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Leisure & Attractions

Al Ain is surrounded by magnificent red sand dunes and overlooked by an impressive mountain range. Al Ain is located inland on the United Arab Emirates eastern border, at a focal point for journeys by excellent roads to Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah.

Archaeological discoveries date settlements in Al Ain to around 3000 BC. A visit to the Al Ain Museum with it's many and varied displays will provide a fascinating insight to the history of the city and region. There are revealing archaeological excavations for the experts, however a visit to the beautiful Hili Archaeological Park to view the magnificently restored tomb can provide a flavour of times long past. The Arabic words Al Ain mean "spring" and were taken as the city's name due to the abundant ground water springs in the area. This ground water provided for natural oases in the desert which were the attraction to human settlement.

HILI FUN CITY

This theme park caters to all the family. Picnic grounds, food outlets, souvenir shops and variety shows are provided in addition to the selection of over 30 rides including modern favourites such as Roller Coaster and Carousel and the latest attraction such as Laser Dome and Gyro Tower.

HILI ARCHAEOLOGICAL GARDENS

This beautifully landscaped park has as its centre piece - the restored tomb dating back four millennium. It also contains children's playgrounds, picnic areas and a coffe shop.


CENTRAL GARDENS

Al Ain is blessed with numerous beautifully landscaped parks. Of particular interest to visitors is the Central Public Gardens located just west of the Clocktower Roundabout in the Town Center. Set within the gardens are fascinating fountains and a large children’s adventure play area.

HOT SPRINGS

Located off the road to the Hafeet Mountain, it is an amazing sight to see the lakes of water amid the arid mountain and desert setting.

AL AIN MUSEUM

Situated adjacent to the Al Hosn Fort, the museum has two sections. The Ethnographical Section reflects the past daily life of the people of the region. The Archaeological Section displays discoveries dating back to the Bronze and Iron ages. The museum is open Sunday to Friday. Closed on Saturdays.


AL AIN UNIVERSITY

Al Ain is the location for the University of the UAE, opened in 1977. Approximately 12,000 students are educated in seven faculties located in a variety of buildings designed and constructed in impressive Islamic architectural styles.

HAFEET MOUNTAIN

1350 meters high, of craggy rock, the mountain is a major landmark positioned to the south of the city. A 13 kilometer long road winds its way to the summit where temperatures are significantly lower. On a clear day, there are magnificent views of the city and it’s surroundings.

ZOO AND AQUARIUM

The huge site housing the Zoo is located to the south of the town. Big cat houses, gorilla and monkey compounds, reptile house, aviaries all make viewing the large animal collection an easy experience. The zoo is also famous for its research activities particularly for it’s breeding of endangered native animals. (Closed on Saturdays and Wednesdays)

ICE RINK

Located adjacent to Hili Fun City, this magnificent Olympic sized facility is open daily. In addition to skating, a variety of other children’s activity games and a video arcade are also provided.

CAMEL RACING

Through out the Camel racing season, (October to March) races are held regularly at the Camel Race Track located to the west of the City, just off the road to Abu Dhabi. Visitors are welcome to view the exciting races and experience the atmosphere, free of charge.

AIN AL FAYDA RESORT

This landscaped resort is built around the natural springs located to the south of the city. A Guest House and chalet style accommodation is provided. Casual visitors can also avail of the many leisure facilities including parks, a boating lake, 10 pin bowling and swimming.

SAND GOLF COURSE

This full sized 18 hole sand course offers the golfer the opportunity to play the game as it has traditionally been played in the Gulf for many years. The course is located 4.5 Kilometers east of the Intercontinental Hotel.


GRASS GOLF COURSE

This 9 hole par 3 course is located within the grounds of the Hilton Hotel. It is an ideal facility for practicing short games.

TRADITIONAL SOUQ

The souqs in the Town center offer a fascinating insight to an aspect of the daily life of Al Ain residents. Visitors to the Central Meat, Fish and Vegetable souq will discover a fascinating friendly atmosphere amid a kaleidoscope of oriental colours, noises and spice smells.

AL AIN OASIS

A shaded walk through this large date plantation, will provide a restful and interesting experience. See workmen cultivating the huge palms, observe the falaj irrigation system and then take in the serenity at one of the specially provided sitting areas.
 

Jebel Hafeet
P O BOX 24476 0
AL AIN - UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
 Tel : (+971)3/7838888 -
Fax : (+971)3/7839000
Email : resa@mercure-alain.ae