Hidden Gems and Must-See Landmarks for Your Day Trip
Al Ain, also known as the Oasis City or the Garden City, is the second-largest city in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. Settlement here dates back some 5,000 years to the Neolithic period, and is considered by many to be Abu Dhabi’s cultural heartland.
Sitting on the border with Oman, Al Ain is a great day trip location from Abu Dhabi and home to the UAE’s only current tangible UNESCO World Heritage Site (actually several historical sites collectively known as the Cultural Sites of Al Ain).
Al Ain is also where you will find yourself closest to nature in Abu Dhabi; whether you choose to ascend the stunning mountain of Jebel Hafeet, stroll around the beautiful, shady oasis, or visit the impressive zoo or camel market, there are simply loads of things to see and do in Al Ain, and it should have deserved a spot on any UAE itinerary.
In this article, we will explain exactly what to expect in Al Ain and how to organise a day trip or overnighter to the Oasis City from Abu Dhabi.
Why is it worth visiting Al Ain?
Far more than just the UNESCO cultural sites, Al Ain has been at the crossroads of Arabian civilisation for centuries. During the hottest times of the year, the Bedouin would retreat from the coast to the desert, where the natural oasis provided a cooling reprieve.
In recent tmes, the city has been the birthplace of the country’s founding father, Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan al Nahyan, the UAE’s second ruler, Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed al Nahyan and current ruler, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan
How to Get to Al Ain From Abu Dhabi
Al Ain is around 160 km from Abu Dhabi. There are four main ways you can get to Al Ain from Abu Dhabi as a tourist:
- Rent or borrow your own vehicle
- Take public transport
- Hire a driver or taxi each way
- Join an organised tour group
While public transport from Abu Dhabi to Al Ain is possible, it is best to hire a car and self-drive.
The journey takes less than 2 hours, and there are plenty of places to stop along the way for refreshments or to pull over to a safe spot and take pictures of the dunes, camels, and other notable sites on the way into the city.
It’s also likely to be hot, and having your car means you can easily travel from site to site within the city without having to wait for buses or taxis. Hiring a private driver or taxi is also possible, but it will likely be expensive.
We would also recommend having your own vehicle if you are traveling with children or people with mobility issues. Alternatively, you could join an organised tour group to get the most out of your visit to Al Ain (we recommend some groups you can join below!)
If you want to take public transport from Abu Dhabi to Al Ain, we recommend taking the X90 from Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station. You must buy a Hafilat Card at the station in order to use the bus as drivers are unable to accept cash. The first bus departs at 6.45 am and then roughly every hour until 11.45 pm. The journey takes around 2 hours and 10 minutes.
We have a detailed guide on our Dubai Travel Planner site on how to tackle this trip in the opposite direction from Dubai; it is around the same distance from Dubai to Al Ain as it is Abu Dhabi to Al Ain.
Getting Around Within Al Ain
Al Ain has a fairly good public transport system with decent local buses and a fleet of easily identifiable taxis. Uber and its local equivalent, Careem, are also available.
That said, Al Ain’s sites are all quite spread out, and the heat makes waiting around for buses and drivers somewhat less than appealing for many.
If you want to find out more about bus services in Al Ain, including up-to-date bus timetables, please refer to the Abu Dhabi Public Transport Services website. Al Ain buses all have a ‘9’ prefix.
Map of key attractions in Al Ain
Key Attractions to Visit in Al Ain
We will include here a list of all the major historic sites and attractions in Al Al Ain, but be aware you’ll never be able to fit them all into one day, especially if you rely on public transport or a guided tour. There isn’t time for it all! Below are some itinerary suggestions to fit as much as possible into your time in Al Ain.
Al Ain Oasis
Several Oases in Al Ain make up the UNESCO World Heritage Site, namely:
- Al Ain Oasis
- Al Muatared Oasis
- Al Jimi Oasis
- Al Qattara Oasis
- Al Hili Oasis
The largest is Al Ain Oasis, located in the city centre. Extensive restoration works have taken place on the site, which reopened to the public in 2016 and is now the city’s most popular attraction.
The oasis was nearly lost beneath the city as rapid development occurred in the 1980s and 1990s. Fortunately, the need to preserve the site due to its archaeological, cultural, and ecological importance became apparent, and the 3,000-acre site now contains more than 147,000 palm trees.
The grounds also contain an old fortification and mosque, as well as the channels and cisterns of the impressive falaj irrigation system for which Al Ain is famous.
As you wander the tranquil pathways under the shade of more than 140,000 palm trees, you transcend time and see life as it was hundreds of years ago.
