Saturday 15 / March / 2025
If you want to experience Oman's rich culture and heritage, a visit to one of the souqs will give you the first hand experience of the traditional markets of the Sultanate. Apart from attracting the locals they continue to attract tourists the most.
From gold, silver and gemstones to textiles, perfumes,Omani sweets and traditional handicraft items one can get almost everything here.While Oman boasts of many souqs spread across the different wilayats Muttrah Souq in Muscat is the most popular one.
It is one of the oldest markets in Oman, dating back to about two hundred years.
According to Oman's Ministry of Tourism, "Mutrah Souq is a prototype of old Eastern markets, characterised by narrow winding alleys roofed with wood." The myriad of alleys and roads lined by shops attract the visitors.
Another popular souq among the tourists is Nizwa souq. The souq lies in the vicinity of the walls of the famous Nizwa Fort. "Its building embraces both traditional and modern architectural lines.Through its many alleys and divisions, Nizwa Souq has remained for hundreds of years home to a number of local industries, such as daggers, copper, spinning, livestock sale, fish, vegetables and handicrafts,"according to the Ministry of Tourism.
While Al Hafah Souq is replete with a variety of products, it is known for being surrounded by coconut trees and is the perfect place to buy the best kinds of frankincense, Al Husn Souq retains a traditional style with its handicrafts, conventional in their design, shape and function.
