Sohar

صحار

A historic port city long linked to the legend of Sinbad the Sailor and once a major trading hub of the region. Its whitewashed fort and museum, seafront corniche and lively souq reward a stop.

Things to do

• Sohar Fort and Museum — Explore the whitewashed 13th-century fort whose museum traces the city's maritime history and links to Sinbad the Sailor.
• Stroll the Corniche — Walk the palm-lined seafront promenade with views of fishing boats and the Gulf of Oman, especially pleasant at sunset.
• Sohar Souq — Browse the lively traditional market for spices, fresh fish, textiles, and Omani gold and silver.
• Sinbad statue and monument — See the tribute to the legendary sailor said to have hailed from Sohar, celebrating the city's storied trading past.
• Fish market at dawn — Watch fishermen bring in the morning catch and haggle over freshly landed kingfish, tuna and shark near the harbor.
• Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque of Sohar — Admire the elegant local grand mosque with its domes and minarets, a serene example of Omani religious architecture.

Food to try

• Grilled kingfish (kanad) — The prized local fish is grilled or fried fresh from the Batinah coast, often served with rice and lime.
• Shuwa — Marinated meat slow-cooked underground for hours, a celebratory Omani dish especially enjoyed on feast days.
• Mishkak — Skewered marinated meat grilled over charcoal at roadside stalls, a popular evening street snack.
• Omani halwa — A sticky, fragrant sweet made with rosewater, saffron and nuts, offered with cardamom-spiced kahwa coffee.
• Harees — A comforting porridge of wheat and slow-cooked meat, traditionally served during Ramadan and celebrations.

Local customs & good to know

• Dress modestly — Cover shoulders and knees, particularly at the souq, mosques and fort, out of respect for local custom.
• Accept kahwa and dates — Omani hospitality centers on coffee and dates; accepting them graciously is a sign of good manners.
• Mind prayer times — Shops and the souq may close briefly during the five daily prayers, so plan visits around them.
• Ask before photographing people — Always seek permission before taking photos of locals, especially women, as a matter of courtesy.

Nearby

• Al Buraimi (Adh Dhahirah & Al Buraimi) — 93 km
• Al Khandaq Fort (Adh Dhahirah & Al Buraimi) — 94 km
• Bat, Al-Khutm and Al-Ayn Tombs (Adh Dhahirah & Al Buraimi) — 118 km
• Jebel Misht (Al-Ayn) (Adh Dhahirah & Al Buraimi) — 123 km