The labyrinthine structure of the oasis holds many surprises, many of which were nearly lost beneath the city as rapid development occurred in the 1980s and 1990s. Begin your journey at West Gate Plaza, where you will find a 3D representation of the oasis and its ancient falaj (irrigation) system, as well as a small indoor installation with images of the oasis projected onto a shimmering pool of water.
In addition to toilet facilities, vending machines, and a cafe, you can hire bikes, quadricycles, and golf buggies to make your trip through the oasis even more enjoyable.
For a complete understanding of the oasis, head to the date-shaped building on the outer perimeter of the oasis (just to the east of the Oasis Plaza) for a variety of interactive demonstrations showing the history and development of the site.
The Oasis is open 8 am to 5 pm daily and free to enter.
Other UNESCO Sites of Al Ain
Although consisting of only one listing, The Al Ain sites are, in fact, made up of several sites; Hafit, Hili, Bidaa Bint Saud and Oases Areas.
These sites testify to human occupation of the desert region since the Neolithic period with vestiges of many prehistoric cultures – notably the Bronze Age and the Iron Age; examples include:
- Circular stone tombs (dated back to c2500 BC)
- Residential buildings, towers, palaces and administrative buildings
- Examples of the earliest falaj irrigation system
You can read more about the UNESCO World Heritage Inscription here.
Al Hili Archaeological Park
Home to the largest discovered Bronze Age settlement in the UAE, the park is a living museum of tombs, settlements, and a falaj—mostly, only foundations can be spotted today.
Most significant items have been moved into the collections of the central Al Ain National Museum. Unfortunately, the museum building is being rebuilt, and there is no specified reopening date.
The park is open limited hours 4 pm to 11 pm daily, entry is free.
Jebel Hafeet Bee Hive Tombs
Found at the foot of Abu Dhabi’s highest peak, Jebel Hafeet, the circular Bee Hive Tombs are thought to date back up to 5,000 years. The artefacts found within the tombs have helped archaeologists substantiate claims of trade routes dating to around 3,200 to 2,700 BCE.
Previously, it was very easy in a 4WD car to just drive up to the tombs. However, under preservation efforts since February 2020, the tombs now fall within the Jebel Hafit Desert Park. There is a small 5 AED per person fee to enter.
The desert park is quite extensive though, with hiking and biking available, along with camel rides, dune buggy experiences, and even overnight camping in Bedouin-style tents and eco-glamping options (although these are currently unavailable – we expect them to reopen soon for winter 2024-25).
Learn more about the Jebel Hafit Desert Park
Bidaa Bint Saud
There are several small finds near one another contributing to this archaeological site, sitting about 15kms to the north of Al Ain:
- Numerous rectangular, stone-constructed tombs from the Hafit period (3200 to 2600 BC) on top of a mountain called Gharn bint Saud
- 1,500 metres to the west is a 3,000-year-old falaj system
- A large mudbrick building with column bases was found near the falaj, which was thought to perhaps be a distribution point for the falaj.
This site is quite isolated and not easily accessible to the public. Finds from the site are also housed in the Al Ain National Museum. You can learn more about this site on abudhabiculture.ae
Open 24/7, entry is free.
Al Ain Palace Museum
The Al Ain Palace was the home of Sheikh Zayed, the nation’s founder, until 1966 when the family relocated to the city of Abu Dhabi. In 1998, the palace was turned into a museum. It is one of the most interesting sites in Al Ain for history buffs. Unfortunately, it is currently closed for essential repairs and visitor experience improvements (Summer/Autumn 2024).
Other Museums in Al Ain
- Qasr al Muwaiji – A fully restored fortified palace west of the city. The fort is an excellent example of mud brick architecture and was built around 1900.
- Al Jahili Fort – Built to protect palm farmers in 1891. The fort is worth visiting for its exhibition celebrating the travels of Wilfred Thesiger, as well as for its mud brick architecture.
- Al Ain National Museum houses an extensive collection of artefacts from Al Ain and the surrounding area (currently closed for renovations).
Souk Al Qattara
Located in the Al Qattara area of Al Ain, Souk Al Qattara offers a traditional handicraft market every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from October to May. It’s a great place to pick up souvenirs and soak up the atmosphere. The site now includes an arts centre and the restored Al Qattara Fort.
Art centre open daily from 9.00 am until 8.00pm.
Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Mosque
The Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Mosque is a stunning new mosque in the heart of Al Ain.
It is the largest mosque in Al Ain, opened to the public in 2021, and can accommodate more than 20,000 worshippers. The magnificent dome is adorned with Quranic verses and sits between four proud minarets, which look particularly stunning at sunset.
