Al Ayn
The merge of ancient and modern Arabic culture is no more
evident than in the fascinating city of Al Ayn, about 100 miles
(160km) east of Abu Dhabi. This historic, scenic oasis is
surrounded by red sand dunes and dominated by a vast mountain range
on the eastern border of the UAE. Al Ayn has existed since around
3,000 BC and visitors can explore archaeological remains and a
large museum. The city is also modern, filled with luxury resort
hotels and shiny shopping malls. Experiences such as the Middle
East's last remaining traditional camel market vie for attention
with an exciting theme park, the renowned Al Ayn Zoo, and an
Olympic-sized ice rink. Al Ayn is known as the 'Garden city of the
Gulf' because of its tree-lined boulevards and green public
spaces.
Liwa Oasis
Numerous local tour operators in Abu Dhabi offer trips from the
city to the famed Liwa Oasis, about three hours drive away along a
modern highway. This green, agricultural strip at the edge of the
Rub Al Khali ('Empty Quarter') is surrounded by desolate desert
with farms abutting towering sand dunes. Visitors enjoy overnight
camel trips to camp in the desert. The oasis, made up of a string
of small towns and villages, is resplendent with pools of fresh
water and date plantations, and is the ancestral home of the Bani
Yas tribe from whence sprang Abu Dhabi's ruling family.
