Old Town Area - Umm Al Quwain
HIGHLIGHTS
ABOUT OLD TOWN, UAQ
Situated on the outskirts of Umm Al Quwain (UAQ), Old Town, UAQ, or Old Umm Al Quwain, is a diverse area that combines various functions. This age-old district forms a teardrop shape and is encompassed by both sea and creek. Within this neighborhood lies an important piece of history for the emirate - the UAQ National Museum and Hutchison Port. Additionally, King Faisal Street and Al Corniche Street originate from this locale, providing convenient access to the main highway known as A Ittihad Street.
At present, the region is undergoing a redevelopment process in accordance with the resolution put forth by His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Rashid Al Mu’alla, Ruler of Umm Al Quwain. The enhancement of Old Umm Al Quwain will stimulate economic expansion through the promotion of sustainable tourism.
IN A NUTSHELL
NEIGHBOURHOOD
COMMUNITY OVERVIEW
Discovered two centuries ago by Sheikh Majed Al Mualla, Old Umm Al Quwain served as the starting point for the emirate's expansion. Historians reveal that when the drinking water on Al Sinniyah Island depleted, people from the Al Mualla tribe migrated to Umm Al Quwain. They continued their ancestors' tradition of sustenance, relying on fishing and pearl diving for their livelihoods.
The area remains unchanged, showcasing a dhow-building yard, fishing boats and nets, coral-stone houses and watchtowers. The Old Town in Umm Al Quwain (UAQ) also boasts residential buildings that are believed to be over 150 years old, along with traditional wind towers. However, the UAQ government intends to revamp the city while safeguarding the ancient discoveries of Ed-Dur and Tel-Abraq dating back 200 years. The ruler of UAQ has resolved to redevelop Old Umm Al Quwain by demolishing dilapidated structures and embarking on new projects.
The Old Town in Umm Al Quwain is known for its prominent attractions such as the UAQ National Museum, Ahmed Bin Rashid Port, and Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Centre for Marine Research. In addition to these landmarks, the district offers a variety of dining options, supermarkets, and a well-connected road network that cater to the needs of its residents.
The Old Town, UAQ offers a variety of villas available in different configurations. Typically rented out partially, these villas allow residents to enjoy the amenities at an affordable price. Generally, individuals and small families are inclined towards renting these properties.
PROPERTIES IN OLD TOWN, UAQ
The Flamingo Beach Resort in the Old Town Area of Umm Al Quwain is an ideal destination that provides a diverse selection of water sports, crab hunting, and a private beach. It stands out as one of the finest resorts in Umm Al Quwain with two restaurants conveniently located on-site, room service, and meeting rooms. Every room at this resort offers breathtaking views of the mangrove islands and lagoon. Additional amenities include parking facilities, laundry services, and complimentary internet access.
HOTELS IN OLD TOWN, UAQ
In the Old Town of UAQ, select houses offer dedicated parking spaces while visitors have the option to utilize street parking facilities.
TRANSPORTATION AND PARKING SPACES IN OLD TOWN, UAQ
In the Old Umm Al Quwain, there is a scarcity of choices when it comes to public transportation. To navigate the city, residents have the option to book a taxi or utilize the bus service, which requires driving for approximately 15 minutes beforehand.
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION IN OLD TOWN, UAQ
In the Old Town of UAQ, residents have a variety of supermarkets to choose from for their daily essentials. Al Sameera Grocery, Town Supermarket, Shaima Supermarket, and Abu Badar Supermarket are all conveniently located in the area. The community's Old Bazaar offers additional options with its grocery stores, restaurants, and shops where traditional jewellery, perfumes, and clothes can be purchased. For those looking for another grocery shopping option nearby, Lulu Hypermarket in the Mall of UAQ is also available.
AMENITIES, SCHOOLS AND HEALTHCARE
SUPERMARKETS IN OLD TOWN, UAQ
To cater to Muslim residents, there are several mosques located throughout Old Town, UAQ. Individuals can conveniently participate in daily prayers at Sheikh Abdullah Bin Rashid Mosque, Masjid Al-Taqwa, Masjid Obadah Bin Al Samit, and Masjid Quba.
CHURCHES, TEMPLES AND MOSQUES IN OLD TOWN, UAQ
Christian worshippers have the option to visit IPC Umm Al Quwain, located in the Old Umm Al Quwain, for their religious gatherings. Additionally, there are alternative churches nearby such as Our Lady of Arabia Church and Winners Chapel International Ajman.
The New Indian School in UAQ, near Old Town, is a top-notch educational institution situated just a 7-minute drive away. It follows the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum for Kindergarten and implements the CBSE curriculum for students from Grades 1 to 8. Additionally, Grade 9 and 10 students are provided with the SCERT Curriculum (Kerala Board). There are other nearby schools such as Al Manahil Primary School, UAQ Girls School for Basic Education, and Habitat School.
SCHOOLS NEAR OLD TOWN, UAQ
Individuals seeking higher education have a multitude of well-regarded educational institutions within a brief 5 to 10-minute commute. These options encompass Umm Al Quwain University (UAQU) and British Applied College. UAQU, previously known as Emirates Canadian University College, houses four colleges that provide bachelor's and graduate programs. These colleges consist of the College of Business Administration, Arts & Science, Mass Communication, and Law.
