Al Ghayl Fort – A window into Sharjah’s past
Offering extraordinary views of tropical mangroves and fertile springs, the picturesque Al Ghayl Fort is a strong reminder of the emirate’s historic past. Located south-west of the Kalba, the hill-top fortress is a creation from the 19th century and provides a unique glimpse into the way of life for Sharjah’s inhabitants during this time.
If you are planning a trip to this fort in Sharjah, here is everything you need to know.
About Al Ghayl Fort
Situated on the top of the hill in Kalba Bird of Prey Centre, Al Ghayl Fort serves as a perfect observation deck to enjoy beautiful views of the shy, colourful birds present in the aviary. It is surrounded by whimsical foliage such as palm, almond and lemon trees.
History of Al Ghayl Fort
Al Ghayl Fort or Gheel Fort was named after the Falaj – water channels that together make Aflaj Irrigation System – as it runs along with the underground channel streaming through the area.
Under the patronage of H.H Sheikh Saeed Bin Hamad Al Qasimi, the construction work of the fort was completed by Ali Bin Zahi using stones and gypsum. It was built to prevent the attack of bandits and burglars on commercial convoys in this area.
What to expect at Al Ghayl Fort Sharjah?
The fort consists of a watchtower and two basement rooms with kitchen, toilet and a guard room known as Hamya. Earlier, the Hamya was used by guards to alert their counterparts by throwing a stone, in case of invasion by enemies.
Al Ghayl Fort also consists of plenty of weapons and tools used earlier by soldiers to protect the sanctity of the emirate. These include daggers, mousers (rifles characterised by one opening and capacity for one bullet), yazer (a traditional weapon equipped with an axe), beishak (knife used by Emiratis who lived in the mountains), swords, catapults, bows and shields.
Al Ghayl Fort Location
Al Ghayl Fort is located in the Kalba Bird of Prey Centre. You can enter the historical monument within this wildlife sanctuary for AED 15.75 per person.
Al Ghayl Fort Timings
You can visit the fort all days a week. However, the opening hours vary based on the days.
- Sun-Thurs: 09:00 am to 05:30 pm
- Fri: 01:00 pm to 05:30 pm
- Sat: 11:00 am to 05:30 am
Al Ghayl Fort Contact
For any information or queries, call at +971-9-277-0880.
And that wraps our guide to Al Ghayl Fort. If you want to discover more historical gems of Sharjah, you could visit the Buhais Geological Park. It offers an insight into the archaeological makeup of the city. If you love exploring, visit heritage sites in Sharjah as they unravel the culturally rich emirate’s historical mysteries!
Which historical place in Sharjah fascinates you? Let us know in the comments section.
