“Bukha Fort was built in the 17th century by Saif bin Sultan Al Ya’rubi, a powerful ruler whose influence extended into Persia, India and East Africa.” (A Concise Guide to Musandam, Ministry of Tourism) It is one of the landmarks that is impossible to miss as you drive from the UAE border to Khasab, the capital of Musandam.
The watchtower is said to be pear shaped in order to repel cannon balls more effectively than your standard, cornered towers.
The tower lookouts could see invaders clearly, whether approaching from land or sea.
The fort was renovated in 1990.
That structure in the foreground is “the prison pit”.
A closer look at the ancient prison.
An ancient torture device that I’ve seen at several of the fort throughout Oman. They would lock your legs into the cut out sections of wood there.
Up to the main tower and best view from the fort
Looking in the opposite direction of the sea is this lovely view of the surrounding mountains and one of Bukha’s ancient watchtowers on an overlooking hill.
View from Bukha fort looking down the coast in the direction of Khasab
Interesting info from Khasab Fort Museum about how Bukha was Oman’s first offshore oil field. “The Bukha field was discovered in 1979 and began production in 1994. The gas is trapped 3,000 meters under the sea bed in limestone. Very light oil condensed from the gas fetches a high price on the international market.” That container contains Bukha field gas-condensate. The museum reports that the quality of the oil is so high that it could be used to run a car automatically without further refining!
View of Bukha fort and town during lowtide from a little park at Bukha Marina
Andy in Oman 
I have never been to Musandam. These pics make me want to go:)
You really should try to go someday as it’s a fabulous place. I hope to be able to return someday soon, God willing!
Hi Andy,
Never been either. Looks great. I have a potential interest in the mountains above Ghamdha for an energy project. Ever been up there? Got any pictures?
I would live to come on a holiday trip with my wife and 2 kids, 3 and 6, but not sure if it’s a good idea. What do you think?
Maurice
Hi Maurice,
Sorry but I’ve never been in the mountains above Ghamdha so I can’t really help you out there. I think Musandam is a great place for a trip with the family. God willing, I hope to return with the family in the future. I stayed at the Golden Tulip (in Khasab) which is the best hotel in Musanadam. If you do manage to take a holiday trip there with the family, the best time to visit is between October and February. Thanks for visiting!
Thanks for getting back to me Andy,
I’ll start working on the Mrs.
Maurice
Good luck on talking the Mrs. into going to Musandam, Maurice! 😉 Let me know if you ever make it out this way. Cheers!
Hi Andy,
I have job offer to move to Musandam Governorate to work and live over there.
May you help me to make decision? How is this Governorate? Which city of this Governorate is better to live in? Are there any entertainment places for family, especially kids? How much is the cost living per month over there?
Thank you in advance.
Aref
Hi there, may i use your photo for oman magazine?
Meisa,
Sure. Just be sure to give me (www.andyinoman.com) credit! 🙂