Oman Forts & Castles

Experience History

Over one thousand forts, castles and watchtowers continue to stand guard over the landscape, each bearing witness to a proud past, and each with a story to tell. Twenty two Forts & Castles are managed by the Directorate General of Tourism and are open to the public. There is a nominal entrance fee. For more detailed information go to www.mocioman.gov.om and follow links through ‘site map’.

Al Hazm Castle

The magnificent military stronghold at Al Hazm makes full use of traditional Omani defensive features, and boasts of a massive wooden entry door, secret escape tunnels, dungeons, cannon towers & gun ports in the upper floors.

Al Hillah Castle

Al Hillah Castle, notable for its distinctive plasterwork motifs, is situated at the heart of Buraimi Oasis.

Al Khandaq Castle

Al Khandaq Castle in Buraimi is the most famous example of an entrenched stronghold in Oman. The use of a defensive trench or 'dry moat' is an ancient strategy.

Al Mintarib Castle

The Castle stronghold at Al Mintarib stands guard over a fertile date palm oasis on the fringes of the Sharqiyah/Wahiba Sands.

Al Sunaysilah Castle

Sunaysilah Castle stands high on a knoll overlooking the seafaring and boat-building town of Sur.

Bayt Al Naman Castle

The construction of Bayt al Naman is among the many achievements of the political and economic renaissance that look place in Oman under the Ya'aruba Imams (1624-1741 CE).

Bilad Sur Castle

The castle at Bilad Sur, known for its unusual tower, is surrounded by lush groves of date palm.

Barka Castle

A major landmark on the Batinah Coast, Barka Castle is located only a few hundred meters from the shore of the Gulf of Oman.

Bayt Ar Ridaydah Castle

The 17th century bastion of Bayt al Ridaydah is located approximately 24 Km from Nizwa at the beginning of Wadi Muaydin.

Ibri Castle

Ibri is one of the oldest inhabited areas in Oman. Ibri Castle, a remnant of the original walled city, is a robust structure built to withstand a harsh environment and stand the taste of time.

Jaalan Bani Bu Hasan Castle

The castle at Jaalan Bani Bu Hasan was built as part of a system of fortification that once included an extensive town wall.

Jabrin Castle

A remarkable blend of defensive architecture and sophisticated artistry, the exquisite palace at Jabrin was constructed circa 1670 CE.

Khasab Castle

Khasab Castle, a picturesque stronghold situated on the inner cove of Khasab Bay, was built in the 17th century by Portuguese invaders.

Mirbat Castle

The old incense port of Mirbat is remarkable for being the site of one of the last battles in the world involving conventional attack and defence of a fortress.

Nakhal Fort

Spectacularly perched on a rocky prominence in the foothills of the Western Hajar, Nakhal's 17th-century fortress stands guard over verdant palm plantations.

Nizwa Fort

The large earth-filled circular tower of Nizwa is unique in Oman. Constructed by Imam Sultan bin Saif bin Malik Al Ya'arubi circa 1660 CE.

Qurayyat Castle

The coastal community of Qurayyat is located 80 km from the Capital Area at the terminus of a spectacular mountain drive. Just inland from the sea, Qurayyat Castle protects the town centre and surrounding palm plantations.

Ras Al Hadd Castle

The stronghold at Ras al Hadd holds away over a sandy spit of flat, coastal land that marks the easternmost corner of the Arabian Peninsula.

Rustaq Fort

Al Rustaq Fort nestles at the foot of Al Jabal Al Akhdar on the edge of the Batinah Plain.

Sadah Castle

The castle at Sadah is the easternmost of a string of fortifications protecting the Dhofar coast.

Suwayq Castle

Located west of Barka on the Gulf of Oman, Suwayq Castle is distinguished by three round corner towers.

Taqah Castle

Nested in the heart of a coastal Dhofari town famed for its pottery, silverwork and other artisan industries, it comes as no surprise that Taqah Castle has an artistry of its own.

OPENING HOURS

Main Forts & Castles: Nizwa, Rustaq, Jabrin, Nakhl & Al Hazam
Saturday - Thursday 0900 -1600 • Friday 0800 - 1100
Other Forts & Castles
Sunday - Thursday 0830 - 1430 • Friday, Saturday closed.