Things To Do
in Umm al Qaywayn
Umm al Qaywayn is one of the seven emirates in the United Arab Emirates, located on the eastern coast of the country. It is known for its stunning coastline, beautiful beaches, and rich maritime history. The emirate is home to historical sites such as the Umm Al Quwain Fort, which provides insights into the region's past.
Umm al Qaywayn offers a peaceful and relaxed atmosphere, making it a popular destination for those seeking a quiet getaway.
- "Marhaban" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Afwan" - You're welcome
- "Inshallah" - God willing
- "Ahlan wa sahlan" - Welcome
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $40 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a relaxing stroll along the pristine beaches of Umm al Qaywayn. The soft sand and gentle waves provide a perfect setting for a peaceful morning.
Head to the local beach clubs for some water activities like jet skiing or paddleboarding. Enjoy lunch at a beachside café with stunning views of the sea.
As the sun sets, make your way to the beachfront for a picturesque sunset experience. Dine at a seaside restaurant, savoring fresh seafood while listening to the gentle sounds of the waves.
Arrive early at Dreamland Aqua Park to avoid the crowds and enjoy the thrilling water slides and pools. Grab a hearty breakfast at one of the park's eateries before diving into fun.
Spend the afternoon splashing around and taking advantage of all the exciting attractions within the park. Don’t forget to take breaks and hydrate with refreshing drinks.
After a fun-filled day, relax at the park's café with a snack while reviewing your favorite moments. Head back to your accommodation and unwind, excited for tomorrow's adventure.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural landscapes, including beaches and mangroves.
- Less crowded compared to other emirates, offering a peaceful environment.
- Growing tourism sector with developing attractions and activities.
- Rich cultural heritage and opportunities to learn about Emirati traditions.
- Affordable cost of living compared to other emirates in the UAE.
- Limited entertainment and nightlife options.
- Fewer job opportunities compared to larger cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
- Public transport options may be less developed.
- Hot desert climate can be extreme in summer months.
- Limited international connectivity due to a smaller airport.
Best Activities in Umm al Qaywayn
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy fishing along the coast of Umm al Qaywayn, known for its rich marine life and calm waters.
Take a boat tour to explore the coastline, mangroves, and islands, and perhaps even spot dolphins.
Paddle through the serene mangroves and coastal waters for a peaceful outdoor experience.
Tours
Uncover the best of Umm al Qaywayn with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Umm al Qaywayn
Visit one of these nice places.
Visit the museum and enjoy the panoramic view of the city and the Arabian Gulf from the top of the museum building.
Explore this beautiful island known for its natural beauty and amazing views, perfect for photography enthusiasts.
Capture stunning coastal views and sunset scenes at the picturesque Mangrove Beach.
Food in Umm al Qaywayn
Umm al Qaywayn Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A flavorful rice dish with tender meat (usually chicken, lamb, or fish) cooked with an array of spices and garnished with nuts and raisins. It's a staple in local homes and can be enjoyed at Al Khaimah Restaurant.
Must-Try!
A traditional Bedouin dish featuring tender, charcoal-grilled meat seasoned with aromatic spices. It's a must-try at Zaman Al Sham Restaurant.
A delectable Emirati dessert made with cream cheese, topped with vermicelli, and drizzled with rose water syrup. Indulge in this sweet treat at Umm Al Quwain Beach Hotel.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market offering a wide variety of freshly caught fish and seafood. Visitors can experience the local fishing culture and even sample fresh grilled fish at the market stalls.
This park hosts a selection of food trucks offering an assortment of international and local street food. It's a great spot to enjoy shawarma, falafel, and other Middle Eastern delights.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Umm al Qaywayn, it is important to dress modestly and conservatively, especially when visiting public places or interacting with locals. Both men and women should ensure that their clothing covers their shoulders, knees, and cleavage.
Respect for Islamic customs and traditions is essential. This includes refraining from public displays of affection, consuming alcohol in public spaces, and eating, drinking, or smoking in public during the holy month of Ramadan.
When greeting locals, it is customary to use the traditional Islamic greeting 'As-salamu alaykum' (Peace be upon you) and to use the right hand for handshakes. It's important to show courtesy and respect to elders and authority figures.
Safety
Tipping in Umm al Qaywayn
Ensure a smooth experience
In Umm al Qaywayn, it is customary to give a 10-15% tip at restaurants and to taxi drivers. Tipping is also appreciated for good service in hotels, spas, and for tour guides.
In Umm al Qaywayn, cash is widely used for everyday transactions, although credit cards are also accepted in many establishments, especially in larger cities. When shopping in markets or smaller shops, having cash on hand is advisable.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Umm al Qaywayn, UAE, with pleasant weather and comfortable temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. It is the peak tourist season, so expect crowded attractions and higher prices for accommodations.
Another good time to visit, with mild temperatures and less crowded tourist spots. This period is ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Hot and humid weather with temperatures often exceeding 40°C. Not recommended for outdoor activities, but it's a good time to find discounts on accommodations due to lower tourist numbers.
The weather starts to cool down, and it's a transitional period between the hot summer and the pleasant winter. It's a good time for budget travelers as prices may be lower before the peak tourist season begins.
Umm al Qaywayn at Night
Hiking in Umm al Qaywayn
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
The highest mountain in the UAE, offering various hiking trails with stunning views of the Hajar Mountains and the surrounding landscape.
A beautiful hiking destination known for its waterfalls and natural pools, ideal for a day hike surrounded by nature.
Set against the Hajar Mountains, Hatta Dam offers scenic trails with picturesque views of the water and rugged terrain.
A UNESCO World Heritage site, this oasis features well-maintained walking paths and is great for a leisurely hike among date palms.
Located in Sharjah, this spot offers an opportunity for hiking and is known for its fossilized rocks and desert atmosphere.
Aiports
How to reach Umm al Qaywayn by plane.
One of the busiest airports in the world, located approximately 55 km from Umm al Qaywayn.
Located around 35 km from Umm al Qaywayn, serving various international destinations.
Located about 150 km from Umm al Qaywayn, it is the second-largest airport in the UAE.
Located roughly 80 km from Umm al Qaywayn, it is part of the Dubai World Central project.
Located approximately 570 km from Umm al Qaywayn, it serves as a regional hub.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Local citizens of the United Arab Emirates, including those residing in Umm al Qaywayn.
A significant demographic group consisting mainly of individuals from countries like India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh.
Includes individuals from Europe, North America, and Australia, often working in professional sectors.
Individuals from other Arab nations, contributing to the multicultural fabric of Umm al Qaywayn.
Includes workers from other Asian countries such as the Philippines, Indonesia, and Sri Lanka.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Umm al Qaywayn, with many local and national teams and a strong following among residents.
Cricket enjoys a significant following in Umm al Qaywayn, with various leagues and matches held regularly.
Basketball is popular among the youth, with courts available in schools and community centers.
A traditional sport in the UAE, camel racing is an integral part of the culture and attracts interest from both locals and tourists.
Due to its coastal location, water sports such as jet skiing, kayaking, and paddleboarding are popular recreational activities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Umm al Qaywayn.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Emirati cuisine prominently features meat, many restaurants in Umm al Qaywayn offer a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes such as falafel, hummus, tabbouleh, and grilled vegetable platters.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can enjoy dishes like grilled fish, rice-based pilafs, fresh salads, and various grilled meats without sauces, as these are commonly available on menus in the local restaurants.