Today's Edition
RAJEEV CHERIAN (UMM AL QUWAIN)
Embodying the spirit of its name, Umm Al Quwain, "the mother of two strengths", a reference to land and sea, the emirate's way of life has long been shaped by these two forces.
With its pristine beaches, desert landscapes, quaint towns, and archaeological sites, the emirate offers a welcome escape from the daily grind.
Umm Al Quwain Fort stands as the starting point for exploring the emirate's story. Approaching Umm Al Quwain and passing Al Khor Roundabout, visitors are greeted by the towering sailfish statue – a landmark that reflects the emirate's rich maritime heritage.
Built in 1768 under the guidance of the late Sheikh Rashid bin Majid Al Mu'alla, the Fort once served as both the seat of government and the residence of the ruling family. In 2000, it was restored and converted into Umm Al Quwain National Museum, celebrating the emirate's rich heritage and history.
The museum showcases sections detailing customs and traditions, a replica of a traditional market, fishing and pearling tools, a military room featuring communication equipment, uniforms, old documents, including the Trucial Emirates passport, and postage stamps. It also comprises a prison, a weapons room, and a traditional kitchen, depicting the different aspects of daily life in the past.
In the fort's courtyard stands an Al Arish, a traditional house constructed from palm trunks and fronds. Its simple design allows natural ventilation during summer months.
A replica of a traditional vessel, Al Sam'a, traditionally used in pearl diving, maritime trade, and transportation, is another highlight.
The courtyard also features Al Khashabah, a wooden instrument used punishment for minor crimes such as theft, perjury and others in the past when the offender's hands or feet would be secured and locked in place.
Punishments ranged from a few days to several months, or until the complaint was withdrawn. Multiple offenders could be punished on the stocks at the same time.
Falaj Mualla Fort
Another major heritage landmark in the emirate is Falaj Al Mualla Fort, some 45km from the centre of Umm Al Quwain on the road to Al Dhaid.
Overlooking the sand dunes in the oasis town by the same name, the Falaj Al Mualla Fort functioned to protect the fertile land watered by the oasis. It was built in the 19th century and served as a summer retreat for the ruling family.
Today, the fort serves as a museum, showcasing artifacts from the emirate's archaelogical sites. Among the exhibits are pottery pieces from Ed-Dur dating back to the first century AD, shell pendants from Al Ka'ab dating to the fourth millennium BC and pottery discovered on Al Sinniya Island from the first century AD.
Located on the coast of Umm Al Quwain near Al Beidha Lake, the Ed-Dur site is considered one of the UAE's and Arabian Gulf region's most important archaeological sites. According to UNESCO, evidence of human settlement at the site dates back to several historical periods, including the Stone Age, Bronze Age, Iron Age, and pre-Islamic eras.
One of its key highlights is a pre-Islamic temple within the nearly 2,000-year-old archaeological settlement, which flourished until the third century AD.
The museum also offers visitors a glimpse into the demanding profession of pearl diving. Exhibits include Al Hasah, the stone tied to a diver's foot to help him descend underwater; Al Meflige, a tool used to open pearl oysters; and Al Fattam, a nose clip designed to prevent water from entering the diver's nose, among others.
Alongside its heritage attractions, the emirate is also known for its natural destinations, including Mangrove Beach, located in Khor Umm Al Quwain. Surrounded by mangrove trees and rich biodiversity, the beach offers visitors an experience close to nature. It also includes designated barbecue areas, camping facilities, caravan parks, as well as a beach restaurant and café.
