Top 10 Best Tourist Places To Visit in Umm Al Quwain

When you think of the best cities in the UAE, without a thought Dubai and Abu Dhabi top the list as renowned tourist destinations. But there are other emirate cities much more beautiful than these cosmopolitans and deserve a place on the tourist map. Nestled between the odds of Ajman and the deserts of Ras Al Khaimmah, the smallest and not much-known emirate. there are some best places to visit in Umm Al Quwain that are worth exploring. With a land area of about 800 sq km, this quiet and idiosyncratic city emerges as an offbeat destination with it’s share of natural and other attractions. From outdoor activities to traditional Emirati culture

Best Places To Visit in Umm AL Quwain

• Dreamland Aqua Park

 

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Dreamland Aqua Park (@dreamlandaquaparkuae)

The popular entertainment destination in the city, the Dreamland Aqua Park is the perfect spot for a family getaway. Among the top places to visit in umm al quwain, it was inaugurated in 1997 based on the vision of His Excellency Sheikh Abdullah Bin Rashid Al Mualla. Dreamland Aqua Park, is one of the largest water parks in the UAE. The theme park has about 30 thrilling rides and adventures that suit all ages, making it one of the largest family entertainment parks in the Middle East. In the blistering heat of summer, both locals and tourists flock here with their children to get some relief from the sun.

• Umm Al Quwain National Fort and Museum

Bask in the glory of the rich culture and heritage with this 250-year-old monument that was once the residence of the Royal family, also known as the Al Ali Fort. Built in 1786, the fort was constructed by His Highness Sheikh Rashid and guarded the entrance to the old town by overseeing both the sea and the creek.  Today, the fort serves as the national museum that gives a glimpse into the history of the emirates within the precinct of the fortress and is a must place to visit in Umm Al Quwain. 

The museum hosts an invaluable collection of artefacts, archaeological discoveries and war memorabilia that are excavated from nearby sites. Visiting this Umm al Quwain attraction transports you back in time providing an insight into the heritage and culture of the UAE.

• Water Sports at the UAQ Marine Club

 

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Kite Beach Center UAQ (@kitebeachcenter.uaq)

A visit to Umm Al Quwain is incomplete without exploring the water sports available there. Even though this emirate may not have varied choices as the water sports activities in Dubai, the UAQ Marine Club is a perfect places to visit in umm al quwain for surfing, water sailing, skiing, and other water-based activities. The club also houses some of the finest restaurants in the area.

• Emirates Motorplex

If you are a fan of adrenaline-inducing activities such as racing or driving then head to the Emirates Motorplex which is one of the top tourist attractions in Umm al Quwain. Try out the high-octane motorsports perfect even for first-timers as they are safe and exciting at the same time. Besides that, there are also races organised through the course of the year for true thrillseekers in the emirate 

• Exploring the Islands

Unlike the cosmopolitan cities Dubai and Abu Dhabi, Umm Al Quwain is a paradise of natural beauty and heritage. This scenic city includes a series of exquisite islands located just off the Umm Al Quwain coast, surrounded by lush dense mangrove forests. Some of these well-known islands are Al Harmala, Al Chewria, Al Humaida, Al Qaram and Al Sinniyah islands.

Amongst them, Al Sinniyah is the largest and most popular island, a star attraction promoting Umm Al Quwain tourism. This unique island is a natural reserve and home to many species of migratory birds and marine life (beautiful pink flamingos, elegant herons, seagulls and even antelopes). It provides a quintessential experience to both avid bird-watchers and travellers. 

• See Abandoned Aircraft

An abandoned Russian cargo plane had become quite the attraction in the Umm Al Quwain tourism. This odd sight lies beside the Barracuda Beach Resort in Umm Al Quwain. The plane is an Ilyushin IL 76, which was once part of the Soviet Union’s large fleet of Ilyushins built for the USSR military in 1971. IL 76 was a piece of aircraft nostalgia with a lingering mystery that added to the charm of the deserted area.

As per the recent reports the aircraft is being dismantled to make way for a new megaproject in the city.

• Take the Dhow Building Yard Tour

The Dhow Building Yard in Umm al Quwain is the oldest shipyard located in the Old town, where you can see Dhows and traditional wooden boats assembled or repaired today.  It is a unique tourist attraction in Umm Al Quwain as it offers a rare glimpse into the ancient craft of dhow making. The dhow building is considered to be one of the iconic emblems of the UAE, and its traditional building techniques have been handed down through the generations. These wooden dhows are used for fishing pearling, and trade across the region. 

• Visit the Umm Al Quwain Beach

Umm Al Quwain is blessed with the pristine beach that runs along the western rim of the emirate’s thin peninsula. Perfect for a relaxing weekend away from the hustle of the city. Surrounding the beach is the emirate’s first certified kitesurfing school- Kite Beach Centre. It offers lessons for all levels to enjoy the experience of this incredible water sport with certified instructors. Spend the day enjoying the white sandy beach, swimming, sunbathing, snorkelling, or paddling out in the Gulf. 

• Relax at Vida Beach Resort

The newest addition to the Umm Al Quwain attractions is the Vida Beach Resort.  Nestled on the foreshore of the Arabian Gulf with unparalleled view of the city, the resort is a perfect beachfront escape for modern travellers. Spend some peaceful time and rejuvenate yourself with world-class amenities and sophisticated ambience. This chic yet understated place is pet friendly and in the city’s hotspots for tourists to connect, create, relax and recharge. 

• Indulge in Camel Racing at Al Labsa

One of the most classical Emirati traditions and  UAE’s national sport is camel racing. The winter season is the best time to experience camel racing that takes place in the Al Labsa Area. The races start early in the morning from about 7 am. Spectators are welcome to watch the thrilling races and winners get to display their prized possessions. While it’s a little bit more rough around the edges but it reveals an authentic side of the country. Races around the 4km track usually happen during weekends.  Robot jockeys ride the camels adding modernity to this ancient sport.

Wrapping Up

Amongst the lush green mangrove forests and cluster of tranquil islands, lies the pardise of nature Umm Al Quwain. This smallest emirate offers a scattering of lesser-seen tourist attractions for those who want to delve into the UAE’s history and arabian culture. It is a perfect escape for a weekend getway from the bustling of the cities to enjoy a quite and laid back vibe.

Some More Useful Articles for You :

Frequently Asked Question