Al Hilli Watchtowers

Located to the north-east of Al Ain city, the tower known as Sheikh Zayed Murabbaa was built at the command of (Former President) the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan (may his soul rest in peace). The tower stands on top of a man-made earth mound, and has the classic features of the defensive murabbaa or square tower. Its role was to protect the village of Al Hili. The ground floor has no windows and contains a wooden staircase leading to the battlements, from where guards kept watch over the surrounding area. This building was used by the Ruler’s Representative, whose task was to resolve any disputes arising between local families; he also taught their children to read and write, and versed them in the tenets of Islam. The tower played a significant role in the 1950s conflict known as the “Hili Attack.” Around 50 metres away, the 7.4m round watchtower known as Seebat Khalifa Bin Nahyan dominates another earth mound of similar height and diameter. Like Al Murabbaa, it protected the entrance to the village and its vital water supply. Both towers are built of the materials found locally: mud brick and palm trunks and fronds.