What to do in Al Ain

Apple has unveiled plans for its fifth store in the UAE, set to open in 2025 in the historic city of Al Ain, Abu Dhabi. This announcement reinforces the company’s dedication to expanding its footprint and enhancing customer experiences in the Middle East. Tim Cook, Apple’s CEO, expressed his enthusiasm for this milestone, stating: "The UAE is home to an incredible community of creators, innovators, developers, and entrepreneurs. We’re excited to grow our teams, support local businesses, and strengthen our customer relationships here." The upcoming store promises a dynamic space for shopping and learning, offering customers access to Apple’s latest...

LOEWE has launched an exclusive perfume pop-up in the heart of Al Ain Oasis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Open until 9 February, the LOEWE Perfumes Greenhouse invites visitors to experience its signature Botanical Rainbow fragrances and home scents inside a beautifully designed Victorian-style greenhouse. This one-of-a-kind space takes inspiration from old apothecaries and botanical gardens, where plants were traditionally grown for their healing properties. The greenhouse setting blends nature and luxury, offering a multi-sensory journey through color, texture, and scent.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by إثر (@ethr.ae) At the core of this...

Ready to embark on a journey that’s truly out of this world? The Mother of the Nation (MOTN) Festival is back, promising an electrifying experience from November 28 to December 2. Set across two stunning locations, Al Mugheirah Bay in Al Dhafra and Al Ain Square, this year’s festival invites visitors to immerse themselves in a cosmic adventure packed with unforgettable entertainment, delicious food, and interactive activities for all ages. Organized by DCT Abu Dhabi and event producer Brag, the MOTN Festival 2024 is elevating its game with larger-than-life attractions, carnival rides, and surprises at every turn. Highlights of the...

In a new move to support senior citizens, the UAE has announced that residents aged 60 and older, including expats, can now visit Al Ain Zoo for free. This update is part of the “Year of Community” initiative launched by President Sheikh Mohamed last week. Previously, only people aged 70 and above enjoyed free entry, but with the new policy, more seniors can benefit from the offer. The change shows the zoo’s ongoing commitment to making the experience accessible and enjoyable for everyone in the community. To ensure comfort, Al Ain zoo provides a range of services for senior visitors,...

Manar Abu Dhabi has expanded beyond the capital for the first time, bringing its public light art exhibition to two of the Al Ain's most beautiful oases. The free light art exhibition at Al Jimi and Al Qattara opened on November 1 and has turned the peaceful, palm-filled spaces into glowing art destinations. The exhibition follows the theme 'The Light Compass'. As you walk through the gardens and old houses, you’ll find seven light artworks set among the trees and historic walls Al Qattara features three fascinating light art installations 'Translation Stream' (2023) and 'Pulse Canopy' (2025) by Rafael Lozano-Hemmer...

Al Ain Oasis is opening a new chapter this winter, inviting everyone to discover what’s waiting inside its newest destination called the "Hub." It brings fresh experiences, beautiful spaces, and a vibe that perfectly blends nature with modern charm. It opens its doors on January 29, and here's your chance to get a sneak peek at what’s in store. Al Ain Oasis Hub features a variety of cafés and restaurants. Spots like Around The Block, Daily Press, Dialogue, Public, Ritual, Foam, and FLTR offer everything from quick coffee and pastries to more filling meals. With 16 spots announced so far,...

From August 1 to 3, 2025, Abu Dhabi World Grappling Championship will make its debut at ADNEC Centre Al Ain, bringing three days of high-level competition and inclusive participation to the emirate. Announced by International Vision Sports Management (IVSM) and held under the banner of Abu Dhabi Jiu-Jitsu Pro (AJP) in partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT), the event aims to support the global rise of grappling — one of the fastest-growing combat sports worldwide. View this post on Instagram A post shared by AJPTour (@ajptour) The championship is part of the AJP Tour,...

If your usual route passes through Abu Ubaidah Bin Al Jarrah Street in Al Ain, there’s a small update to keep in mind before you head out this May. A traffic diversion is in place on that road and will continue until Sunday, May 24. The change only affects part of the street, but it may slightly alter how traffic flows in the area. Check the map of road closures below to see exactly which section is affected. In neighboring Abu Dhabi, drivers may also notice a change this month, with paid parking expanding in MBZ City starting May 6....

Winter has landed in Al Ain, and if you don’t want to miss all the activities, head to Hazza bin Zayed Stadium before January 15, 2026. Once inside, Winter Oasis opens up into a lively winter-style space where you can wander around, stop where something catches your eye, or move between activities without a plan. The winter setting is part of what makes the visit enjoyable. Igloo and chalets are spread around the venue, giving the whole place a winter wonderland look and offering spots to pause, sit down, and take a break between activities. As for activities, there's plenty...

Looking for a weekend plan that isn’t just another brunch or mall visit? There’s a workshop in Al Ain this Saturday where you can learn a new craft and make something beautiful for your home. You’ll learn how to weave Talli and use it in a floral arrangement, then create your own piece during the session. Talli is a traditional Emirati weaving technique where threads, often mixed with metallic strands, are braided into narrow bands with detailed patterns. The finished strips are usually used as decorative trims on clothing, especially along sleeves and edges. No experience needed for Talli &...