Tourism in Ajman has been growing steadily due to the emirate’s growing number of attractions that includes pristine natural beaches, natural reserve of mangrove forest, a growing number of hotels, resorts, restaurants, traditional markets, entertainment facilities and new tourism developments that cater to both domestic and international tourists.
KAYAKING
The day in Ajman begins with a kayaking expedition, organised by Quest for Adventure, an eco-friendly specialist water sports, educational and leadership centre in Ajman. We navigated through the serene mangrove forests, creeks and lagoons that adorn Ajman’s landscape. They witnessed diverse flora and fauna, including numerous bird species and marine creatures. This experience not only fostered a connection with the environment but also contributed to the UAE’s ambitious mangrove tree-planting initiative.
GOLF
Next on the itinerary was a visit to the prestigious Al Zorah Golf Club, designed by the renowned Nicklaus Design Group. Set amidst a meticulously preserved environment and a tranquil atmosphere, the 18-hole golf course features strategically placed bunkers, two expansive lakes, and generous fairways.
The emirate of Ajman boasts a rich cultural and historical heritage, which is highlighted by some of its most significant tourist destinations including the Heritage District, Ajman Museum Masfout Museum, and the House of Rashid AlKhadar, a famous poet from Ajman who mastered Arabic poetry in its Nabati format and Classic version
AJMAN MUSEUM
The past came alive in Ajman’s Heritage District, where the Ajman Museum took centre stage, offering a fascinating glimpse into the emirate’s history and culture. The Heritage District is designed tastefully bringing together narrow lanes and alleyways, alongside authentic Emirati themed restaurants and shops. The unique Ajman Poet’s Skeek (alleys) had each alleyway dedicated to a renowned local poet. Colourful artistic murals adorned the district’s buildings, taking visitors on a journey in time travel.
HOUSE OF RASHID ALKHADAR
One of the tour’s key highlights was the visit to the House of Rashid Alkhadar, a revered poet. The recently opened House of Rashid Alkhadar is the first Poetry House in Ajman, dedicated to the life of the city’s renowned son, a master of nabati and classic Arabic poetry. The Ajman Department of Tourism Development and the Municipality and Planning Department have collaborated to refurbish and preserve the poet’s house, transforming it into a haven for poetry enthusiasts and a platform for promoting Emirati identity. The restoration aims to showcase the life and accomplishments of the renowned poet, as well as highlight the linguistic prowess of Emirati citizens in effectively conveying emotions and messages through their words. Ultimately, the project serves as a bridge connecting the past and present, fostering a deeper appreciation for Emirati culture and heritage.
Transformed into a personal museum, The House of Rashid Alkhadar Museum preserves the poet’s legacy and ideas and also his belongings, as historical artifacts. Advanced technology breathes life into his biography and poetic works, enabling visitors to delve into his work. From Nabati and classical Arabic poetry to his renowned riddles intertwined with numbers, letters and stars, the museum provides insights into his profound contributions to Emirati cultural heritage.
HOTELS
The day ends with savouring a fusion lunch at Radisson Blu Hotel, which offers modern comforts, combining contemporary hospitality with Ajman’s distinctive charm.
The emirate of Ajman hosts 44 hotel establishments ranging from 1-star to 5-star hotels, resorts and luxury hotel apartments with 3,997 hotel rooms and 250 tourism establishments that serve a growing number of regional and international tourists.
Following growth in 2022, Ajman hotels and serviced apartments recorded a 3 per cent growth in hotel revenues in the first quarter of 2023 compared to the corresponding period in 2022 – mostly due to higher demand that is pushing the Average Daily Room (ADR) Rate, making investment in the hotels and the tourism industry more profitable.
The number of non-UAE residents (international arrivals) increased by 26 per cent in 2022 compared to 2021 which shows that Ajman has set itself on the international tourism map and demand on Ajman is increasing.
HOLIDAY HOMES
The recently issued regulations by ADTD on Holiday Homes, which came into effect this Juneare set to boost the tourism industry and enable individual homeowners and corporates alike to register their properties for short-term leases to tourists and visitors.
The implementation of Holiday Homes policies enables property owners and hotel management companies in Ajman to avail themselves of the opportunity to lease residential units for short durations, presenting a flexible and innovative alternative to conventional contracts. Moreover, ADTD offers meticulous inspection and classification services for registered units, distinguishing between criteria for touristic and luxury accommodations. Ajman is a thriving emirate, enticing visitors with its diverse economic landscape and captivating tourism offerings. Its commitment to preserving its rich heritage was evident through iconic attractions such as the Ajman Museum, Masfout Museum, and the House of Rashid Alkhadar.
FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS
Ajman’s dedication to developing tourism sites in the Al Manama and Masfout regions promises even more remarkable experiences in the future.
The WeLodge Masfout: ADTD recently signed a memorandum of understanding with Aleph Hospitality, UAE-based leading independent hotel management company in the Middle East and Africa to invest in new hotel resorts as well as to develop The WeLodge Masfout as a preferred destination for mountain biking, sports, and recreation.
This will help Masfout region within the emirate of Ajman to strengthen its tourism attractiveness with its abundant landscape that is rich in marble supported by cool climate compared to other places in Ajman due to its high altitude above sea level, which makes it an ideal location suitable for outdoor activities like jogging, mountain running, hiking, mountain cycling, and picnics, as well as exploring breathtaking valleys and colossal mountains.
Thumbay Group MoU: Last month, ADTD signed a memorandum of understanding with Thumbay Group to collaborate and set the framework of cooperation between the Ajman Tourism and the Thumbay Hospitals to reinforce Ajman’s position as an ideal destination for wellness and therapy in the region.
The emirate’s medical tourism has achieved a good reputation and is witnessing a great interest from a wider segment, which in return is encouraging Ajman Tourism to fully support this sector that can impact the overall development of the tourism industry. With the opening of the ZOYA Health & Wellbeing Resort, the first five-star health resort in the Middle East and Africa, the emirate is attaining its objective of offering its visitors a wide range of specialized treatment programmes and healthcare services.