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Al Ain Oasis
Al Mutawaa, Al Ain
Take a walk through the shaded pathways and reconnect with nature in the lush greenery of Al Ain Oasis - a peaceful retreat spread across 1,200 hectares in the ‘Green City’ of Al Ain.
Located just a 90-minute drive from the capital city of Abu Dhabi, it is easy to forget that you are in a desert. This magnificent oasis is a dreamy sight for sore eyes and one of the most beautiful oases Abu Dhabi has. Here you can enjoy a bit of respite from city life and appreciate 147,000 date palm trees, over 100 different varieties of vegetation and relics of the past, like the ancient irrigation system known as falaj. The falaj is an essential piece of the region’s heritage and one of the many reasons why Al Ain is a UNESCO Cultural Site.
Al Ain Oasis is free to enter, and there are many ways to explore and learn about this natural marvel!
Imagine being in a desert and wondering how to channel water into a town for irrigation to nourish the grasslands - this was when the Bedouins residing there decided to install a falaj system. The two central falaj systems here are called Al Aini and Dawood. As you stroll around the oasis, you will see these 3,000-year-old dug-up channels that are intricately connected to bring water from the mountains and distant places. The best part? These waters keep the plantation fresh and thriving even today!
The water can disappear and reappear, depending on the season, so don’t be disappointed if it isn’t there when you visit.
As you stroll in the shadow of the tranquil palm trees, take in the sounds of nature, from the gentle babbling of the stream to the twittering of (sometimes exotic) birds flying by. Benches line the pathways if you wish to take breaks from walking or soak in the moment. If you prefer a little more of a ‘riding rush’ on your tour, upon entry, you can rent a bicycle or ask for an electric buggy to help navigate you around the labyrinth of paths.
Stopping by the free-to-enter Eco-Centre, a sustainable and environmentally friendly building, will give you additional insight into the historical significance of Al Ain Oasis with the help of the interactive exhibits. If you are visiting, add this Abu Dhabi oasis to the top of your list!
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Frequently asked questions about Al Ain Oasis
Why is the Al Ain Oasis important?
The significance of Al Ain Oasis comes from the fact that it was inhabited almost 4,000 years ago, making it one of the world's oldest permanently inhabited settlements. The oasis is even home to the falaj system, an ancient irrigation method. For this reason, it was marked as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
What is Al Ain Oasis?
Consisting of 147,000 date palm trees and 100 other plantations, Al Ain Oasis is a lush escape from the desert.
How long is the Al Ain Oasis?
Al Ain Oasis covers about 1,200 hectares of land and is essentially filled with serene pathways and lines of date palm trees and other plantations. You could spend up to 2 hours here roaming amongst nature.
Which is the largest oasis in UAE?
Al Ain Oasis is the largest oasis in the UAE, followed by Liwa Oasis.
What is the difference between an oasis and a Falaj?
The oasis is fed by the traditional falaj irrigation system, which brings water from the mountains to the farms through a complex system of underground and surface channels.