Category: Places to visit

In the middle of Al Khawaneej, lies a serene green oasis—Quranic Park, a place where nature, faith and beauty intertwine. Inside the park you will find something special- The Glass House Dubai. It is a large greenhouse made of glass walls and a glass roof. The Glass House is a living tribute to the plants mentioned in the Holy Quran. The Quranic Park is a public park spanning 64 hectares of thoughtfully landscaped beauty.

A Green sanctuary

Step inside the Glass House and you’re greeted by cool fresh air and green plants. The climate-controlled interior offers a refreshing escape from the heat outside. The space is as nurturing for the plants as it is welcoming for visitors. All around, you will see healthy, beautiful plants. Plants with mention in the Holy Quran are grown here. They include olive trees, cucumber, saffron, basil and many more. There are also many small flowering plants. They add bright colors and make the place even more lovely.

A wooden walkway rises gently, guiding you to an observation deck. You can walk around and enjoy a panoramic view of the entire Glass house—a patchwork of green, sunshine and serenity. Plus take pictures with your family or friends.

A soft stream runs through the garden with a tiny fountain bubbling playfully. They add gentle sound of flowing water. The night lighting softly illuminates the glass walls after sunset. It casts a serene spell over the Glass House. Time seems to slow down here.

Friendly and Helpful

Friendly guides—fluent in both Arabic and English—are always nearby. They shared stories of the plants and their mentions in the Quran. Their passion and knowledge bring deeper meaning to each leaf and bloom.

There is also a small cozy cafeteria inside the Glass House. You can buy tea, coffee, soft drinks and snacks. Do keep some cash on hand, the outlet doesn’t take card payments. Next to the cafe, is a small prayer area for visitors.

The whole place feels peaceful and cool. The green plants, water and lights make it a perfect spot to relax.

Visitor Information

Location-

The Glass House is located inside Quranic Park at Al Khawaneej in Dubai.

How to Reach–

The place is easily accessible via RTA bus, Dubai Metro or by car. Nearest metro station- Al Rahidiya. RTA buses passing by- 11A, F05. Nearby bus stops- Mizhar-1, Mushrif veterinary services.

Timings–

Quranic Park is open daily from 8 AM to 10 PM, while the Glass House welcomes visitors from 9 AM to 8:30 PM.

Entry Fee–

Access to the park is free. To enter Glass House, there’s a small fee of 5 AED per person. Children under 2 and People of Determination (with a valid card) can enter free of charge.

More to Explore

The Quranic Park has many other things to see. Cave of Miracles, Lake-Miracle of the Split of the Sea’, orchards and gardens, kids’ play area, outdoor cafeteria and jogging and cycling tracks. 

In the Cave, miracles mentioned in the Holy Quran are brought to life through engaging displays. Like the Glass House, it also has a modest entry fee of 5 AED per person.

A beautiful lake- “Miracle of the split of the sea” lies at the center of the park, symbolizing the miracle of the sea’s parting. A walkway allows you to stroll right through the middle, flanked by water and chirping of birds who’ve made the area their home. A stroll here is a very unique experience.

Families will appreciate the children’s play area, full of exciting rides and activities. The outdoor cafeteria near one of the entrances is perfect for a light bite. Jogging and cycling tracks encircle the park, inviting fitness enthusiasts to enjoy nature while getting active.

The carefully mowed lawns with pavements and benches offer cool hangout spots. Plus there are orchards and beautiful gardens- of palm trees, olive fig, citrus, basil, black seed, cucumber and more. 

Final Reflections

The Glass House Dubai is more than just a greenhouse—it’s a quiet journey through time and tradition, wrapped in the beauty of modern design. It offers a glimpse into the past, while showcasing how innovation and reverence can grow side by side.

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful evening, a spiritual connection, or simply a place to go out and wander with your loved ones, Quranic Park-with its gentle charm and thoughtful attractions- is a great place. It nourishes both heart and soul.

🌿If you have already visited the Glass House or planning to, drop a comment below. We love to hear your thoughts.🌞

This is a story of a mountain trip to Jebel Hafeet Al Ain in Abu Dhabi. Nestled on the border of the UAE and Oman lies Jebel Hafeet, the second-highest mountain range in the UAE. It’s one of the region’s most popular destinations for mountain road trips, picnics, and nature experiences.

