Discover Abu Dhabi: Desert, Oasis and Cultural Heritage
Accommodation in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi is one of the seven emirates of the United Arab Emirates. It comprises three main regions: the capital of the United Arab Emirates and its surrounding area, Al Ain in the eastern region, and Al Dhafra in the western region. This division gives you an initial guide when looking for a hotel: consider which part of the emirate you want to focus on during your trip.
Al Ain: Oasis and History
Qasr Al Muwaiji is a striking historic building in Al Ain, the eastern region of Abu Dhabi. It was built during the time of Sheikh Zayed bin Khalifa the First (r. 1855–1909) and his son Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The Qasr Al Muwaiji Museum includes a modern exhibition hall in its courtyard. Its exhibition presents members of Abu Dhabi’s ruling family in chronological order.
Al Ain Oasis also combines landscape and history. Its two central falaj systems are called Al Aini and Dawood. The excavated channels are described as being 3,000 years old; their water still irrigates the plantation. Visitors can rent bicycles or use an electric buggy on the paths. The Eco-Centre is free to enter and offers interactive exhibitions about the oasis’s historical significance. Check current visitor arrangements and the availability of bicycles or buggies before your trip.
Desert Landscapes and Trails
Jebel Hafit Desert Park stretches for nine kilometers at the foot of Jebel Hafit and is considered family-friendly. Visitors can hike, mountain bike, and go horseback or camel riding there. Archaeological and historical remains that tell the story of early settlement in the area can be discovered in the park. In 2011, UNESCO recognized the area of Jebel Hafit Desert Park as an important part of the Al Ain World Heritage Site, the first World Heritage Site in the United Arab Emirates.
The Jebel Hafit hiking trail is approximately 8.4 kilometers long. You can allow around three to four hours for the hike. Check current trail conditions before setting out. Another option for planning your trip is the illuminated Al Wathba Cycle Track: it is 30 kilometers long and divided into four routes. Check current access conditions with the operator.
Tel Moreeb, a sand dune in Abu Dhabi, is located in Al Dhafra. It is over 300 meters high and has a 50-degree incline. Further afield in the region, also in Al Dhafra, lies the Rub’ al Khali (Empty Quarter). Its golden and red sands are shaped by the wind into dunes several hundred feet high.
Mangroves and Nature
In Mangrove National Park, the stems in the forest reach up to 15 feet. The park is considered a nature reserve with diverse natural features. At Jubail Mangrove Park, elevated boardwalks wind through the mangroves, offering views of the trees and the wildlife that lives there. In Mangrove National Park, stems up to 15 feet tall shape the forest; at Jubail Mangrove Park, elevated boardwalks wind through the mangroves and offer views of the trees and the wildlife that lives there.
Discover more destinations: Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, Al Mirfa, Al Khaznah, Ruwais, Al Gharbia, Al Rahba, Al Agabiyya, Al Bateen, Al Khubeirah, Yas Island, Al Gharbia, Eastern Region.
For the broader travel overview: United Arab Emirates.
