UAE is rich in historical places that narrate the early days of this united country. Each emirate has its own story to tell. Similarly, Al Jahili Fort in Al Ain depicts the era of Sheikh Zayed Bin Khalifa in the 19th century.
As the fort is located in the middle of Al Jahili Park, the lush green surroundings enhance its worth. So, let’s scroll down and discover all the relevant details of this historical place in Abu Dhabi!
- Location
- History of Al Jahili Fort
- Al Jahili Fort Structure
- Things to Do at Al Jahili Fort
- Transportation
- Entry Fee
- Timings and Contact
- FAQs
Location
Abu Dhabi’s historic place, Al Jahili Fort, is located in Al Ain. Here is its exact address:
Mohammed Bin Khalifa Al Nahyan Street, Al Jahili, Hai Al Qalaa, Abu Dhabi, UAE
History of Al Jahili Fort
In the late 19th century, Sheikh Zayed Bin Khalifa ruled the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. He was also a leader of the Bani Yas tribe and head of the Al Falah family. He ordered the construction of Al Jahili Fort in Al Ain to control tribes and his summer residence.
The fort was completed in 1898 but was abandoned after Sheikh Zayed’s death. In the 1950s, British forces incorporated the fort into a larger enclosure, forming their regional headquarters. The tower was under the military use till 1970.
In 1985, restoration work began and in 2007-2008, a major rehabilitation project was undertaken. The project included:
- Visitor information centre
- Permanent exhibition space for explorer Wilfred Thesiger
- Temporary exhibition space for others
Al Jahili Fort Structure
Al Jahili Fort was originally a square, high-walled fort and a separate round tower with four concentric tiers rising and narrowing. But today, the fort features cylindrical towers at three corners and a Sheikh’s majlis in the fourth.
The majlis, or a reception area in Al Jahili Fort, was where the Sheikh entertained guests and conducted official business.
Things to Do at Al Jahili Fort
Al Jahili Fort is one of the best places to visit in Al Ain. Here, you can engage in the following activities:
1. Explore the Fort
Al Jahili Fort is one of the largest castles in the city. You can explore this 35m long and 8m high square-shaped fort, with embrasures and triangular balconies.
From the top of each of its three round watchtowers, you can take in the beauty of Al Jahili. Also, a historic mosque outside the fort’s walls is worth visiting.
2. Attend Exhibitions
The fort also hosts various educational exhibitions related to UAE’s cultural history. Al Jahili Fort also has a permanent exhibition space devoted to the world’s famous explorer and writer, Wilfred Thesiger. You can attend these exhibitions and increase your knowledge for free.
3. Visit Bookshop
You can also visit a bookshop in Al Jahili Fort. This exclusive bookshop offers you an extensive variety of books, including national history. Moreover, you may find some amazing travel books by Wilfred Thesiger in this bookstore.
4. Relax at Al Jahili Park
The beautiful and refreshing Al Jahili Park surrounds the fort, so you can relax after the exploration. The park features lush green grassy areas with comfortable benches every short distance.
Along with that, the park has various amenities and fun places as well, including:
- Public Toilet
- Bath Area
- Children’s Playground
- Al Ain Flower Festival in Al Jahili Park
- Ms Latifa Rammmed Earth Sculpture
Transportation
You can feasibly visit the historic Al Jahili Fort with Abu Dhabi public transport. You can take the Abu Dhabi bus to the fort and travel comfortably.
Several Abu Dhabi bus stations are located near the fort within walking distance. The following are the nearest bus stops:
- Sultan Bin Zayed The First Street / Al Jahili Fort:
- 6 minutes walk away
- Red Buses: 903 and 913
- Sultan Bin Zayed The First Street / Specialised Medical Care Hospital:
- 8 minutes walk away
- Red Buses: 903 and 913
- Zayed Bin Sultan Street / Al Jahili Park:
- 9 minutes walk away
- Green Buses: 350, 360, 380 and 390
- Red Buses: 901, 902, 911 and 912
Entry Fee
There is no entry fee for visiting Al Jahili Fort in Al Ain. So, you can visit this beautiful historical place for free.
Parking
Al Jahili Fort offers an exclusive parking lot with hundreds of parking spaces. Also, there are no parking charges here, making it more convenient for visitors.
Timings and Contact
The contact details of Al Jahili Fort, along with its timing, are as follows:
Opening Hours
09:00 am to 07:00 pm (Daily)
Contact
+971-3-711-8311
FAQs
Al Jahili Fort is a heritage monument that serves as a cultural centre and landmark in Al Ain. The fort attracts visitors to view heritage sites and provide historical information.
The entrance to Al Jahili Fort is free.
Qasr Al Hosn, also known as the White Fort, is the first fort in Abu Dhabi.
Al Jahili Park in Al Ain is one of the most extensive fortresses. This iconic place holds a great national history. As the fort is located in the middle of the famous Al Jahili Park, you will enjoy visiting it.
For more guides on tourist places, check out the Property Finder Blog.