📍 About Jebel Hafeet

Jebel Hafeet (also spelled Jabal Hafit) is considered an extension of Oman’s Al Hajar mountains. It falls within the Sheikh Zayed Protected Areas Network as part of the Jebel Hafeet National Park. It’s home to rare Arabian Tahrs and Dwarf Palms.

🚗 How to Reach Jebel Hafeet Al Ain

By Public Transport

• From Dubai: Board Bus E201 from Al Ghubaiba Bus Station (AED 30).
• From Abu Dhabi:  Board Bus X90 from Al Nahyan Bus Station (Regular: AED 30, Premium: AED 40).

Once you arrive at Al Ain Central Bus Station, you can reach the mountain summit by car (your own, a rented one, or a taxi). Private buses are also available.

By Car

• From Downtown Abu Dhabi: 30–40 minutes
• From Dubai: 1.5 hours by car

The final stretch is a well-maintained, three-lane mountain road with thrilling hairpin bends and panoramic views.

🏞️ What to do

1. Mountain Road Trip Adventure

Driving up the mountain is an experience in itself, with hairpin turns and steadily unfolding views of Al Ain city far below. The higher you climb, the urban grid turns into a miniature model.

2. Mountain Picnic

Many travelers set up picnic spots at the summit. It’s a great place to unwind with friends or family in the crisp mountain air.

3. Summit Views

At the top, you’ll find a viewing deck offering spectacular 360° views.
At night, the city lights transform into a constellation-like display, and the mountain road glows like a golden ribbon winding through the darkness.

4. Sunrise & Sunset Spectacles

Both sunrise and sunset here are mesmerizing. The sky comes alive in shades of orange and yellow as the sun touches the rugged peaks.

🏨 Where to Stay

We stayed at Oryx Grand Hotel, a 4-star property located right on the mountain, just 4 minutes from the summit. Affordable and comfortable, it’s a perfect base for your mountaintop adventures. 

🌿 Other Attractions

While you’re in the area, consider visiting:

• Green Mubazzarah Lake & Mini Train
• Jebel Hafeet Hot Springs Garden
• Beehive Tombs
• Al Jahili Fort
• Al Ain Oasis
• Hili Archaeological Park
• Wadi Adventure
• Al Ain Zoo
• Al Qattara Arts Centre
• Al Ain Camel Market

📖 Our Jebel Hafeet Trip

We visited Jebel Hafeet Al Ain in December. On a weekend afternoon with bright clear skies. The changing altitude made my ears pop a little, but the stunning views made up for it. Enthusiastic bikers zipped past on their stylish motorcycles. The views and hairpin curves kept our hearts racing. The view of Al Ain city slowly shrinking into the horizon was a sight to remember. 

After a refreshing nap at the hotel, we ventured to the summit. The way the sunlight hit the mountain peaks, the calm air, and the endless panoramic view were unforgettable — a mix of vast mountain ranges, the twisty road through the valley, and Al Ain city spread out below.

After some sightseeing at the base attraction-Jebel Hafeet Hot Springs Garden and a fun train ride at Green Mubazzarah Mini Train, we headed back to the summit at night.

That view under the moonlight was magical. The streetlights along the mountain road looked like a string of golden pearls winding down the mountain. Al Ain city twinkled in the distance like a cluster of tiny stars. It felt otherworldly, peaceful, and just… right.

We didn’t want to miss the sunrise either. But the hotel bed was so ridiculously comfy, we woke up to brunchtime sunshine instead. So yeah… we’re officially blaming the bed for our sunrise no-show! 

We’re definitely coming back to catch all the things we missed this time. Can’t leave unfinished business with a place this awesome!

💡 Tips & Suggestions

• Best Time to Visit: Winter (pleasant temperatures, clear skies)
• Essentials:
  • Warm clothes for chilly nights
  • Picnic blankets and mats
  • Food, water, snacks
  • Sunglasses, sunscreen
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • A good camera
• Plan to:
  • Catch the gorgeous sunset
  • Enjoy a night picnic under the stars
  • Witness a stunning sunrise

🏞️ Final Thoughts

Jebel Hafeet offers an irresistible blend of mountain adventure, breathtaking summit views, and peaceful time in nature. Whether you’re road-tripping with friends or seeking solitude under the stars, this destination is a perfect fit.

