7 Best Things to do in Al Ain City

If you are overwhelmed by the hustle and bustle of the UAE’s famous cities, a visit to a more tranquil city would be refreshing. Here we are talking about Al Ain, popularly known as the Oasis City. A part of the Abu Dhabi emirate, Al Ain means ‘Spring’ in Arabic. Al Ain city is known for its raw, natural beauty, a huge cry from the glamorous and opulent cities of Dubai and Abu Dhabi. If you are interested in visiting this place, here are the top 7 things to do in Al Ain City.

Go on a Zoo Safari

Al Ain is home to the oldest and the largest zoo in the country. Started by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the Al Ain Zoo has been open since 1968. Today, the zoo has more than 4300 animals, including lions, tigers, leopards, wolves, hippos, giraffes, gorillas, rhinos, and crocodiles. The animals live in the open, and the best way to enjoy the flora and fauna of the zoo is to go on a zoo safari. The safaris are headed by Emirati guides who would also give you information about the zoo’s conservation efforts and breeding programs.

Spend Time at the Al Ain Oasis

Image credit: https://abudhabiculture.ae/

Your Al Ain city tour will not be complete without a visit to Al Ain Oasis, one of the most beautiful places in the city. Located in the heart of the city, the existence of Al Ain Oasis dates to ancient times and is the first UNESCO World Heritage Site of the region. The highlight of the place is the traditional irrigation system or falaj, which is a complex underground system that brings water from the mountains. Thanks to the system, the oasis houses more than 147000 date trees (more than 100 varieties) and an array of fruit-bearing trees like oranges, mangoes, figs, etc.

Explore Al Ain National Museum

If you want to know more about Al Ain’s past, Al Ain National Museum is a place you must visit. Al Ain is believed to have been inhabited for more than 4000 years, and you will see the city’s past reflected in its numerous exhibits. The museum is filled with objects found at the excavation sites in the area. As you walk through the museum, you will get a peek into Al Ain through different ages, including Stone Age, Bronze Age, Hellenistic Age, and the Islamic Age. There is a section dedicated to Petroleum as well. You will get to know about the life of the Emiratis before the discovery of oil.

Visit Jebel Hafeet

One of the most prominent attractions in Al Ain city is Jebel Hafeet, the largest mountain in Abu Dhabi and the second largest in the UAE. Bordering Oman, the mighty Jebel Hafeet is 1200 meters tall. Hiking, mountain biking, camel riding, or horse riding are the best ways to reach the top of the park, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the entire area. While on your way up, you can also explore the numerous archeological excavations, some belonging to the Bronze Age, especially the beehive tombs.

Indulge in Thrilling Activities at Al Ain Adventure Park

If hiking to the top of Jebel Hafeet and admiring the view from above are not enough, you must visit the Al Ain Adventure Park. Located at the foot of the mighty mountain, this park will give you the chance to indulge in some cool adventurous activities in Al Ain City. This park has a manmade rafting channel where you and your friends can go for white water river rafting. You can also enjoy surfing, wakeboarding, and swimming here. Other than this, Al Ain Adventure Park also has an obstacle course complete with a vertical climb line, a zipline, and a giant swing.

Tour Al Jahili Fort

Built in the 19th century, Al Jahili Fort is one of the most important historical and cultural landmarks of the UAE. This sun-dried mud brick structure was built by Sheikh Zayed bin Khalifa of the Al Nahyan tribe. Apart from being a move to establish power in the area, Al Jahili Fort was also used by the royal tribe as their summer house. The fort went through major renovations in 2007-08. Today, you can explore the interiors of the fort and at the same time enjoy some interesting exhibitions.

Have a Great Time at Hili Fun City

The Hili Fun City was opened in 1985 and is still a favorite among families even after numerous high-tech amusement parks have opened in different emirates of the country. Hili Fun City has more than 30 attractions, which include fun rides, thrilling rollercoasters, a 3D action theater, an amphitheater, go karting arena, and a pedal boating zone. Hili Swinger, Circus Train, Ice Rink, Flying Clowns, Jumping Star, and Carousel are few of the attractions that young and old can enjoy alike.

Al Ain City is like a breath of fresh air with its simplicity and natural beauty. If you are visiting the UAE for a holiday, do take time to explore this beautiful city.