Al Ain
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- This article is about the city in the United Arab Emirates. For the city in Lebanon, see El Ain.
Al Ain (Arabic: العين (also transcribed as Al 'Ain), "the spring") is the fourth largest city in the United Arab Emirates with a population of 421,948 (2005 estimate). It is located in the emirate of Abu Dhabi, directly adjacent to the border with Oman. The freeways connecting Al Ain, Abu Dhabi and Dubai form a geographic triangle in the center of the country, each city roughly 150 kilometers from the other two.
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[edit] History
The area, historically known as the Buraimi Oasis, has been continuously inhabited for more than four thousand years and Al Ain is considered central to the cultural heritage of the country. It is the birthplace of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the first president of the United Arab Emirates. Today the name Buraimi refers to the Omani town whose urban area merges with that of Al Ain. Until September 16, 2006, Al Ain and Buraimi enjoyed an open border and functioned as one. On September 16th, the UAE government closed the open border and required all individuals to clear immigrations both entering and leaving the UAE. Gulf nationals cross the border at the main crossing whereas, expats are required to cross at either the Hili or "Intercontinental" border crossings.
There are numerous underground water springs in the area, which explain its attractiveness as an area of settlement. Traces of its traditional past remain, including camel racing and breeding. The ancient falaj system of irrigation is still in use in some areas distributing underground water by a network of tunnels emerging eventually into open channels whose flow can be directed and regulated.
[edit] Modern Times
Al Ain has a higher proportion of Emirati nationals than elsewhere in the country, however the majority of its residents are expatriates particularly from the Indian sub-continent. There are fewer Western expatriates than in the larger centers of Abu Dhabi and Dubai. This gives Al Ain a more authentic Arabic look and feel compared to the larger and more cosmopilitan cities of the Emirates.
It is often called the 'Garden City of the Gulf' given the many parks, tree-lined avenues and decorative roundabouts within the city. Strict height controls on new buildings, to no more than four floors, emphasises the greenery of the city.
[edit] Tourism & Recreation
Al Ain is developing as a tourist destination. It regularly records the highest summer temperatures in the country, but the dry desert air makes it a welcome retreat from the coastal humidity of the larger cities. Many Emirati nationals in Abu Dhabi have holiday houses in the city making it a popular weekend destination for families from the capital city. Its attractions include the Al Ain National Museum, the Al Ain Palace Museum, several restored forts and the Hili archaeological site, dating back to the Bronze Age. Jebel Hafeet, a 1340 metre high mountain dominates the surrounding area. A visit to the mineral springs at the base and a drive to the top of this mountain for sunset is popular. Other attractions include the Al Ain Oasis in the city centre and other oases dotted around the area, cool retreats in the middle of the summer heat, a zoo, amusement park named "Fun City", many well maintained parks, most popular with families in the summer evenings, and a heritage village.
The city is home to the successful association football (soccer) club, Al Ain FC.
[edit] Commerce and Industry
Al Ain is an important services centre for a wide area extending into Oman. There are two major shopping centres, Al Ain Mall and Al Jimi Mall, as well as traditional souks for fruit & vegetables and livestock. Industry is growing, but still small scale, and includes the Coca Cola bottling plant and a cement works. Service industries such as car sales, mechanics and other artisans are located in the area known as Sanaiya. Social and governmental infrastructure includes United Arab Emirates University, Higher Colleges of Technology, well-equipped medical facilities, including the teaching hospital at Tawam, military training areas and Al Ain International Airport.
[edit] Culture and the Arts
Al Ain is a cultural retreat for residents of Dubai and Abu Dhabi cities. It is home to a major festival of classical music.
