Have you ever read about the garden city of UAE? 2 hours away from Dubai Marina, lies the greenest place in UAE one has ever seen in their entire lives. The residents seem to have forgotten about the flourishing city of Al Ain, as they scan the web looking for a staycation. The peaceful expanse of the desert hosts several attractions that is beyond is gorgeous flowers and roundabouts. Known as the garden city, there are several things to do in Al Ain like visit the garden, amusement parks, see the exotic animals, visit the museums and explore the world class sports facilities.
14 Amazing Things To Do In Al Ain For A Fun Weekend
Al Ain, for the most of Dubai’s day trippers, has barely blipped on the radars, let alone being the one stop holiday destination in Dubai. It should be on the bucket list of places to visit. You will definitely chomp at wanting to change the destination on your GPS after reading about the Al Ain. So, pack your bags and hit the road as there are several things to do in Al Ain, one shouldn’t miss out on.
- Splash around at Wadi Adventure
- Visit Al Ain Palace Museum, Al Ain
- Take Pictures Infront of the Jabel Hafeet
- Stand in awe of the breathtaking Al Jahil Fort
- Sink into the culture of the Camel Market
- Discover the Traditional Arts At Al Qattara Arts Centre
- Pet The Animals At Al Ain Zoo
- Checkout Al Shari'a - Open Cistern
- Hili Archaeological Park
- Visit The Al Ain Oasis
- Explore the Zaman Lawal Heritage Village
- Undertake a Historical tour at Qasr Al Muwaiji
- Take a Leisurely Stroll in Al Ain’s Green Mubazzarah Park
- Have a Unique Experience of Glamping at Jabel Hafeet Desert Park
1. Splash around at Wadi Adventure
Have an “oar some time” at the first ever man-made white-water rafting, kayaking, wakeboarding and surfing attraction. These are some of the most fun things to do in Al Ain. Navigating your way through the waves of one of the most thrilling and adventurous water rafting experience at the base of Al Ain’s Jebel Hafeet. You will have plenty thrills and spills while splashing around the waters. You need not be a professional for the three different levels of the sport. It is one of the most exhilarating adventurous one should not miss out on.
Location: Mbazzarah Al Khadra - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Famous For: Whitewater rafting, kayaking and surfing facility
Timings: 11 am- 7 pm
Entry Fee: AED 65
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2. Visit Al Ain Palace Museum, Al Ain
If you want to discover some culture, Al Ain Palace museum will tick the box. Apart from the other museums, Al Ain is one of the major attractions in UAE as it was once a upon a time home to his late highness Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, founder of UAE. It was built in 1937 as a political and social hub for local inhabitants. Back in 1998, it was renovated before it was converted into a museum in 2001. The public can visit the museum for its collection of materials that tells a story of the then ruling family. You can take a tour of the garden and rooms that were lived in by the ruling family. It is one of the best things to do in Al Ain.
Location: Al Ain St - Central District - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Famous For: Collection of materials
Timings: 10 am- 6 pm
Entry Fee: Free
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3. Take Pictures Infront of the Jabel Hafeet
Jebal Hafeet is one of the most ideal places to visit in Al Ain, as it is one of the tallest mountain peaks in Abu Dhabi and second highest in UAE. It shares a range with the sultanate of Oman, the neighboring country and has a gorgeous scenery with green oasis. The view at the top is amazing even though it gets crowded during the winters and public holidays. It is made out of limestones that weathered over the years. It has been named as a UNESCO heritage site due it is geological importance and has about 500 ancient tombs at the foothills of the range. Hence when on vacation, it is one of the many things to do in Al Ain, UAE.
Location: Al Ain
Famous For: Ancient Tombs
Timings: 4:00 Pm
Entry Fee: Dhs10
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4. Stand in awe of the breathtaking Al Jahil Fort
Al Jahili fort is like a perfect painting situated in the middle of natural beauty and is one of the historic structures in UAE. Built in 1891, Al Jahili fort is still one of the most remarkable buildings that protects the city and the palm groves. One of the things to do in UAE is to visit the gorgeous manicured gardens that will leave people awe struck. It used to be headquarters of the force once upon a time, which protected the mountain pass and maintain inter- tribal peace. It has been renovated and restored back in its complete glory and has been adorned with a museum that shows works of Sir Wilfred Thesiger, a British adventurer.
