Things to do in Al Ain: The Perfect Blend of Tradition, Adventure and Fun

Welcome to Al Ain, a vibrant city in the United Arab Emirates that offers a perfect blend of tradition and modernity. Known as the “Garden City” for its lush greenery and natural springs, Al Ain is a treasure trove of history, culture, and adventure. Explore the ancient forts and museums, visit the stunning Sheikh Zayed Palace Museum, and experience the thrill of dune bashing and camel riding. Enjoy the city’s scenic beauty, indulge in local cuisine, and shop at traditional souks. Whether you’re a history buff, an adventure seeker, or a foodie, there is no abundance of things to do in Al Ain.

Things to Do in Al Ain: Uncover the Secrets of the Oasis city

Discover the treasures of Al Ain, a historic city located in the UAE’s interior. Explore ancient forts, museums, and oases, and experience the thrill of desert adventures like dune bashing and falconry. Visit traditional souks, indulge in local cuisine, and unwind in luxurious hotels. With its rich heritage, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality, there are so many amazing things to do in Al Ain that will leave you enchanted and inspired.

1. Go Dune Bashing at Al Ain Desert Safari: Feel the Thrill of the Desert Ride
2. Take a Camel Ride at Al Ain Camel Souk: Experience the Traditional Mode of Transport
3. Hike to the Summit of Jebel Hafeet at Jebel Hafeet National Park: Reach New Heights
4. Visit the Al Ain Souk (Central Souk) for Shopping: Where Tradition Meets Commerce
5. Take a Falconry Lesson at the Al Ain Falcon Hospital: Learn the Ancient Art of Falconry
6. Go Kayaking at Wadi Adventure Water Park: Paddle Your Way To Adventure
7. Take a Cooking class to Learn Emirati Cuisine at the Al Ain Cultural Centre: Taste the Flavors of the UAE
8. Go on a Desert Safari at the Al Ain Desert Safari camp: Where the Desert Comes Alive

1. Go Dune Bashing at Al Ain Desert Safari: Feel the Thrill of the Desert Ride

Enjoy a thrilling ride at Al Ain Desert Safari! Our expert drivers will take you on a 4x4 adventure through the sand dunes. Feel the excitement as you zoom up and down the dunes, taking in the stunning views. You’ll love the rush of dune bashing! Our drivers prioritize safety, so you can focus on having fun. Get ready to experience the unforgettable things to do in Al Ain UAE within the beautiful desert landscape.

Location: Al Ain Desert Safari, Al Ain, UAE (specifically, the desert area near Al Ain city)

Best Time:

• Morning: 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM (avoiding the harsh sun)
• Afternoon: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM (watching the sunset)

Duration: 2-3 hours (depending on the package)

Activities Included: Dune bashing, Camel riding, Sandboarding, Falcon show, Arabic coffee and dates

Tips:

• Wear comfortable clothing and shoes
• Hold on tight during dune bashing!

Safety Precautions:

• Wear seatbelts during dune bashing
• Follow instructions from the driver/guide

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2. Take a Camel Ride at Al Ain Camel Souk: Experience the traditional mode of transport

Experience the traditional mode of Arabian transport at Al Ain Camel Souk! Take a leisurely ride on a gentle camel, feeling the rhythm of its gait as you glide across the sand. Our friendly camel handlers will guide you through the souk, sharing stories about these majestic creatures. Enjoy the unique perspective of the surroundings from atop your camel, taking in the sights and sounds of the bustling marketplace. This relaxing and memorable experience has been listed as one of the top things to do in Al Ain.

Location: Al Ain Camel Souk, Al Ain, UAE (specifically, the camel market area)

Best Time:

• Morning: 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM (avoiding the harsh sun)
• Late Afternoon: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM (watching the sunset)

Duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour (depending on the package)

List of Adventure Activity in Al Ain: Camel ride, Camel feeding and petting, Guided tour of the camel souk

Tips:

• Dress up according to the weather and cover yourself properly so that you don’t get tan
• Be gentle and respectful when interacting with the camels

Safety Precautions:

• Wear a helmet during the camel ride
• Follow instructions from the guide

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3. Hike to the Summit of Jebel Hafeet at Jebel Hafeet National Park: Reach New Heights  

Conquer the highest peak in Al Ain at Jebel Hafeet National Park! Hike up the mountain trail, taking in the stunning views of the city and the desert landscape. Feel the sense of accomplishment as you reach the summit, where breathtaking panoramas await. Learn about the unique geology and flora of the region from our knowledgeable guides. This is one of the challenging yet rewarding AlAin things to do for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike!

