Al Ain Watchtowers

Photos by Phil Iddison

The city of Al Ain was once a collection of individual oases, separated by stretches of desert. In ancient times, families and tribes farmed their oases and, on occasion, were required to protect themselves and their possessions from raids

Over time, the families and tribes constructed towers to watch out for raiders and to provide a vantage point from which to defend themselves. These towers were eventually complemented by other structures, including walls, forts and fortified houses.

In the present-day city of Al Ain, there are at least 60 of these constructions, many of which have been renovated and reconstructed by the families or the Ministry of Antiquities.

One of the first surveys undertaken by ENHG member Phil Iddison -- using one of the first digital cameras available -- was to document some of these watchtowers and fortified buildings.

A classic enlarged round tower combining characteristics of a tower with a stronghold where people can go in the event of a raid	A square tower that is constructed inside a circular defensive wall	The view from one tower out over the canopy of date palms	View from a tower down on some of the cultivated fields
Modern 'window' with bars to keep unwanted individuals out but open to allow for ventilation. Shutters are on the inside of the building	Detail of one tower showing variety of slots and openings available for the defenders to use	One of the fortified structures in the Hili oasis	Another view of the Hili fortification
One of the classic narrow towers located near the Qattara oasis	The door into the tower; there is no door at ground level; you need a friend to throw down a rope in order to gain access	A narrow round tower with door at ground level