Umm Al Quwain

A trip to Umm Al Quwain can be compared to a journey back in time. To the more relaxed era before oil transformed much of the UAE.

Umm Al Quwain has a population of just 41,000, which makes it the least populated of the emirates, and it has few of the dazzling sights of many of its neighbours.

Instead, it has a relaxed pace of life that makes it an enjoyable stop for UAE nationals as well as tourists.

The emirate is located on the Arabian Gulf in the north of the UAE and covers 750 square kilometres, which makes it the second smallest of the seven emirates.

It has been ruled by His Highness Shaikh Rashid Bin Ahmad Al Mualla, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Umm Al Quwain, since 1981.

Among the most striking sights in the emirate are the three watchtowers that mark the defensive wall that once protected the old town.

There is a large lagoon skirted by mangrove trees and in the old town a fortress that was once home to the emirate’s ruler before it became a police station and then a museum — a history shared with the fortress of Ajman.

The fortress’s museum includes a collection of weapons and some impressive archaeological remains.

Consistent with its role as an upkeeper of tradition, Umm Al Quwain has an old-fashioned fish market. Near by are the jetties where fishermen can often be seen relaxing and repairing their nets after they have unloaded the day’s catch.

For such a relaxed emirate, it is perhaps surprising that Umm Al Quwain has become a centre for those who enjoy extreme sports.

There is a motor racing scene centred on Emirates Car and Motorcycle Racing Club, which has tracks for drag racing, motocross and autocross racing.

As many as 15,000 people visit the tracks on Friday and Saturday evenings to race. Entry is usually free.

Other high-octane sports that attract adventurers to the emirate include shooting at Umm Al Quwain Shooting Club.

In the past, shooters could try out AK-47s and Uzis, but recent regulations limit shooting to shotguns. Thrill-seekers can also try out skydiving from aeroplanes at Umm Al Quwain Aeroclub.

Families looking for a fun day out can visit Dreamland Aqua Park, which has water rides that thrill parents and children alike.

Travellers keen to spend time outside of Dubai or Abu Dhabi can stop at the popular Umm Al Quwain Beach Hotel.