Ain Al Madhab Gardens

Ain Al Madhab is a mineral spring rising at the foot of the Hajar mountains just outside Fujairah city, and it has been developed into a park: the water is channelled into separate swimming pools for men and women, with gardens, shaded seating, chalets and an open-air theatre used for folk performances during festivals. The water is warm and carries sulphur, and it was used for its supposed medicinal effect long before the park was built.

What you actually see

• The mineral pools - spring water led into separate men's and women's pools.
• The gardens - planted and shaded grounds at the mountain foot.
• The theatre - an open-air stage used for folk performance during festivals.
• The mountain setting - the Hajar wall rising directly behind the park.

When to go

November to March is most comfortable; summer heat makes the gardens unpleasant. Evenings and weekends are busiest. Festival dates bring performances to the theatre.

Honest expectations

The facilities are dated and basic rather than resort standard. Men's and women's pools have separate and sometimes limited hours. The sulphur smell is noticeable.

Nearby

Fujairah Fort is east, and Al Hayl Fort is south.