Fujairah Fort is the oldest fort in the United Arab Emirates, built in the 16th century on a rocky hill in the old Al Sharyah district of Fujairah city on the UAE east coast. Made from local stone, gravel and mortar with roofs of mangrove poles and palm fronds, it guarded the region for centuries and is linked to the ruling Al Sharqi family. British naval shelling in 1925 left it in ruins, and it was carefully restored between 1997 and 2000. Today entry is free, the fort opens daily from 8 am to 5 pm, and it stands right beside Fujairah Heritage Village, a few minutes from Fujairah Museum.
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Table of Contents
Fujairah Fort at a glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Al Sharyah, old town of Fujairah city, UAE |
| Built | 16th century |
| Known as | The oldest fort in the UAE |
| Materials | Stone, gravel and mortar, with mangrove pole and palm frond roofs |
| Towers | Three round towers and one square tower |
| Size | About 610 square metres |
| Restored | 1997 to 2000 |
| Opening hours | Daily, 8 am to 5 pm |
| Entry fee | Free |
| Time needed | 45 to 60 minutes |
| Distance from Dubai | Around 1 hour 45 minutes by car |
| Next door | Fujairah Heritage Village |
History of Fujairah Fort
Fujairah Fort was built in the 16th century to protect the town, its date palm farms and the trade routes linking the Hajar Mountains with the Gulf of Oman coast. For generations it was the centre of local power and defence on the east coast.
Between 1808 and 1810 the fort was occupied by Wahhabi forces before local tribes took it back. In 1925 the British navy bombarded the fort and destroyed three of its towers, and the building was later abandoned. Fujairah heritage authorities restored it between 1997 and 2000 using traditional materials and methods, and it reopened to visitors as one of the most important heritage landmarks in the country.
Architecture and what to see inside
The fort is a compact but impressive structure with thick walls, narrow loopholes for defence, three round watchtowers and one square tower. Inside you will find an open courtyard surrounded by small rooms, including a madbasa where dates were pressed to make date syrup, and a tower that was once used as a prison.
Climb to the upper level for wide views over old Fujairah, the surrounding date palm plantations, the rugged Hajar Mountains and the coastline. The earthy colours of the walls look especially beautiful in the soft light of late afternoon, which makes it a favourite spot for photographers.
Where is Fujairah Fort located?
Fujairah Fort stands on a low rocky hill in Al Sharyah, the old town of Fujairah city, on the east coast of the United Arab Emirates. It sits just a short drive from the modern city centre and the Fujairah Corniche, surrounded by date palm farms with the Hajar Mountains rising behind it. Fujairah Heritage Village is right next to the fort, and Fujairah Museum is only a few minutes away by car, so you can easily explore all three in one visit.
Fujairah is the only one of the seven emirates of the UAE that lies almost entirely on the Gulf of Oman coast, which gives the fort its unique setting between mountains and sea. Here is how long it usually takes to reach Fujairah Fort by car:
- From Dubai: around 1 hour 45 minutes
- From Sharjah: around 1 hour 30 minutes
- From Abu Dhabi: around 3 hours
- From Fujairah city centre: around 10 minutes
Search for Fujairah Fort on Google Maps to get directions, as signs to the fort and the heritage village are clear once you reach the old town. If you prefer not to drive, White Sky Travel can arrange a private transfer or a full Fujairah day tour from Dubai or Sharjah.
Fujairah Fort opening hours and entry fee
Fujairah Fort is open every day from 8 am to 5 pm and entry is free. Hours can change during Ramadan, Eid and public holidays, so it is wise to confirm timings before you travel. Visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon helps you avoid the strongest heat, especially between May and September.
How to visit Fujairah Fort
- Drive or book a tour to Fujairah city, around 1 hour 45 minutes from Dubai.
- Head to the Al Sharyah area in the old town, where the fort stands on a low hill.
- Start in the inner courtyard and read the information panels about each part of the fort.
- Climb the towers slowly, as the stairs are narrow and uneven.
- Walk next door to Fujairah Heritage Village to see traditional houses, farming tools and old irrigation systems.
- Finish at Fujairah Museum, a short drive away, to see archaeological finds from the region.
Tips for a comfortable visit
- Wear modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees out of respect for local culture.
- Bring water, a hat and sunscreen, as shade inside the courtyard is limited.
- Wear comfortable shoes with good grip for the rocky paths and steps.
- Keep bags light, since passages and stairways are narrow.
- Plan about an hour for the fort and another hour for the heritage village.
