03Cities and regions

Inland

Al Ain

Al Ain is an inland oasis city on the border with Oman, home to about 874,000 people and known as the Garden City. It lies about 130 kilometres from both Abu Dhabi and Dubai, which makes it good for a day or two. Seven oases surround it, the largest being Al Ain Oasis with its dense palms and shaded paths. In 2011 its cultural sites, including Hafit, Hili, Bidaa Bint Saud and the oases, became the country's first entry on the World Heritage List. Hili Archaeological Park holds tombs from the third millennium BC, the best known being the Hili Grand Tomb, a round tower 12 metres across that has been reconstructed. Al Jahili Fort, built in 1877, is among the largest forts in the region. To the south, Jebel Hafeet rises to between 1,100 and 1,400 metres, and a winding road climbs to a view over the city and the desert. Drive up the mountain before sunset, and keep the morning for the oasis and the fort. The road back is easy, so there is no need to rush.

About 874,000

Population

2011

World Heritage since

1877

Al Jahili Fort built