Worshipper access only inside
Al Ain Camel Market
Situated on Zayed Bin Sultan Street, not far from the Al Bawadi Mall, the camel market provides the opportunity to see hundreds of camels, sheep, and goats being bought and sold. It’s the only market of its kind in the UAE and is definitely worth a visit.
Open daily from 6.00am until 7.00pm. Entry is free.
Jebel Hafeet
The highest point in Abu Dhabi emirate (second highest point in the UAE), it is well worth the 30 minutes or so drive up the incredibly steep and winding road to the peak at 1240m for the incredible view across the city and down into neighbouring Oman.
Along the road to the summit, you will find view points and picnic areas and playgrounds. Just before you reach the top of the mountain there is a turning for the Mercure Grand Jebel Hafeet Hotel.
We recommend this as a great place to refresh yourself or potentially stay overnight. To reach the summit, continue up the main road, until you reach a large parking area. Here you will find excellent chai Karak as well as stunning views.
Open 24/7, road closed during storms
The Green Mubazzarah
The name ‘Jebel Hafeet’ means ‘Green Mountain’ and whilst there is certainly less vegetation than the name suggests, there are areas where some species of plant have flourished, such as the Green Mubazzarah, where hot springs flow from the mountain onto the plain below.
The area has become a resort in its own right with an artificial boating lake, bikes for rent and chalets to stay in overnight. There is also a swimming pool with a charge of 5 AED and a little train that will take you around the site with a charge of 25 AED for adults and 15 AED for children.
Weekends here are very busy, as families come from all over the UAE annd even from over the border in Oman to enjoy the parklands and dip their feet in the healing waters!
Site open 24/7. Attraction times vary.
Al Ain Zoo & Safari
Another family-friendly option whilst in Al Ain is a visit to Al Ain Zoo. Along with large enclosures featuring a range of animals from around the world, the zoo offers a safari experience and the chance to drive through the vast reserve area in the safety and comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle.
If you want to do more than observe the animals from afar there are a number of animal experiences on offer, including giraffe feeding (additional fee payable at the giraffe enclosure).
Children will also enjoy the range of playgrounds and interactive exhibits on site, as well as the extensive gardens and open spaces to run around in. At the height of theDay, there are plenty of shady areas to escape the sun, as well as the indoor Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre.
The learning center offers the opportunity to learn about the UAE’s unique natural environment and the animals and people that live there.
Open daily from 9.00 am until 7.00 pm (closed in July and August), entry is 31 AED for adults/kids 10 AED.
Al Ain Adventure
Al Ain Adventure Park offers a variety of adrenaline-pumping activities! Here, you can enjoy whitewater rafting, kayaking, surfing, climbing walls, and an aerial zipline. The modern facility at the base of Jebel Hafeet offers the perfect day out for active thrill seekers!
Open daily from 11.00am until 7.00pm, prices start at 125 AED. To find out more, click here.
Ideal One-Day Itineraries For Al Ain
So how can you make the most of your day-trip to Al Ain. Here we’ve put together a one-day itinerary which combines the best of what Al Ain has to offer along with plenty of time to soak up the atmosphere.
- Depart Abu Dhabi early (around 8.00am) to arrive in Al Ain by 10.00 am.
- Start your visit at Qasr Al Muwiji before driving up Jebel Hafeet to the Mercure Hotel (you could also make a detour to the camel market and/or beehive tombs before ascending the mountain).
- Enjoy stunning views from the poolside restaurant over a light lunch. The hotel has great views of the city and a variety of geological features.
- Once refreshed, descend the mountain and head to the Al Ain Oasis, parking by the Sheikh Zayed Palace Museum.
- Follow the footpath from the Sheikh Zayed Palace Musuem to the Oasis Plaza, visit the exhibition space en route, and explore the oasis on foot, by bicycle, or by buggy.
- Finish the day at the Sheikh Zayed Palace Museum (when open) and enjoy hearing the sunset call to prayer before enjoying dinner at a local restaurant, or, if time permits, head to Souk Al Qattara for a bit of shopping and look around the arts centre and some delicious street food.
With families, we’d suggest:
- Leave Abu Dhabi around 7.00 am.
- Arrive at Al Ain Zoo around 9.00 am. Enjoy strolling around the expansive site, making sure to visit the creatures high on your must see list as early in the day as possible.
- As the temperature rises, head to the Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre (within the zoo grounds) for the chance to cool off and learn more about life in this unique biome.
