Kumzar

كمزار

A remote fishing village at the northern tip of Arabia, accessible only by boat and home to its own distinct Kumzari language. Its densely packed houses wedged into a rocky cove offer a rare glimpse of an isolated seafaring culture.

Things to do

• Boat journey from Khasab — Reach Kumzar via a scenic dhow or speedboat trip through the fjord-like khors, the only way in or out of the village.
• Wander the labyrinthine alleys — Explore the tightly packed houses squeezed into the narrow rocky cove, where lanes are barely wide enough for two people.
• Visit the village harbour — Watch fishermen unload their catch and mend nets at the working waterfront that sustains this seafaring community.
• Hear the Kumzari language — Listen for the village's unique tongue, a blend of Arabic, Persian and other influences spoken almost nowhere else on earth.
• See the freshwater spring and wells — Learn how villagers historically depended on precious local water sources in this arid, isolated setting.
• Snorkel in the clear cove waters — Explore the marine life in the turquoise waters surrounding the village, rich with fish thanks to the deep khors.
• Photograph the mountain backdrop — Capture the dramatic contrast of white houses against the barren ochre cliffs plunging into the sea.

Food to try

• Fresh grilled fish — Kingfish, tuna and other daily catches are the heart of the diet, simply grilled or cooked with local spices.
• Dried and salted fish — Preserved fish, a staple in this isolated village, is prepared to last and used in many everyday dishes.
• Harees — A slow-cooked porridge of wheat and fish or meat, a comforting traditional dish shared on special occasions.
• Omani dates and kahwa — Sweet dates served with cardamom-spiced Omani coffee are the customary welcome offered to guests.
• Madrouba — A mashed rice-and-fish dish blended with spices into a thick, hearty meal typical of coastal Musandam.

Local customs & good to know

• Dress modestly — This is a conservative, devout fishing community, so cover shoulders and knees and dress respectfully when walking through the village.
• Ask before photographing people — Residents value their privacy, so always seek permission before taking photos of villagers, especially women.
• Bring your own supplies — There are minimal shops or facilities, so carry water, snacks and anything you need since the village is remote and self-contained.
• Respect the seasonal migration — Many families relocate to Khasab during the hot summer for date harvesting, so Kumzar can feel quieter or nearly empty then.

Nearby

• Khor Ash Sham — 5 km
• Telegraph Island — 8 km
• Musandam Fjords — 13 km
• Khor Najd — 22 km