This Eid Al Adha, those seeking tranquility and relaxation in the UAE can discover peaceful retreats away from the hustle and bustle. With varied landscapes and serene settings, the UAE offers unique spots to find calm. From picturesque oases to lush nature parks, you can enjoy a rejuvenating getaway without the stress of crowds. Here’s where to find calm in the UAE this Eid Al Adha, making it the perfect time to unwind and reconnect with both nature and loved ones.
Relaxing in Al Ain
If you’re looking to escape the crowds this Eid Al Adha, head to the tranquil Al Ain region, located just 90 minutes from Abu Dhabi and Dubai. This desert oasis is a blend of history, greenery, and adventure, providing the ideal backdrop for relaxation. The palm-shaded oases and ancient forts create a serene environment where you can breathe easy and enjoy some downtime.
Poolside Bliss at Radisson Blu Hotel & Resort Al Ain
For those who prefer a leisurely day by the water, the Radisson Blu Hotel & Resort Al Ain is the ultimate destination. With its exciting Cobra Waterslide—a snake-shaped ride filled with twists and turns—it’s perfect for fun-seeking families. This resort also features three outdoor pools and several dining options, ensuring a harmonious blend of action and relaxation. With panoramic views of the UAE’s tallest peaks, you can experience a day of thrills or simply chill by the pool. This destination makes it easy to slip into a state of calm this Eid Al Adha.
Location: Radisson Blu Hotel & Resort Al Ain, Al Sarouj District, Abu Dhabi
Cost: Day passes start at Dhs160 for adults and Dhs140 for children
Contact: (03) 768 6666
Nature and Adventure Await
For those who appreciate the outdoors, Jebel Hafit Desert Park offers rocky trails where you can hike or cycle among Bronze Age beehive tombs with breathtaking mountain views. Take a camel ride through this stunning landscape, and consider spending the night under the stars in a Bedouin tent or glamping bubble dome. Nearby, Green Mubazzarah features Abu Dhabi’s natural hot springs and lush gardens, allowing you to disconnect from city life and truly find calm this Eid Al Adha.
Engage with Wildlife at Al Ain Zoo
Animal lovers will delight in Al Ain Zoo, home to over 4,000 creatures, including giraffes and lemurs. This destination offers camel rides and interactive petting zoos, making it perfect for families. For a more cultural experience, Telal Resort and Zaman Lawal Heritage Village harmonize golden dunes with falconry and traditional Emirati hospitality. Kids can engage in interactive feeding sessions, adding a touch of excitement to their day while still finding moments of calm.
Time: 9am to 7pm
Cost: Dhs31.50 for adults, Dhs10.50 for children aged 3 to 12, free for children under 3
Contact: (03) 799 2000
Historical Exploration
Your journey for calm this Eid Al Adha can also take you through the UAE’s rich heritage. Start at the newly reopened Al Ain Museum, the nation’s first museum, showcasing artifacts from 8,000 years of history. Next, visit Sultan Fort, steeped in history and nestled in the heart of old Haret Al Hosn village. You can wander through the cultural exhibitions at Al Jahili Fort, explore the sun-dried mudbrick walls, or stroll through the serene Al Ain Oasis—a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring over 147,000 date palms and a 3,000-year-old irrigation system.
For those seeking a creative outlet, the Al Qattara Arts Centre offers workshops in calligraphy, pottery, and photography, perfect for engaging your mind while soaking in the calm ambiance of the surroundings.
Adrenaline and Flavor
If excitement is on your agenda, Al Ain Adventure provides thrilling activities like whitewater rafting and kayaking. Emirates Bio Farm also offers a taste of local produce along with sustainability workshops, allowing you to engage with the natural landscape. Al Ain Adventure Park, located at the base of Jebel Hafeet, features a variety of activities, including aerial courses, ziplines, and splash zones for family fun.
Location: Ain Al Fayda Resort, Jebel Hafit, Al Ain
Times: 12pm to 8pm
Cost: Splash Pass – Dhs65; other packages start from Dhs125 based on activities
Contact: (03) 714 9666
How to Reach Al Ain
By Car: Take the E22 highway straight from Abu Dhabi to Al Ain. The drive takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes, providing smooth roads and stunning desert views along the way.
By Bus: You can take the X90 express bus from Al Nahyan Bus Station in Abu Dhabi. The journey takes around 2 hours and 10 minutes, with tickets costing Dhs40, which can be easily paid with a Hafilat card.
This Eid Al Adha, take the opportunity to recharge and experience some of the serene spots around the UAE. Whether through nature, adventure, or heritage, there are numerous ways to find calm in the UAE, just waiting for you to discover.