Al Jahili Fort

The basics

Visitors can watch a video of the restoration work and explore the restored square fort and round tower. A permanent exhibition showcases the photographs of British explorer Wilfred Thesiger, taken on his journeys across the Empty Quarter. There are also rotating temporary exhibitions. Visit independently or as part of an Al Ain sightseeing tour, which typically includes other highlights such as the Sheikh Zayed Palace Museum, Al Ain National Museum, and Al Ain Camel Souk.

Things to know before you go

• Al Jahili Fort is ideal for history buffs, photographers, and visitors looking to escape the modern attractions of the UAE.

• It’s free to enter the fort and to park nearby.

• There is limited shade, so be sure to wear sunscreen and bring lots of water.

How to get there

Al Jahili Fort is located on Mohammed Bin Khalifa Street, in Al Ain, around 100 miles (160 kilometers) from Abu Dhabi. There’s plenty of parking on-site. The X90 bus connects Abu Dhabi to Al Ain, and the fort is within walking distance of the bus stop. It’s also possible to visit the fort part of an Al Ain sightseeing tour, including tours from Abu Dhabi or Dubai.

When to get there

Al Jahili Fort is open daily from morning to evening. Visitors should plan to spend around an hour exploring the fort and its exhibits. Classical music concerts and other public events are held in the courtyard at Al Jahili Fort from time to time. It’s best to visit in winter when temperatures are more pleasant.

Explorer Wilfred Thesiger

British explorer Wilfred Thesiger was known in the Arabian Peninsula as Mubarak Bin London (or “Blessed from London”). He’s known for having crossed the Rub’ al Khali (Empty Quarter) desert twice, traveling in the traditional Bedouin style. His collection of photos and writings from those trips are displayed at the Al Jahili Fort as a permanent exhibit. Additional photos by Thesiger can be found at the Pitt Rivers Museum in Oxford.