police, Jebel Hafeet (03 704 1500).
Hili Fun City
This flagship family entertainment destination in Al Ain has been a firm favourite since opening its doors back in 1985 when it became the Gulf region’s very first theme park. As a result, Hili Fun City was referred to as the Disneyland of the GCC, hosting visitors from all over the region, and the world, including several royal families and VIPs. Since then, the region has become a hotspot for theme parks, with many more set to open soon. But Hili Fun City remains as popular as ever, especially following a complete refurbishment and transformation in 2009. The theme park is packed with more than 30 attractions ranging from thrilling rides and adventures to more gentle options for kids, and there’s plenty for parents to enjoy, too. It also features a family show amphitheatre, along with picnic and play areas.
Dhs50 per person (kids under 0.89 metres are free). Fri and Sat 4pm-10pm, Mon-Thu 5pm-10pm (Wed are ladies only). www.hilifuncity.ae (03 784 5542).
Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting and Golf Club
Since it opened in August 2010, Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club has provided Al Ain residents and visitors the chance to enjoy its equestrian lessons, shooting, rugby and 18-hole and nine-hole golf courses. But that’s not all. The club also offers many activities to keep the whole family entertained, including outdoor pools, a gym, football pitches, beauty salon, tennis and basketball courts and even a climbing wall. And if it’s the shooting that really appeals to you, you’ll be glad to know the club is considered one of the UAE’s best in terms of Olympic and International Shooting Sport Federation standards. It’s perfect for beginners, corporate groups and experienced shooters alike thanks to its wide range of facilities, including a 25m pistol range, 50m rifle range and 10m air pistol and rifle ranges. Each of these is equipped with an electronic scoring system so you can challenge your pals and see the scores rack up. There are also four ranges for the clay shooting disciplines of skeet, trap and double trap. Pull!
Near Jebel Hafeet, www.aesgc.com (03 768 4888).
Al Ain Classic Car Museum
Here’s one for the petrol heads. Al Ain Classic Car Museum has a 2,000sqm air-conditioned unit that houses hundreds of vintage cars. These magnificent machines come from a wide range of manufacturers and previous owners have driven them across the world. When the collection first started in 2009, it was merely a tent with a handful of cars. Now, in its Al Fayda area location, it features some incredible vehicles from Rolls-Royce, Jaguar, Mercedes, Ford and much more. There is also a restoration workshop, while the venue is the HQ of the Abu Dhabi Classic Car Club.
Dhs5. Children under five enter free. Open Sat-Thu 9am-5pm, Fri 4pm-5pm. Al Ain Classic Car Museum, Ain Al Faida Complex (050 623 1323).
Shopping
Okay, the malls here aren’t on the scale of those in Abu Dhabi, but they are still packed with shops for you to spend your hard-earned dirhams in. Al Ain Mall is heaving with options, with the likes of Lacoste, Karen Millen, Massimo Dutti, Calvin Klein and loads more under its roof. There are also more than 25 coffee shops, 25 perfume stores and several souvenir shops to grab some gifts. And if that’s not enough, there is a bowling centre, shooting range and an ice rink. We think Al Ain Mall has you covered. (Open Sat-Wed 10am-10pm; Thu-Fri 10am-midnight. Al Ain Mall, Kuwaitat area, 03 766 0333).
Meanwhile, Bawadi Mall is located to the south of Al Ain city centre and attracts many visitors each day thanks to its food options including top-notch Indian restaurant Coriander, and Zaytinya, a popular Lebanese chain. It is the largest mall in the city and contains several anchor stores, including Carrefour, Paris Gallery and Homes R Us. Swedish home-furnishing giant IKEA has also recently opened there. Bawadi Mall’s modern design and selection of entertainment options, such as the ice rink and cinema, keep customers coming back for more. (Open daily 10am-10pm. Bawadi Mall, 137th Street, 03 784 0000).
It might not be the largest option in town, but Hili Mall is still worth a browse if you’re in the area or need a quick feed. There are plenty of fast-food outlets in the food court, as well as cafés and juice stations. If you fancy a longer lunch or dinner, give Biriyani Pot a go for an inexpensive, but tasty meal. There is also a family entertainment centre called My Play Zone to keep the little ones amused. But what’s the most unique part of this mall? It’s connected to the Hili Rayhaan by Rotana hotel, a great place to rest your head after some retail therapy. But we’ll get on to that next. (Open daily 9am-10pm. Hili Mall, Bani Yas Street, Hili District, 03 762 0207).
Staying in Al Ain
Looking to make a weekend of it? Then here are a few hotels to consider.
The Hili Rayhaan by Rotana hotel is a large unlicensed hotel with 254 rooms that is very popular with families. As we mentioned, the hotel is connected to Hili Mall, so you can roll out of bed and straight into the shops if you’re feeling super lazy. There is a great pool area and top-of-the-range gym that’s worth checking out. We also recommend having a spa treatment here – the team will soon help you unwind. The three food and beverage outlets are more than adequate and you’re also just minutes from the city centre should you choose to venture out. (Hili Rayhaan by Rotana Hotel, Bani Yas Street, Hili District, 03 705 3333).
Meanwhile, one of the most popular and central hotels is the Hilton Al Ain, which offer quick access to some of the main attractions of the city. This property feels secluded and is set in landscaped gardens, which offers a sea of tranquility all year round. There are three swimming pools to paddle in, as well as tennis and squash courts if you feel like getting your game on. The hotel also boasts seven impressive dining venues, including Mexican, Arabic, Italian and international options. (Hilton Al Ain, Khalid Bin Shakla Street, close to Al Ain City Centre Supermarket, 03 768 6666).
Planning to stay a little longer than just the weekend? Need something to keep the whole family happy? Then you may want to check out Asfar Resort Al Ain. This is a spacious venue with self-catering suites. Among the attractions are the pretty gardens around the property, an outdoor pool and a fitness centre. It’s located north-west from the city centre in the Al Qattara area, so it’s a stone’s throw away from the popular Al Qattara attractions. It’s certainly not a high-end facility, but it’s popular with those who love self-catering holidays. (Asfar Resort Al Ain, Al Masoody Street, Opposite Safeer Mall, 03 702 8000).
