World’s Coolest Winter in UAE: 9 spots to explore in Ajman

On Sunday, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai kicked off the UAE’s ‘World’s Coolest winter’ campaign, in its third edition this year. With the theme ‘Our Heritage’, the campaign was launched from the Al Zorah Natural Reserve in Ajman. Ajman, Sheikh Mohammed said, would be the launching point for the new season of the World’s Coolest Winter.

The smallest emirate in the UAE has hidden gems that are perfect to enjoy the rich heritage and stunning natural landscape of the country. From kayaking to pearl diving, we take a plunge into Al Zorah, the emirate’s nature reserve, for some fun outdoor activities this winter. As the first of our series on enjoying the winter season in the UAE, here are some amazing spots to explore in Ajman. Ajman Tourism also has winter offers for visitors looking to dine or stay in the city.

Al Zorah Natural Reserve was where the UAE cabinet meeting was held on December 4. Al Zorah is home to one million square metres of the emirate’s ecologically rich mangrove forest. Apart from the rich flora and fauna in the park, you can enjoy kayaking, waterboarding, stand-up paddleboarding, pearl-diving and golfing. If you want a different experience, you can also fly in to Ajman from Dubai on a 30-minute flight with Seawings. The Bianky Beach camp here provides picturesque accommodation as well.

The Masfout region in the Hajar Mountains is one of the highlights for Ajman, Trekking, biking or hiking in the area is bound to give you some amazing experiences. The spot is around 90 minutes away from the city, so it's best to rustle up supplies for a picturesque picnic.

The Masfout Castle is set atop one of the Hajar Mountains. Made out of stones, wood, and timber, a trek to the top to visit this glorious castle is totally worth it. To enjoy the castle in its full glory, visit during the day and enjoy instagramable views.

Who says you have to go abroad to see beautiful azure beaches? Ajman Beach has pristine sand and crystal-clear water.

The best way to learn the history of the UAE and of Ajman is to head to Ajman National Museum where you can discover tombs, jewelry, and pottery dating back to as old as 3000 BC. The 18th-century fort, now a museum, was built from coral stone and gypsum. The museum also has photos and illustrations depicting the history of the fort and the emirate.

A hidden gem to visit on your trip to Ajman is the Seneyah Island. Located around 40 kilometres from Ajman city, the island is a great spot for birdwatchers and nature lovers. Many birds, including flamingos, herons, terns, and plovers frequent this destination – making it a perfect nature escape.

Keeping with the theme of ‘UAE heritage’ head to a traditional Arabian market in Ajman. The Saleh Souq is part of a heritage path leading from the Corniche to Ajman Museum. Shop for souvenirs, textiles, spices and perfumes even as you soak up the authentic feeling of a traditional souk and understand the history and heritage of the area.

From Ajman City, drive to Al Manam for a more relaxed vibe along with the chance to see the Al Manama fort and museum. The attraction, also known as the ‘White Fort’, built in 1970 was converted to a museum in 1981. Located in the centre of the city of Ajman, the museum is home to a large collection of archaeological artefacts, manuscripts, old weapons and great reconstructions of the UAE’s traditional life.

Hassa Buweid is yet another fort to visit in Ajman. While relatively new, the fort built in 1976 is architecturally similar to the forts in the region. The name translates to ‘white stone’ and showcases Ajman’s history.