The birthplace of Sheikh Zayed, founding father of the United Arab Emirates, Al Ain is one of the top cities in Oman to visit. The natural springs, date palms, and the serene desert define the magnificent beauty of Al Ain. The city houses a myriad of attractions and quite a few UNESCO World heritage sites as the best places to visit in Al Ain. It is due to the palm fringes that Al Ain is even known as the Garden City. From the vivid culture to the captivating panorama, Al Ain is a spectacular destination to visit once in a lifetime.

Top 8 Al Ain Tourist Places For An Authentic Holiday Feel

Al Ain, the city in Oman is a land of tranquil oasis and scenery. From the vast golden desert, the handpicked historical sites, the architecture, and so more, here are some of the top listed attractions you can consider visiting during your holiday in Al Ain.

1. Al Jahili Fort

Al Jahili Fort

Opened in the year 2008, Al Jahili Fort is one of the best places to see in Al Ain. Now, this the largest fort in the UAE that was built back in the year 1890 by Sheikh Zayed bin Khalifa Al Nahyan. The fort was used by the members of Al Nahyan, who were ruling the city during the time. Going back to the history, motive behind building the fort was to protect the city from any foreign attack.

The architecture has made Al Jahili Fort an iconic landmark for tourists. In 2007 and 2008, the fort was renovated by the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi. Preserving the heritage and the beauty of its originality, the fort is now transformed into a center of every tourist spot in Al Ain. There are exhibitions organized that display the artwork of Sir Wilfred Thesiger.

Location: Mohammed Bin Khalifa Street, Al Ain

Timing:

  • Monday: Closed
  • Tuesday to Thursday: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
  • Friday: 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm
  • Saturday and Sunday: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm

Entry Fees: N/A

2. Jebal Hafeet

Jebal Hafeet

A rugged mountain range, nestled in between the United Arab Emirates and Oman is surely one of the best things to see in Al Ain. Raising to a height of 1,240 meters, it is the second-largest peak in the UAE and the tallest mountain in Abu Dhabi.

Driving up the terrains of the mountains is one of the best things to do in the UAE that will take you on the most exciting journey of the day. The roads are enclosed within the captivating panorama where there is lush beauty of the oasis. Overlooking the largest desert in the world, Rub’ al-Khali, Jebal Hafeet is listed as the UNESCO world heritage site and an archeological site. The history of Jabel Hafeet dates back to 4000 years, to the era of the Neolithic period. More than 500 tombs were discovered at this best tourist attraction in Al Ain.

Location: Jabal R/a, Al Ain, Emirate of Abu Dhabi

Famous For:

  • Green Mubazarrah
  • Hiking
  • Driving
  • Photography

3. Al Ain Zoo

Al Ain Zoo

Al Ain Zoo was founded in 1968 by Sheikh Zayed as one of the famous attractions in the UAE. Spreading to an area of 400-hectare, the zoo is home to all exotic species of wild, with more than 4000 animals. You can see the Arabian antelope, lions, African gazelles, tiger leopards, and some rare wildlife including reptiles, as you explore this one of the best places to visit in Al Ain.

There are breeding programs organized for research work and monitoring the number of endangered species. Activities like camel rides, feeding programs, and other interesting programs are to be carried for engaging visitors in wildlife conservation and making them understand the value and importance of biodiversity. You can even find a diversity of flora with native plant species and flowers.

Making it the best places for sightseeing in Al Ain, the zoo has a vast green space where you can enjoy a family picnic and relax.

Location: Al Ain Street, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi

Timings: All Days: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Entry Fees:  

Entertainer ticket (Zoo Access):

  • Adult: AED 30,
  • Children (3 - 12 years): AED 10

Suggested Read: Tourist Attractions In Abu Dhabi, UAE For Discovering Its Incredible Beauty

4. Wadi Adventure Park

Wadi Adventure Park
Image Credit

Adventures can never be missed, and when you are looking for some adventure activities to do in Al Ain, Wadi Adventure Park is the best. The adventure park is so designed that it will offer every water adventure, from river rafting to kitesurfing, wakeboarding, and more. Being an adventure enthusiast, the Wadi adventure park is among the top picked places to visit in Al Ain that you must not miss. Other adventures offered here are rock climbing, zip-lining, and more.

Wadi Adventure Park is among the largest water parks in the world, where there is every water sport to try. You will be experiencing some high-intensity adventure and other breathtaking activities. The park also has some of the best cafes where you can enjoy a meal after indulging in every thrill offered at this adventure park.

Location: Jabel Hafeet, Al Ain, 88202, Emirate of Abu Dhabi

Timing:

  • Park: 11am-7pm
  • Open Beach: 3pm-7pm

Entry Fees: 45 AED

Things to do: Surfing, Wake Boarding, Rock Climbing, open beach, river rafting

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5. Hili Fun City

Hili Fun City
Image is for reference purpose only

Apart from adventures like a desert safari in Al Ain, Hili Fun city is the best attraction for some thrilling experiences. Being among the best Al Ain tourist spots for families and kids, this adventure park offers an ultimate enthralling day where you can challenge your fears and try something new. With more than 28 amusement rides and attractions like a large theatre, picnic zones, playing area for kids, huge ice rink, BBQ, and more.

