ABU DHABI
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Ranked second ‘in TripAdvisor’s list of the world’s top 25 landmarks in 2016’, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque will leave you awestruck. 82 domes, over a thousand columns, 24–carat gold gilded chandeliers and the world’s largest hand–knotted carpet and chandelier – there is enough here to leave guests mesmerized. The mosque is open daily to visitors and complimentary guided tours are available. The Sunset Tour of the mosque is highly recommended.
Etihad Towers
Etihad Towers’ Observation Deck at 300 affords sweeping views of Abu Dhabi city and its picturesque islands. The Deck is located in Tower 2 on the 74th floor.
Capital Gate
Leaning 18 degrees west, the 160 meter Capital Gate has been named the ‘World’s Furthest Leaning Man Made Tower’.. Its incline is more than four times that of Pisa’s famous Leaning Tower.
Yas Beach
Sun seekers holidaying at any of Yas Island’s seven hotels and hotel apartments can now enjoy complimentary access to Yas Beach. Admission for non-Yas Island hotel guests, which includes beach towel and sun lounger, is from AED 50 for adults for a weekday. Children under 8 enter free.
Saadiyat Beach
Saadiyat Island’s nine kilometer stretch of white-sand beach is environmentally protected due to the nesting of Hawksbill Turtles each year in the spring. The 400-metre public beach is a great spot for a day out to enjoy Saadiyat’s warm turquoise waters. The beach is open daily from 8am to sunset, and entry is AED 25 for adults, children under 6 go free. For a touch of real glamour to your beach experience, splash out at Saadiyat Beach Club.
Marina Mall
When a mall has over 400 stores, it definitely covers every lifestyle need under the sun. A revolving restaurant atop a 100m high observation platform, nine–screen cinema, bowling alley, ice rink, Fun City and multi-cuisine dining keep happenings novel and fun.
Yas Mall
The latest addition to Yas Island and the largest mall in the Abu Dhabi emirate with 370 stores, 60 indoor and outdoor restaurants and cafes and a 20 screen state-of-the-art cinema operated by VOX Cinemas. Yas Mall also has a direct link to Ferrari World Abu Dhabi.
The Galleria
Luxury shopping, for a high-end shopping experience with top luxury brands and designer labels visit The Galleria on Al Maryah Island or Avenue at Etihad Towers on the Corniche.
World Trade Center Souk
The traditional Emirati fragrances, antique jewellery, interesting artefacts (great as souvenirs) and mounds of spices are a great way to experience the Arabia of the past. Also known as the Central Market Souk, its link to the World Trade Center Mall makes it a convenient stop.
Corniche Beach
Abu Dhabi’s pristine Corniche beachfront has been awarded coveted Blue Flag status – the internationally renowned eco-label for beaches and marinas that guarantees clean and safe bathing water.
Carpet Souk
A popular stop on Al Meena Road, find here exquisite carpets from Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan and Turkey. Colorful pottery, Yemeni style seating and Arabic Majlis cushions are also available. Do remember to bargain!
Yas Island
Winner of the ‘World’s Leading Tourism Development Project’, the spectacular Yas Island in Abu Dhabi is the region’s premier entertainment hub. Its famous inhabitants include theme parks, seven first-class hotels, the Yas Marina Circuit and Yas Mall to name a few. Take the complimentary YasExpress bus service to explore the island.
Souq Qaryat Al Beri
The architecture may boast Venetian influences, but its ambience is definitely Emirati. Qaryat Al Beri is a grand showcase of Arabian hospitality and warmth. Shop local brands or take an abra (a traditional wooden boat) around the souk’s meandering canals. Tuck in at any of the chic coffee shops and restaurants on the stunning waterside.
Yas Marina Circuit
The Yas Marina Circuit promises year-round, year round, non-stop action. The Circuit is home to the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Even if you aren’t a Formula 1 racer, you can drive the track yourself under expert tuition or zoom in karts available at Yas Kart zone.
