| Muttrah
- Bringing old-world charm into today's shopping |
 Oman’s
ancient trading port Muttrah has many attractions for the modern-day
visitor. There is Muttrah Fort, one of the 13 forts dotting the
area. There are popular public gardens like the Riyam Park, frequented
by families and the health conscious alike. (Its towering incense
burner vantage-point can be seen from the Corniche below, standing
out beautifully against the night skies.) There are three museums,
the National Museum, Bait al Zubair and Bait al Falaj. There are
a couple of star hotels like the Al Falaj Hotel and the Oman Sheraton
in Greater Muttrah area. Besides all these, there is one landmark
that every tourist and visitor to Oman heads for to soak in the
essence of Muscat – the Muttrah Souk.
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| WELCOME
TO THE OLDEST SOUK IN OMAN |
| Muttrah
Souk has gained the reputation of being the ‘most interesting’
souk in the Arab Gulf states. Enter through the tall arch
that frames the entrance, and know that you are stepping
into the oldest souk in Oman. The wares on display however
are a perfect blend of the ancient and the modern, offering
a choice to shoppers. Even as you feast your eyes on the
silverware, antiques, frankincense, garments, toys, spices,
gold, etc., on display, make sure you do not miss out on
what is above your head. The canopied roof of the souk is
made of palm fronds, giving it an exotic, timeless feel.
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| THE
KHANJAR: SHARP SHOPPING |
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A symbol of pride, manhood and elegance, the khanjar is
one of Oman’s most distinctive products. This curved
dagger is a must-wear for Omani men, and will be seen proudly
displayed at all important occasions. Omani craftsmen and
silversmiths are renowned for their khanjar creations that
are truly works of art.
Originally, the hilts of some of the khanjars were made
from rhino horn. But today, keeping the lives of these fast-depleting
animals in mind, plastic and fiberglass are among the materials
used here. The body of the khanjar is made from dual pieces
of wood. It is artistically embellished in silver or sometimes
in gold. Khanjars can cost anywhere between from RO 30 to
RO 500, depending on the quality, decoration and work on
the dagger, scabbard and belt. |
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THE BAKHOOR: TAKE HOME THE SCENTS OF OMAN
Treat your senses to a range of fragrances, on sale in Muttrah.
You will find the bakhoor being sold by Bedouin women as
well as by the shopkeepers. The bakhoor weaves together
an aromatic bouquet of raw materials such as sandalwood,
frankincense and natural oils. You can also pick up an incense
burner. These are among the folk symbols of Oman. You will
find them in all sizes, some colourfully painted, some in
gleaming silver, and others in the mud colour of their birth. |
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SILVER JEWELLERY: DESIGNED TO THRILL
Silver boxes made to hold kohl, belts, chest pieces, amulets,
anklets, you name it you will find it here. Many of these
pieces boast intricate designs. Secondary accessory metals
like gold, bronze and old coins, etc. are also used as decorations.
Omani silver is 92.5% pure. Most of the jewellery on sale
will not be as ancient as the earnest shopkeeper in front
of you may claim. This is for the simple reason that traditionally
a woman’s jewellery is melted down and sold for its
weight after her death. You can also purchase the traditional
Omani coffee pot as a souvenir. Perched in your home, it
will evocatively recall your visit to Oman. |
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THE
DRESS OF THE PEOPLE
Souvenir items like local garments are also popular. Choose from
the cool, white dishdashas  with
their neat, flowing lines. Match it with a ‘kummas’,
the traditional cap. There is also the ‘massar’, the
distinguished turban worn by Omani men. Women can choose from
‘surwals’ (trousers) and ‘lihaffs’ (shawls).
DATES: FOR THAT LINGERING TASTE OF OMAN
The date palm has been cherished as the ‘wealth’ of
the people of the nation. Dates form an integral part of an Omani
welcome to guests, along with the traditional kawa. Dates are
available in two stages, depending on the season. The first stage,
locally known as ‘ratab’ involves picking up partially
ripe dates. As the season progresses, you can savour the ripe,
sugary sweet dates, full of flavour and taste in the ‘Al
Tamer’ harvest stage. Be sure to pack some dates to take
home with you. These can be stored and selectively relished at
your leisure. |
SHOPPING TIPS
Whether you go to Muttrah Souk for shopping or just to wander
around and soak up the atmosphere, here are a few markers that
could make your trip even more enjoyable.
* If you want to keep away from the crowds, visit the souk in
the mornings or late afternoons. The souk is busiest in the evening
hours, after 6.00 p.m.
* If you have a certain item in mind, look around in more than
one shop, and then choose the best piece, at the best price. Stores
here tend to group together according to similarity of wares on
sale. Here, you will find all the textiles in one area, the gold
shops in another, which makes it very convenient for shoppers
who want to compare similar items. |
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