Recommended Excursions Around Abu Dhabi

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.