Old Town Umm Al Quwain is the historic heart of the emirate — a fort, a museum, a traditional dhow harbour and a mangrove-fringed lagoon. Quiet and atmospheric, Old Town Umm Al Quwain is one of the best places in the country to glimpse pre-oil Emirati life.
Under an hour from Dubai, it offers heritage and nature in equal measure. Here is how to make the most of it, as part of our main Umm Al Quwain guide.
Getting your bearings in Old Town Umm Al Quwain
The old quarter sits on a narrow peninsula between the sea and a mangrove lagoon, with the fort, museum and dhow harbour clustered together.
Things to do in Old Town Umm Al Quwain
Explore the fort and museum, watch the dhows in the old harbour and kayak the mangroves — much of it costs nothing, so see free things to do across the UAE.
Where to eat
Simple local eateries and seafood spots near the harbour keep it authentic and good value.
Getting to Old Town Umm Al Quwain
Under an hour from Dubai; best reached by car.
Best time to visit
The cooler months from October to April are ideal for exploring the old town and mangroves on foot or by kayak.
Explore more of Umm Al Quwain
Head back to the main Umm Al Quwain guide to explore more of the emirate.
Good to know
Umm Al Quwain’s old town occupies a slim peninsula between the creek and the Arabian Gulf, and it’s one of the last places in the UAE where you can still feel a pre-oil pace of life. Coral-block houses, the old harbour with its dhows, and the restored Umm Al Quwain Fort — now the national museum — sit within a short walk of one another. It’s a low-key spot for a slow wander, birdwatching over the lagoon, and fresh seafood by the water.