The Eastern Region can be understood through Al Ain, in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi: Al Ain forms the eastern region and, alongside the UAE capital and its surrounding area and Al Dhafra in the west, is one of the emirate’s three main regions. Al Ain lies at the crossroads of ancient land routes between Oman, the Arabian Peninsula, the Persian Gulf and Mesopotamia. This historic location gives its cultural sites a broad regional context; specific visits take in oases, archaeological sites and historic buildings.
Al Ain: UNESCO Heritage and Archaeology
The UNESCO World Heritage site Cultural Sites of Al Ain is a serial site, not a single attraction. Its components include the Hafit and Hili assemblages, Bidaa Bint Saud, and the oases of Al Ain Oasis, Mutared, Muwaiji, Hili, Jimi and Qattara, which are spread across the city. The site bears witness to settled life in a desert region since the Neolithic period and preserves the remains of numerous prehistoric cultures. Archaeological sites and oases thus stand side by side as distinct facets of a long history of settlement.
More than 500 ancient tombs are located in the Jebel Hafit area; the number may vary depending on the survey. The site adds another tangible glimpse of the past to the World Heritage site’s archaeological perspective.
Oasis Landscape and Water Management
Al Ain Oasis brings together an oasis landscape, water management and walking paths. Its excavated channels are described as 3,000 years old and bring water from the mountains and more distant areas. In the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, the two central falaj systems at Al Ain Oasis are called Al Aini and Dawood. Shaded paths invite you to stroll. Rental bicycles and an electric buggy are options for getting around the paths; check their availability before your visit. The Eco-Centre is free to enter and features interactive exhibitions about the oasis’s historical significance. Check the current visitor information before your visit.
Historic Buildings in Al Ain
Qasr Al Muwaiji represents another facet of history. The building was constructed in the early 20th century, during the time of Sheikh Zayed bin Khalifa the First (1855–1909) and his son Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The museum’s courtyard contains a modern exhibition hall presenting members of Abu Dhabi’s ruling family in chronological order. In this way, the building’s history is paired with a chronological account of the ruling family.
Another historic home in Al Ain is Bait Mohammed bin Khalifa. It has been restored and repurposed as a community centre. Its former use as a residence and its later use give the house a historical perspective distinct from that of the archaeological sites.
The Wider Setting: Abu Dhabi
In the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, Jebel Hafit Desert Park extends for nine kilometres at the foot of Jebel Hafit and is considered family-friendly. Visitors can hike, mountain bike, ride horses or camels, and discover archaeological and historical remains that tell of the area’s early settlement. As a guide, the Jebel Hafit hiking trail is approximately 8.4 kilometres long and takes three to four hours. Check current route conditions before hiking.
When planning, it is important to remember that the Cultural Sites of Al Ain are spread out: don’t think of the cultural sites as a single place to visit. First decide whether oases, archaeology or historic buildings are your main focus; that priority can guide your search for a holiday rental in the Eastern Region.
Discover more destinations: Al Gharbia
Return to the main travel overview: Abu Dhabi.
