Ajman is a part of the United Arab Emirates and is witnessing a boom in its real estate sector that is making it the up-and-coming alternative residential and business investment destination in the UAE. With its own harbor, and airport under development and its proximity to Dubai, Ajman, under its leaders vision is becoming a sought after location for many. With marina developments, shopping malls and a variety of projects under way the Emirate is becoming a destination of choice. Ajman and its ruling family are also well known in the equine world for its dedication and commitment to the world of horses and the Escape Ibn Navaronne, the World Champion Arabian Stallion, hails from the Emirate.
History
Ajman, or Ujman is the smallest member state of the United Arab Emirates, with an area of just 260 square kilometres. Its capital is Ajman. Located along the Persian Gulf, it also controls Masfut and Manama, two small, inland enclaves that are primarily agricultural. The population of approximately 235,000 is located mainly in the capital, Ajman. The population was only 36,100 in 1980 but grew considerably in recent years, due to an influx of people from the neighboring emirates of Dubai, Sharjah, and other countries. It is presently ruled by Emir Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi. The Crown prince of the Emirate is Sheikh Ammar bin Humaid Al Nuaimi. His directions have led to massive development and a construction boom in Ajman in the recent years.
On 8 January 1820, Sheikh Rashid ibn Humayd Al Nuaimi signed the General Maritime Treaty with Britain, accepting a protectorate to keep the Ottoman Turks out. Like four of its neighbours, Sharjah, Dubai, Ras al-Khaimah and Umm al-Qaiwain, its position on the route to India made it important enough to be recognized as a salute state (be it of the lowest class: 3 guns). On 2 December 1971, Sheikh Rashid ibn Humayd Al Nuaimi joined the United Arab Emirates.
Getting Around Ajman
Getting Around by Car
The best way to explore the seven Emirates is by car. Rentals are widely available through major hotels. Car rental companies in the UAE include:
Star (+971 4-313-172)
Budget (+971 4-823-030)
Fast (+971 4-328-988)
Hertz (+971 4-824-422)
Europcar (+971 4-520-033)
Hanco Emirates (+971 4-820-499)
The UAE does not have clearly delineated borders with its neighbors, Saudi Arabia and Oman. The hazy border situation makes it relatively easy for visitors unfamiliar with the area to wander into zones that are often off-limits for tourists. As such, it is a good idea to always stay close to the main cities, and be aware of your whereabouts. It is also a good idea to always carry a map of the UAE and its neighbors.
The city of Abu Dhabi sits on the edge of a T-shaped island, roughly in the middle of the country's coastline. The main road running from Abu Dhabi and northeast to Oman passes through all but one of the Emirates. Dubai is closest to Abu Dhabi, and is about one-and-a-half hour's drive away. The main coastal road respectively connects Dubai to the smaller Emirates of Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, and Ras Al Khaimah, all of which lie just north of Dubai. Fujairah lies east of Sharjah and Ajman, on the UAE's eastern coast. Modern roads link both Sharjah and Ajman to their eastern neighbor Fujairah. Al Ain lies east of the city of Abu Dhabi, near the border with Oman, and is accessible via a modern highway that cuts through the desert. The main coastal road also links the city of Abu Dhabi to the towns of Tarif, Ruwais, and Jabal Dhanna, all of which lie west of Abu Dhabi
