When I considered a trip to Ajman, relatively unheard of for UK tourists, I was under the impression that it would be similar to Dubai being so close with just neighbouring Sharjah between the airport and our destination. It was in fact only a short 30 – 40 min drive from Dubai airport to the main beachfront hotels in Ajman. I didn’t have too much of an idea of what to expect with my Middle Eastern experience extending to just Dubai and Abu Dhabi I felt it was likely to be the same, however I was happy to find it is a great alternative and more modestly priced for sure.
Ajman was a surprise, a friendly, cultural, charming Emirate where the people are so welcoming and the history is apparent, offering more than some winter sunshine it was filled with activities … had I known that I would be kayaking through mangroves in blistering temperatures and navigating the waterways with just my paddle and what seemed liked jungle conditions I might have been more prepared, but more about that later.
To visit Ajman you fly into Dubai and with Emirates connections from the UK there is plenty of choice making it easily accessible, we took the overnight flight from London Heathrow which allowed us to be lounging by the pool by 9am, a great start to our first day. My first shock in Ajman was in my hotel room – a rather large button with an interesting message! I did wonder if this country might be more liberal than some of the other Emirates and was soon reassured when I realised said button misted the glass in the bathroom as if by magic!
The wide variety of activities on offer for such a small destination really was eye opening, one of the favourites has to be the kayaking experience in search of The Pink Flamingo. Spanning an area of over 1 million square metres, the thick, natural mangroves of Al Zorah is home to over 102 species of native and migratory birds including the famed Pink Flamingoes that can be spotted throughout the year and more so during the nesting season. The area is abundant with a variety of corals, fish, molluscs and indigenous flora, making it a highly sought-after destination for tourists as well as scientists and researchers to conduct field studies.
This particular activity is suited to the more active and creating a great experience for families too. It was fun, interesting to learn about the natural mangroves and their importance – there are a wide range of packages available from an action packed few hours, to a full day of activity or a multi-day package, Quest for Adventure can provide you with a unique and unforgettable experience to suit all levels of ability.
They offer a variety of activities including kayaking, rock climbing, abseiling, mountain walking and stand up paddle boards our experienced and qualified instructors ensure that you get the best possible experience. We also planted a mangrove and learnt about the conservation of this important area surrounded by tall buildings and a golf course – an excellent example of man vs nature.
A trip to the museum for me is one visit you must make, not being one for museums on the whole, our guide was enthralling and filled us with tales and information about the Arabic history and culture. I don’t think I have ever encountered a more interesting guide who shared so much history and culture and offered a completely different perspective than I held previously as a western visitor.
The Museum, formerly The Fortress was built from coral stone and gypsum and was preserved by H.H. Sheikh Rashid Bin Humaid (d.1838) It is is home to ancient manuscripts, old ingenious irrigation systems and wooden dhows. It was in 1816 that Sheikh Al Nuaimi and his small band of followers defeated the Al Bu Shamis tribe in conflict to capture the coastal settlement of Ajman. They also captured the Ajman Fort soon after and established the Nuaimi rule, who continue to be the ruling family in the Emirate. The 18th-century fort was once a mainstay for the Ajman ruling family. It also acted as the first line of defence against any potential invaders and attackers. The structure of the building consists of a palace, two wind towers (barjeels) and two watchtowers. These have been maintained, even though the structure itself has undergone renovation over the years. You can also see the mighty gate and two cannons at the entrance to the museum. From 1970 to 1978, the fort was also used as a police station. The museum still contains relics of this period as well. You must visit!
After being absorbed by Arabic history we were kindly invited to the Ajman Stud – Home to The World’s Most Beautiful Horses.
Ajman Stud is a prime equestrian facility, built in the traditional Arabic style, surrounded by desert dunes, some 30 kilometers from the city of Ajman. The Ajman Stud is a tranquil oasis outside the hub of city life. Founded in 2002 by Sheikh Ammar bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, the Crown Prince of Ajman, the stud has grown in size and beauty with each passing year. With Sheikh Ammar personally interested in every horse on the farm, and with his clear passion and dedication to the breed, it is with little wonder that Ajman Stud has gone on to be an internationally recognised farm, and one that enjoys international success. We toured the stables and quite honestly were amazed at both the beauty of the horses and their surroundings, there were horses worth $1,000,000,00+ living like royalty, they are shown around the world for their beauty and differ in shape and stature and appearance from the horses we recognise here in the UK.
I had little idea that there were beauty competitions for horses all over the world! The stables are air conditioned, decorated with tiles and mosaics and stained glass windows. It was so interesting to watch them being trained, groomed and prepared – they were so well taken care of.
We had the opportunity to visit a variety of local restaurants and bars whilst on our visit and without doubt everyone we met was welcoming and we all felt at ease, the prices of food and drinks were far less than in neighbouring Dubai and the atmosphere was more relaxed in general.
We were lucky enough to visit a number of hotels ranging from the outstanding Oberoi Beach Resort to one of my favourites the Fairmont – but they all would suit a variety of customer, be sure to make the right choice.
The Oberoi Beach Resort, Al Zorah has been thoughtfully designed as a retreat where you can switch off and take time out. Sophisticated contemporary architecture, wide open spaces and a natural palette harmonise with panoramic ocean vistas and long white sand beaches. Superlative accommodation, international cuisine with a focus on healthy, delicious combinations, personalised spa treatments, thrilling water sports and private beachside dining are all complemented by our sincere, intuitive attention to your every need.
Whereas the Fairmont Ajman combining hospitality and elegance with impeccable service, promises a truly memorable experience during your stay. Be amazed by exceptional cultural, leisure and dining experiences in a truly spectacular setting right on the beachfront in a slightly more populated beachfront area. The Ajman Saray and Ajman hotel both offer excellent options for UK guests. Some of the properties do offer and all inclusive options for those who prefer this holiday type and it represents excellent value for money. I was certainly impressed with the variety of hotels on option but is sits nowhere close to the neighbouring Dubai. For me Ajman offers a great option if you want an alternative to Dubai, with a short transfer and a choice of hotels it would be much quieter and less obtrusive than Dubai. Should you want to visit the bright lights of Dubai, The Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa and The Fountains can be reached within 40 minutes and guests often head out to enjoy dinner or shopping.
I would not hesitate to return to Ajman, and I would certainly recommend the destination as an alternative to Dubai or Abu Dhabi but also those people that are looking for a quieter alternative with white sandy beaches and some culture and activities available at a fraction of Dubai prices.