Ferrari World Abu Dhabi
The world’s largest – and only – Ferrari themed attraction provides a thrill-a-minute adventure, whether you’re riding the world’s fastest or steepest inverted looped coasters, or exploring a collection of classic cars, you’re guaranteed a full day of excitement.
Golf
Abu Dhabi boasts 3 championship golf courses. Abu Dhabi Golf Club & Resort hosts the annual Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship, Yas Links is the only links course in Arabia, whilst Saadiyat Beach Golf Club is a beautiful ocean course designed by Gary Player.
Tennis
Each year, the Zayed Sport City’s International Tennis Complex hosts the Mubadala World Tennis Championship. Apart from this ATP standard facility, visitors can also play tennis in many hotels and sports clubs across the Emirate.
Horse Riding
from indoor to outdoor training areas; fully flood-lit polo field to world class stable facilities and special beach rides, a number of clubs in the Emirate offer a variety of horseback riding activities and lessons.
Asia de Cuba
Nestled on the Corniche beachfront, this exclusive restaurant serves a combination of delicious Asian-fused Cuban cuisine – the first of its kind in the capital – and is an incredibly popular weekend haunt.
Afternoon Tea at Emirates Palace
This has become something of an Abu Dhabi institution. Delightful sandwiches, sweet treats and exquisite light-as-a-feather scones. This experience would not be complete without a touch of bubbles.
Big Bus Tour
Ride the Big Bus for a comprehensive tour of all the major landmarks of the city: Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Emirates Palace Hotel, YasIsland and Saadiyat Island. Tickets are available at most hotels, the Big Bus sales desk at Marina Mall and can also be bought online.
Speedboat Tour
Board a Yellow boat Speedboat tour for a water borne adrenaline filled scenic tour of the UAE capital’s Manhattan-style Corniche beachfront.
Desert Safari
Leave the city-lights far behind and ride huge dunes in a 4×4 vehicle, try sand boarding, see falconry displays, have a henna tattoo and experience Arabian hospitality at a desert camp under the night sky – an unforgettable experience.
DUBAI
The Dubai Mall
With over 12 million square feet of retail area, The Dubai Mall is the world’s largest shopping center. Apart from more than a thousand retail outlets including designer stores such as Armani, Chanel, Louis Vuitton and department stores such as Galleries Lafayette and Bloomingdale’s, it also offers some of the most interesting experiences. There’s also a 22-screen cinema for movie buffs and 150 fine and casual dining outlets to tantalize your taste buds.
BoxPark
Ever shopped in a shipping container? Try the unusual experience at BoxPark where trendy boutiques, niche cafés and funky art are housed in 220 shipping containers. Unusual art work and designers like Sonia Rykiel and MSGM at Urbanist, The Zoo Concept’s unusual collection of gifts and novelty figurines and the largest Adidas store in the region are just some of the standout names at BoxPark.
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Ibn Battuta Mall
Travel the world while shopping at Ibn Battuta. The mall celebrates the travels of the famous Arab explorer, Ibn Battuta, with its six courts reflecting the architecture of each region he explored – Andalusia, Tunisia, Egypt, Persia, India and China. Ibn Battuta has over 200 retailers, 50 restaurants and food outlets plus a Cineplex, Switch Bowling center and kids play area, FunCity.
Burj Khalifa
At 828 meters, the spectacular Burj is the world’s tallest building. Zoom up to the 124th or 148th floors for spectacular 360-degree views of the city. Or have ‘high’ tea on the 122nd floor at Atmosphere, the world’s highest restaurant.
The Palm
In the shape of a palm tree, Palm Jumeirah is the world’s largest man-made island. Some of the city’s most luxurious resorts, such as Atlantis, The Palm and Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, are located here. Hop onto the fully automated, driverless Monorail for a panoramic view of the whole island. Dubai Tram also connects with the Monorail.