Healthcare choices in the vicinity of Old Town, UAQ encompass Sansaya Clinic Umm Al Quwain, Hollywood Smile Dental Clinic, and Al Hayat Medical Centre. Thumbay Clinic UAQ offers a range of services including general medicine, dermatology, obstetrics & gynaecology, and paediatrics through its team of proficient medical professionals. Conveniently located within a 5 to 10-minute drive are all these clinics. Notably, Al Jazbir Clinic stands as the sole healthcare facility in the region.
CLINICS AND HOSPITALS IN OLD TOWN, UAQ
The majority of well-liked residential regions are situated in the southern part, as the old district primarily borders the beachside of the emirate. Some examples include Lamghadar, Al Rass, Al Hawaeh and Al Raudah. Towards the southeastern side of the community lies Umm Al Quwain's Industrial Area, along with other neighborhoods like Al Salamah and Umm Al Quwain Marina.
NEARBY AREAS
Mall of Umm Al Quwain, which is conveniently located for residents of the Old Town in UAQ, offers a range of shopping options, dining choices, and entertainment venues. The mall features Lulu Hypermarket and Department Store as its main anchor store and boasts popular outlets such as Mothercare, Richway, Mumuso, and Malabar Gold & Diamonds. Visitors can also enjoy the various entertainment facilities available at Mall of UAQ including Star Cinemas and Orange Hub - a recreational area with arcade games and rides suitable for children. Accessing this vibrant destination requires a 13-minute drive.
LIFESTYLE
SHOPPING, DINING AND NIGHTLIFE
MALLS NEAR OLD TOWN, UAQ
There is a shopping center called the mall in Old Umm Al Quwain. Additional shopping centers in close proximity are China Mall UAQ and City Mall.
In the Old Town of UAQ, there is an abundance of local eateries and casual dining restaurants. Well-known establishments like Osama Restaurant, Sagar Restaurant, and Sadaf Restaurant and Cafeteria are among the favorites. For those craving Indian cuisine at a reasonable price, Indian Palace Restaurant and Waves are highly recommended options in Umm Al Quwain. To satisfy your cravings further, you can also visit Al Harmoodi Restaurant and Al Salama Restaurant which are other popular cafeterias in the community.
RESTAURANTS IN OLD TOWN, UAQ
As Old Umm Al Quwain is located along the coast of the emirate, inhabitants can enjoy a range of extensive beaches in close proximity. One such beach is Umm Al Quwain beach, which attracts a lot of visitors due to its popularity and offers an array of water sports activities as well as other amenities found on beaches.
BEACHES NEAR OLD TOWN, UAQ
Situated in the Old Town of UAQ, Umm Al Quwain National Museum stands as a remarkable and significant landmark. Originally constructed in 1768 by H.H. Sheikh Rashid Bin Majid Al Mualla, this fort served as the residence for the ruling family. In order to safeguard its historical importance and precious discoveries from Tel Abraq and Ed Dur, the fort underwent a transformation into a museum in 2000. Prominent displays within the museum include jewelry, documents, and gifts bestowed upon the Ruler of Umm Al Quwain.
LEISURE ACTIVITIES AND NOTABLE LANDMARKS
The Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Centre for Marine Research, located in Umm Al Quwain, is a significant landmark in the residential area. It serves as the UAE's inaugural hatchery and marine research center with the goal of promoting economic growth through the blue economy. The initial phase of this project involved an investment of Dh75 million to produce approximately 10 million juvenile fish. The research facility is equipped with laboratories, aquariums, libraries, a conference hall, and an exhibition area. Currently, efforts are underway for the development of the second phase of this project.
Established in 1998 by His Highness Sheikh Rashid Bin Ahmed Al-Mualla, the Ahmed Bin Rashid Port, also known as Hutchison Ports UAQ, is a prominent container port with four berths and an expansive 845m long quay. Spanning over a vast 23-hectare yard, the port boasts a proficient workforce and cutting-edge handling equipment to assist carriers and shippers effectively. Additional facilities at the port encompass 13,000 sq. m. of warehouse space alongside essential amenities like container handling and marine services.
The Municipal Park in Old Town, UAQ is a well-liked recreational spot where families can go for a walk and children can enjoy playing. Other nearby parks include H.H Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Park and The National Flag Park. These top parks in Umm Al Quwain can both be reached within a 5 to 10-minute drive.
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, FITNESS AND BEAUTY
Fitness enthusiasts in the vicinity of Old Town, UAQ have multiple options for maintaining their workout routine. Among these choices are VIP Fitness, Miami Gym, and 24 Gym. Conveniently situated just a short 5 to 10-minute drive away from the community, any of these fitness centers can be easily accessed for a fulfilling exercise session.
Located near Old Town, UAQ, Rumana Ladies Salon provides a wide range of beauty services such as threading, waxing, hair care treatments, facials, and manicure/pedicure treatments at affordable prices. It only takes approximately 4 minutes to drive to the salon. In addition to Rumana Ladies Salon, other nearby options for beauty care include Malak Beauty Salon, Sephora Beauty Salon, and Yasmin Henna Ladies Salon.
Inhabitants have the opportunity to participate in gatherings hosted at the Mall of Umm Al Quwain.
COMMUNITY EVENTS
The Old Town Area in UAQ is a vibrant part of the emirate with restricted housing choices. However, this situation could be subject to alteration in the forthcoming years due to ongoing projects happening within the locality.
THINGS TO CONSIDER
Old Town Area, UAQ is a bustling area of the emirate with limited residential options. However, this may change in the upcoming years as there are several projects underway in the district.