Guide to Al Hayl Castle: A historical site in Fujairah
While Fujairah is one of the smaller emirates in the UAE, it’s no less popular, thanks to the wealth of attractions and things to do. From beaches to historical sites, reserves and parks, Fujairah makes for the perfect destination for a weekend getaway. When it comes to heritage sites, one of the hidden gems of Fujairah is the Al Hayl Castle, tucked away in Wadi Al Hayl in the Hajar Mountains. Featured in MyBayut’s ultimate list of things to do in Fujairah, Al Hayl Castle is a fun heritage stop during your trip to the emirate. MyBayut takes you around this unique heritage site, things to look out for and essential details you need to know.
What is Al Hayl Castle in Fujairah?
Al Hayl Castle or Al Hayl Palace was built around 1830 and belonged to the ruling family of Fujairah. Today, however, this historical site is managed by the Department of Antiquities and Heritage. Made of mud-brick and plaster, Al Hayl Castle is an excellent example of the traditional Arabian architecture of the time. The site is comprised of a fortified, residential compound, along with a defensive fort located on a hill, known as Al Hayl Fort.
What can you see at Al Hayl Palace?
When visiting Al Hayl Castle in Fujairah, you’ll get a glimpse of the daily life of the inhabitants of the past. The residential palace compound has meeting rooms known as majlis, storage areas, bedrooms and a kitchen, which visitors can explore.
Don’t forget to visit the meeting room that is attached to the tower in the compound! This majlis boasts beautiful decorative niches, and in the past, would have been decked with rich carpets, lamps, pictures and memorabilia. Outside the compound, you’ll find another informal and open majlis, where guests would drink coffee.
Aside from the residential compound, there is a short set of steps leading up to the Al Hayl Fort in Fujairah. This defensive fort is located on a small hilltop, overlooking the palace and Al Hayl Village. The stunning views of the lush valley dotted with palm trees against the backdrop of rugged mountains, make it well worth the climb! While Al Hayl Fort Fujairah is not very big, visitors can explore the few rooms in the tower and if they’re feeling adventurous, climb the wooden rungs to the upper level for a bird’s eye view of the valley!
What are the timings for Al Hayl Castle Fujairah?
Planning a visit to Al Hayl Castle in Fujairah? Make sure you go during the correct Al Hayl Castle timings to access all parts of the heritage site. Visitors can ask the caretaker or guard to show them around the compound and fort.
- Saturday – Thursday: 08:00 am – 06:00 pm
- Friday: 02:00 pm – 06:00 pm
Where is Al Hayl Palace located in Fujairah?
Al Hayl Castle is located in Wadi Al Hayl, southwest of Fujairah City. Bear in mind that parts of the inner roads to Al Hayl Castle can be rough, so it’s best to take a four-wheel-drive when visiting this historical site.
If you’re coming from Abu Dhabi, Dubai or Sharjah, continue on the Maliha-Fujairah Road (E84), and take the exit when you see signs for Al Hayl Fujairah. Turn right when you see the Fujairah Police Training Institute, and then continue straight till you reach the site.
Fujairah Tourism & Antiquities Authority Contact
If you have any more questions about this historical spot, you can contact the Fujairah Tourism Authorities at 09-222-9085.
What else can you do near Al Hayl Castle?
There’s plenty of things to do in Fujairah near Al Hayl Fort. Grand Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Fujairah is a wonderful stop for visitors during their trip to Fujairah. This magnificent place of worship boasts 65 domes and six minarets with stunning calligraphy, beautiful carpets and expansive courtyards. Alternatively, history buffs can pay a visit to Fujairah Fort, another popular historical landmark in the city. Or visitors can drop by the Fujairah Museum for a glimpse into the emirate’s history and culture.
And that brings an end to MyBayut’s guide to Al Hayl Castle Fujairah. If you’re planning a visit here, turn up the fun by making it a staycation at Fujairah’s best hotels for weekend getaways. Fujairah is also known for its sandy beaches with turquoise waters, with many of them featuring camping sites. Take a look at the many beaches in Fujairah and find out the facilities and restaurants nearby.
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