Al Hili Oasis Stands as Historic Landmark with 40,000 Palm Trees and Ancient Fortifications

According to historical records, the Al Hili Oasis is the northernmost oasis in the Al Ain district. It covers 60 hectares and has over 40,000 mature palm trees spread out over 252 agricultural plots.

There are a lot of old buildings in the oasis, the most famous of which is the Hamad Bin Hadi Al Darmaki (Bin Hadi) House. Oral tradition says that this fortified home was built around 1820. There is also an old, traditional irrigation system called a falaj and two defensive watchtowers intended to guard the important water supply.

Sheikh Zayed Murabba watchtower, which is square, and the Seebat Khalifa Bin Nahyan watchtower, which is circular, are only 56 meters apart. They make a protective gateway. Both were made from local materials and built on fake clay mounds. Being one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites makes Al Hili Oasis an important site.

Sheikh Zayed Murabba watchtower

The Sheikh Zayed Murabba watchtower, which the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan ordered to be built, is more than eight meters tall. The Seebat Khalifa Bin Nahyan watchtower has walls that are 1.75 meters thick and rise to a height of more than seven meters. It also has defensive elements, including machicolations and saw-toothed battlements. The Al Hili Oasis is open to the public daily from 8 am to 5 pm, with free admission for all visitors. Located in Al Ain’s Al Hili village near the Hili Equestrian Club and Rumaila Fort, the oasis is recommended for visits between October and April. Visitors are advised to wear appropriate outdoor clothing and footwear, and food and beverage outlets are available in the area.