Discover Ajman: Coast, Culture and Nature

Ajman combines a long coastline on the Arabian Gulf with historic buildings, a lively fish market and natural areas nearby. The Ajman Corniche offers views of the water along its four-kilometre promenade; families can stroll there and picnic on the beach. When choosing your holiday rental, you might consider whether coastal walks, culture or trips into the countryside will be the focus of your days.

Coast, Tides and the Gulf

Ajman has a 16-kilometre stretch of beach on the Arabian Gulf. Al Zorah Nature Reserve lies north of the city. It encompasses seven kilometres of shoreline, two kilometres of beach and a tidal creek. The Emirate of Ajman’s landscapes also include mangroves and turquoise lagoons within the reserve. Almost 58 bird species live there, including flamingos, herons and egrets; the number of species and examples may change.

You can also experience nature on the water: the reserve’s calm waters and network of canals are suitable for kayaking, even for people with no prior experience. If you’d rather stay on land, Al Zorah Golf Club, with its 18-hole course, lies north of the city. This area offers a range of interests side by side: coastal scenery, wildlife watching, paddling and golf.

Fort, Museum and Memories of the Region

Ajman Museum is housed in an 18th-century fort that served as the ruler’s residence until 1970. The museum displays manuscripts, weapons, models of wooden dhows and exhibits on irrigation systems. Pottery and burial jewellery come from an excavated cemetery discovered in Al Muwaihat; the finds date back to 3000 BC. A dedicated section focuses on the pearl trade, which once shaped the region. The museum is considered the emirate’s most important and illustrates life in the past.

The history of the coast is also reflected in the Corniche: the Al-Murabaa Watchtower has stood there since the 1930s. It served as the city’s first line of defence. In the Emirate of Ajman, the Dhow Yard is one of the world’s largest centres for traditional dhow building. The museum, watchtower and boatbuilding offer different insights into the region’s history, so a visit need not focus on just one subject.

Market, Horses and Seasonal Camel Races

Ajman Fish Market sells a wide selection of fresh fish and seafood. The selection may vary; haggling with the fishmongers is customary. Ajman Equestrian Club is home to more than 100 Arabian horses; the number may change.

Al Tallah Camel Racecourse usually holds camel races on Fridays and Saturdays during the racing season, from October to March, with races in the morning and afternoon. Visitors are welcome, but there is no official schedule. If you want to see a race, confirm the date before you travel. Ajman Stud also offers a glimpse into the world of horses: the grounds can be visited, and visitors can learn how horses are trained and prepared for competitions. Tour arrangements require contacting the tourism office. The stud is about 30 kilometres east of Ajman; this is an approximate distance.

More Landscapes in the Emirate of Ajman

In the Emirate of Ajman, Masfout offers a different perspective on the region. Its elevated location brings cooler temperatures, and the surroundings are characterised by rugged mountains. Masfout is considered a summer retreat because of its cooler climate. Activities in the rocky landscape around the town include hiking, mountain biking, picnicking and exploring wadis. Hiking is not recommended from June to September because these months are hot and humid. Al Manama Museum, meanwhile, offers a cultural focus: its seven large rooms display weapons, Bedouin jewellery and handicrafts. Manama lies east of Ajman on a plain at the foot of the Hajar Mountains.

This gives you a clear way to plan your trip based on your interests: the city combines beach, promenade, market and history; nearby Al Zorah adds nature and kayaking to the coastal scenery. Masfout and Manama broaden your view of the emirate with mountain landscapes and other museums. Choose your holiday rental based on which side of Ajman you’d most like to discover during your stay.

For the main travel overview: Ajman.