The 300-year-old Sharjah fortress transformed from hidden gem to tourist attraction

Fortress is part of a heritage village nestled deep in the mountains

The fortress at Najd Al Maqsar in Khorfakkan, Sharjah. Chris Whiteoak / The National

The fortress in Najd Al Maqsar in Khorfakkan, Sharjah, is 300-years-old. Chris Whiteoak /The National

The houses in Najd Al Maqsar village are more than 100-years-old each. Chris Whiteoak / The National

Rebu Raja is a regular visitor to Najd Al Maqsar in Khorfakkan, Sharjah. Chris Whiteoak/ The National

The trail path at Najd Al Maqsar in Khorfakkan, Sharjah. Chris Whiteoak / The National

A plaque of commemoration at Najd Al Maqsar in Khorfakkan, Sharjah. Chris Whiteoak / The National

A 300-year-old fortress in Khor Fakkan is often referred to as one of the UAE's hidden gems.

But that looks set to change.

Late last year, as part of a wider project to revive historical and archaeological sites in Sharjah, the village of Najd Al Maqsar was restored.

Many tourists have since flocked to the hamlet in Wadi Washi to see its houses, dating back nearly a century, and the fortress.

The latter is being considered for renovation, authorities said at the inauguration of Najd Al Maqsar in October, attended by Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah.

Dubai resident Rebu Raja, 35, has made three trips to the village since it opened.

Despite the site being closed on Tuesday morning, Mr Raja was one of a number of people visiting to appreciate the surroundings.

“It’s brilliant to have the opportunity to take in the greenery and the mountains,” he said.

“You really find yourself at one with nature out here. We always try to stop on our way here if we are going by.

“It’s a nice contrast to the skyscrapers and concrete in Dubai.”

The project is part of a wider plan to transform the area into one of the UAE’s leading tourist attractions.

The neighbouring Shees Park, with a 25-metre high artificial waterfall, also opened in October.