If you plan to explore the UAE, why not start with the smallest emirate — Ajman? While cities like Dubai dazzle tourists with their skyscrapers and fancy malls, Ajman is renowned for camel races, kayaking, cultural experiences, and numerous family-friendly activities. Here’s a roundup of some of the most popular attractions and things to do in Ajman.
RE-LIVE HISTORY AND EXPLORE THE CULTURE
One of the best activities is to revisit the historical sites and museums that chronicle life in the emirate years ago. On that note, here are some historical places to visit in Ajman.
VISIT THE AJMAN NATIONAL MUSEUM
Also known as the Ajman Fort, the Ajman Museum used to be the ruler’s palace before it was converted into a museum and opened to the public. History enthusiasts will appreciate the various artifacts displayed here, including jewelry, pottery, tombs, and other items dating back to 3000 BC. The excavated items are from Al Muwaihat, one of the UAE’s most significant archaeological finds. Although the area now features villas for rent, the historical significance remains.
Timings: Saturday to Thursday 08:00 am – 08:00 pm | Friday 02:30 pm – 08:00 pm
Location: Central Square, Al Bustan
VISIT MASFOUT CASTLE
Constructed in the 18th century, the Masfout Castle is a tower-shaped structure perched on top of the Hajar Mountains. It served as the last line of defense against bandits headed to neighboring Oman. Restored to its former glory in the late 1940s, the castle is now a popular tourist attraction in Ajman.
ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS IN AJMAN
EXPLORE THE UAE PYGMY ZOO
The UAE Pygmy Zoo is the first of its kind in Ajman and is a popular spot for families with young kids. Here, children can enjoy the outdoors and learn about various species of animals, birds, and reptiles. Activities include animal encounters, camel and pony rides, and playing with adorable puppies.
Timings: Monday to Thursday 03:00 pm – 10:00 pm | Friday to Sunday 03:00 pm to 12:00 am
Tickets: AED 5 per person
Location: Al Zorah Marina 1
VISIT A WATERPARK
When the weather gets warmer, families in Ajman often head to Funtastico Splash. Besides water-based activities, the park also features slides, bouncy castles, and games like the Super Jumper and Trampoline with an airbag, enjoyable for both kids and adults. Other activities include bike rentals for family cycling and a cruise on the Al Zorah Marina shoreline. The park hosts competitions to keep families entertained.
Timings: 03:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Tickets: From AED 50
VISIT PARKS IN AJMAN
Ajman’s parks are popular budget-friendly recreational spaces, perfect for kids to run around. They are filled with family-friendly amenities like playgrounds, barbecue areas, bike rentals, and washrooms. Al Jurf Park, for example, features a spacious play area, canteens, bathrooms, and a jogging area.
VISIT A LADIES-ONLY PARK
Mushairef Ladies Park in Ajman is a well-maintained outdoor recreational space accessible only to ladies and children. Located on Al Safiya Street, it offers a secure environment for mothers to play with their kids and a place for ladies to socialize and unwind.
ENJOY GREAT OUTDOORS
Ajman has introduced a variety of outdoor recreational options, putting the emirate on the tourist map. Here are some of the best ways to experience the outdoors in Ajman.
VISIT AL ZORAH NATURE RESERVE
Al Zorah Nature Reserve is home to around 60 species of birds, including egrets, pink flamingos, and herons. The area features turquoise lagoons, mangroves, and sandy beaches. The best way to explore the lush mangroves is by kayak, suitable for novice kayakers too. Nearby, golfers can tee off at the 18-hole Championship golf course at Al Zorah Golf Club.
HIKE IN MASFOUT
Masfout is becoming a popular spot for hikers. Located in the Hajar Mountains, it offers cooler temperatures and rugged backdrops perfect for nature lovers. The area is reachable within a 90-minute drive from Dubai. Make sure to prepare with necessary gear and avoid the area from June to September due to the heat.
CAMPING AT CARAVANA
For a stylish camping experience, head to Caravana Al Zorah. This beachfront campsite features spacious, fully furnished caravans. Activities include kayaking, quad biking, and horse riding. Other perks include al fresco dining, a Jacuzzi, and barbecue facilities. Caravana offers overnight stays with caravans in various sizes, ideal for families, couples, and groups.
AJMAN BEACHES
Ajman is noted for its beautiful beaches. The coastline is lined with beach resorts, each with its own private patch of water and white sands. Visitors can access resort facilities by paying a day-pass fee or visit the public beaches around the edge of town.
WATERSPORTS
With its coastal location, watersports are a popular activity in Ajman. Visitors can enjoy a variety of water-based activities, from kayaking to jet skiing and banana boat rides. A new Watersports Centre in Al Zorah will soon offer a range of motorized and non-motorized sports, including wakeboarding and jet-skiing.
FISHING
Fishing is another lesser-known activity in Ajman. The UAE authorities require a special fishing license for residents. One of the best spots to fish is around the Kempinski Hotel, with the best times being early mornings and about three hours before dusk. Deep-sea fishing excursions are also available from local licensed vendors.
OTHER THINGS TO DO IN AJMAN
VISIT AJMAN CORNICHE
Ajman Corniche is a four-kilometer-long esplanade overlooking the Arabian Gulf. It’s lined with restaurants and cafes, making it an ideal spot for families. You can swim in the sheltered tidal pool, enjoy a relaxing walk, or watch the spectacular sunset. The area comes alive during weekends with locals enjoying barbecues and picnics on the beach. Popular restaurants at Ajman Corniche include Sultanate, Café Naseem, and Sabella’s.
SHOP TO YOUR HEART’S CONTENT
Ajman has several malls, with City Centre Ajman being one of the largest. It offers a variety of dining, retail, and entertainment options. Dining choices include cafes, restaurants, and popular fast food chains like Hardee’s and Pizza Hut. Other popular malls include Safeer Mall, Dana Mall, Galleria Mall, Grand Centrale, and Ajman China Mall.