Dubai Miracle Garden
Over 45 million flowers bloom each season at Dubai Miracle Garden, the world’s largest vertical garden. The Garden holds the Guinness Record for the longest wall of flowers. See hundreds of fluttering butterflies at the Garden’s Butterfly Park, or wander through the Aromatic Garden featuring medicinal and aromatic herbs from around the world.
Heritage Village
Heritage Village is designed to replicate a traditional Bedouin village. Witness quaint Barasti houses, an outdoor kitchen displaying olden utensils, a traditional souk and even an ancient armory here. Visitors can also see potters and weavers at work at Heritage Village.
Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood
Al Fahidi’s labyrinthine lanes, traditional wind towers and houses with large and intricately decorated courtyards make it a heritage site worth visiting. Stroll through art galleries and quirky souvenir shops or sip through the history of caffeine at the Coffee Museum. Do try the camel meat burger at the Local House Café.
Dubai Museum
Dubai Museum is located inside the majestic Al Fahidi Fort which was built in 1787 to guard the landward approach to the city. The museum showcases exhibits depicting life in the Emirate before the discovery of oil.
The Beach Water Park
Moored off the beach at the JBR beach, is the world’s biggest inflatable playground: The Beach Water Park. Bounce off the two trampolines, scramble over two giant climbing walls, slip down several slides, sprint across a running wall, or swing on ropes – there are many ways to enjoy the Park.
Ski Dubai
The Middle East’s first indoor ski resort, Ski Dubai is a winter wonderland covered with real and freshly made snow all year around. Test skiing skills on the resort’s five runs or head to the Freestyle Zone to practice stunts. Ride the Snow Bullet, or simply opt for some laidback fun in the sprawling Snow Park with toboggan slopes, giant zorbs and tube rides. Don’t miss the grand March of the Penguins when Ski Dubai’s colony of Gentoo and King Penguins waddle through the Snow Park.
Kidzania
Let the kids’ fantasies come alive in Kidzania where they can role play over 80 professions in more than 60 establishments. They perform ‘jobs’ (pilots, cabin crew, chefs etc.) at establishments sponsored and branded by leading companies such as Fly Dubai, McDonalds and Waitrose and then use their salaries to shop or be entertained. The indoor theme park is a city built to scale for children, complete with buildings, paved streets, vehicles and a functioning economy with a bank and exchange too.
Golf
Thrice recognized as the Golf Destination of the Year in Africa, the Indian Ocean and Gulf States by the International Association of Golf Tour Operators, Dubai has some of the world’s best golfing greens. Designed by sports legends such as Greg Norman, Vijay Singh, Sergio Garcia and Pete Dye, these championship courses are par excellence. Some of Dubai’s top golfing venues include Emirates Golf Club, Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club, Arabian Ranches, Jumeirah Golf Estates, The Address Montgomerie, Ernie Els Club and Al Badia Club.
Sky Diving
The ultimate in thrill sports, sky diving comes with the bonus of spectacular views. Skydive Dubai is the Emirate’s go-to place for sky diving – be it first-time tandem jumps, fun jumps or training. Divers can choose between Skydive Dubai’s two ‘drop zones’ – the desert or the one near Palm Jumeirah.
Shooting and Archery
Hit the bulls eye at Jebel Ali International Shooting Club, which has both indoor and outdoor shooting ranges. Olympic skeet, pistol and trap shooting and archery are also offered at the facility.
Vesna Dubai
Helmed by Russian celebrity chef, Maksim Tvorogov, Vesna is Dubai’s first Slavic–themed restaurant. Signature dishes include chicken kiev, stroganoff and borscht.
Bread Street Kitchen
British celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay whips up a storm at Bread Street Kitchen. On the menu are delectable British European favorites’ as well as classic and innovative beverages. The Friday Brunch is highly recommended.
JG Kitchen and JG Dining Room
Jean-Georges Vongerichten, one of the most celebrated names in the world of gastronomy, makes his Middle East debut in Dubai with JG’s. Expect caramelized lamb chops and crackling beef ribs at the Kitchen while signature dishes like toasted egg yolk with caviar form the menu at the Dining Room.
