Al Ain Raceway – International Kart Circuit

Location		Time Zone
Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates		GMT +4

Population		Official Language
896 751		Arabic

Currency		Calling Code
UAE Dirham (AED)		00971

First RMC Grand Finals
2007

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The city of Al Ain is often referred to as the cultural landmark of Abu Dhabi. Located approximately 140km east of Abu Dhabi itself, it straddles the border with Oman.

Al Ain has plenty to offer in terms of retail, possessing 3 enormous malls (with two more due to be finished soon). Of course those with slightly more cultural inclinations are well advised to visit the souks in the town centre where traditional Arabic items are available, the perfect souvenir from a culturally proud country.

In general, most "western" clothing is tolerated as long as it is not too outrageous. However, you should be respectful of the Islamic culture and it is better to cover knees and shoulders and everything in between. Men should not walk around topless in public.

Al Ain sits under the shadow of the famous Jebel Hafeet, the second tallest mountain in the UAE. At a height of over 1,200 metres (4,000 feet) it offers truly breathtaking views of the city, the surrounding desert and the Hajjar Mountains. The 12 km road that winds up its summit was recently voted one of the best driver's roads in the world.

Al Ain is perhaps most well known as the birthplace of Sheikh Zayed Al Nahyan, the first President and ruler of the UAE. Even after his passing in 2004, his legacy and image are still very much in essence wherever you go, for it was his vision that has sculpted the UAE into what it is today.

The Sheikh Zayed museum in the Central district is a must-see for anyone interested in learning how the Emirates has changed over the past 40 years. There are several renovated forts around town, most notably Al Jahli Fort near the town centre that really demonstrates the pride felt by the local population towards their country.

Of course Al Ain - like its mother city Abu Dhabi - is modernising itself. A huge infrastructure drive is currently underway, with plenty of new amenities already under construction; the population is set to increase by over 200,000 by 2020.

Al Ain has plenty to offer in terms of retail, possessing 3 enormous malls (with two more due to be finished soon). Of course those with slightly more cultural inclinations are well advised to visit the souks in the town centre, there traditional Arabic items are available, the perfect souvenir from a culturally proud country.

Getting around Al Ain is relatively easy, with taxis never in short supply, particularly from the hotels. People are advised to use either the silver taxis with yellow beacon or Al Ghazal cars, and to avoid the white and gold older-looking ones.

Like the vast majority of countries in the Middle East, the UAE is devoted to Islam. Whilst the UAE is very tolerant and welcoming to those from other cultures there is still a code of conduct in place. Alcohol is permitted inside the hotels but guests are asked to drink responsibly and not cause disturbance. Swearing in public is also frowned upon and rude hand gestures are most certainly not welcome. Please note that ladies should dress appropriately when going out in public. In general, most "western" clothing is tolerated as long as it is not too outrageous, however you must be respectful to the Islamic culture and it is better to cover knees and shoulders and everything in between. Men should not walk around topless in public.

From everyone at Al Ain Raceway, we hope you will enjoy your stay in this beautiful city.