Buraimi: City History, Falaj and Oasis Project

For a trip to Buraimi, historic buildings and irrigation history sit alongside the Buraimi Oasis Project. When looking for hotels in Buraimi, it helps to distinguish these urban attractions from the landscape and cultural experiences in the wider destination of Buraimi. This will help you decide whether your stay will focus mainly on the city’s history or also include seasonal activities in the region.

Forts and City History

Al Khandaq Fort dates back to the 19th century and was restored in 1993. The complex has a square layout, towers and several rooms that formerly served military and civilian purposes. Defensive walls and loopholes complement this design; loopholes are openings in the wall used for defense. The fort overlooks Wadi Al Jizzi. Its architecture, former uses and location by the wadi offer different ways to engage with this landmark.

Al Hillah Fort is a historic landmark in the center of Buraimi. In contrast, Al Khandaq Fort represents a defensive style of architecture and a location by Wadi Al Jizzi; together, the two forts offer different perspectives on the city’s history.

The Buraimi Oasis Project – City Center

The Buraimi Oasis Project – City Center was inaugurated on January 7, 2026, and is located between Al Hilla Fort and Al Khandaq Fort. The first phase includes a small oasis and 174 palm trees distributed across plazas and pathways. The project includes designated pedestrian and cycling paths, as well as more than 200 parking spaces. A restaurant is located on the lower floor of one of the buildings. The combination of an oasis, palm trees and designated paths gives the project a different focus from the forts; parking and a restaurant are additional features of the site.

Falaj Al Sa’ara and Irrigation History

Falaj Al Sa’ara, also known as Al Sa’rani, is a traditional irrigation system in Buraimi. After lying idle for 15 years, it was revived and extends for more than six kilometers. It was developed as a cultural and tourist attraction and expanded to include visitor facilities such as swimming pools and majlis areas. Its length sets the falaj apart from a single structure such as a fort: here, the focus is on an irrigation system. If you are planning a visit, check the current access conditions.

In the Wider Destination of Buraimi

In the Wilayat of Mahdah, winter is especially suited to excursions, camping and exploring wadis, mountains and dunes. The sands of Mahddah are ideal for camping under the open sky and sand sports at this time of year. The Falaj Mahdah hiking trail is considered one of the best routes in the wilayat. Regional history offers another focus: Bayt Al Nad Fort in Mahdah is considered the largest and oldest fort in the wilayat; its history is thought to date back to before the 18th century.

The village of Hamasa in Al Buraimi Governorate is considered a historic village, with a tower, an old market, mud houses and historic mosques. Hamasa was also a historic trading center that connected Oman with neighboring countries. The historic quarter comprises two neighborhoods, a market square and several towers connected by Falaj Al Jaimi; its history is estimated to span more than 500 years.

Discover more destinations: Mahdah, Hayl.

Back to the wider travel overview: Buraimi.