Joanna James
Oman is well known for its souks and for those moving through its capital of Muscat, these fascinating marketplaces will serve as the perfect escape to shop for spices, hookah pipes and dishdasha.
Featuring two separate entrances, a moving medley of shops selling a host of best buys and whatnot, the marvellous site of the Muttrah Souk will be your introduction to Muscat’s souk culture. Noted for being one of the oldest markets in the world, the Muttrah Souk is undoubtedly, the most popular of its kind in Oman and in turn, paves the way for a meander under a wooden roof and along winding alleys that will soon bring you to an assortment of sights and sounds. The market is the busiest in the evening and if you are a fan of haggling your way towards getting what you want, then it would make sense to allocate time for the Muttrah Souk.
Dubbed ‘Muttrah’s Sister,’ the charming Seeb Souk is next up on your bucket list of the best markets to call by when in Muscat. Located north of Muscat International Airport and a short distance from Avani Muscat Hotel & Suites, Seeb Souk offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get your hands on a cross-section of goods and products that you will not find at your local department store or mall. Once here, you will be well served by the local vendors who will attempt to draw your attention towards their stalls that range from Arabic sofas, and beautiful bangles to bridal chests referred to as ‘mandoos.’ One of the perks of visiting the Souk is the fact that you will be able to access a seafood market that adds to its appeal as one of the finest places to visit in Muscat.
Treated as an artisan farmer’s market as opposed to your average souk, Souk es Sabt is a delightful and fun-filled experience for those who fancy a fine blend of arts & crafts, traditional cuisine and fresh produce. However, understand that since the market is seasonal, you will need to plan and time your visit accordingly to avoid missing out on its engaging vibe. Operational from November to December and from January to February, Souk es Sabt is open daily beginning at 10 am up until it shuts up shop for the day at 7 pm.
Although you will have to ready yourself for a 2-hour journey north of Muscat in order to reach Sohar Souk, the experience will be worth it. Nestled near Sultan Qaboos Mosque in the Al Batinah North Governate, the Souk puts on one captivating show, regardless of whether you’re a serious shopper or obsessed over window shopping. While beautified by Arab and Islamic architecture no matter where your gaze might rest, one will be handed every opportunity to bargain for gold, silver, honey and even the softest wool in the region.
For an all-female market that is located 90 minutes from Muscat, then do take time to pause by the Ibra Souk. The vendors are extremely friendly and if you happen to want a picture, then it is best to ask for permission beforehand as a mark of respect. What makes the Souk stand out from its neighbours is credited to its location which is in the middle of a lush green courtyard with views of the Al Hajar Mountains to take in.
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.
