Things to Do in Al Ain

The Sheikh Zayed Palace Museum (Qasr al-Ain) is based in the residence of the founder and first president of the UAE, Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The palace complex was built in 1910 on the western side of the mighty Al Ain Oasis and was home to Sheikh Zayed and his family from 1937 until 1966. It later became a museum in 1998.

The building is set around attractive courtyards and gardens where guests can wander around while learning about Sheikh Zayed and his life. Visitors have access to the meeting rooms, or majlis, where the president met with dignitaries and other visitors to the palace. There’s also the chance to take a peek at the palace’s sleeping quarters, including the canopied bed of the ruler’s wife.

Adrenaline awaits at Wadi Adventure — the Middle East’s first manmade surfing, kayaking and whitewater rafting facility. Located at the base of Jebel Hafeet, which has long welcomed tourists to its natural hot springs and cave system, the park includes systems that create conditions ideal for surfing and kayaking. The park is beside the “garden city” of Al Ain, which is quickly becoming the adventure capital of the Middle East. The manmade wave facility is the world’s largest, and the 1.7 kilometer kayaking channel is the longest in the world. The waves are 3.3 meters high and can be created every 90 seconds. Wake boarding is another option

If it’s hard to imagine surfing in the middle of the desert, additional adventures include an aerial obstacle course, giant swing, zip lining, rock wall climbing, and a ropes course. There are also swimming pools, for both children and adults. Lessons and training are available for all activities offered.