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Jan 06, 2026
The United Arab Emirates, or UAE, is renowned for its straight-from-the-future skyline, boasting altitudinous buildings and towers, a luxurious and opulent lifestyle, and high-tech advancements. Although in the shimmering development, the things that belonged to the history and culture aren't forgotten in the UAE. Along with its incomparable architecture and infrastructure, the UAE boasts numerous heritage sites and historic landmarks that are carefully preserved for visitors and future generations to appreciate the country's rich cultural heritage. The article will delve into these roots and provide a list of some of the most fascinating historic places you should visit during your stay in the UAE.
Umm An-Nar is a historic site dating back to the Bronze Age, which existed between 2600 and 2000 BCE, in the area where the modern-day UAE and northern Oman are located. The Umm An Nar was a prominent regional trading intermediary between the ancient civilizations of Sumer and the Indus Valley Harrappan. The area was initially the source of Sumer's copper and diorite, as well as a trading entrepot for other goods from the Indus Valley. It is a crucial archaeological site, and thus, the priceless landmark gained popularity because it reveals the UAE's hidden past.
Qasr Al Muwaiji is a prominent tourist attraction, also known as the 'Muwaiji Fort', located in the central region of Al Ain. The fort is said to be the birthplace of Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the former ruler of Abu Dhabi and the second President of the United Arab Emirates. Additionally, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan was the ruler and representative of the Eastern region of the Emirate during his tenure. This fort is undoubtedly one of the most historic places in the UAE, and is being preserved by the Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority. The place serves as a symbol of the lifestyle of ordinary people before the country became what it is today.
Al Bidya Mosque is a historical mosque in the Emirate of Fujairah and is known to be the oldest Mosque in the country, also referred to as the Ottoman Mosque. Although the discovery was made in September 2018, and the ruins of the mosque date back around 1000 years, which is said to be a time of the Islamic Golden Age. The mosque is still in use and is located in a small village of Al Badiyah. Al Bidya is akin to a time capsule that tells the story of historical civilizations, showcasing its outstanding engineering, aesthetics, and location, which make it a renowned tourist destination.
The Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization is a prominent tourist destination, having been open to the public since its inception. The museum preserves over 5,000 artifacts from the Islamic Age or the Islamic world, including calligraphy, carvings, ceramics, coins, glass, manuscripts, metalwork, and scientific instruments. It has an extensive collection that describes the distinct aspects of Islamic faith, science, art, and its culture. The museum is easily located, as a golden dome crowns it. Previously, the Museum was known as the Islamic Museum and opened in 1996, before being relocated and re-housed in its current structure.
Al Jazirah Al Hamra is a town situated south of Ras Al Khaimah, within the United Arab Emirates. It is renowned for its ruins, abandoned houses, and other historic buildings, as well as its mosques. The area is believed to be haunted, having once been ruled by the Zaab tribe, which migrated to Abu Dhabi following a dispute with the ruler of Ras Al Khaimah. Al Jazirah Al Hamra, also known as the Red Island, boasts several forts, schools, souqs, and mosques that the original Emiratis once inhabited. Hence, Al Jazirah Al Hamra is the last remaining traditional pearling village in the Gulf, offering a glimpse into the nation's pre-oil history.
The Qasr Al Hosn is a historical landmark, recognized as the oldest stone building in Abu Dhabi, located along Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum Street. The building is known as the White Fort, which was constructed in 1761 as a conical watchtower to safeguard the freshwater well in Abu Dhabi. Qar Al Hosn is currently being used as an archaeological and historical research centre, displaying artifacts and pictures that represent the nation's history. The Qasr Al Hosn festival is celebrated, a 11-day cultural event held on the grounds of the fort, featuring music and dance performances.
The Dhayah Fort is the only hilltop fort in the UAE, located in Ras Al Khaimah. It offers a mesmerizing view of the Arabian Gulf, the surrounding mountains, and date plantations. The fort is the highest hilltop fort and was once the site of a battle during the Persian Gulf Campaign in 1819, when the British captured the fort after a brief siege. The fort features approximately 240 steps that lead to the restored towers, serving as a poignant reminder of the hardships once faced. Visiting Dhayah Fort is free of charge, and by climbing the steps, visitors can embark on a historical journey with a breathtaking 360-degree view.
Conclusion
The UAE is more than its vibrant lifestyle, appealing skyline, and luxury; it has a history before the oil era, which reminds people that time can change. To preserve its history and remind future generations, the UAE's top historical sites, as listed in the above article, are deeply rooted in Emirati culture from ancient times. Hence, visitors should visit these historic places when they visit the UAE to experience the true essence of the United Arab Emirates and go on a historic journey.
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