Unlike other forts located on a mountain or by the sea, Al Zubarah Fort is located in the middle of a large desert plain, about 1.5 miles (2.5 km) from the northwest coast of Qatar. Its high towers allow it to keep an eye on the surrounding area for miles. It is now part of the eponymous archaeological site, whose remains of houses, masjids (mosques), madabis (date presses) and other fortified enclosures cover an area of 60 hectares. Built in 1938, Al Zubarah Fort was assigned to the Coast Guard, followed by the military and police. Today it is a museum and exhibition centre.