All about Falaj Al Mualla Fort in Umm Al Quwain
Umm Al Quwain is one of the smallest emirates in the UAE. Unlike Dubai, there may not be many swanky skyscrapers or glitzy attractions but the authentic experience that the historic attractions in the emirate offer, draw in people from far and wide. Falaj Al Mualla Fort is a similar place in Umm Al Quwain that attracts history buffs as well as tourists with a bit of wanderlust. Located in the island oasis town of Falaj Al Mualla, the fort is one of the most fascinating places in the UAE. What is Falaj Al Mualla? What is the significance of the fort? Let’s find out.
What is Falaj Al Mualla UAE?
Originally known as Falaj Al Ali, Falaj Al Mualla is an area located in Umm Al Quwain. Nestled 30 km off the centre of the mainland, the significance of the place dates back to the time when the Al Ali tribe moved from Sinniyah island to the mainland due to lack of water resources.
The place has long been associated with farming. Approximately, 60 families have made a living out of the 5000 date palms in the oasis. It is also the first poultry farm in the UAE.
Falaj Al Mualla attracts lots of visitors who want to check out the fort and three watchtowers (east, west and north) that protect the fertile wadi.
Falaj Al Mualla Fort Umm Al Quwain
Restored in 2015, Falaj Al Mualla fort is one of the most important sites in Umm Al Quwain. It was built under the supervision of His Highness Sheikh Abdullah Bin Rashid Al Mualla, the Ruler of Umm Al Quwain, in 1825.
The 19th-century fort consists of a square shape with two towers with one in the northeast while the other is in the south-west. The fort also has a courtyard made with gypsum. It also houses a mosque, which features Jindal roofing sheets. There is also a museum consisting of a variety of artefacts in the fort.
Al Hasen Museum – A Historical Wonder in Falaj Al Mualla Museum
Once you entered the Al Hasen museum in the fort, you will stumble upon different sections featuring archaeological and ethnological displays.
Rooms in Falaj Al Mualla Museum
There are specific rooms in Falaj Al Mualla Museum featuring different artefacts. These rooms include:
Effects Room
The effects room contains guns and swords Sheikh Al Mualla inherited from his ancestors.
Traditional Crafts Room
This room has silver ornaments, bracelets, rings, earrings, necklaces and more.
Sea Room
The most famous exhibits in these rooms include fishing tools and pottery sets used in the 19th century.
Photos and Documents Room
You can explore the documents as well as old photos of national events in this room.
The Traditional Market
The most popular of them all is the ‘market room’ that features various shops including the fabric shop.
Coffee Shop
The diorama of a coffee shop is also created in the museum, where you can witness various artefacts.
Sheikha Room
There is also a ‘Sheikha room’ that contains a bed and a variety of old pots.
Bedouin Room
Head further and stop by a Bedouin room to find old tools used for irrigation.
FAQs
What is Falaj Al Mualla Fort Location?
Falaj Al Mualla Fort is located near Al Shawi Supermarket, Umm Al Quwain.
What are Falaj Al Mualla Fort Timings?
Falaj Al Mualla fort opens from 08:00 am to 02:00 pm, reopens at 03:00 pm and closes at 08:00 pm from Monday to Thursday. On Fridays, however, it remains open from 03:00 pm to 08:00 pm.
What are Falaj Al Mualla Fort Contact Details?
Falaj Al Mualla Contact: +971-6-748-5381
And that brings an end to our guide to Falaj Al Mualla Fort. Besides the fort, the popular Umm Al Quwain National Museum is also a place to stop by.
Similar to history enthusiasts, there are many things to do in Umm Al Quwain for thrill-seekers as well. Making a splash at the Dreamland Aqua Park, visiting the museum or having fun at UAQ Marine Club are some of the most fascinating activities to indulge in.
Which of these places have you visited in the UAQ? Let us know in the comments section.
