Making your way off Jebel Hafit in Al-Ain, you may very well be tempted to visit tombs that date from 5,000 years ago. Head to the wonderful Jebel Hafit Desert Park, home to the first World Heritage Site in the United Arab Emirates. Recently opened again after being closed for major renovations, including the creation of the lovely Pura Eco Retreat and new roads to access the various sites around the park, for a nominal entrance fee you will be able to explore the Desert Park as well as visiting ancient tombs.
Head first for the Jebel Hafit Tombs, described on a nearby sign as “ … originally beehive in shape but today they look like stone heaps”. Some of the tombs were restored and are definitely worth a visit. You will only be able to stand around the outside of the tombs. Previously you were able to walk around and on top of the tombs, and even inside if you are small enough, but that was causing too much damage so the tombs have now been roped off to prevent access. As the nearby sign says: “Each (tomb) comprises of a number of ring walls surrounding a single chamber, accessed by a narrow entrance. Excavations in some of the tombs revealed objects indicating contact with other civilizations in Mesopotamia”.
Enjoy visiting the tombs and imagining what life was like 5,000 years ago in the isolation of the desert. Wander behind the tombs, towards Jebel Hafit, and into the canyons beyond. Here you will enjoy great views over the desert, back towards the tombs, and you may be lucky to spot some desert creatures enjoying the shade of the canyon for their afternoon snooze.
Once you have finished with your visit to the tombs, head for the Pura Eco Retreat. Even if you are not staying at the resort for the evening you will still be able to drive reasonably close to the bubble tents and admire the concept of desert glamping. Perhaps you will be inspired to make your own reservation for a wonderful weekend of glamping in the Al-Ain desert.
As you further explore the desert park, perhaps you will come across some friendly camels. Stop and say Hello before heading off to explore other parts of the park. Hiking trails have been constructed, allowing you to wander through the desert and visit various points of interest. These trails are mainly geared towards those staying overnight and setting off on their walk either in the late afternoon of early morning.
As your visit comes to an end, think back on how you have enjoyed the serenity of the Jebel Hafit Desert Park for the past two to three hours and how simple life must have been 5,000 years ago at the foothills of Jebel Hafit.
Book your stay at the Pura Eco Resort in the Jebel Hafit Desert Park by clicking here.
Our other posts from the United Arab Emirates may be found here.
(Last Visited March 2022)