24 Hours in Al Ain
Often called the “Garden City” of the UAE, Al Ain is where lush oases, ancient forts and rugged mountains meet. Tucked away in the eastern region of Abu Dhabi, just under two hours from Dubai or central Abu Dhabi, this UNESCO-listed city feels like a world apart – peaceful, green and rich in culture.
Whether you’re here on a quick day trip or a tight weekend itinerary, 24 hours is just enough time to experience the city’s highlights. Here’s how to make the most of one full day in Al Ain.
Morning: Culture and Coffee at Al Jahili Fort
Start your day early at Al Jahili Fort, one of the UAE’s most historic and beautifully restored forts. Built in the late 1800s, it once protected the city’s valuable palm groves and now houses photo exhibitions, open courtyards and restored towers. The permanent Wilfred Thesiger photography collection offers a fascinating look at the desert explorer’s journeys across the Empty Quarter.
Wander the shaded walkways and sit for a quiet morning coffee at the small café on-site. You’ll find Emirati snacks and great views of the fort’s walls. If you’re into photography, bring your camera, the light angles around 9am are perfect.
Mid-Morning: Explore the Al Ain Oasis
A short walk away is the Al Ain Oasis, a vast 1,200-hectare network of palm trees, farms and falaj irrigation channels. Entry is free, and the walking paths are shaded by over 147,000 date palms, making it a pleasant escape even during warmer months.
Stop by the Eco-Centre for a quick intro to sustainable farming methods, then rent a bike or simply stroll past the groves. You’ll likely pass farmers tending to their plots and hear birds you won’t find in the bigger cities. The oasis is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering a glimpse into the traditional agricultural practices that still support life in this region.
Lunch: Traditional Fare at Al Fanar or Ayla Hotel
When it comes to lunch, keep it authentic. Head to Al Fanar Restaurant, where the décor echoes an old Emirati village, complete with wind towers, wooden benches and vintage radios. Try the fish salona or lamb machboos, and end with a cup of karak chai.
If you prefer a modern setting, Ayla Hotel offers both Emirati and international buffets. Their rooftop restaurant gives you a panoramic view of the city with air-conditioned indoor dining – helpful in the summer months.
Early Afternoon: Visit Al Ain National Museum and Qasr Al Muwaiji
Continue your cultural immersion at the Al Ain National Museum, which sits at the edge of the oasis. The museum showcases artefacts dating back to the Stone Age, including tools, jewellery and pottery excavated from nearby tombs. It’s compact but well-curated, and gives strong context for everything else you’ll see in the city.
Next, head to Qasr Al Muwaiji, the birthplace of UAE President Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The fort offers digital displays, videos and timelines tracing the ruling family’s story. You’ll find quiet courtyards, fountains and cool indoor halls, making it a welcome stop before the heat of the afternoon peaks.
Late Afternoon: Drive Up Jebel Hafeet
No visit to Al Ain is complete without a drive up Jebel Hafeet, the UAE’s second-tallest mountain. The road leading up is a driver’s dream – long sweeping turns, elevation climbs and panoramic desert views. As you climb, watch the landscape change from green to gold to rocky brown.
There are several stops along the way to take photos, but the main viewpoint near the summit is your goal. Time your visit so you arrive about 45 minutes before sunset. On clear days, the view stretches across Oman’s border and deep into the desert plains. Pack snacks, water, and a light jacket – temperatures drop noticeably at the top.
Dinner: Mountaintop Dining or City Comforts
At the top of Jebel Hafeet sits Mercure Grand Hotel, one of the only mountaintop hotels in the UAE. The terrace restaurant offers hearty Arabic grills, mezze and refreshing juices. It’s more about the setting than fine dining, but sitting outside under the stars after a full day of exploration is its own reward.
Alternatively, if you’re heading back into the city, Min Zaman at Al Ain Rotana offers great Arabic and Levantine cuisine with a touch of class, ideal for a relaxed dinner before the drive home.
Night: A Quick Stop at Al Ain Mall or Souq Al Qattara
If you still have energy left, Al Ain Mall has a lively local vibe. It’s not massive, but there’s a small ice rink, cafés, and late-night shops. For something more traditional, Souq Al Qattara offers heritage-style architecture, handmade crafts, and occasional evening performances. It’s a good spot for picking up souvenirs that aren’t mass-produced. To discover more cultural experiences like these, browse our Guide UAE. Need personalized recommendations? Feel free to contact us anytime.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Al Ain a good day trip destination from Dubai or Abu Dhabi?
Yes, Al Ain makes for a well-rounded day trip from either city. It’s roughly a 90-minute to two-hour drive depending on your starting point. Roads are smooth and well-signed, and parking is widely available across the city. While staying overnight allows for a slower pace, a single day is enough to explore the top attractions, from forts and oases to Jebel Hafeet and local restaurants. If you’re renting a car or have your own, the trip is easy to manage. Group tours also operate regularly, but having your own vehicle gives more flexibility for impromptu stops.
What should I wear for a day in Al Ain?
Al Ain is a bit more traditional than Dubai or Abu Dhabi, so it’s a good idea to dress modestly, especially when visiting cultural sites like mosques, forts or museums. For women, that means covering shoulders and knees, and for men, avoiding sleeveless tops. Lightweight, breathable fabrics are best, especially if you’re exploring outdoor areas like the oasis or hiking up Jebel Hafeet. Comfortable walking shoes are a must. If you’re heading to a mountaintop viewpoint in the evening, pack a light sweater or jacket, as it can get cool even in warmer months.
Can you visit the Al Ain Oasis and the National Museum on the same day?
Yes, and in fact, you should. The Al Ain Oasis and Al Ain National Museum sit side by side and are both centrally located. They’re easily walkable from each other and make for a natural pairing in the morning or early afternoon. Start with the oasis, which opens earlier and is more enjoyable before the midday heat. Then head into the museum for an air-conditioned look at the archaeology, history and people who built the region. Combined, they give you a complete view of how Al Ain evolved from an agricultural hub into a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Is Jebel Hafeet safe to drive and is there anything to do at the top?
Yes, Jebel Hafeet is considered one of the safest and most scenic roads in the UAE. It’s well-paved, well-lit, and features guardrails and pull-off areas for taking breaks or photos. Just drive cautiously, especially around the bends. At the top, there’s a public viewing area with seating and panoramic views, as well as the Mercure Grand Hotel which has a restaurant and small café. While there’s no amusement park or formal attraction, the views alone make it worthwhile. Sunset is the best time to go, and it’s a local favourite for picnics and photography.
Are there any good places to eat traditional Emirati food in Al Ain?
Absolutely. Al Fanar Restaurant, located near the city centre, is one of the best places to try authentic Emirati dishes in a nostalgic setting. The design recreates old Emirati homes, and the menu includes classics like harees, machboos, and grilled hammour. If you’re looking for something more modern but still regional, Min Zaman at Al Ain Rotana offers Arabic and Levantine cuisine with a refined twist. Local cafés near Souq Al Qattara sometimes serve Emirati desserts and karak tea in a more casual, social setting, a nice way to end the evening.
