There's several posts on Al Wajbah forts on the internet, but no images, so I was keen to visit and photograph the place.
Al Wajbah is of significant historical interest. It was the base of Sheikh Bin Jassim , and from the wadi below Al Wajbah, Sheikh Bin Jassim gathered the Qatar tribes people, ready to attack and defeat the Ottomans in a battle that for many would mark the start of the Qatari nation. (See The Rise of the Qatar Ruling Family and the Battle of Al Wajbah for more information.)
Al Wajbah was built in the nineteenth century, and is probably the oldest standing fort left in Qatar, although there are much older ruins in the country. The fort has sturdy walls with a tower at each corner, and slits through which arrows or bullets could be fired.
Rain water gathers below, and leads to a rare oasis. (Another example can be found on the Zekreet peninsula.)
Unfortunately, my visit was cut short before I even left the house. Ringing a friend for advice, I was informed that access to both Al Wajbah fort has now been closed.The grounds of the Royal Palace now encloses the the fort and the Oasis, and photography is no longer allowed.
Other forts, however, are still accessible, and you can read and view images of the following forts on our blog and website:
Al Koot Fort
Al Zubarah Fort
Barzan Towers
Umm Slal Mohammad: Forts Streams and Water
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