Al Falayah Fort

Al Falayah Fort is an 18th-century fort that served as the summer residence for the ruling Al Qasimi family. Originally used as a rest house, the fort holds historical significance as the site where the landmark 1820 Treaty of Maritime Peace was signed. On 15th March 1820, Rashid bin Hamid Al Nuaimi, the Ruler of Ajman, and Abdulla Bin Rashid Al Mualla, the Ruler of Umm Al Quwain, signed the treaty at Al Falayah Fort.

This momentous agreement not only put an end to the violent conflicts between the British Empire and the desert warriors of Ras Al Khaimah but also laid the groundwork for the establishment of the United Arab Emirates in the future.

Things to know more about Al Falayah Fort

The fort also served the purpose of safeguarding the palm gardens and inhabitants of Falayah, offering them a place of refuge during attacks. Additionally, as part of the fortification system, it provided protection to the residents of the Sheikdom of Ras Al Khaimah from invaders. The residential buildings within the fort, strategically situated close to the refreshing palm groves, provided a delightful climate and became a favored spot for seeking shade and coolness, particularly during the hotter months of the year.

The entire complex comprises two interconnected buildings that were linked by a towering wall in the past. One of the buildings served as dwellings, while the other, centered within the complex, featured a stone tower. Adjacent to these walls, a mosque provided a place for devout individuals to offer their prayers to the Almighty.

This impressive stone tower represents a classic defensive structure with crenellations and circular recesses that served as lookout points. It was an integral part of the Falayah Fort, along with the great wall, serving as the public face of the Falayah Fort. The tower comprised three floors, with the top floor designed as an open-plan space, while the lower floor served as a storage area and entrance.

Two buildings were attached to the tower, but they no longer exist. The construction of the tower using sturdy stone, rather than the more fragile adobe bricks, underscores its importance as a defensive stronghold.

The complex is adorned with meticulously crafted wooden replicas of the original doors and window grilles, adding an enchanting touch that transports visitors to the bygone era and imbues the atmosphere with a sense of historical authenticity.

A mosque lies adjacent to the tower, and is said to be one of the oldest structures in the entire United Arab Emirates. This sacred space served as a place of worship for both the ruling family and devout individuals across the region. The stone and mortar construction of the mosque was elevated slightly to safeguard it from potential damage caused by water runoff during heavy rains from the nearby Hajar Mountains.

Archaeologists have uncovered evidence that this area has been utilized for agricultural purposes for centuries. Upon examining the foundations on which the fort was constructed, they discovered remnants of ancient farmhouses as well as a nearby spring that provided valuable water resources to the inhabitants of the region.