- There are plenty of places to have lunch within the zoo, including a small cafe in the Zayed Desert Learning centre and the Zarafa Restaurant in the centre of the site.
- After lunch, enjoy a drive up Jebel Hafeet for stunning views and light refreshments at the Mercure Hotel, give the children chance to play at the lovely playground before heading back down the mountain to the Al Ain Oasis.
- Take a stroll around the oasis before visiing the Sheikh Zayed Palace Museum (when open), or enjoy a picnic by the West Gate as the sun sets.
- Head to Souk Al Qattara for a little shopping.
- 8.30 pm return to Abu Dhabi. It’s a long day, but worth it, and hey, the kid’s can sleep in the car!
If you don’t mind arriving at the zoo a little later, we would also recommend a drive through the camel market for an interesting insight into Emirati culture.
A Full Weekend Itinerary in Al Ain
If time permits, with a full weekend in Al AIn (remembering the weekend in Abu Dhabi starts from lunchtime on Friday!), you can potentially fit in most of our highlights list, your itinerary may look more like:
Friday
- Visit the Green Mubazzarah on your way up to the Mercure Hotel at the top of Jebel Hafeet. Enjoy lunch and a few drinks whilst taking in the view.
- Around 4.00 pm, descend the mountain and head to the Al Hili Archaeological Park via the beehive tombs (note it is a 35-minute drive between the beehive tombs and Al Hili Archaeological Park).
- Take a stroll around the site before finding a bite to eat.
Saturday
- Visit the camel market early in the morning before heading to Qasr Al Muwaji.
- Head to the Jahili Fort via a photo stop at the Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Mosque.
- Take lunch at the nearby Rotana Hotel, before heading to the Al Ain Oasis.
- Explore the oasis on foot, bike or buggy, before heading to the Sheikh Zayed Palace Museum (if open), roughly an hour before sunset.
- Enjoy looking around the museum and the sunset call to prayer before driving to Souk Al Qattara for shopping and dinner.
Sunday
- Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before driving to Al Ain Adventure. Get your adrenaline pumping with some white water rafting, kayaking and other thrilling activities.
- After all of that thrill seeking, why not enjoy a late lunch at Italian inspired restaurant Azzurro, or the Lebanese Habib Beirut.
Where to Stay in Al Ain – Best Accommodation
Al Ain has a reasonable range of accommodation options if you are looking to extend your trip to Al Ain. You will certainly need more than two days to capture all the highlights of the Oasis City. Most resorts and hotels are a little dated, but you can find a bargain resort retreat. Our favourites are:
- Al Ain Rotana – the best central option near to Al Jahili Fort and several dining options, including Trader Vics make this a great all-rounder option for couples and groups – check prices on Booking.com
- Mercure Grand Jebel Hafeet – for a spectacular view, look to head to the top of Abu Dhabi Emirates’ highest peak Jebel Hafeet. The hotel is a little dated but has a great range of facilities – check prices on Booking.com
- Danat Al Ain Resort – an oldie but a goldie this family resort is still packed with fun and can offer some great value weekend packages – check prices on Booking.com
- Aloft Al Ain – comfortable modern accommodation adjacent to the Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium with several dining options (great spot in your in town for one of the regular sportingfixtures!) – check prices on Booking.com
Guided Tours of Al Ain
Guided tours are a great way to see a lot of key sites in a day. A knowledgeable guide can add to your understanding of a site and can ensure that you don’t miss out on any little details or hidden gems.
But, with a guided tour, you are limited to a set amount of time in each place that you visit. You may really enjoy visiting one place but be forced to leave before you are ready or find you have limited time for shopping or refreshments.
If you’re travelling with children, you may find that the tours try to squeeze too much in without sufficient rest breaks or that the schedule doesn’t match the heat of the day and find yourself walking around sites when you’d rather be sat down enjoying a cold beverage.
We recommend self-guiding a trip to Al Ain. Most museums have well-produced guides, and some, like the Sheikh Zayed Palace Museum, even have audio guides. However, if you really want to avoid driving around the city and would relish the input of a local guide, then the following available from Get Your Guide might be just what you’re looking for!
Before you go… Important things to consider when planning a trip to Abu Dhabi
- Pop into our essential planning information page; it includes everything you need to know about getting around Abu Dhabi, a handy guide on what to pack and top tips for first-timers on the dos and don’ts, laws, and customs in the UAE.
- Don’t forget to pack your travel insurance!
- Discover the best places to stay in Abu Dhabi, or bag a bargain on your accommodation here:
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All prices and opening hours were correct at the time of writing, October 2024.
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