Located on the border between Oman and the United Arab Emirates, Al Buraimi is an oasis city renowned for its historic forts and heritage residences. It was once controlled by Omani Azd tribes and known as “Al Jaw”. Al Buraimi serves as the capital of its namesake governorate, which encompasses several traditional desert villages.
Things to do in Buraimi
One of Al Buraimi’s most important architectural landmarks is Al Khandaq Fort, which is named after the dry moat that was built as part of its defences. In addition to crenellations along its battlements, it features tapering round towers on each of its four corners. Step inside to explore the fort’s interior courtyard and browse the archaeological findings on display.
Don’t miss the Al Buraimi Old Souq, a bustling open market that sells everything from fresh fruit and vegetables to smoked fish. It’s a great place for picking up traditional Omani handicrafts, including textiles, jewellery and Bahla ceramics. Opposite the market is Hela Castle, which features a beautifully restored interior with exposed timber beams and wall paintings.
Rising south of Al Buraimi is Jebel Hafeet, a prominent mountain peak on the border with the United Arab Emirates. It’s of cultural significance as the convergence place of the ancient Bat and Umm Al Nar civilisations, with a cluster of beehive tombs discovered in its foothills. Pottery artefacts from the Iraqi city of Jemdet Nasr have also been uncovered here.
Getting around Buraimi
Al Buraimi is around 20 minutes’ drive from Al Ain and 40 minutes from Al Ain International Airport, which has flights to destinations across the Middle East and Asia. Buses connect to Al Buraimi, although renting a car will give you greater freedom to explore the area. Taxis are also available for getting around Al Buraimi.