Al Ain is the garden city of United Arab Emirates. This oasis town is next to, and virtually merged with, the Omani town of Buraimi. The "Cultural Sites of Al Ain (Hafit, Hili, Bidaa Bint Saud and Oases Areas)" have been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list.
Taxis are very easy to find and cheap (in the older, brown taxis, 10. dirham plus 1.00/km; silver taxis are more expensive, but have better air conditioning and, usually, English-speaking drivers). Women traveling alone should sit in the back and not make conversation with the cabbies, as drivers may misinterpret friendliness. There is also a local bus service.
Al Ain has several sites that would be of interest to tourists: 1 Jebel Hafeet. The second tallest mountain in the United Arab Emirates (1350 m), Jebel Hafeet is surrounded by flat plains on three sides, which afford spectacular views, especially at sunset. The road to the top winds around hairpin turns for 12 km. There are three rest points for viewing, and then at the very top is a large parking area with a cafeteria and 360-degree view of the entire area. Take care on the road as some drivers enjoy the excitement of the twists and turns too much. There is a hotel (Mecure Hafeet) at the top, as well as Green Mubazara Park and Ain Al Fada resorts at the bottom. Free.
There is also a large zoo and safari park in Al Ain that is quite popular with visiting tourists.
Al Ain is host to a wide range of palates and ethnicities when it comes to cuisine. Lebanese/Arabic food is usually cheapest; hotel restaurants usually the most expensive. The city is home to all manner of fast food like McDonald's and Hardees, but there is little for most people to eat at those places. Some of the best and cheapest food in the city can be found at its many Indian restaurants. Portions are almost always generous, prices low, and quality excellent. Chinese food is at its best in the many Chinese restaurants. Residents find Al Ain's selection to be more than adequate. Most restaurants and cafes deliver to anywhere in the city.
Alcohol is available in the main hotel restaurants. However, it is advised to drink in moderation as in common with the rest of the UAE; it is illegal to be intoxicated in public places.
Guide content from Wikivoyage contributors (CC BY-SA) — abridged; the full article has much more.
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In Oct, Al Ain typically sees ~37°C daytime highs and 0 rainy days.
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