The crumbling, coral-built homes of Al Jazirat Al Hamra stand in stark contrast to the towering silver skyscrapers most often associated with the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This abandoned village on the coast of Ras Al Khaimah, colloquially known as the “Ghost Town,” offers a unique glimpse into the UAE’s past, long before the rise of its modern metropolises. Within its skeletal walls lies the story of a bygone era, one that predates the country’s transformation into a global hub of luxury and commerce.
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A Brief History of Al Jazirat Al Hamra
For centuries, Al Jazirat Al Hamra was a thriving fishing and pearl-diving town. The village’s name, which translates to “Red Island,” was inspired by the distinct red sand found in Ras Al Khaimah. Initially established on a small tidal island, the town was ruled by the Al Zaab tribe, who oversaw its growth from a modest settlement into a prosperous community.
During the height of its prosperity, Al Jazirat Al Hamra was a bustling center of trade, with a population nearing 4,000 by the turn of the 20th century. The town was not only a hub for pearl diving and fishing but also featured a market, a defensive fortress, and several mosques, all constructed from coral and beach rock, typical of the region’s architectural style.
The Discovery of Oil and Its Impact
The fortunes of Al Jazirat Al Hamra, like many other coastal towns in the region, took a dramatic turn in 1938. Across the Persian Gulf in Saudi Arabia, the discovery of the world’s largest petroleum deposit marked the beginning of a new era for the Gulf countries. The newfound oil wealth led to the rapid development of cities such as Abu Dhabi and Dubai, transforming the region from a series of small coastal communities into a collection of modern, sprawling urban centers.
As the allure of the oil boom drew people to the cities in search of better opportunities, many villages like Al Jazirat Al Hamra were gradually abandoned. The population dwindled as residents left behind their traditional livelihoods for the promise of prosperity in the burgeoning urban landscapes.
The Abandonment of Al Jazirat Al Hamra
By 1968, Al Jazirat Al Hamra was largely deserted, its inhabitants having moved on to pursue new lives in the rapidly growing cities of the UAE. The reasons behind the abandonment of the village remain a subject of speculation. Some locals suggest that the pull of the big city was irresistible, while others believe that tribal conflicts between the villagers and the ruler of Ras Al Khaimah played a role. There are even those who claim that the village was driven to desertion by supernatural occurrences, with tales of ghostly apparitions and other eerie phenomena circulating among the remaining villagers.
Regardless of the cause, Al Jazirat Al Hamra now stands as one of the last remaining glimpses into pre-oil life in the UAE. The village’s well-preserved structures, built from coral stone and other natural materials, offer a rare opportunity to step back in time and experience the history of the region firsthand.
Visiting Al Jazirat Al Hamra
Today, Al Jazirat Al Hamra attracts visitors from around the world who are drawn to its rich history and mysterious aura. The village is easily accessible by car from Ras Al Khaimah, making it an ideal day trip for those exploring the northern emirates.
As you walk through the narrow streets of Al Jazirat Al Hamra, you’ll encounter a range of historical structures, including the remnants of homes, mosques, and the old market. The village’s eerie silence and weathered buildings create an atmosphere that is both haunting and fascinating, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and adventurers alike.
For those interested in photography, the village offers countless opportunities to capture the contrast between the ancient and the modern, with the old coral houses standing against the backdrop of the distant, gleaming skyline of Ras Al Khaimah.
While Al Jazirat Al Hamra may be abandoned, its story lives on, offering a poignant reminder of the UAE’s journey from a collection of small fishing villages to one of the most dynamic and influential nations in the world.
