Sharjah Fort Museum

In the heart of Sharjah stands Al Hisn Fort Museum, a two-storey stronghold of stone, coral and mud brick built in 1820 by Sheikh Sultan bin Saqr Al Qasimi. The fort served as the residence of the Al Qasimi dynasty, performed defensive functions and even housed a prison. In 1996–1997, it was restored as part of the Heart of Sharjah programme, preserving its traditional appearance. Today, its exhibitions explore everyday life in the emirate, the history of the ruling dynasty, household objects, weapons, jewellery and documents. The ground floor contains a library and displays devoted to Sharjah’s events and notable figures, while the upper floor holds the sheikh’s rooms and a weapons collection. During the annual Sharjah Light Festival, the fort’s walls become a screen for projections inspired by Eastern motifs. Admission is free during Heritage Days, International Museum Day, Commemoration Day and UAE National Day; the museum may be closed on religious holidays.

Al Hisn Fort was built from coral stone taken from the seabed of the Persian Gulf. Its walls are covered with light-brown plaster, and its doors are made of teak. The ceilings are supported by mangrove trunks and stripped palm branches. In front of the building stands a “pillory,” a reminder of the period when the fort housed a prison and punishments were carried out here.