- Combine your visit with a beach or snorkelling stop on the Fujairah coast for a full day trip.
Accessibility and who will enjoy it
The courtyard and ground level are the easiest areas to explore, while the towers and upper levels are reached by steep, narrow stairs without ramps. Visitors with limited mobility can still enjoy the walls, the courtyard and the views of the fort from outside.
Fujairah Fort is ideal for families, history lovers, photographers and anyone who wants to see authentic Emirati heritage away from busy city attractions. If you prefer adventure, pair it with Fujairah Adventure Park or a snorkelling trip to Snoopy Island. For more ideas, see our list of the top tourist places in Fujairah.
Places to visit near Fujairah Fort
- Fujairah Heritage Village: right next to the fort, showing traditional village life.
- Fujairah Museum: archaeological and ethnographic collections from the emirate.
- Sheikh Zayed Mosque Fujairah: one of the largest mosques in the UAE.
- Ain Al Madhab Gardens: green gardens fed by natural mineral springs.
- Al Bidyah Mosque: the oldest known mosque in the UAE, north along the coast.
- Snoopy Island: a popular snorkelling and diving spot near Dibba.
More forts and heritage sites to explore in the UAE
If you love the history of Fujairah Fort, these heritage landmarks and east coast attractions make great additions to your UAE travel list:
- Al Hayl Castle in Fujairah: a hilltop fort and former royal residence in Wadi Al Hayl, just a short drive southwest of the city.
- Al Jahili Fort in Al Ain: one of the largest historic forts in the country, surrounded by palm gardens.
- Dhayah Fort in Ras Al Khaimah: a hilltop fort with sweeping views over date farms and the sea.
- Al Qasimi Palace in Ras Al Khaimah: a grand palace with striking architecture and guided tours.
- Hili Archaeological Park: Bronze Age tombs and ruins in Al Ain.
- Khorfakkan Waterfalls: a scenic stop on the east coast, a short drive from Fujairah.
- Al Dhaid in Sharjah: an oasis town you can visit on the drive to Fujairah.
Plan your Fujairah trip with White Sky Travel
White Sky Travel and Tourism makes your Fujairah Fort visit easy, from day tours and private transfers to beach hotels on the east coast such as Fujairah Rotana Resort and Spa. You can split the cost with Tabby, Tamara or UAE credit card installments for up to 12 months. Message us on WhatsApp at +971 4 220 2133 and our team will plan the right trip for you.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Fujairah Fort located?
Fujairah Fort is in the Al Sharyah area of old Fujairah city on the east coast of the UAE, next to Fujairah Heritage Village and a few minutes from Fujairah Museum.
How old is Fujairah Fort?
Fujairah Fort dates back to the 16th century, making it more than 450 years old. It was restored between 1997 and 2000.
Is Fujairah Fort the oldest fort in the UAE?
Yes, Fujairah Fort is widely recognised as the oldest fort in the United Arab Emirates.
What are the Fujairah Fort opening hours?
The fort is open daily from 8 am to 5 pm. Timings may change during Ramadan and public holidays.
Is there an entry fee for Fujairah Fort?
No, entry to Fujairah Fort is free for all visitors.
How long does a visit to Fujairah Fort take?
Most visitors spend 45 to 60 minutes at the fort. Add another hour if you also explore the heritage village next door.
How far is Fujairah Fort from Dubai?
Fujairah Fort is around 1 hour 45 minutes from Dubai by car, which makes it an easy day trip. White Sky Travel can arrange tours and transfers for you.
What should I wear to Fujairah Fort?
Wear modest clothes that cover shoulders and knees, comfortable shoes and a hat for sun protection.
Is Fujairah Fort wheelchair accessible?
The courtyard and ground level are accessible, but the towers and upper levels have steep stairs without ramps.
Can I take photos at Fujairah Fort?
Yes, photography is allowed. Late afternoon gives the best light on the fort walls.
Conclusion
Fujairah Fort is a must see for anyone who wants to understand the history of the UAE east coast. In one short visit you can walk through the oldest fort in the country, climb its watchtowers, enjoy views of the Hajar Mountains and the old town, and then explore Fujairah Heritage Village next door, all with free entry. Go early in the morning or in the late afternoon, dress modestly and pair the fort with the beaches and nearby attractions of Fujairah for a memorable day trip.
Ready to visit? Let White Sky Travel and Tourism arrange your tour, transfer or beach stay in Fujairah, with easy payments through Tabby, Tamara or UAE credit card installments for up to 12 months. Message us on WhatsApp at +971 4 220 2133 to start planning today.
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