Location: Jebel Hafeet National Park, Al Ain, UAE

Best Time: October to March (cooler temperatures)

Duration: 2-4 hours (depending on fitness level and route)

Activities Included: Hiking to the summit, exploring the national park, enjoying the views from the top

Tips:

• Wear comfortable hiking shoes and clothes
• Bring water, snacks, and sun protection
• Be prepared for changing weather conditions

Safety Precautions:

• Wear appropriate gear (e.g. hiking boots, hat)
• Bring a first aid kit and know how to use it
• Let someone know your itinerary and expected return time

Difficulty Level: Moderate to challenging (depending on route and fitness level)

Distance: Approximately 10-15 km (6.2-9.3 miles) round trip

Surface Elevation: Approximately 1,100-1,400 m (3,600-4,600 ft)

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4. Visit the Al Ain Souk (Central Souk) For Shopping: Where Tradition Meets Commerce

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Al Ain’s Central Souk! Explore the bustling stalls and shops, discovering unique souvenirs, traditional clothing, and exotic spices. Haggle with friendly vendors, practicing your bargaining skills. Uncover hidden gems and take home a piece of Al Ain’s culture and history. Shopping is an interesting activity in Al Ain. If you are confused about choosing one of the places to visit in UAE for shopping, Al Ain Souk is your one-stop destination.

Location: Al Ain Souk, Al Ain, UAE (approximately 1.5 hours from Abu Dhabi city)

Activities Included:

• Shopping for traditional goods
• Exploring the souk and capturing photographs
• Practicing bargaining skills

Tips:

• Carry all the essentials along with you
• Be prepared to haggle prices

Safety Precautions:

• Be aware of pickpocketing and crowded areas
• Keep valuables secure and close

Products Available: Traditional artefacts, Local spices and henna, Jewellery and clothing accessories, Home décor and souvenirs

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5. Take a Falconry Lesson at the Al Ain Falcon Hospital: Learn The Ancient Art of Falconry

Get up close and personal with majestic falcons at the Al Ain Falcon Hospital! Learn the ancient art of falconry from expert trainers, discovering the secrets of handling and caring for these magnificent birds. Feel the thrill of having a falcon land on your gloved hand, and take home unforgettable memories of your encounter with these regal creatures.

Location: Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital, Al Shamkha, Near the Abu Dhabi International Airport (not in Al Ain)

Open Hours: 8 AM to 5 PM (Closed on Saturdays)

Duration: Approximately 2 hours

Activities Included:

• Guided tour of the falcon hospital
• Falconry lesson and demonstration
• Hands-on experience with falcons
• Museum visit

Tips:

• Do all the necessary rituals before leaving like putting sunscreen or covering yourself with the scarf
• Be gentle and respectful when interacting with the falcons

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6. Go Kayaking at Wadi Adventure Water Park: Paddle Your Way to Adventure

Paddle your way to adventure at Wadi Adventure Al Ain! Navigate the calm waters of the kayaking course, taking in the stunning scenery and soaking up the sun. Enjoy a fun and relaxing experience, perfect for all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely paddle or an adrenaline-packed ride, the Kayaking at Wadi Adventure Park is one of the most interesting things to do in UAE. You will also get to see one of the breathtaking waterfalls in UAE at this famous park in Al Ain.

Location: Al Ain Adventure Park, which is situated at the base of Jebel Hafit Mountain in Abu Dhabi, about an hour and a half away from Al Ain

Best Time: The park is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and the best time for kayaking is during the morning or early afternoon when the sun isn’t too harsh

Duration: Approximately two hours.

Activities Included: Kayaking, rafting, surfing, wakeboarding, and other water activities

Tips:

• Wear comfortable clothing and shoes that can get wet
• Don’t forget to bring a towel and a change of clothes
• Be prepared for changing weather conditions

Safety Precautions:

• Follow the instructions of the guides and trainers at all times
• Always wear a life jacket while engaging in water activities
• Be mindful of your own safety and the safety of those around you

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7. Take a Cooking Class to Learn Emirati Cuisine at the Al Ain Cultural Centre: Taste the Flavors of the UAE

Savor the flavors of the UAE at the Al Ain Cultural Centre! Learn the art of traditional Emirati cooking in a hands-on class, discovering secrets of local dishes like machboos, luqaimat, and more. Explore the rich culinary heritage of the region, and enjoy the fruits of your labor over a delicious meal with new friends. A taste of culture and hospitality awaits at one of the best places to visit in Al Ain.

Location: Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood of Dubai

Class duration: 1.5-3 hours

Class types:

• 1.5-hour breakfast cooking class
• 2-hour machboos cooking class
• 3-hour machboos, regag bread and luqaimat cooking class

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8. Go on a Desert Safari at the Al Ain Desert Safari Camp: Where the Desert Comes Alive!

Experience the magic of the desert at Al Ain Desert Safari camp! Venture into the dunes on a thrilling ride, watch the sunset over the sandy horizon, and enjoy a cozy night under the stars. Relax in our Bedouin-style camp, savoring traditional Arabic cuisine and hospitality. Desert Safari Al Ain is journey of discovery and wonder awaits in the heart of the Arabian desert!

Pick up time: 3:00 PM and drop off time at 9:30 PM

Activities: 4WD dune bash, Al Ain Camel Safari, sandboarding, falcon photos, buffet dinner, fire and belly dance shows, hotel pickup and drop-off included

In conclusion, Al Ain is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be uncovered. From the thrill of dune bashing to the tranquility of the oasis, the city offers a unique blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an adrenaline junkie, there is no dearth of things to do in Al Ain. So come and discover the charm of this ancient city and take-home memories that will last a lifetime with our exclusive UAE tour packages.

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