Al Khandaq Fort

قلعة الخندق

A restored 19th-century mud-brick fort surrounded by a dry moat, one of the finest historic monuments in the Buraimi Oasis. Visit to climb its towers and enjoy views over the surrounding palm groves and border landscape.

Things to do

• Climb the corner towers — Ascend the restored circular watchtowers for sweeping views over the palm groves and the nearby Oman-UAE border landscape.
• Walk the dry moat — Trace the perimeter of the fort's distinctive khandaq (moat) that gives the fort its name and once formed its main defense.
• Explore the inner courtyard — Wander the central courtyard to see the mud-brick living quarters, majlis rooms, and old date-storage areas.
• Photograph the ramparts at golden hour — The warm mud-brick walls glow beautifully in late afternoon light against the surrounding oasis greenery.
• Stroll the Buraimi Oasis palm groves — Walk the shaded falaj-fed date plantations that surround the fort to see traditional oasis agriculture up close.
• Visit nearby Al Hillah Fort — Combine your trip with the other historic Buraimi fort a short drive away for a fuller sense of the oasis defenses.

Food to try

• Omani halwa — A sticky, fragrant sweet made from rosewater, saffron, and nuts, traditionally served with coffee as a gesture of welcome.
• Kahwa and dates — Cardamom-spiced Omani coffee paired with local Buraimi Oasis dates, the classic hospitality offering.
• Shuwa — Marinated meat slow-cooked underground for up to two days, a festive Omani dish often found around Eid.
• Mishkak — Grilled skewers of marinated meat sold at roadside stalls, popular for a quick evening bite in Al Buraimi.
• Harees — A comforting porridge of wheat and slow-cooked meat, a staple across the Buraimi and UAE border region.

Local customs & good to know

• Dress modestly — Cover shoulders and knees when visiting the fort, as this is a conservative region near a religious and family-oriented community.
• Carry your passport near the border — Al Buraimi sits right against the UAE frontier, so keep ID handy as checkpoints and border areas are nearby.
• Check opening hours in advance — The fort typically closes during midday heat and on certain days, so confirm timings before arriving.
• Ask before photographing locals — Always seek permission before taking photos of residents, especially women, as a matter of respect.

Nearby

• Al Buraimi — 1 km
• Sohar (Al Batinah Coast) — 94 km
• Sulaif Fort — 136 km
• Bat, Al-Khutm and Al-Ayn Tombs — 146 km