Bus Tours
Guided bus tours are the most popular way to visit Dubai’s landmarks. Stops include Atlantis, The Palm, Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab, The Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, Dubai Marina, Dubai Creek, the souks and Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood among others. Big Bus and City Sight Seeing are the most popular city tour operators in Dubai.
Rail Tours
Dubai is the only Emirate where you can explore the city via rail. Take the Dubai Metro and Dubai Tram for views with a difference.
Aerial Tours
The city offers some of the most memorable aerial tours via sea planes and helicopters. Glide over the beautiful Arabian Gulf coastline, the incredible Palm Jumeirah, the Burj Al Arab, The World Islands, Union Square, Sheikh Zayed Road, Mall of the Emirates and of course, the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa. Tours can also be extended to cover the picturesque Dubai Creek, Emirates Golf Course, Camel Race Track and Dubai’s Nad Al Sheba Race Track.
SHARJAH
Sahara Centre
Sharjah’s most fashion-forward mall, Sahara houses high street labels such as Debenhams, Vero Moda, Mango, Zara, H&M, Rodeo Drive and Promod. Adventureland, the mall’s indoor entertainment area, is packed with 20 thrilling rides, including an indoor rollercoaster, a multilevel train and water flume ride. There’s also a six-screen cinema and multi-cuisine food court.
Mega Mall
Sharjah’s fashionistas throng to Mega Mall to shop for brands such as Zara, Mango, Paris Gallery, Bhs, Nine West, Guess, Aldo, Anotah and many more. Entertainment options include a seven-screen Cineplex and Antics Land, a family entertainment center.
Sharjah City Centre
It stands out as the city’s favorite mall thanks to its diverse retail mix which includes high street as well as value for money outlets. Shop at Bhs, New Look, H&M, Aldo, The Body Shop, Adidas, Carters, Springfield, Levi’s, Bossini, Splash, Baby Shop and Max Value just to name a few. Magic Planet keeps the young ones happily occupied while the multi-cuisine food court staves off hunger pangs.
Wasit Nature Reserve
It is an important site for bird ecology within the emirate of Sharjah, it is a unique landscape with a natural lake maintained by the upwelling of underground water. The most distinguished feature of the reserve is the diverse ecosystem since it has different habitats and types of vegetation, compromising coastal sand dunes, along with salt flat (Sabkhas) linking ponds and a large open lake.
Al Montazah
Al Montazah has three fun-filled options rolled into one: a leisure park, green park and Sharjah’s first and only water park gushing with eight thrilling rides. Whizz through 15 meter body and tube slides at the water park or simply relax in the lush picnic areas. Mini football pitches, kart racing track, lake for boating, an array of electronic rides, video game arcade and dedicated events areas are present too.
Al Majaz Amphitheatre
An open-air Roman-style Amphitheatre, Al Majaz is the first of its kind in the region. The official venue for most of the emirate’s Islamic cultural events, Al Majaz can accommodate up to 4500 visitors. Tucked between Flag Island and Al Majaz Waterfront, the semi-circular Amphitheatre is built on its own island.
Al Majaz Waterfront
Mexican favorites’, Moroccan delicacies, American classics, Italian delights and Lebanese fare: the world’s most popular cuisines are on the table at Al Majaz.
U.I.M Formula1 Power Boat Championship
Some events need to be seen to be truly appreciated, and the U.I.M. Formula 1 Powerboat Championship on Khalid Lagoon is one such event. One of the highest profile events in the region,
the public is encouraged to come and experience the raw speed and power as the world’s top powerboat racers battle to win the final series of the world championship.
Sharjah Light Festival
This breath-taking and electrifying nine-day February event floods Sharjah with light and colour. Lasers, images, sounds and colours are used to bring to fore the emirate’s rich heritage and civilization. Every year there is a new show on one of the many iconic buildings and landmarks in Sharjah.
