Did you know that Umm Al Quwain, despite being the least populous of the UAE’s seven emirates, hosts over 100,000 visitors at its attractions each year? From an exciting fully-fledged water park to fun, sun and sand beach days, sightseeing, and history buffs to shopping freaks, this place has something to offer all tourists. Far from the madding crowd, this place is one of those carefully protected gems that guarantee a fun time for the whole family in an atmosphere of quiet and relief.
1. Dreamland Aqua Park
Fun and entertainment on the agenda for every family should include a visit to Dreamland Aqua Park. This large water park, with a surface area of 250,000 m², offers its guests an adrenaline-pumping experience with rides that exceed 30 in number and cater to each age group, from super thrillers where your adrenaline surges to lazy rivers for strolls, Dreamland has something to please everyone. There are separate playgrounds for young children, and older kids and adults have their own extreme rides. Unlike other crowded parks in Dubai, Dreamland is less crowded, so families can enjoy their day without spending time in long queues. Entry fees at this place are pretty reasonable, making it a very good place for an economical family trip.
- Entry Fee: AED 160 for adults, AED 100 for children.
- Operating Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily.
2. Umm Al Quwain Fort
Umm Al Quwain Fort represents, for history enthusiast families, an insight into the emirate’s past. The 18th-century fort sheltered the ruling family and was a line of defense against invaders. Nowadays, it is a well-preserved monument that houses several artifacts, which include traditional weapons and potteries that families can explore. It is a fort that allows for some breathtaking views of the shoreline of the surrounding area; thus, it is also great for taking family snapshots. Normally, entry fees are about 5 AED per head, fairly cheap, and an educative family outing. Setting aside how good this activity can be for children, especially if they are being exposed to history and culture for the first time, is perfect.
- Entry Fee: AED 5 per person.
- Operating Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM, Saturday to Thursday.
3. Umm Al Quwain Open Beach
It is a good venue for a day of relaxation by the waters: Umm Al Quwain Open Beach. This beach is less noisy and commercialized than Dubai’s, making it perfect for families searching for a quiet getaway. The shallow and tranquil waters are ideal for kids to swim safely, while the natural beauty along the coastline provides a perfect scenic backdrop for picnics or several games that may be played on the beach. But without the five-star amenities of some beaches in the UAE, its simplicity and serenity are part of its charm. Families enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and quality time surrounded by peace and almost deserted conditions.
- Entry Fee: Free.
- Best Visit Times: Early morning or late afternoon.
4. UAQ National Museum
The UAQ National Museum is recommended for a family visit among people who want to learn about the region’s history. The museum is located in an old fort and hosts some archaeological findings, along with the maritime history of Umm Al Quwain. Almost all the exhibits are nicely informative with short descriptions; thus, it is possible to go through most museum exhibits in 30 minutes. It deserves consideration that, for only 5 AED, this museum offers a very affordable possibility for a family to participate in an interesting historic journey through the rich cultural heritage of the UAE. Since it is close to popular resorts, like Vida Beach Resort, visiting the museum will be easily included in a family’s holiday schedule.
- Entry Fee: AED 5 per person.
- Operating Hours: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM, Saturday to Thursday.
Conclusion
While not as popular as Dubai or Abu Dhabi, UAQ has numerous quite worthy and, indeed, highly recommended places for family vacations. If it is fun the families can indulge in, there is no shortage of deals that can be made starting with Dreamland Aqua Park and ending with Umm Al Quwain Open Beach; if it is history the families seek, they can visit Umm Al Quwain Fort, as well as UAQ National Museum. Smooth with a less party-like feel and low price rates, Umm Al Quwain has remained the best place for family entertainment.