By CityLaila Travel Team
Updated March 2026
10 min read
Discover the World with CityLaila
The United Arab Emirates is famous for futuristic skyscrapers, luxury resorts and record-breaking attractions, but its history tells an equally fascinating story. Scattered across the seven emirates are historic forts in the UAE that once protected towns, oases, trade routes and ruling families.
Built using locally available materials such as mud brick, stone, coral and palm wood, these fortresses offer an insight into traditional Emirati architecture and the country’s past. Some have been transformed into museums and cultural centres, while others remain atmospheric reminders of the UAE’s defensive heritage.
If you’re interested in UAE history, Emirati culture and heritage tourism, visiting these forts is an excellent way to see a different side of the country.
Here are some of the best historical forts in the UAE to visit in 2026.
Table of Contents
Why Are UAE Forts Important?
Best Historical Forts in the UAE by Emirate
Best Time to Visit UAE Forts
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
1. Al Fahidi Fort – Dubai
Located in the heart of Old Dubai, Al Fahidi Fort is one of the country’s most important historic landmarks. According to the UAE’s National Cultural Map, it was constructed in 1787 and is the oldest standing building in Dubai.
The fort was built using coral and shell stones bonded with lime and served several purposes over the years, including a defensive structure, ruler’s residence, prison, arsenal and government centre.
It later became Dubai’s first museum in 1971.
Why Visit?
- Explore one of Dubai’s oldest surviving structures
- Learn about the city’s early history
- Admire traditional defensive architecture
- Combine the visit with the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood
2026 update: Al Fahidi Fort is undergoing rehabilitation and is expected to reopen to the public in 2026 with a new museum experience focused on Dubai’s history and defensive architecture. Check the latest official information before visiting.
Best for: History enthusiasts, families and first-time Dubai visitors.
2. Al Jahili Fort – Al Ain
One of the most impressive historical forts in Abu Dhabi, Al Jahili Fort is located in the oasis city of Al Ain.
The fort was built in the 1890s on the orders of Sheikh Zayed bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, also known as Zayed the First. It originally served as a summer residence for members of the ruling family.
The complex includes a square fort, defensive towers, a separate multi-level circular watchtower and large courtyards.
Today, Al Jahili Fort operates as a cultural attraction featuring exhibitions and a visitor centre. Its permanent exhibition dedicated to explorer Wilfred Thesiger provides fascinating insight into his journeys across the Empty Quarter.
Highlights
- Traditional mud-brick architecture
- Historic watchtower
- Cultural exhibitions
- Wilfred Thesiger exhibition
- Large courtyard
- Nearby Al Ain attractions
Best for: Heritage lovers, photographers and culture enthusiasts.
3. Fujairah Fort – Fujairah
Standing on a hill overlooking the old part of Fujairah, Fujairah Fort is among the UAE’s most renowned historic fortresses.
Official sources date the fort to the 16th century, making it one of the oldest and largest forts in the country. Its elevated position helped it protect the surrounding settlement.
The unusual structure consists of three circular towers and one rectangular tower, built using local stone, gravel, mud, straw and traditional plaster.
What to See
- Historic defensive towers
- Traditional construction techniques
- Views over Fujairah
- Nearby heritage sites
- Traditional date gardens
Fujairah Fort can easily be combined with Fujairah Heritage Village, Al Bidyah Mosque and Fujairah’s beaches.
Best for: History lovers, photographers and travelers exploring the UAE’s east coast.
4. Dhayah Fort – Ras Al Khaimah
For spectacular views combined with history, Dhayah Fort is one of the best forts to visit in Ras Al Khaimah.
The fort dates to the early 19th century and occupies a strategic hilltop position. Its location provided a natural defensive advantage while allowing views across the surrounding palm plantations, mountains and coastline.
The UAE government also identifies Dhayah Fort as an important military fortification that played a significant role in the region’s history.
Why Visit?
- Panoramic views
- Mountain and desert scenery
- Historical architecture
- Short hiking experience
- Excellent photography opportunities
The climb to the fort involves steps, so comfortable shoes and sufficient water are recommended.
Best for: Hikers, photographers and adventure travelers.
5. Al Bithnah Fort – Fujairah
Situated between the mountains and the coast, Al Bithnah Fort was part of a network of forts and watchtowers that protected important routes through the Hajar Mountains.
The official Fujairah tourism authority highlights the restored fort as one of the area’s important heritage landmarks.
Its location makes it an excellent stop during a road trip through Fujairah.
Highlights
- Mountain setting
- Traditional architecture
- Historic defensive role
- Scenic surroundings
- Easy addition to an east-coast itinerary
Best for: Road trippers, history enthusiasts and photographers.
6. Al Hayl Fort – Fujairah
Located in the mountains of Fujairah, Al Hayl Fort is another fascinating heritage site.
The fort and surrounding village provide a glimpse into traditional life in the emirate before modern development transformed the region.
