Abu Dhabi Week sets out to explore the emirate’s second city, Al Ain
A lush oasis amidst mountains of golden sand, Al Ain has played an important and vital role in the history of the UAE. The second largest city in Abu Dhabi, and fourth largest in the country, the Garden City – as it is also called – was a key stop for travelling caravans and visitors on their way to Oman.
Flanked by leafy palm trees, the underground springs dotted throughout the city meant a cool and shady respite from the scorching desert heat. And, still today, it remains an attraction for visitors looking to take the road less travelled.
Decidedly quieter and overshadowed somewhat by the more popular and glitzy Dubai, exploring Al Ain tends to be a bit of an afterthought for many residents here in the capital. Which is a real shame because there certainly is something for everyone.
Nature calling
The city boasts a handful of natural wonders that are certainly worth visiting. For outdoorsy types looking to experience the city’s famous oases, we recommend you check out the Al Ain Oasis. Featuring a 3,000-year-old falaj irrigation system, the trickling water channels provide the surrounding palm plantations with water. Visitors can experience the fruits of labour from this historic watering hole with a tour of the massive grounds. A beautiful spot to while away a few hours, entrance is free. Gates are open from 6am to 6pm. For more info call: 03 712 8429
For 360-degree views of the city a visit to Jebel Hafeet is a must. The emirate’s highest peak, this mountain is a perfect place for guests to take in the surrounding sights. Perched on the top is the Mercure Grand Jebel Hafeet Hotel, which provides an ideal spot for refreshments after the windy drive up the mountainside. We recommend you snag a table at the outdoor shisha café where you can catch amazing views of the city on a clear day. For more information call: 03 783 8888
Adrenalin junkies
If adventure is your middle name then a visit to Wadi Adventure is a no brainer. Part water park, part sports amusement centre, this one-of-a-kind playground has it all. Featuring white water rafting, kayaking, surfing and even zip lining, brave guests can experience it all. This makes for a great family day out. For more information visit: www.wadiadventure.ae
If water sports aren’t your thing, why not check out the Al Ain Raceway? The state-of-the-art karting facility has a fully floodlit circuit with plenty of twists and turns to get your heart pumping. From arrive-and-drive sessions to race school tuition to professional racing, whatever your skill level, you’ll find a set of wheels to suit you. For more information visit: www.alainraceway.com
Family man
Want to go wild? If you’d like to get up close and personal with the animals that roam around the emirate, head over to the Al Ain Zoo. A perfect and affordable outing to the zoo (tickets for adults are AED 20 and children aged three to twelve are AED 10) will see your family delight in the antics of these animals. Featuring a cat house, reptile house, mixed African exhibit and more, means you’ll see plenty of wildlife on the way. While you are there, be sure to stop and feed the giraffes. For more information visit: www.awpr.ae
Hili Fun City provides another affordable and enjoyable family outing for guests. Dubbed the ‘Disneyland of the GCC’, the park, which was first established in 1985, went through major renovations and refurbishments in 2009. Featuring rides and attractions suitable for toddlers to teens, the amusement park is truly an establishment in Al Ain, a firm favourite with residents and worth a visit. Please note that Wednesdays are ladies days. For more information visit: www.hilifuncity.ae
History buffs
The birthplace of the father of the nation, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Al Ain is steeped in historical significance. For visitors looking to learn more about the UAE’s founder a visit to the Al Ain Palace Museum is required. The stunning sand-coloured peaked tower of the museum is an icon for the city. Guests can take a tour of the palace, which has since been converted into a museum, and check out the royal residences and gardens. Entrance is free, however the museum is closed on Mondays. For more information call: 03 751 7755
For visitors keen to take a look at some of the earliest settlements in the city, a visit to the prehistoric tombs at Hili Archaeological Park should be in order. The public garden also features archaeological sites and remains that are believed to be over 4,000 years old. While you are there be sure to check out the Great Hili Tomb – a giant restored stone tomb dating from the Umm Al-Nar period. While adults stroll through the gardens let the kids loose on the playgrounds available on site. The park is located 10 kilometres outside of the city.
Fact File
Al Ain translates in Arabic as ‘the spring’
The city is located approximately 160km from the capital
The ‘Garden City’ became the first site in the UAE to be awarded the World Heritage Site status by UNESCO
Al Ain features a border crossing with the city of Al Buraimi in Oman
The city’s position and natural oases made it a strategic location for a number of forts that are well worth a visit
Sawaiba Khan
