The Emirate of Umm Al Qaiwain, has a coastline stretching 24 kms., and is located on the Arabian Gulf coast of the UAE. Between Sharjah to the southwest, and Ras al-Khaimah to the northeast. Its inland border lies about 32 kms from the main coastline. The total area of the emirate is about 777 square kms., which is equivalent to 1 % of the country's total mainland area. The city of Umm Al Qaiwain, which is the capital of the emirate, is situated on a narrow peninsula which encircles a large creek 1 km. Wide, and 5 kilometres long. The Ruler's office, administrative and commercial centres are located here. The main port and a Mariculture Research Centre where prawns and fish are bred on an experimental basis, are also located here. The city of Umm al Qaiwain also has the preserved remains of an old fort, its main gate flanked by defensive cannons. Falaj al-Mualla, which is an attractive natural oasis, is located 50 kms. southeast of the Umm Al Qaiwain city. Sinayah island, lies a short distance offshore, and has important mangrove areas together with a breeding colony of Socotra cormorants. |
