Off the Beaten Track

Dhow Building Yard

Down at the dhow building yards you'll see various kinds of Arabian sailing boats still being built by hand, using traditional tools and teak and shesham woods. However, not everything at the yard is done as it has been for centuries: sometimes, after the sails are done, the boys will pop an engine in.

Hatta Rock Pools

Hatta, an enclave of Dubai nestled in the Hajar Mountains, is a great weekend getaway. The main attractions are its relatively cool, dry climate, the mountain scenery, excellent 4WD options and the magnificent Hatta rock pools, which are great for a swim, roaring year-round with plunging waterfalls.

Jumeirah Archaeological Site

Built sometime in the 6th century AD, this township is now the biggest and perhaps the most significant archaeological site in the UAE. You'll see the remains of stone walls, a souq, several houses and what is thought to have been a governor's palace. Objects found on the site, such as pottery and coins, are on display at the Heritage Village in Diera.

Jumeirah Beach Park

This lovely grassy park adjoins Jumeirah Beach. It has walkways, kiosks, barbecue pits, picnic tables and a children's play area. The long stretch of beach is clean, lined with shady palm trees, and regularly patrolled by lifeguards. The women's only days are an opportunity for the ladies to get a tan without unwanted male attention.