Umm Al Quwain walking tour & city guide
A quiet emirate of lagoons and mangroves.
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Umm Al Quwain is the UAE's least crowded emirate, a peaceful place of lagoons, mangrove islands and an old town that feels far from the big cities.
The old town
The Umm Al Quwain Fort, now a museum, guards the old town. Coral-stone houses and a small harbor give a glimpse of life before oil.
Nature
The Khor Al Beidah lagoon and Siniyah Island are home to flamingos and mangroves. The emirate also has one of the region's oldest water parks.
A slow day in Umm Al Quwain
Umm Al Quwain is the place to see what the coast looked like before the skyscrapers. Begin at the old fort museum, then wander the nearby streets of the old town, where some coral-stone houses still stand.
The real treasure is the lagoon. Kayak tours glide through the Khor Al Beidah mangroves, where you may see herons and flamingos, and the islands offshore are home to birds and gazelles. The Corniche is a quiet spot for sunset.
Good to know
This is the smallest and least developed emirate by population, roughly an hour's drive from Dubai. Facilities are limited, so it is best for a relaxed day trip rather than a long stay.
Bring water and sun protection for kayaking, and go early in the day when the light on the mangroves is best and the heat is lower.
Top sights in Umm Al Quwain
- 1
Umm Al Quwain Fort
A fort turned museum.
- 2
Khor Al Beidah
Mangrove lagoons.
- 3
Old town
Coral-stone houses.
- 4
Siniyah Island
A protected island.
- 5
Corniche
A waterfront drive.
Food markets & where to eat in Umm Al Quwain
Corniche
Waterfront cafés.
Fish market
Local catch.
Harbor
Seafood grills.
Food to try in Umm Al Quwain
Grilled fish
Fresh from the lagoon.
Balaleet
Sweet vermicelli with egg.
Arabic coffee
Served with dates.
Opening hours and prices change often. Please check with each place before you visit.
Plan your trip to Umm Al Quwain
Enjoyed the walk? Here is everything you need to see it for real.
- Hotels in Umm Al QuwainCompare places to stay and prices.
- Tours & ticketsWalking tours, museums and day trips in Umm Al Quwain.
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