Joanna James
Oman is a nation that cherishes its rich culture and traditions and welcomes foreign visitors with open arms. If you consider yourself to be a true shopaholic, you will be delighted to know that Oman's offered shopping experiences cover both traditional Souqs bursting with life, along with sparkling modern malls, which promise a retail experience unlike any before.
Located within the confines of the ancient Nizwa Fort, Nizwa Souq is the oldest and most famous shopping precinct in the county. This particular Souq is home to stalls of all kinds including jewellery stores, tailor shops, date stalls, pottery stalls and hardware stores! There are even live goat and cattle markets that take place every Friday. The buildings found within the fort are quite interesting to take in as well with their perfect blend of modern and traditional architecture. The sandy-coloured buildings certainly give Nizwa Souq a truly unique and charming look. While visiting, you will get to take in exotic sights of stall owners hawking gorgeous silver jewellery, beautiful pottery and a wide variety of dates and olives. A part of the Souq is dedicated to a fresh produce market including local vegetables and fruits along with fresh seafood and meat, so make sure to factor a visit there as well. The Souq is open to the public from Saturday to Thursday from 9 am to 4 pm and on Fridays, from 8 am to 11 am.
Undisputedly the largest mall in Oman, the Oman Avenues Mall is home to stores of luxury, high-end and streetwear brands, along with a wide offering of fine dining options, fast food chains, cafes and bistros. The mall also offers heaps of fun and entertainment options. Here too the architecture of the mall is stunning and unique and promises to ensure your shopping experience is a beautiful and memorable one. This mall can be easily reached from Oman luxury resorts including the likes of Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort as well.
Come every Wednesday, the desert town of Ibra comes alive and transforms into one of the most colourful and brightest markets in Oman. In a women's market, men are not allowed inside the market. This is the chance for female merchants to sell their products and goods to other women. Items sold here include textiles, home decor, textiles, makeup, souvenirs and plenty more.
Another popular shopping mall in Salalah, this mall features a sprawling garden which is host to local events and festivals throughout the year. Salalah Gardens Malls also offers visits to a larger hypermarket, an entertainment area for kids and a three-screen multiplex cinema.
Established in the year 1977, this particular jewellery shop has certainly built a name for itself, thanks to the extravagant nature of the jewels along with its fine craftsmanship. Both locals and foreign visitors flock here to purchase meticulously handcrafted jewellery to gif their loved ones.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