Location: Sultan Bin Zayed Al Awwal St، Al Mutawaa، Al Ain - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Famous For: Palm Groves
Timings: 10 am- 6 pm
Entry Fee: 1 AED
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5. Sink into the culture of the Camel Market
Tourists should live life like the locals do by going to the camel market, an amazing sight to behold as there are several camels lined up in the middle of the locals haggling and chatting. Despite the noise and the pungent smell, the experience is absolutely worth it as you get to explore the Al Ain desert culture. Speaking camels, tourists can enjoy a camel desert safari in Al Ain. The market is not a place to visit to miss as it is absolutely breathtaking. What more can anyone ask for when on vacation?
Location: Cattle Market, Zayed Bin Sultan Road, Al Ain - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Famous For: Camels and locals chatting and haggling
Timings: 6 am- 7 pm
Entry Fee: 20 dirhams
6. Discover the Traditional Arts At Al Qattara Arts Centre
Have you ever been to an art center with very old artifacts? The art center has resorted its traditional local architecture as it offers a place where art and culture are studied and developed by the community in UAE. The practice of art is allowed and exhibits and classes are organized at the center. Before it become an art center, it was once a fort and now has become a popular venue for events and exhibitions as artifacts from 1000 BCE to 600 BCE are displayed. It is one of the most fascinating things to do in Al Ain today. When it comes to making a trip worthwhile and interesting, visiting the art center is fun. It should be on the bucket list of places to see when on vacation.
Location: Al Qattara, Al Ain - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Famous For: Artifacts
Timings: 8 am- 8 pm
Entry Fee: 20 AED
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7. Pet The Animals At Al Ain Zoo
The Al Ain Zoo is huge park which is about 400 hectares, located close to the base of Jebel Hafeet, where tourists can see several gorgeous animals in their natural habitats. The zoo is home to about 4000 animals out of which 130 species are said to endangered. People can picnic and kids can play in the playgrounds and eat in the cafeteria and take a train tour of the wildlife area. There is a huge green public space that is absolutely breathtaking. People can even go and see the bird show that features predatory and night birds. What more can anyone ask for when on a vacation? It is one the many things or places to visit and should not be missed.
Location: Nahyan The First St - Shiab Al Ashkhar - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Famous For: Animals and Birds
Timings: 10 am- 6 pm
Entry Fee: Adult: 31.50 AED, Child: 10.50 AED
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8. Checkout Al Shari'a - Open Cistern
You can see the waters flowing in a specific direction of Al Ain Oasis during the day. Al Falaj is an ancient underground irrigation system and at present one can see the network of water channels underground. Al Shari’a an essential part of the irrigation system is an open cistern where people would take waters for themselves and their animals. Al Shari’a back in the day was a place where Bedouins would chat, bath and wash their cloths. You can see the water flowing after stepping down through the gate. It is one of the most breathtaking sights people should not miss out and should put it on their bucket of places to visit.
Location: Al Ain
Famous For: Irrigation System
Timings: NA
Entry Fee: Visitors should check with the concerned authorities
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9. Hili Archaeological Park
The largest Bronze age site in UAE is the Hili Archaeological park that dates back to 3rd millennium BC. Situated in the same place as the fort, the park boasts of the Umm Al Nar period and ancient monuments. People should visit the Hili Grand tomb where one can see the breathtaking carved figurines of animals and humans. The park remnants the Bronze age settlement that dates back to the 2,500- 2,000 BC which was excavated and restored in 1995.
Location: Al Hili - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Famous For: Figurines of animals and humans
Timings: 4 pm- 11 pm
Entry Fee: Free
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10. Visit The Al Ain Oasis
Al Ain Oasis is one of the most breathtaking UNESCO world heritage sites that covers a huge area of 3000 acres. Visitors are introduced the delicate oasis eco- system as it played an important role in the development of the emirate. It is a space that is open to everyone to explore. There are several date palms that offer shade and block the noise off from the roads, making it a peaceful haven and the ideal trip to the city. It is the best part of the vacation people should not miss out on and should keep it on the bucket of places to visit when on vacation in Al Ain.
Location: Al Ain
Famous For: Date Palms and Eco system
Timings: 9 am- 5 pm
Entry Fee: AED 30
11. Explore the Zaman Lawal Heritage Village
Zaman Lawal Heritage Village is set in Telal Resort Al Ain, the majestic landscapes of Remah desert which is a living testament to age-old Emirati culture. With a thoughtful blend of luxury and Emirati architecture, this heritage village brings the unique combination of local culture, heritage, and environmental aspects that has shaped today’s Emirati community. One of the best things to do in Al Ain, UAE is to embark on an enriching gastronomic journey at Khattar Restaurant where you will be introduced to the authentic Middle Eastern cuisine. Never forget to visit the House of Good Fortunes that reflects the significance of date palms in the past.
