The Sultanate of Oman places significant importance on preserving its heritage and traditional crafts. Omani artisans continue to practice traditional crafts that have been passed down through generations, while also adding modern touches to them. Artisans continue to create unique and diverse products, such as intricately designed silver jewelry, pottery, ceramics, and the famous Omani Khanjar (traditional dagger). They showcase their creativity in their crafts and products, offering them in the best possible way. These products can be purchased from lively markets spread across the country. Building traditional Omani ships, known as “dhows” or sailboats, in the city of Sur is one of the crafts that is still practiced to this day. Visitors often marvel at the exceptional skill displayed by these shipbuilders. They are impressed by the tremendous effort put into constructing every part of these ships.

In the past, Omani forts were constructed to safeguard the surrounding regions and deter invaders and aggressors. Today, these historical structures warmly welcome visitors with their grand facades, standing as enduring testaments to Omani craftsmanship and ingenuity across the ages. These impressive forts are scattered across the country, with some of the most renowned including Nizwa Fort in the Interior Governorate, Al Jalali and Al Mirani Forts in Old Muscat, Nakhal and Al Rustaq Forts in the South Al Batinah Governorate, and Bahla Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Oman is also home to several ancient mud-brick villages, like those found in Manah in the Interior Governorate or Samharam in Dhofar Governorate.

Oman currently has five UNESCO World Heritage Sites, all of which deserve to be visited first-hand.

Bahla Fort

This immense mud brick fortress was the first in Oman to be listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in 1987. Since then, it has been beautifully restored and opened to the public, allowing visitors to learn more closely about the long history of the fort, which dates back to the third millennium BC. The site includes the archaeological Bahla Oasis, including the traditional souq, corridors, ancient mosques, and the old houses, as well as the surrounding wall that extends for about 12 km.

Archaeological sites of Bat, Al-Khutm and Al-Ain

The archaeological sites of Bat, Al-Khutm, and Wadi Al-Ain in the A’Dhahirah Governorate are not only recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site, but also boast the title of the most complete collection of necropolises and settlements in the world, dating back to the Bronze Age (3^rd Millennium BC). This site was listed at the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1988.

Land of Frankincense

In Dhofar, the Land of Frankincense encompasses the frankincense trees of Wadi Dawkah Reserve and the remains of caravan and trading settlements such as Ubar, Khawr Ruri and Al Baleed – highlighting the importance of frankincense for the flourishing trade in the region during ancient times. This site was listed at the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2000.

Aflaj Irrigation System of Oman 

This ancient watering method is deeply rooted in Oman’s heritage, with over 3000 aflaj – or irrigation systems – still in use today. Using gravity to transport water from springs, the fair management of these waterways plays an important role in communities around the country. Five of the Omani falaj were listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2006 under the name “Aflaj Irrigation System of Oman.” The five falaj are: Falaj Daris and Falaj Al-Khatmeen in Nizwa, Falaj Al-Maysar in A’Rustaq, Falaj Al-Malki in Izki, and Falaj Al-Jillah in Sur.

Ancient city of Qalhat

The site of the Ancient city of Qalhat in Sur has an exceptional international value as a trading exchange between Oman and the ancient world civilizations.  It was one of the important commercial ports in the Indian Ocean, especially the trade of Arabian horses with India. It considered as a distinctive example of the architecture and planning of active port cities in the Middle Ages. This site was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2018.

Traditional markets in Oman offer a distinct shopping experience with an authentic Omani touch. These markets showcase a diverse range of Omani products, including frankincense, traditional clothing, and handmade crafts. These markets are scattered throughout various cities. For instance, Muttrah Souq is located on the waterfront in Muttrah Governorate and displays a wide array of products such as clothing, silverware, spices, frankincense, and other Omani goods. Nizwa Souq is situated near the famous Nizwa Fort, and visiting the souq on Friday mornings provides an opportunity to witness the traditional method of selling livestock known as “Al-Mnadha” or auction. A special livestock market is held every Friday morning for the sale of sheep and cows. In the North Al Sharqiyah Governorate, Ibra Souq for women is held every Wednesday, allowing women to come to the city and trade textiles, jewelry, and other products. Men are not allowed to enter or sell products on this specific day. Oman also hosts several modern shopping complexes across the country. These include Muscat City Centre, Oman Avenues Mall, Al Araimi Boulevard in the capital city Muscat, as well as Nizwa Grand Mall, Sohar City Centre, and Salalah Gardens Mall. These modern shopping complexes offer the latest products and international goods, catering to various shopping preferences.

Visitors can choose from a wide range of options when it comes to the food and beverage menu, catering to all tastes. For example, there is the option to choose from a variety of upscale restaurants within 5-star hotels and resorts as well as exploring restaurants and cafes that offer local and international dishes in various types and flavours. In addition to famous international dishes, traditional Omani cuisine is readily available in a number of renowned hotels and restaurants. Omani cuisine is known for its blend of Arabian, Indian, and African flavors, making it distinctive and unique. Restaurants like “Rozna” in the airport heights and “Beit Al Luban” in Muttrah are examples of places that serve authentic Omani cuisine in a modern setting.