Desert Park in Al Ain to open on Nov 1

Our Correspondent

The Jebel Hafit Desert Park in Al Ain will reopen for visitors on November 1, 2020, and will be open till April 2021, announced the Department of Culture and Tourism of Abu Dhabi. Al Ain, part of the emirate of Abu Dhabi, is the nation’s garden city as it is a lush oasis with palm trees and natural springs.

Abu Dhabi’s newest cultural and outdoor adventure attraction is located at the foot of Jebel Hafit mountain, and was officially launched in February 2020. It offers guests a mix of history, culture, and stunning natural landscapes.

The park’s cultural and natural features are part of the cultural sites of Al Ain, which constitute the UAE’s first designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has also been given National Park status and declared as Jebel Hafit National Park Reserve.

The park is operated by Barari Natural Resources, the environmental management organisation that conserves and manages forests and nature reserves across Abu Dhabi, including Sir Bani Yas Island and Telal Resort.

Among the key attractions at the park are the 5,000-year-old “beehive’ tombs”, archaeological remains in the UAE that vouch for the rich history and ancient habitation of the area. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy camping in the area, stretching for nine kilometres around the base of Jebel Hafit, one of the highest mountains in the UAE.

There are three shelters within the grounds which are perfect spots for a picnic; numerous shaded benches have been erected for the convenience of hikers and cyclists. Visitors can stay the night in their own tents at the public campsite or rent a traditional tent or luxury dome/bubble tent.