Overview
The Al Jahli District in Al Ain is one of the most-visited parts of the UAE’s “Garden City”. It is a part of town that summarizes Al Ain: the town centre, the fort, the modern hotel and the Presidential Palace are all within walking distance with one-another. The area is primarily residential, featuring villas.
Where it’s located
Al Jahli is located right in the geographical centre of Al Ain. It sits just to the west of the main town centre and is served by two arterial roads: Mohammad Bin Khalifa Street from the north and Khalid Bin Sultan Street runs across the south.
Transport and parking
Parking There is no shortage of free parking in the area. There are spaces all around Al Jahli Park and the Rotana car park is free, too. There is ample parking opposite the fort Bus The area is served by several bus routes Taxi Taxis are everywhere, with a long line usually assembling at the Rotana. The Town Centre is adjacent and taxis are everywhere.
Hotels
There are two hotels in the area: the five-star Rotana Al Ain and the Al Massa Hotel Apartments.
Recreation
There is a two-screen cinema located underground at the Rotana Hotel (the entrance is next to the Paris Gallery).
Al Jahli Park is the centrepiece of the district and is unquestionably one of Al Ain’s best-presented parks. There is a well-planned blend of open green spaces and water fountains as well as special areas for children.
For those who fancy lounging around by the pool, then the Rotana can be accessed for a fee. They also have a spa where you can treat yourself to a range of relaxing body treatments.
Culture
Al Jahli Fort was built in 1890 by Shaikh Zayed the First (ruler of Abu Dhabi 1855-1909). Between 2007 and 2008 the fort was restored and is now one of Al Ain’s most popular tourist attractions. The mud brick fort has a visitors centre with guides who will explain the history surrounding the fort and the area it once protected.
You may recognise the turret as the emblem adopted by Al Ain Football Club.
Shopping
Al Jahli has a Mega Mart supermarket, but as the area sits alongside the Central District, the main shopping streets are only a few minutes walk away.
Dining – 3 to try
Starbucks Ok, it’s only a Starbucks, but the Starbucks in Al Jahli Park is like no other. Not only is it drive-through but it offers serene and green surroundings (minus the passing traffic!). In the cooler months, sit in outdoors upper level and look over the park towards the fort.
Trader Vics Located at the Rotana, Trader Vics is one of Al Ain’s most popular restaurants. The Polynesian-themed menu will have you roundly stuffed, and the extensive cocktail menu will have equally pleased. It’s best to book a table in advance at the weekends as it does fill up quickly. Phone 03 703 1079 Timings 12pm to 1am daily, dinner 7.30pm to 11.30pm Website Rotana
Min Zaman Min Zaman is also at the Rotana, and is one of the best Arabic restaurants in Al Ain. In the cooler months it’s nice to sit outside by the pool with a selection of mezze and shisha, or sit inside surrounded by lanterns and dallahs. Live entertainment every night. Phone 03 703 1079 Timings 11am to 2am daily Website Rotana
Nightlife
Moodz Moodz is Al Ain’s premier nightclub. Located underground at the Rotana, the party starts in the early evening and goes right into the early hours. The dresscode is smart-casual and patrons are expected to be on their best behaviour.
