Despite the tourism authority's efforts to promote the city as a complete tourist destination, there is one important ingredient missing - an aqua park.
This is the verdict of many residents who say they have to travel hundreds of miles to other emirates to enjoy such parks, which provide welcome relief during the summer heat.
The nearest water parks are about 150km away in Dubai and many residents visit them regularly during weekends.
Residents this week blamed the authorities for not paying attention to this entertainment aspect, especially when the city is the ideal location to house a water park with water slides, laser rivers, children's pools, spas, jacuzzis, saunas and restaurants.
"Such a facility can put Al Ain on top of all other destinations that attract large numbers of visitors from other UAE cities and neighbouring GCC states," said Abdullah Niyadi, a national student.
He suggested Green Mubazzarah in the foothills of Jebel Hafeet could be the location for an aqua park because it is being developed.
"Inattention has resulted in Hili Fun City - once the region's most sought after amusement park in the region - losing its reputation and business to its more advanced competitors in other cities," he said.
Water amusement parks have lately emerged as popular entertainment recreational facilities in the UAE.
Gulf News
