Al Ain
Al Ain, which means The Spring in Arabic, is also known as the Garden City due to the lush greenery that can be found in the second-largest city in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. A 1.5-hour drive from Abu Dhabi, Al Ain is one of the world's oldest inhabited settlements and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Slightly cooler than other main cities due to desert winds, Al Ain is dotted with picturesque forts boasting of one of the UAE's most historic buildings, Al Jahili Fort which is now home to an incredible arts center and gallery with countless modern exhibits and workshops on offer including pottery, painting, music and calligraphy.
An oasis town located next to the Omani town of Buraimi, Al Ain is also famous for its lively, bustling Camel Souk, attracting breeders and buyers from all over the UAE along with countless malls, market stalls, museums, date-palm oasis Al Ain is a dynamic place with a super zoo, an archaeological park and of course an abundance of greenery.
Experiences
A handpicked selection of experiences endorsed by our experts. If you can’t see what you’re looking for, let us know, as our extensive network of local contacts can open many doors.
Al Ain National Museum
Discover the past and history of Al Ain and be immersed in objects and artwork of a bygone era. Excavated objects from nearby tombs which date back to 3rd millennium BC, stunning silver jewellery, ancient weapons, traditional costumes, pottery and even surgical instruments giving a glimpse of various aspects of UAE life.
Al Ain Oasis
Closeby to the Al Ain National Museum, this incredible oasis is filled with palm plantations employs a 3,000-year-old falaj irrigation system and features a series of magical water channels that sustain the palm plantations themselves. Spread over 1,200 hectares and home to more than 147,000 date palms with over 100 different varieties, the shaded walkways are an ideal escape from city noise, immersing yourself in the sound of birds and nature.
Al Ain Old Souk
Located in the center of town and close to the Al Ain Oasis, here resides a colourful visual spectacular of locals selling fresh produce, spices, meats, fish as well as blankets, burkas and many camel products. This is a true cultural destination to take in the real sights and smells of the UAE.
Al Ain Zoo
A great family destination, the zoo is packed with fun and adventure offering you the chance to explore a large animal collection of over 4,000 animals in natural habitats allowing the animals to live freely. A center for endangered species conservation, the zoo not only provides entertainment but also learning experiences in a natural outdoor environment.
Camel Souk (market)
Located around four miles south of Al Ain, this noisy traditional market is steeped in Arabic culture. from babies to fully grown camels that one day may be used for racing, or breeding you can watch the locals haggle over their next prized beast. Tour the market for free or pay someone for a guided tour by a trader.
Hili Fun City
This much-loved theme park is bursting at the seams with more than 30 attractions ranging from nail-biting rollercoasters and adventures to family-friendly rides for children of all ages. Set on a stunning space of landscaped and shaded gardens, with designated BBQ areas, you can enjoy a family day out or picnic.
Wadi Adventure
The Middle East's first man-made whitewater rafting, kayaking and surfing facility, Wadi Adventure offers all ages a fun day out. Boasting the world's longest man made whitewater channels, the world's largest surf pool, an aerial obstacle course, zip line, climbing wall and giant swing. For the children there is a family swimming pool and kid's splash area as well as family-friendly low ropes obstacle course.
UAE Regions
Explore in-depth information, experiences and highlights by navigating to specific regions using the links below on the right.
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Why Remote Lands?
Exclusively Asia
With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.
With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, in the continent that our north American founders Catherine and Jay have adored and explored for decades, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.
Travelogues
An Asia-focused magazine brought to you by Remote Lands - a platform for adventure, luxury, and authenticity from experts and explorers around the continent.
Sands of Time: In Search of the Old UAE
- Author
- Jay Tindall
After spending some time in the most infamous of UAE cities, Dubai and Abu Dhabi, I felt it time to take a better look at what lays outside these soaring modern landscapes and see if I could discover some worlds of old.
Ladies’ Getaway in the United Arab Emirates
- Author
- Remote Lands
Treat yourself to a glorious getaway in the UAE: get your girlfriends together in a dream destination that is just as glamorous as you, for a trip you’ll never forget.
Highest Infinity Pool in the World Set to Open at Address Beach Resort
- Author
- Travelogues
Ready for a Guinness World Record setting pool? Address Beach Resort, is set to open in December with the world’s highest infinity pool.
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