Al Ain - Discovering United Arab Emirates

Travelling to Al Ain

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Al Ain, a pretty good destination in United Arab Emirates (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Al Ain and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Al Ain, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through United Arab Emirates, here's everything to know about Al Ain for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Al Ain

Al Ain is one of the largest cities in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi and the fourth-largest city in the United Arab Emirates. It is known for its rich cultural heritage and a variety of interesting historical and cultural attractions. Al Ain is located approximately 160 kilometers east of the city of Abu Dhabi and near the borders of Oman. The city is also known for its lush greenery and natural beauty, with numerous parks and gardens, as well as being home to the tallest mountain in the UAE, Jebel Hafeet. Additionally, Al Ain has a vibrant and bustling souk (marketplace) where visitors can find a wide range of traditional arts, crafts, and souvenirs.

What to visit in Al Ain

1. Al Ain Oasis: One of the largest oasis in the city, with more than 147,000 date palms and traditional irrigation systems. Visitors can take a stroll through the oasis and learn about Arabian agriculture.
2. Jebel Hafeet: UAE's second-highest mountain, offering breathtaking views of the city from its top. There is a road leading to the summit that is a popular spot for car enthusiasts.
3. Al Ain National Museum: A museum that showcases the region's history and culture through interesting exhibits, including ancient artifacts and archeological discoveries.
4. Al Ain Zoo: Home to over 4000 animals, the zoo provides a unique opportunity for visitors to observe local and exotic wildlife. The zoo also has a conservation center that focuses on the preservation of endangered species.
5. Al Jahili Fort: A historic fort that is now a museum, located in the heart of the city. The fort was built in the 1890s to protect the city and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site.
6. Camel Souk: A lively market where visitors can observe and buy camels, in addition to other animals and traditional crafts.
7. Hili Archaeological Park: The site has more than 14 tombs that date back to the Bronze Age. Detailed information about the park, including its history, can be found in the adjacent museum.
8. Al Ain Palace Museum: The former residence of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founder of the UAE, which has now been transformed into a museum that showcases the culture and heritage of the UAE.
9. Wadi Adventure: A unique waterpark located in a beautiful desert environment that offers activities such as kayaking, rafting, stand-up paddleboarding, and surfboarding.
10. Al Ain Raceway: A go-karting facility that is the perfect place for speed admirers and adrenaline junkies. Visitors can enjoy racetrack competition in a safe environment and with the latest equipment.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in United Arab Emirates, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Al Ain.

When to go on holiday to Al Ain

The best time to visit Al Ain is during the winter months, from November to February, when the temperatures are milder and comfortable to explore the city’s attractions. During this time, the temperature ranges between 20 - 28°C (68 - 82°F) and the humidity drops significantly. In summer, from June to September, the temperature can rise to 40 - 45°C (104 - 113°F), making outdoor activities challenging. However, hotels and shopping malls are air-conditioned and provide relief from the heat.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Al Ain

There are several ways to get to Al Ain in the UAE, depending on where you are coming from. Here are some options: 1. By car: Al Ain is about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Dubai or Abu Dhabi, both of which have international airports. You can rent a car at the airport or take a taxi.
2. By bus: There are buses that run between Dubai and Al Ain, as well as between Abu Dhabi and Al Ain. The journey takes around 2 hours.
3. By taxi: You can also take a taxi from either Dubai or Abu Dhabi directly to Al Ain.
4. By plane: Al Ain also has its own airport that serves several regional destinations, including Cairo, Jeddah, and Muscat. If you are coming from further afield, you can connect through one of these cities.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Al Ain, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Al Ain

