Explore Bithnah Fort in Fujairah
The emirate of Fujairah, located on the east coast of the UAE, is set against the backdrop of the majestic Hajar Mountains. The tiny, secluded emirate is home to a number of historical and culturally significant sites such as Al Bidyah Mosque, Fujairah Fortress and Al Hayl Castle. However, another fortress worth a visit in the city is Bithnah Fort in Fujairah. The historical monument attracts UAE residents and tourists in equal number.
Read on for more information on this heritage site and other Al Bithnah Fort information that might come in handy when you visit.
HISTORY OF THE BITHNAH FORT FUJAIRAH
Bithnah Fort or Al Bithnah Fort has had an eventful history. Al Bithnah village was a well-known battle site in 1735 where there were regular clashes between the two main local tribes. At that time, there was little fortification in the area to protect the village and its residents.
Al Bithnah Fort in Fujairah, UAE, was built for this reason. The strategic location of the fort allowed the locals to protect their village from attackers. Several watchtowers were also constructed in the nearby areas in intimate the residents of any oncoming attacks, the remnants of which can be seen even today.
According to the Al Bithnah Fort history, in 1884, Sheikh Hammad Bin Abdullah Al Sharqi took control of the fort and the village. For years, the fort was central to the Sheikh’s cause of declaring Fujairah as a de facto independent state. The fort played a crucial role in 1901 when Sheikh Hammad refused Sharjah’s suzerainty. The cultural and political significance is why is Al Bithnah Fort is famous and important.
AREA OF AL BITHNAH FORT FUJAIRAH
Bithnah Fort is located in Wadi Ham, 13.5 kilometres north-west of Fujairah city. The fort is ideally constructed over a slight upward trajectory just above the base of the wadi on a flat terrace location. The location for the fort proved to be of great significance as it protected the inland route from Fujairah through Wadi Ham.
DESIGN OF THE FORT
Al Bithnah Fort in Fujairah underwent rigorous restoration in 2012, that helped renovate most of the fortress back to its original state. Bithnah Fort has is rectangular shaped, staying true to the native Arab style of fortifications.
It’s design and construction are similar to Al Hayl Castle, the Fujairah Fortress and other fortresses and watchtowers located around Fujairah.
The fort has two round corner towers and a guard’s room. The building uses construction materials like bricks, date palms, boulders from the nearby wadi and hardwood. Moreover, mud mortars and plasters are also used in its building. The magnificent doors inside the fort have intricate designs as well.
The upper floors have wide-open terraces and observation points that were used in the past to keep a lookout for rivals during battle. Move outside the fort and you will see a freshwater fountain that brings in water from the wadi.
AL BITHNAH FORT LOCATION
The Bithnah Fort is located in Bithnah village, near the picturesque Fujairah wadis. The fort is just located off the main E89 highway.
HOW TO GET THERE?
The best way to reach and explore the fort is by driving there. You can take your own car or rent one. An SUV is preferable due to the rugged terrain. Follow the main E89 highway to reach the Al Bithnah Fort location.
The fort will be visible from afar but if you don’t have a guide with you, ask the locals for directions to the fort. Different tour operators in the UAE offer guided tours to the Bithnah Fort Fujairah. Those planning to visit Fujairah can book comfortable stays at the best hotels in Fujairah.
AL BITHNAH FORT ENTRY FEE
Currently, there is no entry fee to the fort. Visitors can visit and explore the fort without any ticket or charges. However, don’t forget to tip the caretaker who is usually present at the fort. You can expect slight delays on Fridays, but the caretaker will mostly let you in without a fee.
That’s our look at Al Bithnah Fort in Fujairah. The fort is one of the top heritage sites in Fujairah. History buffs can also visit Al Hayl Castle and discover the history behind the small fortress. Fujairah Heritage Village is another popular attraction among tourists who wish to learn the history of the emirate.
Additionally, visitors to the northern emirate will find many things to do in Fujairah such as snorkelling on the Snoopy Island, scuba diving, parasailing and climbing the Hajar Mountains.
Adventure buffs can plan out a day of thrilling pursuits at the magnificent wadis in Fujairah to witness the grandeur of the mountains in the region.
Stay tuned to MyBayut for more updates about the UAE and the adventures it has to offer.
