Saudi Gazette

Al-Ain - If you want to spend a relaxing day during your stay in the United Arab Emirates, visit the green city of Al-Ain where you can enjoy cultural, historic and entertainment venues and events.

This city is the birthplace of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founder of the United Arab Emirates. Located an hour away from Abu Dhabi, our top favorite places in Al-Ain are:

Jabal Hafeet in Al-Ain is a must visit due to the views of mountains it provides. Drive until you reach the peak of the mountain where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the city. Turn the trip into a family picnic with a view that sets the tone for a relaxed day out.

Several family festivals and events are taking place at Al Ain Convention Center and other locations. During our visit, Dar Al Zain Festival was under swing. The 10-day event, organized by Abu Dhabi’s Department of Culture and Tourism, featured retail stalls, kiosks, food trucks, shows for children including "Iftah Ya Simsim", "Looney Tunes" and "My Little Pony" along with the glow theme tunnel and maze for children.

Next to Al Ain Convention Center, Alfanar restaurant serves Emirati dishes in a traditional atmosphere.

To learn more about the city and its history, pay a visit to Al Ain National Museum which is open until 7 p.m. The museum traces the history of Al-Ain and the rest of the UAE including plenty of photographic exhibitions that depict the UAE's historical palaces and forts.

Sheikh Zayed Palace Museum, which is free to enter, is another historic place to visit. The museum sheds light on the lifestyle of the sheikh and his family and features artifacts and objects used by the royal family.