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Umm Al Quwain, one of seven emirates in the UAE, is one of those rare places that can provide a refuge from the energetic currents of its counterparts. Untouched in its topography, a cultural beat and not too touristy along the coastlines make it really an alluring destination for experience-seekers and relaxation. Then there is a fine mix of both past and present in the emirate, with age-old activities juxtaposed with modern leisure. The emirate’s clean and sandy beaches, diverse ecosystems, and flourishing marine life make it perfect for nature lovers.
About
Photo: Fred Cherrygarden / Wikimedia Commons
The city lies on the northern coast of the country. It is the second smallest emirate in the country in terms of land area but has, however, the lowest population among its counterparts. The city is positioned between Sharjah to the southwest and Ras al-Khaimah to the northeast, spanning approximately 777 square kilometres. Another advantage for the emirate along the Arabian Gulf is its long scenic coastline, while the inland heads toward the desert. It is about 45 kilometres away from Dubai, enabling visitors from major urban centres to reach quickly.
How To Reach
Photo: Kgbo / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
By Road: The city without any hindrance with Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311). It’s situated about 45 km from Dubai and 30 km from Sharjah, taking an average of 30 to 45 minutes by car. The area has fairly regular public bus schedules, linking it to other emirates.
By Air: There is no airport in the city. The nearest airports are Dubai International Airport (approximately 60 km away) and Sharjah International Airport (about 40 km away). Travelers can thus reach the city by taxi, rent a car, or take a bus from any of these airports.
Things To Do
Umm Al Quwain offers a mix of nature, history, and adventure, making it a unique destination in the UAE. Here are the top five things to do in the emirate:
1. Kayak Through The Mangroves At Khor Al Beidah
Photo: Roman Pohorecki / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Khor Al Beidah comprises ecologically prominent wetlands consisting of mangrove forests and a diversity of wildlife species. Millions of Intertidal mudflats act as an essential roosting habitat to migratory birds including flamingos, herons, and ospreys. Here, people kayak their way through tranquil waters, cherishing the pristine nature that surrounds them. Mangroves are breeding grounds for marine species such as crabs and small fish. Kayaking is best during high tide when the water level is more apt for navigation deeper into the forest.
Location: Khor Al Beidah, near Barracuda Beach Resort, Umm Al Quwain
2. Visit Umm Al Quwain National Museum
Photo: Josephineagnes.j / Wikimedia Commons
The fort served as a palatial structure for housing the ruling family over the ages and a defensive building. Situated in the midst of the city, it is an overview of the emirate’s very rich history and cultural heritage. Exhibits consist of ancient artefacts from archaeological sites such as Ed-Dur-an important settlement found pre-Islam. Visitors can see how traditional Emirati life looks alongside weapons, old manuscripts, and a section about the pearling industry, which was one of the major economic activities in the region.
Location: Umm Al Quwain Fort, city centre
3. Relax At Umm Al Quwain Open Beach
Photo: Sam Nabi / Wikimedia Commons
Unlike the more commercialized beaches in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, this coastline is more untouched and offers a truly natural atmosphere for a peaceful experience. The beach itself is free for anyone to enjoy, and recreational activities here include swimming, tanning, and beachcombing. It is very family-friendly, as calm waters and soft sand are but a few reasons why this beach is all about tranquility. Local rental services also provide water sports, such as paddle boarding and kite surfing.
Location: Al Rafaah, Umm Al Quwain
4. Enjoy Water Rides At Dreamland Aqua Park
Photo: Tbrjasmine / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Dreamland Aqua Park is one of the oldest among the biggest water parks in the UAE, sprawling over an area of over 250,000 square meters housing more than 30 attractions, namely fast slides, wave pool, and lazy river. Some of the park’s main attractions include the Twisting Dragons, a series of interlinked water slides, and, for the truly adventurous, the Kamikaze. A kids section provides shallow pools and smaller slides for children. Besides water attractions, Dreamland also has camping amenities for guests who want to spend the night in tents or cabanas.