Sharjah International Book Fair
The guidance and patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, to make the Emirate of Sharjah a beacon of Arab and International culture and literature. The main aim of SIBF is to encourage reading among people, especially the younger generation, by making quality books accessible to them at affordable prices. Over the years, the 11-day event has transformed into a literary carnival with over 1500 publishing houses participating from 64 countries and attracting over 1.4 million visitors from all over the world.
Ajman
Key Facts
Getting There: Ajman is most easily access via Dubai International Airport, which is just 17km from Ajman City Centre. Emirates have multiple, regional direct services from the UK & Ireland, whilst British Airways offers multiple daily direct flights from London Heathrow,
Language: Arabic is the official language of the UAE, but English is widely spoken, and most signs are in both languages.
Time zone: The UAE is four hours ahead of GMT and there is no altering of clocks for daylight saving in the summer.
Currency: The currency of Ajman is the Arab Emirates Dirham (AED). One dirham is divided into 100 fils. The dirham is pegged to the US dollar.
The UAE Weekend: The weekend in the UAE is Friday and Saturday. Friday is the Islamic holy day, when most businesses close. Many shops and tourist attractions have different hours of operation, opening around 2pm.
Communications and Electricity: Etisalat and du are the two mobile phone providers in the UAE. The country code for the UAE is (+971) and Ajman’s national landline code is (06). Wi-Fi is available in most hotels. The standard electrical current used in Ajman is 220-240 volts AC and most hotel rooms have the plug with three square prongs that is used in the UK.
Climate: Ajman has a subtropical, arid climate. Sunny blue skies and high temperatures can be expected most of the year as rainfall is infrequent. The most pleasant time to visit Ajman is from November to March, when average temperatures range between 30°C and 14°C, perfect for beach days and alfresco evenings. From June to September the weather is hot and humid, and summer temperatures can hit a sizzling 48°C and humidity well above 60 per cent.
Kayaking Adventure
One of the highlights of any trip to Ajman, and the best way to see the resident flamingos, is to take a kayaking adventure. Through a multitude of possibilities, “Quest for Adventure” provides expert innovative opportunities for learning with guide-led kayak or canoe tours around the mangrove forest, creeks and lagoons.
The species of mangrove found in Al Zorah is Avicennia marina, commonly known as the grey or white mangrove, due to the bark of the trees, which can appear grey or white, and grow to a height of 3-10 meters.
A large variety of rare or migratory bird species are found in the various parts of Al Zorah lagoon and mangroves, with over 58 different species of birds inhabiting this ecosystem.
Ajman
National Dress
In general, the local population wears traditional dress in public, which is a symbol of pride and identity. For men, this is the dishdasha or kandura: a white full-length shirt dress, which is worn with a white or red checked headdress, known as a ghutrah. This is secured with a black cord known as an agal. Women wear the black abaya; a long, loose robe that covers their normal clothes, plus a headscarf called a sheyla. Some women also wear a thin black veil covering their face.
Souq Saleh and Gold Souq
Regarded as one of the best Souqs in the region for traditional tailoring, the recently expanded and refurbished Saleh Souq is a charming mix of past and present. The Souq is part of a heritage path leading from the Corniche to Ajman Museum. Shop for souvenirs and gifts such as clothing, textiles, pashminas and curios from around the region and wander among the warren of small shops. Haggling is the norm, and the area really comes to life in the evening, when the Souq fills with locals, so be sure to stop by then.
Ajman Horse Show
A fascinating display of equestrian elegance, some of the finest Arabian horses in the world gallop into Ajman for this annual pageant.
Water Sports
Year-round sunshine, beautiful beaches and safe waters make Ajman ideal for water sports such as windsurfing, jet skiing and kayaking. Ajman’s pristine sandy beach, clear lagoons and natural mangroves are the perfect playground for holidaymakers of all ages with a wide range of water sports on offer.
Overlooking the 16-kilometre-long white-sand beach, individual hotels can organize all manner of waterborne activities, including stand up paddle boarding, windsurfing, jet skiing, fly boarding, kayaking, banana boat rides and fishing trips.
