Ajman, United Arab Emirates

Laid-back and unassuming, Ajman, only 10km from Sharjah, is one of the poorest and smallest of the seven emirates. While many people just pass through out of curiosity, the pretty, palm-lined, white-sand beach alone is worthy of some time. During the cooler weather locals barbecue and picnic on the sand under the palm trees, or at the picturesque white picnic tables with blue umbrellas. There's also the excellent Kempinski Hotel & Resort (with its own lovely, private beach), the sheesha cafés opposite the waterfront, the museum and renowned dhow building yards.
It's easy to walk around town. The Corniche (also known as Arabian Gulf St or Al Khaleej Rd) is where locals promenade in the evening; shops and the museum are found around the central square.