A restored 19th-century fort with an exhibition on explorer Wilfred Thesiger.
Address: Al Jahili, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi
Al Jahili Fort was built in the 1890s by Sheikh Zayed bin Khalifa (Zayed the First) to protect the city and its palm groves. Its round tower, with four levels of battlements, is one of the most photographed buildings in Al Ain.
Restored in the 2000s, the fort now holds an exhibition of photographs by Wilfred Thesiger, the British explorer who crossed the Empty Quarter in the 1940s with Bedouin companions.
October to April.
Late afternoon, when the walls turn golden.
Usually closed on Mondays; check times before visiting.
Well-known hotels within easy reach. Check prices and availability for your dates.
Sheikh Zayed bin Khalifa (Zayed the First), in the 1890s.
Yes, entry is usually free.
Exhibitions on the fort's history and Wilfred Thesiger's photographs.