At Al Zorah, you will also find the Quest for Adventure Water Sports Centre. The Centre provides a wide range of activities for beginners, professionals, spectators or families. The Centre offers both motorized and non-motorized sports, which include without limitation jet skiing, water skiing, fly boarding, wakeboarding, knee boarding, banana boat rides, donut rides, fly-fish rides, boat and fishing trips, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, windsurfing and sailing. In addition, sporting activities include bicycle rental and tours, dinghy sailing, a climbing wall, archery & archery tag.
One of our newest attractions and a thrill-seeking experience for all water sport enthusiasts, is the Cable Park in Al Zorah. Cable wakeboarding involves holding onto a rope attached to a cable mechanism, whilst standing on a board, which takes you around a circuit, often laid out with ramps and other obstacles. A brilliant source of thrill and fun, catering to all levels of experience.
Al Zorah Golf Club
In December of 2015, a truly unique layout spectacularly changed the golfing landscape in the UAE. Meet the stunning Al Zorah Golf Club, managed by Troon Golf and located in Ajman, just 25 minutes from Dubai International Airport.
A world-class course set amidst a beautiful naturally-preserved environment of striking mangroves and sheer tranquility – that’s the special proposition that’s been magically created by the famed Nicklaus Design group.
The spectacular par-72 Al Zorah Golf Club offers a truly sensational design with pristinely manicured fairways and greens; however, it is the way the design has protected the natural environment whilst creating the layout that really catches the eye. In total, one million square meters of mangroves characterize the Al Zorah Golf Club and underline that notion of embracing rather than intruding the natural layout of the land. A plethora of native sandy areas, an abundance of wildlife and 12 km of waterfront add to that sense of rich beauty and biodiversity. Vast coastal areas with a constantly-changing tidal system also present a unique challenge for players, altering the look and feel of the course on an hourly basis.
With celebrated Championship golf courses in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Ras Al Khaimah and now Ajman, the UAE is an up-and-coming golfing destination that attracted an estimated 60,000 golfers last year. Hailed as one of the best new golf venues in the world, Al Zorah Golf Club is popular with both seasoned pros and casual enthusiasts, thanks to its outstanding scenery and challenging holes. What’s more, you can book your tee time online, and the dynamic pricing model means rates are adjusted in real-time, based on demand, so you can play a round at a time that suits your budget.
Ajman Hotels
Most of the 5* and 4* hotels in Ajman are located with private, natural beaches, or along the corniche:
Private Beach
Ajman Hotel – 5*
Ajman Saray, a Luxury Collection Resort – 5*
Bahi Ajman Palace – 5*
Fairmont Ajman – 5*
The Oberoi Beach Resort Al Zorah – 5*
Ajman Corniche
Wyndham Garden Ajman Corniche – 4*
Ramada by Wyndham Beach Hotel Ajman – 4*
Ras al-Khaimah
Manor Mall
While most shoppers throng Manar Mall for its chic selection of brands such as Dorothy Perkins, NewLook, H&M and Gap to name a few, others head to it for a rendezvous with the sea. Simply stroll along its picturesque waterfront promenade or soak in panoramic sea views while nibbling on bites from around the world. Movie buffs will enjoy the sevenscreen cinema while FunCity’s play areas keep kids happily entertained.
Ras al-Khaimah
RAK Mall
There’s so much more to RAK Mall than just retail therapy. Get the adrenaline pumping at its indoor football pitch or massive ice rink. Kids will love chugging around the mall in the colorful mini train. A multi-cuisine food court staves off hunger pangs.
Ras al-Khaimah
Queen Sheba’s Palace
Ras Al Khaimah’s most enigmatic heritage site, this palace stands atop a 200–meter hill near the village of Shamal. Although there is no archaeological evidence available, it is claimed to be the castle of the Queen of Sheba of Yemen. Other folklore attributes the palace to Zenobia, the warrior queen of the Roman colony of Palmyra.
