Nestled in the Madeena Al Qadeema, the Umm Al Quwain Fort is an important site that showcases the emirate’s heritage. The fort offers more than just a glimpse into the history of the Al Mualla dynasty by featuring the historic Umm Al Quwain Museum.
Here, you can explore the fort’s well-preserved rooms and see conventional architectural elements, such as wind towers used for natural ventilation. All in all, it’s a journey through time, offering insight into the evolution of traditional Emirati architecture. With this guide, let’s discuss more!
- Location
- Nearby Areas
- How to Get to the Fort
- Facilities and Services
- Things to Do at Fort
- Nearby Restaurants
- Entrance Fee
- Opening Hours
- Key Takeaways
- FAQs
Location
One of the oldest forts in the UAE, Umm Al Quwain Fort, is located in Madeena Al Qadeema. The fort is situated on Al Hisn Street near Umm Al Quwain New Corniche, providing feasible access to all the visitors.
Nearby Areas
Since the fort is strategically located in Madeena Al Qadeema, it is surrounded by top-notch areas in the Umm Al Quwain Emirate. The historical presence of its neighbouring regions enhances its environment and real estate value due to their rich heritage. These communities include:
- Old Umm Al Quwain: 2 minutes’ drive away
- Lamagdar: 3 minutes’ drive away
- Al Raudah: 4 minutes’ drive away
- Al Dar Al Baidaa: 7 minutes’ drive away
How to Get to the Fort
Although Umm Al Quwain Fort offers limited access to public transport, you can still reach this place easily. You can reach this historic destination by opting for public taxis, as it does not offer bus routes. Here are some ways to get to the fort:
1. By Taxi
If you want to reach the fort directly via public transport, taking a taxi to the destination is a convenient option. You can easily book a cab from an online platform within a few minutes or hail a cab from a stand.
2. By Car
Those who prefer driving to the fort can take the E11 highway leading towards Al Ramlah. From the roundabout, take the right towards King Faisal Street, connecting to Al Hsn Street.
Then again, take the right towards Madeena Al Qadeema, leading towards the Fort. The place also offers ample free parking, offering you the ultimate convenience.
Facilities and Services
Umm Al Quwain Fort provides a memorable and educational experience with various amenities and facilities, ensuring an impressive experience for visitors. Here are some prominent facilities available here:
- Restrooms
- Souvenir Shop
- Guided Tours
- Parking
- Café or Refreshment Area
- Accessibility
- Exhibits
- Cultural Events
Things to Do at Umm Al Quwain Fort
The UAQ Fort, one of the best places to visit in Umm Al Quwain, offers the following activities to enjoy with friends and family.

1. Explore the Fort
Umm Al Quwain Fort offers a glimpse into the emirate’s rich history and culture. You can wander through its towers and rooms, learning about the region’s heritage. The fort’s architecture and strategic location also provide insight into its significance as a former ruling seat.
2. Visit the Museum
Since the fort features the Umm Al Quwain Museum, it is a journey through time. Here, you can witness various artefacts, traditional items and historical photographs, offering insights into the emirate’s rich heritage. All in all, visiting the museum is a unique and enriching experience for everyone.

3. Guided Tours
Here, you can also sign up for guided tours of the fort for a deeper understanding of the emirate’s history and culture. With all the knowledgeable guides, you can explore the fort’s towers and rooms, sharing insights into artifacts, traditions, and historical events.
Moreover, these tours provide a rich and immersive experience, bringing the fort’s stories to life in an engaging way.
4. Appreciate the Architecture
By visiting this place, you can witness the majestic architecture of Umm Al Quwain Fort, which is a testament to traditional Emirati design. The fort’s sturdy walls, towers, and intricate details reflect the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Visitors appreciate the fort’s strategic location and historic significance, admiring its craftsmanship and preservation of the emirate’s history.

Nearby Restaurants
You can also stop at various top-notch restaurants in Umm Al Quwain after exploring this historic destination. These eateries offer a variety of fast food options. Some of the must-visit restaurants located nearby include:
- Khyber Restaurant: 2 minutes’ drive away
- Jalalabad Restaurant: 2 minutes’ drive away
- Al Haram Restaurant: 2 minutes’ drive away
- Origins Umm Al Quwain: 6 minutes’ drive away
- Shot Cafe: 13 minutes’ drive away

Entrance Fee
The entry ticket for visiting the iconic Umm Al Quwain Fort is AED 4 for adults, a small price to pay for a journey through history. And here’s a bonus: children under 15 can explore this historic destination for free, making it a perfect family outing.
Opening Hours
You can visit Umm Al Quwain Fort with your family, or on a school trip during the following hours:
- Saturday to Thursday: 07:00 am to 08:00 pm
- Friday: 08:00 am to 12:00 pm | 02:00 pm to 08:00 pm
Key Takeaways
Umm Al Quwain Fort, also known as Al Ali Fort, is a historic fortress built in 1768. In 2000, Sheikh Rashid Bin Ahmed Al Mualla directed the restoration and opening as a public museum.
Located in the Madeena Al Qadeema, the fort is a significant site that showcases the traditional Emirati architecture. The museum features artifacts from the Ed-Dur archaeological site, weapons, tools and traditional artworks.
Visitors can explore the fort’s well-preserved rooms and see conventional architectural elements, such as wind towers used for natural ventilation. The fort offers insight into the history of the Al Mualla dynasty and the changing roles of structures in the region.

FAQs
Yes, free parking is generally available at Umm Al Quwain Fort.
Yes, there are various ancient sites in Umm Al Quwain, including forts, historic landmarks and museums. You can also visit Falaj Al Muala Fort while exploring this emirate.
Umm Al Quwain Fort offers a variety of fascinating activities that provide insights into the rich history of the UAE. Whether you want to explore the fort or visit the museum, each corner of this place narrates a captivating story of the country’s rich history.
Besides that, if you are seeking on-sale or rental properties in Umm Al Quwain, you can find some of the most affordable options here.