Sharjah Fort

About The Museum
Sharjah Fort (Al Hisn) was first renovated and opened as a museum in 1997. It then underwent remarkable renovations and re-opened its doors in 2015.

Why you should visit Sharjah Fort

Sharjah Fort offers you the opportunity to learn about the modern history of Sharjah, the ruling family, the history of the fort, the defense methods and Sharjah’s everyday life 200 years ago.

Explore one of the most important heritage buildings in Sharjah’s history

This deep-rooted edifice, which was built in 1823, is located in the Heart of Sharjah; it was Sharjah’s government headquarter and the residence of Al Qawasim ruling family. The Fort is a square- shaped construction, featuring a spacious yard in the middle. It consists of two main floors and three towers built for defensive purposes. When first built in 1823, it was considered the biggest and most important construction in Sharjah.

The fort was built with coral stones which were collected from the deep sea waters of the Arabian Gulf. The walls were covered with a light brown plaster, and the doors were made of teak wood. Mangrove trunks and parts of palm trees (fronds, leaves and fibers) were used to build the ceilings.

The fort was built for defensive purposes, mainly to protect the city and its inhabitants. The main defensive elements included solid thick walls, high defensive walls and high watchtowers, along with many other defensive structures. The fort also served as the residence of the Qawasim ruling family, and was the headquarter of Sharjah government.

As you explore the rooms of the fort, you will come across a wide collection of photographs and archaeological artifacts. In Al Muhalwasa jail, you will learn about the first jurisdiction system adopted in Sharjah. You will also get the chance to find out how “dibs” (date molasses) was made in the past. Moreover, you will learn about the weapons and defense strategies used by the Sheikhs and their guards, as well as the lifestyle of the ruling family.

Highlights from the collection

• The Main Gate : It is the main gate of the fort. It was built in 1823, and was saved from demolition in 1969. The gate served as one of the first lines of defense against invaders. It is made of thick teak wood, and it can be locked from the inside only through a latch and a rod.
• Al Raggas Cannon : It is one of the largest authentic cannons and is located in the fort’s yard. It dates back to around 1811. This legendary cannon is the symbol of pride and the military powers of Al Qawasim. The city used to win every battle in which Al Raggas cannon was used.
• Royal Bed : The bed displayed in the Sheikh’s room belongs to Sheikha Mahra Mohammed Khalifa Al Qasimi (1900-1987). It was gifted to Sharjah Fort Museum by Sheikha Meera Ahmed Rashed Al Mualla, the mother of Sheikha Jawaher who is the wife of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Mohammad Al Qasimi. It is high off the floor and consists of a four steps staircase. The top of the staircase features a small closed door decorated with skillfully carved motifs and designs.
• Quran Stand : The Quran stand displayed in the Qawasim Hall dates back to Sheikh Khalid bin Sultan Al Qasimi's rule (1866-1868). It is made of wood and features Arabic inscriptions carved on both sides. One side reads: "Owned by Khalid bin Sultan Bin Saqr Al Qasimi, dated 9 Muharram 1257", which is the hijri date (equivalent to 1841 AD). The other side is engraved with a verse of the Holy Quran: "Victory from Allah and a near conquest."

Opening Hours

Saturday to Thursday:
8:00 am - 8:00 pm

Friday:
4:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Timings are subject to change during public holidays and Ramadan. For more information call the museum.

Note: This information is to the best of our knowledge. We are not responsible for changes in day/timings/contact information.

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