Ras al-Khaimah
Iceland Waterpark
Face some of the most challenging water rides in the region at Iceland, a thrilling collection of over 30 exhilarating rides and plunging slides. Other amenities include multi-cuisine dining, cabanas, gazebos, changing rooms, prayer rooms and even a souvenirs shop.
Al Qawasim Corniche
Perfectly manicured lawns, waterfront restaurants and a jogging track make the Corniche a popular social spot. There’s also the chance to charter yachts to sail through the creek, view the mangroves, take up sightseeing tours onboard double-decker buses, experience entertainment and amusements and see car outlets.
Ras al-Khaimah
Go-Karting
RAK Track is a state of the art karting complex featuring a 1.1 kilometer track. For seekers of thrill and speed, and always on the lookout for something new, RAK Track offers professional racing track and carts. It promises adventure without compromising on safety.
Deepwater Fishing
Perfect for beginners and skilled anglers alike, Ras Al Khaimah can give you an unforgettable offshore adventure in fishing while experiencing the beautiful coast and crystal clear waters.
Golf
Ras Al Khaimah is home to two professional 18-hole golf courses, The Tower Links and The Al Hamra giving guests the perfect opportunity to practice their swing!
UMI
UMI sample delicacies from Japan in the Waldorf Astoria Resort Hotel’s first floor restaurant. (A trendy Japanese restaurant bordered with vibrant Japanese gardens.) The vibrant restaurant houses an engaging Teppanyaki grill where master chefs are only too delighted to show off their flairs. A quieter Sushi corner resides the resident Sushi and Sashimi chef, sharing his intricate creations with appreciating guests.
Yansoon Restaurant
Bringing authentic Eastern Mediterranean spirit to Ras Al Khaimah’s restaurant scene, Yansoon is an exciting landmark on the region’s culinary map. Located by the mangroves of RAK’s creek on Al Qawasim Corniche, the restaurant is part of an area that is popular with locals and fast becoming a foodie destination.
Banyan Tree Al Wadi
Revel in the desert romance of the Al Wadi nature reserve laid tranquilly under moonlight while partaking of a gorgeous Arabian barbecue feast.
Ras al-Khaimah
Khor Al Jazeerah
Khor Al Jazeerah’s wetlands and dense mangroves are one of the most coveted bird watching sites in the UAE. Several species of birds such as flamingo, heron and plover have been spotted here during the peak migratory season.
Ras al-Khaimah
Banyan Tree Al Wadi Resort
Ras Al Khaimah’s first desert resort, Al Wadi’s Activity Centre conducts educational classes on a variety of topics such as indigenous flora and fauna found in the Arabian desert and even hunting using falcons and owls. Its ‘Falconry Mews’ serves as a training facility for the noble hunting bird.
Umm al-Quwain
Al Manama Hypermarket
With stores retailing fashion, accessories, household items as well as amenities such as salons, pharmacy, multi-cuisine restaurants, coffee shops, bank and currency exchange center, Al Manama is a convenient shoppers stop.
UAQ Aero club
Renowned for the skydiving and parachuting championships it hosts, the UAQ Aero club is easily spotted by the vintage Antonov-2 biplane and the enormous Ilyushin-76 cargo plane on display outdoors. With six spacious hangers and a 1.8km runway with N-VFR lighting, it offers opportunities for flying, hot air ballooning, parachuting, skydiving (both single and tandem) and Para motoring.
Dreamland Aqua Park
Dreamland Aqua Park offers Waterside Camping, a unique service in the UAE for those who are on the lookout for a different, sensational experience.
Camel Racing
In the cooler season, the Al Labsa racing track gains a festive and competitive ambience as camel’s thunder over the tracks, egged on by cheering spectators and blaring car horns.
UAQ Marine Club
Wakeboarding, water-skiing, kayaking, canoeing, stand-up paddling, banana boat, doughnut rides, knee boarding, wind surfing and even crab hunting – UAQ Marine Club has every aquatic sport covered. Don’t miss the chance to take yacht to cruise around the mangrove islands.
