Parks in Al Ain – Treasures of the garden city
The largest inland city in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, Al Ain literally translates to ‘the spring,’ which explains why it is commonly referred to as The Garden City. People looking for a blissful retreat from the fast-paced urban life of Dubai and Abu Dhabi love the parks in Al Ain. This underrated treasure offers an escape to families and working professionals.
About Al Ain
Al Ain is not only the fourth largest city by area in the UAE but is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Apart from the many Al Ain parks, there are several other attractions in this city. It is one of the oldest permanently-inhabited settlements in the world.
The city has a rich archaeological history. This includes picturesque forts such as Al Jahili Fort and Al Ain Museum which showcases the historic evolution of life in the UAE. It also offers some stunning city views atop Jebel Hafeet, which is the highest peak in the emirate. Al Ain is popular for its date palm oasis. Families looking to move to the area can check out flats for rent in Al Ain.
Most Popular Al Ain Parks
Most people head to the parks in Al Ain city to retreat from the humid weather and spend some time close to nature. The Garden City is home to several lush, green public gardens having remarkable landscapes and attractive fountains. To ease you, MyBayut has made a list of Al Ain parks.
Al Jahili Park
Close to Al Jahili Fort, Al Jahili Park is situated right in the heart of Al Ain. It is situated adjacent to Sheikha Fatima’s Palace and is very well-kept. Al Jahili Park in Al Ain is the perfect spot for friends and family to hang out. There is a large screen installed outside the park for visual infotainment.
It also has a Starbucks outlet inside, having its drive-through. There are three play areas in the park with sand floors and toys for children.
Al Jahili Park offers you a 10-kilometre jogging track to exercise and stay in perfect shape. It is one of the best family parks in Al Ain.
- Location: Castle Park, Al Jahili
- Contact: +971-3-712-8000
- Timings: Open 24 hours
Al Ain Ladies Park/Basra Park
Although it is a rather quiet place, Al Ain Ladies Park is also known as Al Basra Park. As the name suggests, this public park in Al Ain is for ladies and children only. Boys under 10 are also allowed.
With a number of benches, play areas, slides and swings, the park offers the perfect recreational spot for women and children. A dried up river covered by a wooden bridge and a small refreshments corner further complement the park.
- Location: 6PCC+473 – 130th St – Al Muwaij’i
- Timings: Open 24 hours
Jebel Hafeet Park
You can reach Jebel Hafeet Park, which is perched on a mountain and offers views of the Oman border, by travelling in a zigzag pattern through the desert. Located close to Mubazzarah Park, it is a better choice because the journey is scenic and the park has hot springs, a mosque, a man-made stream, and a free barbecue space.
- Location: 4P4X+4PV Jebel Hafeet Park – Mbazzarah Al Khadra
- Timings: All days 04:30 pm to 08:30 pm
Green Mubazzarah Park Al Ain
This is one of the best Al Ain parks. Head to Green Mubazzarah to relax and unwind over the weekend in the Al Ain Oasis. The lining of large rock boulders of Jebel Hafeet in the background further flatters the greenery of the park.
It has attractions for children, including a mini train and thermal baths. Families living close by enjoying picnics at this park. Some corners of Green Mubazzarah park host campers.
Green Mubazzarah Park also has some hot springs for you to dip your feet in, although you might want to be careful. Furthermore, you can even rent a chalet at Green Mubazzarah, which is certainly a unique feature for a park.
- Location: Mbazzarah Al Khadra
- Timings: Open 24 hours
Hili Archaeological City
The Hili Archaeological Park, which was built during the Bronze Age, contains clear evidence of that period’s architecture and culture. Weekends are typically busy here with locals. At least 3000 BC is when the monuments at Hili Archaeological Park were built.
One of the most popular Al Ain parks, its historical structures, mosques, and lush natural surroundings essentially embody every quality that makes for a good picnic location. A BBQ picnic is not permitted inside the park’s boundaries, so instead, explore every building there is to see.
- Location: Near Al Ain National Museum, Dubai Highway
- Contact: +971-3-712-8000
- Timings: All days 04:00 pm to 12:00 am
FAQs
How to reach Al Ain from Dubai?
If you are coming from Dubai, it will take an hour and a half drive to reach Al Ain. Take E201 from Al Ghubaiba station if you prefer to go via bus from Dubai to Al Ain. It will drop you at Al Madina Petrol Station 1, Al Ain City, in around 2 hours.
What are the best things to do in Al Ain?
There are so many exciting activities in Al Ain that you can be a part of. They include shopping in the shopping centres like Al Jimi Mall and Al Barari Outlet Mall. And, of course, there are many historical places to visit, such as Al Jahili Fort, Al Ain National Museum and Hili Archaeological Park.
Aside from these, the Wadi Adventure Park in Al Ain is also worth a visit if you enjoy adventurous activities. It is one of the best free things to do in Al Ain.
All in all, you must visit the parks in Al Ain as the Garden City houses some of the best. If you live in Dubai, you should plan a trip to the must-visit parks in Dubai. These kid-friendly attractions are ideal for picnics or family barbeques.
