Located in the heart of the UAE, Ajman may be the smallest of the seven emirates, but it doesn’t short-change visitors on allure. For those in search of a laid-back version of tourist hotspots like Dubai and Sharjah, Ajman is a fantastic option. It’s sandy, palm lined beach stretches for 16 kilometres, with locals and tourists alike flocking to soak up the sunshine.

For a taste of local Ajman life, a stroll along the Corniche is a great place to people watch. Locals flock to the area for BBQs and picnics, which gives it a lively and upbeat feel. A visit to Ajman Fort offers visitors an authentic history fix, with the Ajman National Museum showcasing a curated collection of photographs, weapons, tools and archaeological artefacts.

Taxis are the easiest and most efficient way to get around Ajman, with solo travellers often choosing to take shared vehicles. Some hotels arrange tour buses, which ferry guests to popular attractions throughout the city. From Dubai airport, Ajman is an easy 30-minute drive, while Sharjah is slightly closer at 20-minutes.

While the rest of the UAE has abandoned the practice of handcrafting the beautiful “dhow” sailing boats are synonymous with Arab seafaring and Ajman keeps the tradition alive. It’s home to one of the region’s few remaining dhow-building yards, where visitors can get a first-hand glimpse at time honoured dhow building techniques.