Watersports
UAQ’s water conditions are ideal for sailing, waterskiing, windsurfing, kayaking and jet skiing. The creeks that meander through the Emirate’s islands provide some of the best snorkeling and canoeing opportunities. Dive into the warm waters to explore the dense mangrove swamps inhabited by a variety of colorful fish. Most tour operators and beachside resorts offer equipment and guidance for guests.
Al Siniyyah Island
Al Siniyyah is UAQ’s most prominent natural bird and marine sanctuary. Its shallow tidal lagoons and mudflats create the perfect feeding, nesting and resting habitat for several avian species such as heron, plover, greater flamingo, gulls and terns. Huge colonies of Socotra cormorants, gazelle, dugongs and turtles can be spotted here too.
Fujairah
Fujairah City Centre
This is the Emirate’s most prominent shopping, entertainment and social address. Retail therapy comes in the form of both, high street and budget outlets such as H&M, Promod, Garage or Max and Centre point. A multiplex cinema, engaging play area and expansive food court add variety.
Fujairah Heritage Village
The Bedouin homes of the past were simple, made of palm fronds and clay. See replicas of these as well as the tools, cooking utensils and even the farming methods the people of the desert used at Heritage Village. The highlight of the village is the traditional Al Yazrah irrigation technique.
Fujairah Fort
It is hard to believe that the imposing Fujairah Fort is made only of rocks, gravel and clay. The four-tower fort stands atop a 20-metre high, rocky hill and has been carbon dated to the years between 1500 AD and 1550 AD.
Fujairah Museum
Delve into the city’s past at Fujairah Museum. Its three halls are dedicated to different aspects of ancient Emirati life. The first is dedicated to various occupations as agriculture, fishing, weaving and pottery. An armory of ancient weapons and tools is on display in the second hall. The third hall showcases artifacts from the Bronze Age, found at Bithnah and Qidfa – Fujairah’s important historical sites.
Madhab Sulpheric Spring Park
Blooming in the foothills of the Hajar Mountains, Madhab gardens were once renowned for their hot mineral water springs. Although the flow of this medicinal water has dwindled, the garden continues to flourish. A popular picnic spot among local residents, the garden offers swimming facilities, rides and play areas. Its outdoor theatre come alive during festivals when it’s used for traditional singing and folklore dances.
Fujairah Corniche
Fujairah’s outdoor social hotspot, the Corniche is a great place to take a walk along the sea, go for a swim or have a barbecue with family and friends.
Bull Butting
Bull butting has been held in Emirate for hundreds of years. Come winter, throngs of people from across the UAE gather at the Al Ghurfa suburb to watch the sturdy Brahman bulls in battle. Held on Fridays, the goal of the duel is for one of the bulls to butt the other out of the inner circle. Fujairah’s bull butting is not a blood sport.
Scuba Diving
The waters of the Gulf of Oman and Indian Ocean are famous for their diverse coral reefs, captivating shipwrecks and sand gullies. Being on the east coast, Fujairah is the only Emirate in the UAE with access to these. The most popular diving sites are Martini Rock and Shark Island; Inchcape1 and Inchcape2; Dibba Rock and Sharm Rocks. Head to Al Boom Diving Club for a range of diving and snorkeling packages.
Fujairah International Arts Festival
An initiative by the Ministry of Information and launched this year, FIAF involves music, theatre and dance, with artists from across the globe in attendance. Artists from 55 countries participated in the inaugural event presenting their traditional music and arts.
Fujairah International Monodrama Festival
Fujairah International Monodrama Festival, Fujairah is recognized as the leader of monodrama in the world. The biennial Monodrama Festival is the highlight of the Emirate’s cultural calendar and the 2014 edition saw around 300 guests from across 50 countries converge in the Emirate. The nine-day event is organized by the Fujairah Culture and Information Authority and is now a part of FIAF.