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Explore the forts of Al Ain
Embark on a journey through time and tales as you discover the secrets of Al Ain's forts. These ancient structures stand as silent witnesses to the city's captivating history. Follow the footsteps of the past and hear the stories that shaped Al Ain's culture and heritage. From the grandeur of Al Jahili Fort to the enchanting Qasr Al Muwaiji, immerse yourself in a world where history comes alive.
Al Jahili Fort
Discover ancient Al Jahili Fort, an enduring and captivating symbol Al Ain's heritage. Commissioned by Sheikh Zayed bin Khalifa Al Nahyan in the 1890s, the grand mud-brick fortress was revived in 1985 and restored by the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi in 2007-2008. Bordered by a lush park, it won the 2016 Terra Award for Internal Design. Now a cultural hub, the fort hosts temporary and permanent exhibits, including a homage to intrepid explorer Sir Wilfred Thesiger, who conquered the Empty Quarter twice in the 1940s. Nearby, the historic Jahili Mosque echoes the fort's grandeur, making your journey through time and culture an unforgettable experience in Al Ain's embrace.
Qasr Al Muwaiji
Step into the living history of Al Ain at Qasr Al Muwaiji. Located at the western entrance of the city, this remarkable fortress is a testament to the UAE's rich heritage, offering a compelling glimpse into the past. Once the domain of Sheikh Zayed bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, known as Zayed the First, and later the home of the UAE's Founding Father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Qasr Al Muwaiji has a treasure trove of stories. It's where the legacy of the nation's leadership was nurtured, and where the late Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan spent his formative years learning from his father. Discover the essence of Al Ain's history within this ancient fortress.
Al Ain Palace Museum
History comes alive at Al Ain Palace Museum. Originally a home for the UAE's Ruling Family and a centre of governance, this palace, built in 1937 and expanded by the visionary Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the nation's Founding Father, carries echoes of a past era. Transformed into a living museum in 2001, it preserves the essence of the past. Discover the Emirati way of life from the 20th century, and explore the architecture of the Transition Period (1930s–60s), trace the family tree of the Al Nahyan rulers, and experience Bedouin hospitality under the grand tent. This place is more than a museum; it's an essential portal into Al Ain's legacy.
