Al-Jalali Fort perches on top of a rock on the eastern side of the old harbour of Muscat, overlooking the majestic Al-Alam Palace. Its name is thought to be derived from the Persian name Jalal.
The fort was originally built in the early 16th century by the Portuguese captain Melkior Calaca, with more fortifications and towers being added towards the latter half of the century. Upon its capture by Omani forces in 1650, it was gradually strengthened and rebuilt into its present form.
Al-Jalali is fortified by two towers, connected by a long wall with cannon slits. Rainwater was collected in a reservoir. Apart from access over a small bridge and stairway next to one of its towers, the fort is entirely cut off and cannot be reached by land.