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📍What are your thoughts on a mountain escape like this? Would you go for the sunset, the moonlight, or the sunrise? Drop your comments below!

Al Ain Oasis is a lush, sprawling landscape in the city of Al Ain, Abu Dhabi in the UAE. It covers over 1,200 hectares and is home to more than 100,000 date palms. These palms come in over 100 different varieties. But the oasis doesn’t stop at dates. Mangoes, oranges, figs, and bananas also grow here. It’s the largest oasis in the region and a truly special place.

Al Ain Oasis isn’t just beautiful—it’s ancient. People have lived here for more than 4,000 years. Since 2011, it has become a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Let’s take a journey into its green heart.

Location

The oasis is in the city of Al Ain, in the eastern part of the emirate Abu Dhabi.

How to Reach

It’s easy to get to by bus or car. If you’re taking the bus, stop at Al Ain Central Bus Station. From there, it’s just 3 km away. You can walk or take a quick 3-minute taxi ride.

If you start from Abu Dhabi city, you can reach Al Ain oasis in 1 hour and 30 minutes by car.

To travel from Dubai, it takes 1 and half hours by car to reach the oasis. If you choose public transport, you can get on a bus from Al Ghubaiba Bus station, Bur Dubai and reach Al Ain Central Bus station in 2 hours and 45 minutes.

Park Timings

The park is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM.

Entry Fee

You can enter the park for free. However, if you want to explore by buggy, bicycle, or tricycle, there’s a small rental fee.

What to Expect

Green orchards stretch out in every direction. Date palms and other tree crops sway above carefully tended farms. These farms produce tons of dates and fruits sold across the UAE and beyond.

The oasis is divided into gated orchards, all linked by winding pathways. You can walk, cycle, or take a guided buggy ride through them.

Falaj water system

The star of the oasis is its ancient water system—Falaj. Every plant here is nourished by it. 

Falaj system draws water from underground sources in the mountains. Then, through underground tunnels, water travels to basins in lowland plains. Gravity does all the work—no machines needed. The tunnels are underground to stop evaporation. From the basins, water flows into surface channels and is then shared for farming and daily use.

The system is about 3,000 years old, but still used sustainably. In a region where freshwater was precious, the people here used it with wisdom. They thrived in one of the harshest climates on earth.

In the past, a system called Shari’a helped divide the water among people. Shari’a played a big role in shaping the community’s life those days.

Guided Tours

Start your visit at the main entrance. From there, hop on a bicycle, tricycle, or buggy. A friendly guide cum driver will take you around. They share stories about the plants, the water system, and the oasis’ long history.

You can pause the tour anytime. Step into the orchards. Walk along the water channels. Snap photos or just soak in the peaceful vibe.

Our Visit

We went on a winter afternoon. Visitors of all ages and nationalities were exploring the oasis. We started with a warm welcome drink—Qahwa (Arabic coffee) and dates from them. It was a lovely, traditional touch to our experience. 

Riding through the oasis paths felt like stepping into the past. The Falaj system ran alongside us, quietly watering the fields. Our guide talked about the birds and small wild animals in the area, though we couldn’t spot any that day.

We took breaks, walked through the trees, and read the information boards. Some parts had beautiful artworks. There were many perfect spots for photos and memories. For a moment, we forgot we were in a desert. It felt like a hidden world—calm, cool, and alive.

Some Suggestions

• If you plan to visit, go in the morning, especially during hotter months.
• Wear comfy shoes and bring water.
• A slow walk is perfect for soaking in the calm. But if you’re with kids or elders, a buggy or tricycle is a great option.

Nearby Attractions

The oasis is close to some amazing spots. You can visit the Al Ain Palace Museum, Al Jahili Fort, or the Al Ain Mall—all just a short ride away.

Final Thoughts

🌴Al Ain Oasis is more than a green escape- it’s a beautiful reminder of how people have lived in harmony with nature for thousands of years. This oasis stands as a symbol of human resilience, sustainability and creativity. 

If you’re in the UAE, don’t skip this green wonder. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, to spend time with family,  or just need a break from busy life, Al Ain Oasis will leave you refreshed and inspired. 

🌿Have you been to Al Ain Oasis? Or do you have it on your travel list? Drop a comment below—We’d love to hear your thoughts! 🌿