Al Ain: Day Trips and Tours from Abu Dhabi

Surrounded by vast expanses of desert landscape—Al Ain is a picturesque inland oasis and one of the world’s oldest permanently inhabited cities.

Al Ain day trips from Abu Dhabi provide the perfect escape from big city life and the opportunity to visit one of the UAE’s cultural gems.

The ‘Garden City’, as it is sometimes referred to, is home to a variety of unique experiences, including natural springs, an archaeological park, a well-run zoo and Bronze Age ruins. There is something exciting around every corner and you certainly won’t get bored!

Here's all you need to know about Al Ain, one of the most exciting day trips from Abu Dhabi.

How to get to Al Ain from Abu Dhabi?

Al Ain is located in the UAE’s eastern region, near the border of Oman, and roughly 170 kilometers east of Abu Dhabi.

From Abu Dhabi to Al Ain by car

Driving from Abu Dhabi to Al Ain in a rental car is a fairly straightforward experience as all you need to do is head in an easterly direction on the E22 and follow the signs to Al Ain. The journey shouldn’t take longer than 1.5 hours.

From Abu Dhabi to Al Ain by bus

Direct buses run from Al Nahyan Bus Station in Abu Dhabi to Al Ain Central Bus Station every two hours. Bus tickets are relatively inexpensive and the bus journey takes roughly 2.5 hours.

Guided tour to Al Ain from Abu Dhabi

Guided Al Ain tours from Abu Dhabi provide a convenient and informative way to experience the UAE’s Garden City. You’ll make your way to Al Ain in a private vehicle and a local guide will lead the way and plan your itinerary.

Most guided tours are full-day experiences, lasting around 9 hours including travel time.

What is the typical itinerary?

Al Ain day trips begin with a complimentary hotel pickup from your accommodation in Abu Dhabi. Once you have met your local guide and boarded the comfortable, private vehicle, you’ll make your way to Al Ain, enjoying the beautiful views of the desert landscape along the way.

Once in Al Ain, you’ll walk around the inland oasis and visit some of the city’s most famous attractions and landmarks with your guide. You’ll also stop to enjoy a traditional meal at a local eatery at your own expense.

After around 5 hours of exploring the city, you’ll make your way back to Abu Dhabi and will be dropped off at your hotel.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Al Ain?

When looking to book an Al Ain day trip from Abu Dhabi, you have two types of tours to choose from, namely guided tours and private tours.

Guided tours to Al Ain from Abu Dhabi

Guided tours provide an affordable way to visit Al Ain with a local tour guide. There will be other participants on the tour, so you’ll get the chance to meet new people as you explore the beautiful city of Al Ain.

Private tour to Al Ain from Abu Dhabi

Private tours to Al Ain from Abu Dhabi cater to the needs and preferences of your group. As you and your travel companions will be the only participants, you’ll have a say when it comes to the places that you’ll visit, departure times, etc.

How much does a day trip to Al Ain from Abu Dhabi cost?

Basic Al Ain day trips from Abu Dhabi typically cost around US$100 per person, including roundtrip transfers and entrance fees, for a group excursion. Slightly more comprehensive guided tours cost around US$120 per person.

Private Al Ain day trips from Abu Dhabi typically cost around US$220 per person for a personalized, full-day excursion. ‘Luxury’ tours, which are inclusive of lunch at a luxury hotel, can cost as much as US$380 per person.

What will you see and do?

While each Al Ain day trip is slightly different, most tour operators visit the city’s main attractions, which often include Sheikh Zayed Palace Museum, Al Jahili Fort, a camel souk, Jebel Hafit and Green Mubazzarah among others.

Sheikh Zayed Palace Museum

Shiekh Zayed was one of the original founders of the UAE and his old residence provides the location for the Sheikh Zayed Palace Museum. Not only is this museum made of environmentally-friendly materials, but it also provides insight into how the ruler lived.

The architecture is an interesting blend of traditional and modern design, which flows cohesively throughout the palace. The fort was converted into a museum in 1998 and has since become one of the city’s top attractions.

Al Jahili Fort

Made with traditional mud bricks, the Al Jahili Forts is one of the best-preserved structures in Al Ain. The fort consists of a square fort, defensive towers, a watchtower and various enclosures. The fort even has its own mosque.

Recently, an irrigation channel has been uncovered by archaeologists. Visiting the fort gives you a feel for how some of the city’s first inhabitants may have gone about their day-to-day lives in Al Ain.

Camel Souk

The camel souk is a busy and vibrant livestock market where buyers and sellers haggle over the prices of camels, goats and other animals. The camel souk is also home to a bazaar that has been around since the 18th century.

This is a great place for taking photos, buying souvenirs and seeing where the locals buy their staples. If you feel like it, you can also check the camel riding tours in Abu Dhabi and enjoy a new experience in the desert.

Jebel Hafit

Jebel Hafit is a mountain that overlooks the city of Al Ain. It is located on the border of the UAE and Oman and is the highest peak in the emirate of Abu Dhabi. While you may not travel to the top of this natural wonder, most tour operators pass by the base of the mountain.

Ensure that you have your camera ready for taking photos as Jebel Hafit’s natural beauty is sure to blow you away.

Green Mubazzarah

Al Ain’s Green Mubazzarah is a beautiful natural area that boasts hot springs, waterfalls and grassy fields. This is a great place to relax and enjoy a bit of greenery amidst the dry, desert landscape.

Green Mubazzarah is also home to a few special attractions, like thermal baths, places to eat, a mini train and more.

When is the best time to visit Al Ain?

The best time to take a day trip from Abu Dhabi to Al Ain is October and November, when the temperature is pleasant with 25°C. The weather is great until April and if you don't mind the heat, May and September are bearable.

Avoid June-August as temperatures can rise and sightseeing can be difficult.

Are there any tours to Al Ain from other cities in the UAE?

Yes, there are tours departing from other cities in the UAE:

• Day Trips to Al Ain from Dubai

Travel tips

• If you plan to book a day trip from Abu Dhabi to Al Ain, it is recommended to book in advance to secure your spot as it can fill up quickly.
• For comfort in the desert heat, wear loose, light clothing and sturdy shoes for the hiking of the tour.
• Tipping your guide is not compulsory, but it is a nice gesture to show your appreciation for an enjoyable experience.
• Due to the intense heat and limited shade in the desert, it is important to carry water for hydration during the tour.