UAE destination named among UN Best Tourism Villages

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UN Tourism has revealed its list of the world’s Best Tourism Villages to visit in 2026, naming Masfout in Ajman, United Arab Emirates, among this year’s 52 destinations recognised for sustainable and community-led tourism practices.

The mountain village, located in the southern enclave of the UAE’s smallest emirate is the only GCC destination to feature on the 2026 list. Masfout was commended for its efforts to integrate tourism into the local value chain, preserve natural and cultural heritage, and promote responsible development.

The big reveal was made during a special ceremony in Huzhou City, China, marking the fifth year of the global initiative.

Masfout’s sustainable mountain escape
Set amid the Hajar Mountains, the tiny landlocked enclave of Masfout offers a cooler climate and rugged terrain that contrasts with Ajman’s coastal landscape. Just a 90-minute drive from Ajman City, the village is steeped in history, visible in its traditional architecture, ancient falaj irrigation systems, Masfout Castle and the historic Bin Sultan Mosque.

UN Tourism says these cultural assets, coupled with recent government-led sustainability initiatives, are positioning the area as a growing “eco-tourism and adventure destination”.

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View from mountain village Masfout in Ajman

Ajman Tourism Development Department has launched several projects to revitalise heritage sites, expand hiking and biking trails, and establish protected nature areas, all while preserving the village’s authentic character. UN Tourism praised the emirate’s approach to sustainable growth, highlighting initiatives that prioritise local employment, entrepreneurship, community wellbeing and experience-based tourism rooted in Emirati identity.

“Masfout is paving the way for a future where tradition and innovation coexist,” said UN Tourism, adding that visitors are invited to “discover a peaceful landscape where nature, culture, and genuine rural life come together”.

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Five GCC destinations now recognised

Masfout now joins a network of 318 rural destinations recognised by UN Tourism since the programme launched in 2021. Previous GCC inclusions include AlUla Old Town, which UN Tourism describes as “a place of extraordinary natural and human heritage”; and Abo Noghta Castles & Historic Tabab, known not only for its ancient castles and forts but also for the “locals’ commitment to eco-friendly renovation techniques.” Rijal Alma’a in Saudi Arabia and Misfat Al Abriyeen in Oman also feature on the list.

Beyond the UAE and GCC, the 2026 list highlights additional Middle Eastern destinations such as Kandelous, Shafiabad and Soheili in Iran, North Azraq in Jordan, and Neot Semadar in Israel. China, Türkiye and Japan each had four villages recognised, while Europe was well represented with 23 destinations, including villages in Portugal, Germany and Hungary.

Commenting on the announcement, UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said the initiative showcases “communities that are working to safeguard their cultural heritage, preserve natural resources and create economic opportunities through tourism.”

For more information, visit tourism-villages.unwto.org and visit-ajman.ae