Here are some typical foods of Al Ain in the United Arab Emirates along with a short description for each of them: 1. Machboos - A rice dish that is seasoned with saffron and cooked with meat (usually lamb or chicken) and vegetables.
2. Harees - A porridge-style dish that is made by simmering wheat and meat (usually chicken or lamb) until they become soft enough to mash.
3. Luqaimat - A popular dessert that consists of small, circular dough balls that are deep-fried and then soaked in a sweet syrup.
4. Thareed - A bread-based dish that is made by layering pieces of flatbread, stewed meat, and vegetables in a pot and then simmering them until the bread becomes soft and absorbs the flavors of the meat and vegetables.
5. Saloona - A stew-like dish that is made with meat (usually lamb or chicken), vegetables, and spices.
6. Balaleet - A sweetened vermicelli pudding that is flavored with cardamom and saffron.
7. Margoogat - A thick soup that is made with meat (usually chicken), vegetables, and spices, and served with bread.
8. Madrooba - A savory porridge that is made by simmering a mixture of rice and meat (usually chicken or lamb) until it becomes soft and creamy.
9. Shakshouka - A spicy egg and vegetable dish that is served with bread.
These are just a few of the many delicious dishes that you can try when visiting Al Ain in the UAE.
You can find general info about typical foods in United Arab Emirates here.

Is Al Ain an expensive destination for tourists?

As compared to other destinations in UAE, Al Ain is considered to be less expensive. However, it still depends on the type of activities and accommodations you choose. If you choose to stay in luxurious hotels, dine in high-end restaurants, and partake in expensive activities, it may be considered expensive. On the other hand, there are many affordable or even free things to do in Al Ain, such as visiting public parks, enjoying the natural beauty of the desert, and exploring the local culture and history. Ultimately, it depends on your personal budget and spending habits.

Where to find accomodation in Al Ain

Al Ain is divided into different areas that offer various accommodation options. The most popular areas to find accommodation to visit Al Ain are: 1. Al Sarooj - Known for its luxurious hotels and resorts with easy access to shopping malls and attractions.
2. Al Ain Oasis- A quiet residential area that offers a range of budget-friendly hotels and serviced apartments.
3. Al Jimi - A bustling area that offers a mix of budget-friendly and mid-range hotels with easy access to restaurants, shops, and attractions.
4. Al Murabaa - A popular area for business travelers as it offers a range of business hotels and serviced apartments.
Ultimately, the best area to stay in Al Ain depends on your preferences and the purpose of your visit.
You can check hotel prices at Al Ain here:
Booking.com

Is Al Ain a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Al Ain is considered a generally safe place for tourists. It has a low crime rate and is known for its safe and peaceful environment. However, like any other city, it is always important for tourists to practice common sense safety precautions such as avoiding dark and isolated areas at night, keeping an eye on their belongings, and being aware of their surroundings. It is also important to respect local customs and traditions while visiting Al Ain.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in United Arab Emirates here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Al Ain.

What type of travelers will enjoy Al Ain the most?

Al Ain in the United Arab Emirates is an ideal destination for families and couples looking for a peaceful and relaxing getaway. It is not an area primarily known for adventurous activities or nightlife, so young people looking for fun may not find it as attractive.
The city is surrounded by beautiful mountains, landscaped gardens, palaces, historic forts, and museums, offering a range of cultural and sightseeing experiences. Families can also enjoy the city’s water parks, the Al Ain Zoo, and the Al Ain Oasis, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Overall, Al Ain is an excellent destination for those looking to immerse themselves in the cultural and natural wonders of the UAE, away from the hustle and bustle of the larger cities.

How to get around Al Ain

In Al Ain, you can use public transportation like buses and taxis or rental cars to move around the city. Buses are the most affordable option, but they may not be as convenient as taxis or rental cars. Taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street or booked through ride-hailing apps. Rental cars are also available, and they can be a good option if you want to explore the city on your own schedule. Keep in mind that driving in Al Ain involves driving on the right side of the road, and you'll need an international driving license to rent a car.

What to see around Al Ain

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Al Ain: 1. Jebel Hafeet: A majestic mountain that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
2. Al Ain Zoo: Home to over 4,000 animals, this zoo is a great place for families.
3. Oasis City: A cultural and heritage museum that offers visitors the chance to learn about the history and traditions of Al Ain.
4. Al Ain Palace Museum: A historic palace that has been converted into a museum, displaying the daily life of the ruling family in the past.
5. Al Ain National Museum: A museum filled with history and artifacts of Emirati culture.
6. Al Jahili Fort: One of the oldest buildings in the region, located in the center of Al Ain.
7. Wadi Adventure: An adventure park that offers white water rafting, kayaking, and other water-based activities.
8. Green Mubazzarah: A popular park and picnic area with thermal hot springs and scenic walking trails.
For every travel information about United Arab Emirates you can click here.

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