What to do in Al Ain

You know how quickly time flies. One day you’re planning the school Eid break, and the next thing you know, summer holidays are already around the corner. Luckily, Al Ain Zoo has a new way to keep children busy this July with a summer camp full of animal encounters, science activities, outdoor games, and creative workshops. This year's programme is called “Legacy of the Desert” and it's created for children from 6 to 12. Every camp week includes sessions where kids can explore wildlife, conservation, and desert culture right inside Al Ain Zoo. One activity lets children build their own...

This Saturday, November 8, ADNOC Al Ain Half Marathon is taking over the streets of the city. That means some roads will be closed temporarily. Plan ahead as key routes like Mohammed Bin Zayed The First St, Shakhbout Bin Sultan St, and Sultan Bin Zayed The First St will be blocked off for the event. The main race of ADNOC Al Ain Half Marathon begins at 6 AM. The above mentioned roads will close at 2 PM and reopen by 10 AM once the event concludes. For anyone planning to drive around the city on Saturday morning, be sure to...

If a night out with friends sounds better with water rides, music, and a full buffet, Ladies Night at Al Ain Adventure is back right on time. The event takes over the park on May 8, turning the whole space into a women-only evening filled with energy, movement, and plenty to do from the moment you arrive. Here’s what you can jump into: Wave Pool session Oasis Island and Aqua Island Rafting and duckies or kayaking Fitness classes Tote bag coloring workshop Kids’ entertainment Between 7 PM and 8:30 PM, you can head to the dinner buffet to eat and...

Looking for something fun, family-friendly, and culturally rich to do this winter? Al Ain Dates Festival 2026 is where you want to be. This event is all about celebrating the deep cultural significance of dates in Emirati life. You can discover all this at ADNEC Centre in Al Ain from January 31 to February 8. Dates hold a special place in the UAE culture. At this event, you’ll get to explore some of the best varieties and even watch live competitions. If you’re into rare experiences, you'll enjoy the date auctions where you can bid on the best of the...

Al Ain Museum is scheduled to reopen on October 24, 2025, after a significant renovation. The museum now combines its original structure with updated galleries, offering a new perspective on the region's history while preserving its traditional charm. Originally founded in 1969 by Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, this is the first museum in the UAE. Inside, visitors can explore ancient artefacts and recent archaeological finds, including the impressive aflaj irrigation system that helped shape desert life. The museum also offers workshops, interactive activities, and temporary exhibitions to keep the experience fresh and engaging. View this post on Instagram...

There’s something about November that makes it perfect for books, stories, and literary gatherings. And this year, Al Ain Book Festival 2025 is bringing that spirit to life with a week-long celebration from November 24 to 30. Taking place at Al Ain Square – Hazza bin Zayed Stadium, the festival will once again fill the city with ideas, creativity, and conversation. Organised by the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre and held under the patronage of Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, it continues to shine a light on Emirati authors and rising local talent. The goal is to keep the...

Winter in Al Qattara offers something truly special for families looking to dive into the heart of Emirati traditions. Head over to Souq Al Qattara in Al Ain for an authentic experience that celebrates local craftsmanship, food, and performance. It will be available until March 29, so you've got plenty of time to explore. The market is packed with local artisans displaying their handmade goods, giving you the chance to pick up unique souvenirs and learn about traditional crafts. If you’re feeling creative, you can also join in on one of the art workshops, where you can try your hand...

Winter activities in the UAE are so diverse that it feels like you’d need an extra month to experience them all. If you’re looking for a genuine taste of Emirati culture, check out Al Ain Heritage Festival. From January 31 to February 9, this event gives visitors a chance to truly connect with the history of the UAE. Head to ADNEC Centre in Al Ain and dive deep into the country’s heritage. Expect to explore everything from art and crafts to traditional food and music. Here’s what you can look forward to: Date Festival is a great spot to explore...

If you enjoy long lunches or leisurely breakfasts with a stylish twist, there’s good news! tashas, the South African café known for its refined comfort food and relaxed vibe, is opening new branches in Al Ain and Sharjah this May. If you’ve been to tashas before, you already know people come for the generous portions, relaxed atmosphere, and menu that works for breakfast, lunch, coffee breaks, or slow dinners. Every new branch has its own look and feel: Al Ain branch opens on May 19. The café features soft neutral colours, natural textures, handmade details, and a custom ceiling installation...

Spartan Race is making its return to the UAE on October 11-12, 2025, and this time the course is unlike anything seen before. The upcoming Spartan Trifecta Weekend is set to take place inside Al Ain Zoo, blending obstacle racing with wild scenery for a two-day event that’s open to beginners, seasoned athletes, and families. This edition marks the first time a Spartan event to be hosted inside a zoo, which means competitors will be navigating a course that runs through animal exhibits, garden landscapes, and natural trails. There’s even a chance of spotting zebras or giraffes while climbing ropes...