A Geographic Oddity: The Enclaves of Madha and Nahwa in Oman and the UAE

The borders of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Oman hold a peculiar geographic oddity: the enclaves of Madha and Nahwa. Madha, an exclave of Oman, sits entirely within the territory of the UAE, while Nahwa, a counter-enclave, is a piece of Sharjah Emirate (UAE) located within Madha. This intricate arrangement creates a fascinating interplay of sovereignty within a relatively small region.

Tracing the Origins of the Enclaves

The historical roots of Madha and Nahwa’s unique status stretch back centuries. Tribal alliances and the strategic importance of freshwater sources are believed to have played a role in shaping these enclaves. However, a definitive explanation remains elusive.

The 1969 Treaty and the Formation of Modern Borders

The formalization of borders between the UAE and Oman in 1969 solidified the status of Madha and Nahwa. The treaty acknowledged Madha as Omani territory despite its location within the UAE. Conversely, Nahwa was recognized as part of Sharjah Emirate, creating a second-order enclave within Madha.

Life Amidst Enclaves

Despite the unusual political landscape, life for the residents of Madha and Nahwa carries on with a sense of normalcy. The Omani enclave of Madha has a population of around 3,000 people, and the residents enjoy the benefits of being part of Oman. Similarly, the inhabitants of Nahwa, a much smaller community, retain their allegiance to Sharjah.

A Testament to Peaceful Coexistence

The Madha and Nahwa enclaves stand as a testament to the peaceful coexistence between Oman and the UAE. There are no formal border crossings between these regions, highlighting the trust and cooperation that exist between the two nations.

A Tourist Destination with a Twist

This geographic anomaly has piqued the interest of tourists seeking unique travel experiences. Visitors can explore the Omani culture within Madha while venturing into the “donut hole” to discover the Emirati enclave of Nahwa, all within a short distance.