Try some of the best rides like a roller coaster or Twister Mountain rides, elevated sky-flyer, and circus swing to make your day all about fun and thrill at Hill fun city at Al Ain. There is a special area for kids and adults with every adventure you are looking for at this best attraction you can see in Al Ain.

Location: Al Ain-Dubai Road (E 66 Road), Ugdat Al Husoon, Al Ain

Timings:

  • Monday to Saturday: 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM
  • (Timings may differ during weekends)
  • Sunday closed

Entry Fees:

  • Weekday: 30 AED
  • Weekends: 60 AED

6. Al Ain National Museum

Al Ain National Museum

The first museum in the UAE, Al Ain National Museum, is of the spectacular things to see in Al Ain, where you can discover a vast collection of artifacts and a detailed history of UAE and Al Ain. Established by the Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan in the year 1969, the museum is home to every historical evidence that has been derived by the archeologist since the Stone age till the foundation of the United Arab Emirates.

The museum, with its diverse collection, has been divided, into three major parts, named as- Archaeology, Ethnography, and Gifts. From the excavated remain of Mesopotamian civilization to the ethnic goods defining the culture of the UAE and some antiques and photographs are a part of the vast Al Ain National Museum collection that makes it worth a visit and a major tourist attraction in Al Ain.  

Location: Al Ain Street, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi

Timings:

  • Saturday to Thursday: 8.00 am to 7.30 pm
  • Friday 3.00 pm to 7.30 pm
  • Monday Closed

Entry Fees: 3 AED

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7. Al Ain Oasis

Al Ain Oasis

Declared as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Al Ain Oasis is a tranquil and panoramic landscape that is must be explored. With more than 15,000 date palms, it is among the top Al Ain Tourist places to visit where you can discover the surreal beauty of nature. Spreading to a massive area of 3,000 acres, the oasis is surely a wonderful attraction where you can capture nature at its best. Taking you away from the noise and chaos of the city, Al Ain Oasis is the best attraction to plan a day out.

The shady pathway and the refreshing aura of this oasis are perfect for your sightseeing tours in the city.

Location: Al Ain Street, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi

Timing: Monday to Sunday: 9:00 am to 05:00 pm

Entry Fees: The Oasis is open to all

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8. Al Ain Mall

Al Ain Mall
Image Credit

Well, if you are looking for some best malls in Al Ain to shop, the Al Ain Mall can never be missed. This is one of the best places to see in Al Ain if all you want is some leisurely experience. Housing number of brands and the best entertainment centers, the mall is great to kill some time while you are on holiday. Look for the trending outfits, some souvenirs, or plan a family dinner with family and friends at this mall, where there are some handpicked eateries and restaurants.

Book your tickets for some movie show at Star Al Ain Cinema Mall if you don’t have any plans for the day. The Ice-Skating Rink, Cheeky Monkey, Bowling City, and Fun Farm are some other entertainment units here at Al Ain Mall.

Location: Othman Bin Affan Street, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi 1818

Timings: Saturday to Wednesday: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm

Thursday to Friday: 10:00 am to 12:00 am

Entry Fees: N/A

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Al Ain is quite a treasure in the United Arab Emirates that is perfect for a holiday break. There is every wonder that can offer you a lifetime memory with the intricate beauty and the panoramic vista. The best places to visit in Al Ain offer travelers a sense of history, nature, culture, and more that can be really exciting and interesting. Whether you are looking for a rejuvenating holiday or something to raise up your adrenaline, Al Ain has every hidden wonder for your entertainment. Book your Al Ain flight tickets today and fly off to this charming city in UAE.

FAQs

Q1. What are the best places to visit during holidays in Al Ain?

The top listed places to visit in Al Ain are:

  • Jebal Hafeet
  • Al Ain Oasis
  • Al Ain National Museum
  • Al Ain Zoo
  • Al Jahili Fort
Q2. What are the best cafes or restaurants for families in Al Ain?

For a family lunch or dinner, the best restaurants in Al Ain are:

  • Sedra Bawadi Restaurant
  • Golden Sheep Restaurant
  • Tanjore
  • Al Areesh
Q3. What adventure can I try in Al Ain?

Al Ain offers the best adventure experience like a desert safari to the tourist. There are adventure parks and the water theme park where you can plan a visit for a thrilling day.

Q4. Is there any adventure park in Al Ain?

The Wadi adventure park is the largest water park in the world, at Al Ain, where you can experience some water adventures like surfing, kayaking, wakeboarding, and more.

Q5. What is Al Ain National Museum?

Al Ain national museum is one of the best Al Ain tourist spots where you can discover a huge collection of historical artifacts and other remains from the stone age.

Q6. Where is Jebal Hafeet?

Jebal Hafeet is the tallest peak in Abu Dhabi and the second-highest peak in UAE. It is nestled in between the United Arab Emirates and Oman.

Q7. What adventures are there at Hili fun City?

At Hili Fun city, you can try the best rides and games like roller coasters or Twister Mountain rides, elevated sky-flyer, and circus swing.

Q8. Is there any cinema at Al Ain Mall?

The Star Al Ain Cinema Mall is the best cinema in Al Ain Mall that features all the top movie shows for your entertainment.