Umm Al Quwain, United Arab Emirates

Umm Al Quwain, United Arab Emirates

According to Existingcountries.com, Umm Al Quwain is another miniature emirate (its area is only 780 sq. km), located on a small peninsula surrounded by a cluster of small islands. This is a quiet fishing town, the attraction of which lies in the fact that it is located in relative territorial isolation, which allows it to maintain a traditional way of life for many years. In the historical manuscripts of Umm Al Quwain- translated from Arabic “source of strength” – is referred to as the center of fishing in the region. Today, as in the past, the emirate is the main supplier of fish to the UAE. The Marine Research Center is also located here, contributing to the development of fisheries in the country. The central part of the city is located in the depths of the embankment, which runs along the entire peninsula. There are administrative buildings, banks, all kinds of companies and representative offices.

Geography and history
The city lies 34 km north of Ajman in the most picturesque place on the entire coast. Like all northern coastal cities, Umm Al Quwain is located on a cape, divided by straits and lagoons into islets and peninsulas. This emirate can be explored on foot. Umm Al Quwain is a quiet place away from the hectic life of large cities. This is a real paradise for lovers of nature and fishing.

The old city changed little, as new buildings were built in the new area on previously unused wasteland overlooking the sea. Opposite the area of ​​private villas, the new government buildings of the Municipality and Emiri Diwan were built. The central vegetable market is also located in the new district. From here, the road runs along the coast, and you will have to drive about 10 km to the old settlement.

In the past, Umm Al Quwain was fairly well fortified, as evidenced by the three watchtowers at the entrance to the city (previously there was a wall between them that has not survived to this day).

The city has a fort, watchtowers, a 19th century mosque. The old fort is today used by the local police. Around it, the buildings of houses have been preserved, some of which can be found traces of the once chic decoration with pink stone and stucco. To the north of these buildings is the area of ​​the old market, where you can see wind towers (ventilation systems) and old stone houses that have survived to this day.

In the immediate vicinity of the fort, at Falaj Al Muala, there is a huge date garden surrounded by high dunes and defensive structures. The largest poultry farm in the UAE is also located here.

Across the strait from the old city lies Sinyah Island, where remains of early Islamic settlements have been found. Now the island is a nature reserve, which requires special permission to visit.

Sports and entertainment
Al Quwain is the sports center of the country. There is a marine club (Marine Club), located on the shore between the Pearl Hotel and Emiri Divan. Windsurfing, water skiing, sailing are practiced. The club has a section of equestrian sports, which organizes numerous competitions in the winter. Camel racing is also popular in Umm Al Quwain. One of the best tracks in the Emirates is easy to find near the city, near the road to Falaj al Moalla. On the days of the races, numerous bivouacs of camel “stables” are set up on the field around.

The emirate of Umm Al Quwain is known for its riding school, which prides itself on its horses, considered the best in the country.

Among tourists Umm Al Quwain is known as the location of the Dreamland Water Park, a great place for the whole family to relax. Only 40 min. Drive from Dubai and the park will offer you a lot of water attractions (lazy river, giant steps, wild river, black hole, etc.) that will bring you great pleasure. Here, for the first time in the region, a model of a volcano 18 meters high was built with an imitation of a fire eruption and lighting effects.

A wide variety of restaurants and cafes offer lunches and dinners for all tastes, as well as simple delicacies from smoothies to ice cream and juices. Your safety during entertainment is guaranteed by the presence of highly qualified rescue workers.

The park is open from September to May from 10.00 to 20.00, Fridays and holidays are days of rest for Arab families, so foreign men may not be allowed into the park.

Umm Al Quwain, United Arab Emirates