The UAE government recommends exploring Al Hayl Fortress alongside Fujairah Fort and other historic sites.
Why Add It to Your Itinerary?
Its remote setting makes it particularly appealing to travelers who want to discover lesser-known historical places in the UAE.
Best for: Off-the-beaten-path travelers and heritage enthusiasts.
7. Qasr Al Muwaiji – Al Ain
Qasr Al Muwaiji is another significant historical landmark in Al Ain and is closely connected with the history of the Al Nahyan family.
The site has been carefully restored and transformed into a museum and cultural destination, making it an excellent complement to Al Jahili Fort.
Visitors can explore the architecture and exhibitions while learning about Al Ain’s development and the history of the ruling family.
Best for: Families, cultural travelers and history enthusiasts.
8. Ajman Museum and Ajman Fort
Located in the heart of the old city, Ajman Museum occupies a historic fort that once served as the residence of the ruling family and later as a police station.
The museum provides an insight into traditional life in Ajman through displays related to:
- Archaeology
- Traditional occupations
- Fishing
- Pearl diving
- Weapons
- Emirati household life
Its compact size makes it an easy cultural stop when exploring Ajman.
Best for: Families and visitors interested in everyday Emirati heritage.
9. Umm Al Quwain Fort and Museum
The historic fort in Umm Al Quwain provides an opportunity to explore the emirate’s maritime and cultural history.
The museum’s displays help visitors understand how traditional communities lived, worked and interacted with the surrounding coastal environment.
Explore
- Traditional artefacts
- Historical weapons
- Local heritage
- Traditional architecture
- Maritime history
For travelers looking beyond the major tourist destinations, Umm Al Quwain offers a quieter cultural experience.
10. Sharjah Fort (Al Hisn)
Sharjah Fort, also known as Al Hisn, is located in the historic heart of Sharjah.
The fort has played an important role in the emirate’s political and social history and has been reconstructed and restored as a heritage attraction.
Its exhibits provide insight into:
- Sharjah’s ruling family
- Traditional governance
- Local communities
- Trade
- Defense
- Everyday life
The fort can easily be combined with other Sharjah cultural attractions, making it ideal for a heritage-focused day trip.
Why Are UAE Forts Important?
Historical forts were much more than military structures. They served as:
- Defensive strongholds
- Rulers’ residences
- Government centres
- Watchtowers
- Community gathering spaces
- Protection for oases and agricultural areas
- Strategic points along trade routes
Their construction also reflects how communities adapted to the UAE’s environment.
Mud brick, stone, palm trunks, coral and other locally available materials were used to create structures suited to the climate and available resources.
Best Historical Forts in the UAE by Emirate
| Emirate | Fort to Visit |
| Dubai | Al Fahidi Fort |
| Abu Dhabi | Al Jahili Fort |
| Al Ain | Al Jahili Fort / Qasr Al Muwaiji |
| Fujairah | Fujairah Fort / Al Bithnah Fort |
| Ras Al Khaimah | Dhayah Fort |
| Sharjah | Sharjah Fort |
| Ajman | Ajman Fort |
| Umm Al Quwain | Umm Al Quwain Fort |
Best Time to Visit UAE Forts
The cooler months from October to April are generally the most comfortable for exploring outdoor heritage sites.
October to April
Ideal for:
- Fort visits
- Heritage walks
- Photography
- Road trips
- Outdoor sightseeing
During summer, plan outdoor visits for earlier or later in the day where possible and check individual attractions for current opening hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the oldest fort in the UAE?
Several UAE forts have very old origins. Fujairah Fort dates to the 16th century, while Al Fahidi Fort in Dubai was constructed in 1787.
Which is the most famous fort in the UAE?
Fujairah Fort, Al Fahidi Fort, Al Jahili Fort and Dhayah Fort are among the country’s best-known historic fortresses.
Which UAE fort offers the best views?
Dhayah Fort is particularly impressive for panoramic views because of its hilltop location overlooking the surrounding landscape.
Are UAE forts suitable for families?
Yes. Many forts have museums, exhibitions and educational displays, making them suitable for families and children.
What is the best time to visit historical forts in the UAE?
October to April is generally the most comfortable season for exploring UAE heritage sites, particularly forts with outdoor areas.
Final Thoughts
The historical forts in the UAE offer a fascinating window into the country’s past. Long before the modern skyline emerged, these structures served as homes, defensive strongholds, government centres and guardians of important settlements and trade routes.
From Al Fahidi Fort in Dubai to Fujairah Fort, Dhayah Fort and the lesser-known mountain fortresses of Fujairah, each site tells a different story about Emirati heritage.
If you’re planning a UAE holiday in 2026, don’t limit your itinerary to modern attractions. Add a few of these remarkable forts to your travel plans and discover the architecture, traditions and stories that helped shape the Emirates.
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CityLaila Travel Team
Our travel experts research and curate guides for attractions and experiences across 40+ destinations worldwide
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