Al Ain and Empty Quarter

Introduction

As Abu Dhabi city has so much to offer visitors, it is not difficult to see why so many people remain in the city throughout their stay.

The city offers fantastic modern facilities, great shopping and leisure opportunities, amazing beaches and parks, year round sunshine – all combined with Arabian history and culture.

However, there is much more to Abu Dhabi than the city, and this is what gives visitors the opportunity to really tailor-make the holiday of their choice, and what makes Abu Dhabi such a world class destination.

Many visitors will head out of the city in 4×4 vehicles to enjoy and explore the wide-open and stunning desert areas, to enjoy Bedouin cuisine and hospitality, or simply to take in the spectacular scenery that so contrasts the city.

Others will want to see even more of this fascinating destination – and Abu Dhabi offers tremendous opportunities for those who want to explore further.

Just 148km east from Abu Dhabi city, on clear and well constructed roads is Al Ain – Abu Dhabi’s second city.

Famous for its fascinating history and culture, and home to the last camel souk of the region, spectacular hot springs, interestingly decorated roundabouts, and great mountain scenery, this beautiful oasis city offers visitors another great experience for those travelling to Abu Dhabi.

Al Ain

Known as the Garden City, Al Ain was once a vital oasis on the caravan route to Oman. Situated just 148 km east of the capital, Al Ain boasts several historical forts and archaeological sites. An interesting day out can be spent at the Al Ain Museum and the Natural History Museum at the University of Al Ain, both of which feature displays on life before the discovery of oil in the region.

The Hili Archaeological Garden has remnants of a Bronze Age settlement dating back to 2500 – 2000 BC. This site is the source of some of the richest archaeological finds in the area, some of which are believed to be older than 4,000 years. The Jahili Fort, the birthplace of the late ruler Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, is notable for its impressive main turret, which has four levels.

Al Ain is the most fertile region in the country, and its oasis supports a host of palm plantations, many of which are still working farms.

The city is dominated by the main park near Al Ain Museum, which offers an area of greenery that contrasts greatly to the surrounding city and desert area, and is a great cool respite to the heat of Al Ain city.

The plantations are also good examples of Falaj – the ancient irrigation system to make maximum use of the scarce water resources.

The city’s many parks are all beautifully kept and well worth a visit. Featuring play areas, benches under shady trees, meandering walkways and elaborate fountains, they offer tranquil hideaways for visitors and residents alike.

The Al Ain Zoo and Aquarium, spread over 400 hectares, is one of largest in the Gulf region. It is home to a wide variety of species, both common and rare, and runs an ongoing breeding programme for endangered animals.

The city’s camel market is well known throughout the country and is the last of its kind. It provides the opportunity to see and hear traders discussing prices and listing the merits of their prized camels. The nearby animal souk is a similar experience, although it specialises in the sale of sheep, goats and other livestock.

Al Ain’s Old Prison affords the best views of the city and its surrounding oasis. It is a lone square turret in the centre of a gravel courtyard, surrounded by high walls. At night this historical building is illuminated, and is a beautiful view when seen from the nearby camel market.

Overlooking the city is the majestic Jebel Hafeet, the highest mountain in the country. This mountain dominates the city, and is the natural border between Abu Dhabi and Oman.

A road leads to the summit and this offers visitors spectacular views in all directions, and the view at night of Al Ain and surrounding area is magical.

At its base are Ain Al Faydah natural spring and the Green Mubazzarah tourism resort. This is an area that showcases Abu Dhabi’s commitment to the environment.

Set in the valleys at the base of the mountain, the thick green grass contrasts beautifully to the steep slopes of Jebel Hafeet, and is littered with picnic areas that play host to families enjoying their free time.

Buildings amongst the slopes house small bathing areas that make use of the natural hot springs that reach the surface here. These spas are particularly popular in the evenings for those that want to relax in the natural waters. Be advised that there are restrictions on entry to the hot springs based on dressing appropriately and conservatively.

Liwa

Approximately five hours by car from Abu Dhabi is the Liwa Oasis, one of the largest oases on the Arabian Peninsula and the UAE’s entry point to the famous Empty Quarter.

Featuring plenty of freshwater pools and date plantations, the oasis is home to the Bani Yas Tribe, the Bedouin ancestors of Abu Dhabi’s ruling family.

The large tracts of the desert here, with high sand dunes devoid of all vegetation, have remained unspoiled and unchanged for centuries.

Liwa is the base camp for the annual UAE Desert Challenge, which forms part of the international off-road rally world championships. Camel tours of Liwa’s dunes and overnight camping trips are some of the options available through Abu Dhabi’s many tour operators.

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