Al Ain

OVERVIEW

Al Ain

Al Ain, meaning 'The Spring', is the UAE's oldest continuously inhabited settlement and its most verdant city. Located in the Abu Dhabi emirate near the Omani border, it earned UNESCO World Heritage status for its network of ancient oases, archaeological sites dating back to the Bronze Age, and its traditional falaj irrigation system. The city is defined by Jebel Hafeet — a 1,249-metre mountain that offers stunning sunset drives — and by its expansive oasis gardens, where thousands of date palms create cool, shaded walkways. Al Ain Zoo, the Palace Museum, and the vibrant Camel Market round out one of the UAE's most rewarding day trips.

Al Ain offers the most complete picture of the UAE's pre-oil heritage. Its UNESCO-listed oases, archaeological sites, and traditional atmosphere stand in fascinating contrast to the modern cities on the coast. It is also the birthplace of the UAE's founding father, Sheikh Zayed.