Sharjah Ruler announces development of Dibba Al Hisn Fort for UNESCO nomination

Dubai: His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, has unveiled plans to restore and develop the historic Dibba Al Hisn Fort area, with the aim of securing its nomination for inclusion on UNESCO’s World Heritage List.

Speaking on his weekly radio programme The Direct Line, Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi said the project will preserve three overlapping archaeological layers spanning different eras.

A specially designed canopy will be constructed above the site to shield it from rain, protect visitors from the sun, and ensure the long-term preservation of Dibba Al Hisn’s cultural heritage.

Located on the Gulf of Oman, about 30 miles north of Fujairah and 90 miles east of Dubai, Dibba Al Hisn is part of Sharjah’s eastern coast. The city holds deep historical significance in the Arabian Peninsula.

In pre-Islamic times, it was a thriving Arabian marketplace attracting traders from India, Sindh, and China, and later became the site of a pivotal battle during the Ridda Wars following the death of the Prophet Muhammad.

Recent excavations by Sharjah’s Department of Antiquities uncovered a large underground communal burial site containing human skeletons accompanied by a rich array of funerary offerings. These included glazed jars, pottery vessels, metal artefacts, weapons, and a rare collection of Roman-era glass bottles.

Among the most striking finds were ornate pieces of jewellery made from gold and gemstones, as well as intricately carved ivory objects — notably combs engraved with detailed decorative scenes.