Everyone knows Dubai and Abu Dhabi, but what about the other emirates in the UAE? We take a look at the other 5 emirates that are less well known. When we hear the term UAE, we usually think of Dubai or Abu Dhabi. In fact we covered some of the best things to do in Dubai a while back. There’s a lot more to explore in this rapidly developing country than just the two famous regions. Alongside Dubai and Abu Dhabi are the lesser known “Northern Emirates” of Sharjah, Ajman, Umm al-Quwain, Ras al-Khaimah, and Fujairah. Let Zest Car Rental take you on a journey through the highlights of the other Emirates!
Sharjah
Sharjah is the 3rd largest of the 7 Emirates and is located next to Dubai. It was made UNESCO’s Arab Capital of Culture back in 1998 partly due to its souks and fantastic museums. It’s also the only emirate to have a coastline on both the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman.
Perhaps the only negative from a Westerner’s point of view is the strict approach towards alcohol and decency laws. Sharjah is the only dry state in the UAE. They also take their dress code very seriously. Both men and women are required to cover knees, backs, and stomachs.
Things to see:
The most popular destination in the emirate is the Sharjah Heritage Museum. Focusing on local life, religion and culture, the museum helps explain the region and its customs to Westerners.
Another must see is the Souq Al Arsah. One of the oldest in the country, the Souq Al Arsah now contains over 80 shops including the popular Halwa (sweet shop). When you start to tire of walking, head to the coffee shop in the Souk’s centre for a hit of Arabic coffee or Sulaimani (black tea).
Ajman
In contrast, Ajman is the smallest of the 7 emirates. Lying on the Persian Gulf coast, it’s bordered on the north, east and south sides by Sharjah. Ajman also encompasses two landlocked exclaves, Manama and Masfut. Due to its small size (100 square miles), much of the emirate is developed. Huge suburbs and the new Ajman City Centre mall have sprung up recently.
Ajman is much more relaxed with regards to alcohol. The Outside Inn on the corniche is a popular spot with local expats with views out over the water.
Things to see:
Once the fort of the emirate’s ruler, Ajman Museum was turned into a police barracks before its conversion to its current use. The museum houses an interesting and diverse collection of artefacts and highlights the past way of life.
If you’re in Manama, be sure to check out the Al Manama Museum. Again, the museum was a fort in its previous life but was converted in 2012.
Ras al-Khaimah
Located in the north east of the UAE, Ras al-Khaimah is the only emirate to contain coastal, mountain, and desert regions. Ras al-Khaimah’s history is steeped in (alleged) piracy. The Al Qasimi tribe raided ships and the coastline for years before a peace treaty was signed. Nowadays, life is much more peaceful in the area.
Things to see:
One of the main attractions is the authentic Bedouin Oasis desert camp. Drawing on the history of the Bedouin, the camp allows visitors to experience the ancient art of living in the desert.
In keeping with the other museums mentioned so far, the Ras Al-Khaimah National Museum is also located in a fort. It too was the residence of the ruling family up until the 1960’s. The museum now houses an excellent collection of archaeological, weapons, and archaeological displays.
The abandoned village of Jazirat al-Hamra was once home to pearl divers and fishermen. The crumbling village buildings and mosque are now claimed to be haunted but there’s still much to see if you ain’t afraid of no ghosts.
Umm al-Quwain
The least populous emirate in the country, Umm al-Quwain’s history is in fishing and date cultivation. Lush mangroves line the coast and draw tourists from the larger emirates. Its location has also led to a number of large developments including the biggest waterpark in the UEA.
Things to see:
Another museum that started life as a fort! Umm al-Quwain Fort dates from 1768 and was once home to the emirate’s ruler. Its location guarded the entrance to the Old Town, covering the sea on one side and the creek on the other. The Umm al-Quwain Museum now houses archaeological artefacts, Bedouin jewellery, and historical weapons.
The largest pre-Islamic site on the Persian Gulf coast, Al-Dur was an important trading port from about 200 BC to 200 AD. The site’s been excavated and many artefacts moved to the Umm al-Quwain Museum. Thousands of graves are still visible and Roman glass, weaponry, pottery, jewellery, and ivory have all been found there.
Fujairah
The least developed emirate, Fujairah is almost entirely mountainous and suffers regular power shortages. Most workers are employed directly by the federal government which also provides significant subsidies to the emirate. Investment is starting to pour in and tourism is on the increase.
Fujairah is home to some of the best snorkelling and scuba diving in the UAE. It attracts water sports enthusiasts throughout the year.
Things to see:
Al Badiyah Mosque, the oldest mosque in the UAE is located in the far north east of the emirate and dates from around 1450. Built entirely of mud and stone, the mosque has no minarets and only 4 domes as opposed to the more standard 7-12.
Built in 1670, Fujairah Fort is considered the oldest in the country. Badly damaged by a British attack in the 20th century, it has been recently restored.
The modern Sheikh Zayed Mosque covers an area the size of three football pitches and boasts six minarets 100m high. A major landmark in the city, the prayer hall can hold 32,000 worshippers. It’s the 2nd largest mosque in the UAE after the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque of Abu Dhabi.
Have you any tips on the emirates?
If you’ve explored any of these more unusual destinations, get in touch below. We’d love to hear your views on the areas and any tips you may have.
Alternatively, if you’re planning a trip there let us know what you’ve got scheduled. If you want to stay up to date on all our fun filled recommendations be sure to follow us on Facebook and Twitter, and sign up to our newsletter!