Location: E11 Highway, Umm Al Quwain
5. Go Night Crab Hunting At Flamingo Beach Resort
Photo: Architecturist / Wikimedia Commons
Flamingo Beach Resort offers one of the rare experiences you can have in the UAE—night crab hunting! This activity goes on in the water at the shallows, where participants thrust spears and shine torches on crabs under guided supervision. The tour kicks off with a boat ride to the hunting location, where participants wade through watery knees with crab hunts on their mind. The resort even provides all necessary tools, including waterproof lights and nets. Once the hunt is over, guests can fill their bellies with fresh seafood barbecue at the resort’s restaurant, where their very own catch will be prepared for fine dining.
Location: Flamingo Beach Resort, Al Rafaah Beach, Umm Al Quwainn
Places To Visit Nearby
If you’re visiting Umm Al Quwain, there are several interesting places nearby that you can explore for a diverse experience:
1. Ajman Museum
Photo: Ahmed1251985 / Wikimedia Commons
Ajman Museum, in an 18th-century fort, is one of the most important historical places in the UAE. Initially, it served as the ruler’s residence and later became a police station. Now it is a tribute to all that Ajman has to offer in terms of rich cultural heritage. Ancient artefacts, manuscripts, traditional weaponry, and displays illustrating the seemingly booming pearling and fishing industries of an epoch gone by are well represented in the museum’s vast collections. Old cells, a refurbished watchtower, and a handful of other interactive exhibits help bring alive Emirati history during the museum visit.
Timings: 8 AM – 8 PM
2. Al Hamriyah Beach, Sharjah
Al Hamriyah Beach is a quiet clean beach, which is situated in the Hamriyah district of Sharjah. The place is famous for its absolutely clear waters and fine golden sands and attracts all the families and nature enthusiasts who want to escape into calm. The beach offers shady spots for seating, a jogging track parallel to the shoreline, and demarcated swimming zones. Even with a few wandering tourists, this place is compact enough to not be overcrowded. Perfect for picnics, sunbathing, and evening strolls, it is child-friendly with shallow waters.
Timings: 24*7
Where To Stay
Photo: Basile Morin / Wikimedia Commons
One can find budget hotels, hotel apartments, or five-star resorts that overlook the beach. Flamingo Beach Resort and the Pearl Hotel & Spa are examples of places with comfort and scenic views, while Barracuda Beach Resort is a luxury resort with premium services and water activities on its properties. In the heart of town, budget hotels and guesthouses spawn easy access to major attractions. Most accommodations have private beach access, a swimming pool, and traditional Emirati hospitality, ensuring a relaxing stay.
Where To Eat
Photo: Cayambe / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The emirate has been offering both local and international cuisine. Fresh seafood is the specialty of Al Mallah Restaurant; grilled fish and Arabic mezze are among the best offerings of Emirates Sea Restaurant. Al Jazeera Café is the place to go for authentic Emirati goodies; beachside resorts have worldwide buffets. Catering to a diverse clientele are various Indian, Lebanese, and Pakistani restaurants. These local small eateries prepare really cheap eats to tickle your palate with the flavors of the region.
Tips For Travellers
Photo: ian dooley / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
- At least 1-2 days can be allocated to visit the beaches and cultural sites of Umm Al Quwain and try its dining spots.
- Wear modest clothing in public places.
- Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore.
Umm Al Quwain is a place for peace, adventure, and a taste of the real Emirati culture. With its beautiful natural landscapes, delectable culinary offerings, and relaxing beaches, this gem is a hidden escape from the fast-paced city. Whether you want to explore, revel, or just bask in unusual experiences, the city caters to every personality type. Plan a trip with TripXL for hassle-free travels, exclusive deals, and custom itinerary planning for an extraordinary journey.
Cover Photo: Prof. Mortel / Wikimedia Commons
