Al Ain has several site that would be of interest to tourists:
Jebel Hafeet. The second tallest mountain in the United Arab Emirates (1350 m), Jebel Hafeet is surrounded by flat plains on three sides, which afford spectacular views, especially at sunset. The road to the top winds around hairpin turns for 12 km. There are three rest points for viewing, and then at the very top is a large parking area with a cafeteria and 360 degree view of the entire area. Take care on the road, some drivers enjoy the excitement of the twists and turns too much. There is a hotel (Mecure Hafeet) at the top, as well as Green Mubazara Park and Ain Al Fada resorts at the bottom. Free. edit
Camel Souq, Near Meyzad border crossing. Daylight. Recenctly relocated to the Meyzad area, about 5 km south of Al Ain, near the Oman border, the camel souq is open every day. Hundreds of camels are brought together to buy and sell. Dress conservatively. The traders are very friendly, especially to children. The non-Gulf Arab traders may ask for money ("baksheesh") for letting children sit on a camel. Many traders will pick up children unbidden so that they can be photographed. Free. edit
Al Ain Museum and Fort. Free. Located on Al Ain Street (or "Main Street" as the locals call it), this fort was built to protect the oasis from raiders. It was used as the headquarters for Sheikh Zayed when he was the ruler of the Eastern Region of Abu Dhabi, prior to his ascending to Sheikh of Abu Dhabi itself. The museum recreates the way people of the region lived before the founding ofthe UAE. edit
Al Ain Oasis. The biggest of several oasises in region, the oasis is made up of thousands of date palms. The oasis is located between the main souq area downtown and Al Ain street. Narrow roads run through the oasis, so you can drive through it, or you can walk. A small restaurant/coffee shop (currently closed) is located in the middle. Walking in the oasis is especially nice when the sun is not directly overhead, as the palm trees offer cooling shade. Free. edit
Arabia Center a ladies speciality shopping center by ENB GROUP, located in Jabal Roundabout. A special attraction for Arabic traditional wear & western outfits for ladies and their kids. Arabia Center - the pulse of a lady.
Al Ain has three shopping malls Al Ain Mall Close to the town centre, it is the largest mall in Al Ain. It contains an ice-skating rink and children's play areas as well as a cinema showing new releases.
Al Jimi Mall It is located in the Jimi Area, close to the Municipality building (Baladiya in Arabic). The building was originally built as a vegetable and meat market, but was renovated and revamped into a spectacular shopping mall. It has Carrefour, the large supermarket where you would get everything on your shopping list.
Al Bawadi Mall is the newest mall - 15 minutes drive past the Hilton - and houses lots of familiar names: Marks and Spencer; Boots; New Look; Top Shop as well as a second Carrefour, an Ace Hardware and Magrudy's bookshop. The Gold Souk has been relocated here, and the camel market is close.
Al Ain also has various shopping areas, the Town Centre Area i.e. Main Street, Khalifa Street, and Oud At Touba Street. Vendors sell everything from cheaply made toys and souvenirs to spices, Arabian incense and Gold. |
