Fort Al Bithnah: the guardian of the wadi

Like all the forts in the region, its history is imprecise and eventful. The estimated date of its construction is 1735. Its function was eminently strategic. If you look at a topographic map of the area, you will see that Fujairah is protected by the high mountains Al Hajar, and that its access from the west is possible only through the valley carved by the waters of Wadi Ham. Today there is another highway but it was recently built dynamiting the mountain. In ancient times, therefore, to go to Fujairah from the desert, the only road was to follow the Wadi Ham. Building a fortress next door, some 13 kilometers from the coast, allowed access to the sea to be controlled.

This was what Fort Al Bithnah did for nearly two centuries, repelling the incursions of the desert tribes and other enemies. It should be kept in mind that at the time, the fast mountain side road did not exist, and that the caravans were walking in the wadi bed.

In the twentieth century, the fort fell into ruins (and it seems destroyed in the 70s) and several restoration programs were conducted, the last being completed in September 2012. Note that the small wall that surrounds the fort is a contemporary realization.

Tourists coming to the fort are extremely rare. If the doors are closed (this can happen especially on Friday morning when the guard goes to prayer), try to push them and turn around the fort until someone comes to open you. Access to the upper floors is via a tiny, long corridor. We imagine that if attackers took this path, their progress would be more than perilous. The fort is very well maintained and its high walls have two towers on the west side, ie towards the wadi. The materials used are mainly stones adjusted by a mixture of mortar and plaster, and also wood from date palms. On the upper floor you can see large terraces, and several nice observation points on the palm grove and mountains. Outside the fortifications, a small fountain where the water gushing from the wadi flows.

The entrance to the fort is free, however if the guardian accompanies you, or if he has opened the doors just for you, he should be thanked by a contribution proportional to the number of visitors. On the other hand, if it is an emirian who made you discover the fort, you would vex by giving him a tip.

For hotel tips in the area, check out our article on Fujairah City which has a detailed section on accommodation. For hotels with beach, check out our hotels guide beach of the emirate of Fujairah.

The fort is visible from afar but you have to find your way to get to its doors. Exit the main road and enter the locality of Al Bathnah. Cross the dusty streets of the village trying to head for the fort, then when there is no more road, park your vehicle and walk through the palm grove.

Visit also