Sunday, November 02, 2008

UM AL QUWAIN "Mother of 2 Powers"

Jan 11, 2008

Umm Al Quwain is one of the seven United Arab Emirates. It covers a total area of around eight hundred square kilometers. Umm al Quwain has much to offer visitors. It is a geographically lush area, stretching from the mangrove lined shores of the Persian Gulf to the Falaj Al Moalla oasis. In addition to the city of Umm al Quwain, the town of Falaj Al Moalla is also well worth a visit. It is a major agricultural center of the United Arab Emirates.

The name of the emirate translates from the Arabic in to “Mother of Two Powers,” which refers to the emirate’s seafaring tradition, which goes back hundreds of years. The history of the emirate dates back to some two hundred years ago, when members of the Al Ali tribe decided to move their capital here after the sweet waters on the Al Sinniyah Island dried up.

Traditional activities of the region include fishing, camel racing, falconry, and dhow building.
Umm al Quwain also boasts the world’s largest water park, Dreamland, which draws thousands of visitors each year. It takes up well over two hundred fifty thousand square meters along the coast and contains a number of games and rides, as well as a shopping area and numerous fast food restaurants.

Umm Al Quwain city features, among other attractions, the Umm Al Quwain Museum, which is housed in a former fort that used to guard the Old Town. It overlooks the sea on one side, and the town’s creek on the other. Umm Al Quwain also boasts many major islands. Al Dur Island is an important historical site, boasting the remains of a two thousand year old town. Excavations have unearthed such priceless gems as ancient tombs, glassware, and stone houses. Al Siniyyah Island, housed directly across the creek from the city of Umm Al Quwain, is a haven for birds, making it a bird watcher’s paradise. It also houses famous mangrove swamps. Water sports fans can enjoy the offerings of the Umm Al Quwain Marine Club, situated on the shores of the city’s creek.

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