Al Ain Outdoor Fun: Top 5 Activities You’ll Love

Al Ain, often called the “Garden City” of the United Arab Emirates, isn’t just about fancy buildings. It’s too almost like a real treasure chest full of neat spots where you can spend time outside and make lasting memories. From driving up tall mountains to cooling off in wave pools, there really is something for everyone. Ready to get your outdoor thing going? Let’s take a closer look at five must-do activities in Al Ain.

1. Conquer Jebel Hafeet

You know, no trip to Al Ain would really be complete without paying a visit to Jebel Hafeet. It’s one of the tallest mountains around here, shooting almost 4,000 feet high. And what’s cool is you don’t even have to hike up. There’s this winding road that takes you right to the summit. Driving up, you get these stunning views of the desert stretching out below – makes you feel a bit on top of everything, if you catch my drift. Once you’re up top, there’s a parking area where you can get out, stretch your legs, and snap some seriously awesome photos. That is, don’t forget your camera! On a clear day, it’s said you can see for miles.

While you’re up there, that you should check out the Mercure Grand Jebel Hafeet Hotel. That is, maybe grab a bite or just chill for a bit with even more spectacular views. Some people like to head up in the evening. too It’s that the sunsets from Jebel Hafeet are supposed to be super pretty, casting all these warm colors across the landscape. Plus, it’s often way cooler up there than in the city, which can be very inviting. Just so you know, keep an eye out for little desert critters along the way. I think I saw a fox last time, that might have been neat if you spotted one.

Read our full review: Jebel Hafeet Full Review and Details See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Jebel Hafeet)

2. Wander Through Al Ain Oasis

Want to step back in time and see something truly special? Al Ain Oasis is that just the spot. We’re talking about a UNESCO World Heritage site right here, showcasing what life was like way back when, it’s very cool in a lot of respects. I mean, for centuries, folks here figured out how to use water cleverly, designing these complex irrigation systems—they call them “falaj”—to keep the palm trees growing. And trust me, there are palm trees, a very impressive amount to take in. Like, thousands. When you wander through the shaded pathways, you might almost get lost. The sun, it’s not beating down on you so intensely.

It can be very calming. If you would like to, check out the Eco-Center there. The aim of which is, so I’m told, it explains all about the oasis’s history and shows how these ancient watering tricks work. It can be very interesting, you might even be interested in it. Also, stop by the Western Fort. Apparently it played a big part in protecting the oasis back in the day. That is, you’ll come across little farms, too, still operating. Very neat! A stroll through the oasis it may not be action-packed, but it shows another side of Al Ain. It’s the very thing you need when you want a break from the city buzz, arguably.

Read our full review: Al Ain Oasis Full Review and Details See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Al Ain Oasis)

3. Make a Splash at Wadi Adventure

Looking to do something wild? I believe Wadi Adventure should be on your list. It’s basically a super water park right in the middle of the desert. I think that’s a pretty cool idea. I understand if it does not scream “Al Ain” but believe me that it does exist. Are you in the mood for surfing, even? They have this big wave pool where you can give it a try, looks sort of wild. Now, if you’re into rafting, they’ve got man-made rapids that will get your blood moving a bit too.

Of course, very not everyone’s a water person, so there’s more to do. It’s said there’s a climbing wall for practicing those skills, and even a zip line to fly across the park like you see in cartoons. Wadi Adventure may be a solid choice for families since there’s something for everyone, I suppose. I have children but, admittedly, I enjoy that water park very much. That’s the long and short of it.

Read our full review: Wadi Adventure Full Review and Details See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Wadi Adventure)

4. Explore Al Ain Zoo

Got an animal lover in your group, could be even just you yourself, for that matter? Then you will likely wish to swing by Al Ain Zoo. You see all manner of interesting things there. This is the very biggest zoo in the UAE and there’s something like over 4,000 animals hanging out in a massive area. What’s particularly impressive might be how they try to keep the animals comfortable. So that’s where I like to see my money at work.

There might be wide-open enclosures where you can spot Arabian oryx, very unique, and huge, majestic lions. We need the big, noble looking critters, in the end. They’ve even got this special area just for those animals native to the desert, I saw that last time I visited. Now that’s thinking ahead! The Al Ain Zoo might be a good place to get everyone learning something, while being outdoors, just saying. Plus, they have scheduled animal feedings and shows, could be neat to catch. Very definitely wear comfortable shoes since you’ll be walking quite a bit.

Read our full review: Al Ain Zoo Full Review and Details See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Al Ain Zoo)

5. Hike or Bike at Jebel Hafeet National Park

So we talked about driving up Jebel Hafeet earlier, that’s understood. Well, if you fancy getting even closer to Mother Earth, just perhaps, I suggest trying some exploring in the new Jebel Hafeet National Park. Of course, maybe a drive up is enough, that is okay with me and the internet. The park surrounds the mountain. This allows for walking among the interesting natural formations. I will make a note that it did get dusty on my visit there. A consideration that could have informed my clothing choice, you see. Now I tell others.

There happen to be trails of all sorts here, but some of them may only be fit for experienced trekkers. Don’t just try hiking everything. Even still, I saw families all the way up to what seemed like the midpoint. It’s worth remembering to put on some tough shoes and load up a ruck sack of water, if I recall. Jebel Hafeet it’s rather great, even for professional cyclists who sometimes make it a track point. The views from way up there, I’ve noticed, might have to be what makes it an important tourist spot, just saying.

Read our full review: Jebel Hafeet National Park Full Review and Details See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Jebel Hafeet National Park)

I guess Al Ain might have just a tiny bit more to offer you than desert vistas, actually. Whether it’s reaching new heights, having a day filled with making splashing noises, meeting odd-looking zoo inhabitants or just sauntering through a bit of history. Any and all should get you excited to come back soon, too.