Bayt Ar-Ridaydah

Bayt Al Ridaydah is a prominent historical landmark located in Nizwa, Ad Dakhiliyah Governorate, about 24 kilometers from the town center, at the entrance of Wadi Al-Muaydin to the west of Birkat Al Mouz. The fort was built in the 17th century by Imam Sultan bin Saif Al-Ya’rubi (1649–1679 AD). It was later renovated and expanded during the era of Sayyid Mohammed, son of Imam Ahmed bin Said, before undergoing comprehensive restoration in 1990 during the reign of Sultan Qaboos bin Said — remaining a testament to the deep-rooted Omani history. The fort spans a wide area of 6,761 square meters and consists of two floors surrounded by a strong defensive wall with small towers at its corners, giving it a distinctly military character that highlights its defensive function. Inside, the fort contains a number of multipurpose rooms such as storerooms and sleeping quarters, along with an internal water well that once provided for the needs of both residents and soldiers. One of the site’s most remarkable features is the passage of the famous Falaj Al-Khatmain through its courtyard, one of Oman’s most important traditional irrigation systems, reflecting the integration of defensive architecture with daily life. The design of the fort blends strict defensive functionality with the aesthetic touches of Omani architecture, as its thick mud-brick walls reveal graceful arches, painted ceilings, and intricate gypsum carvings. Its strategic location on the road leading to Al Jabal Al Akhdar granted it both military and commercial importance, as it controlled vital routes and secured protection for trade caravans. Today, Bayt Al Ridaydah is a distinguished tourist destination that attracts visitors from inside and outside Oman, offering them the chance to explore the ingenuity of traditional Omani architecture and discover an important aspect of the region’s history.