Ajman between coast and mountain landscape

Ajman combines coastal scenery and mangroves with historic buildings and the rugged mountain landscape of Masfout. When planning your trip, it is worth first deciding which experiences interest you most: nature and water, culture and history, or landscapes away from the coast.

Nature, water and golf

Al Zorah is in the northern part of the emirate. The Al Zorah Nature Reserve encompasses mangroves, turquoise lagoons and sandy beaches. It is home to almost 58 bird species, including flamingos, herons and egrets. The number of species and the examples may change over time. The calm waters and network of canals also shape the nature experience: they are suitable for kayakers with no prior experience.

Another focus in Ajman is golf. The Al Zorah Golf Club course is at the heart of the Al Zorah community, north of Ajman city; it was designed by Nicklaus Design. Ajman Corniche Road runs along the emirate’s northwestern shore. Ajman Corniche itself is well suited to walks and beach picnics.

Crafts and cultural heritage

Ajman’s Dhow Yard is one of the world’s largest centers for traditional dhow building. Its connection to a living craft offers a different cultural perspective from the emirate’s historic buildings.

Al Murabaa Watchtower stands on Ajman’s corniche and has served as the city’s first line of defense since the 1930s. The sand-colored tower has been regarded as Ajman’s guardian for more than 80 years. Ajman Museum is considered the emirate’s most important museum and illustrates life in the past. Together, the tower and museum offer two different ways to explore history: one is a building with a former defensive function; the other offers a glimpse of life in the past.

Masfout: Mountains and history

Masfout is an enclave of Ajman in the south of the United Arab Emirates, near Hatta. The drive from Ajman city to Masfout is stated as taking 90 minutes; actual travel time may vary. Its elevated location brings cooler temperatures, and the surrounding area is characterized by rugged mountain scenery. Masfout is considered a summer retreat because of its cooler climate. Hiking is also subject to a seasonal restriction: it is not recommended from June to September because of the hot, humid months.

The rocky landscape around Masfout is suitable for hiking, mountain biking, picnicking and exploring wadis. Masfout Castle, dating from the 19th century, stands on a mountain peak. It once served as the first line of defense against bandits on the route to neighboring Oman. Masfout Museum tells the story of the town and its people from prehistoric times to the formation of the United Arab Emirates.

Manama and the Camel Racecourse

Manama lies east of Ajman on a plain at the foot of the Hajar Mountains. Al Manama Museum has seven large rooms displaying weapons, Bedouin jewelry and handicrafts. Hassa Buweid Castle, a tower-shaped fort reached by a stone staircase, is also located in the eastern enclave of Manama.

Al Tallah Camel Racecourse has no official schedule. If you are planning a visit, check before you travel whether an event is scheduled at a time that suits you. Ajman’s travel experiences therefore vary considerably, from nature and water to museums and historic buildings, as well as mountain scenery and wadis.

Discover more destinations: Ajman, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Umm Al Quwain, Sharjah.

Go to the main travel overview: United Arab Emirates.