Ajman

With journey times to Ajman from the airport in Dubai often no longer than driving to The Palm, this tiny emirate is not only a quiet, relatively undeveloped alternative to Dubai, it’s also remarkably easy to get to.

The emirate’s main hub is the city of Ajman, a coastal capital blessed with year-round sunshine, a clutch of fascinating souks and museums, a 16-kilometre stretch of sandy shoreline and a delightful Corniche that’s perfect to stroll along. Nearby, the Al Zorah Golf Club – crafted by Nicklaus Design and managed by Troon Golf – has put the emirate on the golfing map. Hailed as one of the best new golf venues in the world, the club is popular with both casual enthusiasts and seasoned pros, and with tee times bookable online and rates adjusted in real time, you can play at a time that suits you and your budget.

Within easy reach of the city is Al Zorah Nature Reserve, a million square metres of vibrant mangrove forest, turquoise lagoons and sandy beaches, home to an incredible variety of bird and marine life, including flamingos, egrets and herons. Meanwhile, away from the city and cradled by the Al Hajar Mountains, the landlocked enclave of Masfout is a hiker’s dream and makes for a refreshing escape from the city’s summer heat.