Location: Remah, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi UAE, P.O. Box 200800, Al Ain
Famous For: Khattar Restaurant, Local Souq, House of Pearls, Al Masjid, The Jalibut
Timings: Open for 24 hours (Resort timing)
Entry Fee: N/A
12. Undertake a Historical tour at Qasr Al Muwaiji
Apart from the vast stretches of sands ideal for desert safari in Al Ain, this ancient city is enriched with a plethora of historic nad cultural landmarks. One such significant site is the Qasr Al Muwaiji which dates to the early 20th century and features the leading mudbrick architectural style. Never forget to visit the Qasr Al Muwaiji fort which celebrates the age-old grandeur and the historic past of the Arabian community. You will find yourself in awe exploring the significant exhibits showcased in the exhibition hall made of glass in the courtyard itself. What fascinates the tourists is the smallest tranquil oasis, Muwaiji Oasis, that is the home to 21000 palm trees.
Location: Khalifa Bin Zayed St - Al Muwaij'i - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Famous For: The fort, Exhibition, Oasis
Timings: 9 am to 7 pm
Entry Fee: Free Entry
13. Take a Leisurely Stroll in Al Ain’s Green Mubazzarah Park
Take an evening stroll in Al Ain’s Mubazzarah park which is known for the lush green landscapes all around. Engulfed by the rocky and rugged mountains on all sides, you can find a swoon worthy space amid the calm and tranquil surroundings. Being the home to numerous man-made lakes and hot springs, you can take a refreshing dip in the blues for an alluring affair. Never forget to watch the sunset from this spot which will offer you scenic vistas that will blow away your mind. One of the best things to do in Al Ain for Adventure buffs is to visit this place for night camping with sprinkled barbecue spots to experience the nightlife.
Location: 4P3P+JXH - Mbazzarah Al Khadra - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Famous For: Grasslands & Hot Springs
Timings: 7 am to 11 pm
Entry Fee: Free Entry
14. Have a Unique Experience of Glamping at Jabel Hafeet Desert Park
Located in Al Ain, Jabel Hafeet Desert Park boasts of its ideal location amid the perennial glistening golden dunes and the majestic mountain ranges which will make you fall for the rich history and alluring natural splendors. Best known for glamping experience, this desert park will offer you an opportunity to gaze at the stars and one of the best places to visit in Al Ain. Explore the family friendly park and discover its natural and man-made beauty by taking up hiking tours, mountain bike rides, horse and camel rides, which will bring many chronicles to light.
Location: Jabal Hafeet - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Famous For: Desert Camping
Timings: Open for 24 hours
Entry Fee: N/A
Whenever we plan a vacation, there are always several things to do in Ai Ain, with family and friends. It is one of the most breathtaking places one should explore and so, Al Ain tour packages. Make it a memorable vacation and boast about it with your friends.
FAQs
The best time to visit Al Ain is between May and September.
When planning a vacation to Al Ain, people can visit the oasis, the zoo, the park, the art center and the camel market. There is so much to do in this city and so, people will never have a dull moment.
The park is open between 4 pm- 11 pm. People can visit the park for figurines of the animals and humans.
The entrance fee for Al Ain Zoo is Adult: 31.50 AED and Child: 10.50 AED
Yes, it is worth visiting Al Ain for its heritage sites and other places to visit.
Under professional supervision and permission from the authorities, people can pet the animals.
The Al Ain is one of the most breathtaking heritage sites in Al Ain.
Yes, the adventure enthusiasts can enjoy white water rafting at Wadi Adventure.
At least 2 days are required to spend in Al Ain to cover the city's major significant landmarks. If you want to carry out hiking activity, 3 to 4 days are ideal to spend in Al Ain. You can also extend your trip based on your choices.
Since Al Ain is known for a plethora of scenic attractions and man-made wonders that provide insights on Al Ain’s history, you can spend a day in Al Ain by visiting Sheikh Zayed Palace Museum, Al Ain Oasis, Camel Market, Al Ain Zoo, and Green Mubazzarah Public Park.
