What to do in Ajman near Dubai?

A little less than an hour's drive northeast of Dubai, Ajman is a seaside resort located between the neighbouring Emirates of Sharjah and Umm Al Quwain.

In this article, I'll tell you what you can do on the spot!

Ajman near Dubai: article summary

History of Ajman

Ajman's history dates back to the late XVIIIᵉ century, when the Al Nuaim tribe claimed the area and made it their permanent home. Fishing, pearl fishing and farming provided for their basic needs and small home-based businesses have sprung up making tents, blankets and clothing.

In 1820, Ajman's ruler, Shaikh Rashid Bin al Nuaimi, signed a general peace treaty with Great Britain, giving the emirate protectorate status in the event of a threat from the Ottoman Turks. It took another century before merchants began to settle in Ajman and the population grew steadily.

Ajman today

In terms of land area, Ajman is the smallest emirate of the United Arab EmiratesWith a surface area of just 460 square kilometers. You'll find it on the country's west coast, along the Gulf coast.

Ajman has the fifth largest population in the United Arab Emirates. The majority of its residents are expatriates, working mainly in business, commerce and tourism. In addition, the emirate has a thriving pearling and fishing industry.

Things to do in Ajman

In recent years, more and more tourists are visiting Ajman, thanks to the continuing efforts of its leaders. Here are just a few of the things you can do there.

Marvel at a historic tower

Al Murabaa watchtower is a popular spot near Ajman beach. It was built in the 1930s and is also known as the "Square Tower" because of its shape.

Discover traditional boats

In the heart of Ajman, near the square tower, is a "dhow", the region's traditional boat. Dhows are still made in Ajman, and the emirate boasts the world's largest dhow-building center.

Go birdwatching

Ajman's Al Zawrah Nature Reserve is home to many species of native birds and a variety of marine life. Its tranquil lagoons, salt flats and robust mangroves are also frequented by migratory birds at certain times of the year.

Enjoy the surf and the beach

Because of Ajman's pleasant climate, many tourists flock to its beautiful beaches. If you look closely at the water, you may see dolphins, which often swim in the area. You can also enjoy water sports like surfing or jet skiing!

Stroll along the marina

Just a short walk from the Kempinski Hotel is the Ajman Marina, one of the region's newest developments. You can walk, jog or cycle along its 1.5-kilometre esplanade, before enjoying your meal in one of the restaurants on site.

Visit a mosque

There are several mosques in the emirate, but perhaps the most famous is Sheikh Zayed Ajman mosque. Apparently, the mosque was built by Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, the ruler of Ajman, for his father, the late Sheikh Rashid bin Humaid Al Nuaimi.

Go shopping

Ajman has traditional markets, called souks, where you can buy souvenirs. Lately, it also has modern shopping malls where you can to buy just about anything, who have settled in! What's more, the emirate is bursting with restaurants to satisfy your cravings, whether for local or international dishes!

How do I get to Ajman?

To get to the site, I advise you to rent a car. From Dubai, it takes less than an hour to get there!

Ajman is probably the smallest emirate, but it's home to many incredible attractions that many tourists will enjoy. During your trip to Dubai, if you'd like to get away from the city and its people, I'd recommend exploring Ajman. You'll be pleasantly surprised!

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