Ultimate Tour Salalah city highlights

The Most Important Ancient Port on the Arabian Sea (Part of the Frankincense Trail) history dates back to before 2000 BC. Some archaeological research confirms that the city's prosperity dates back to the Iron Age. Much of this city’s remains lie in Dhofar Governorate.

The city was a trade hub, being one of the largest ports on the Indian Ocean, making it a thriving commercial centre for the export of frankincense to China and Rome. The city’s location was first discovered in 1930. Currently, the office of His Majesty the Sultan's Adviser for Cultural Affairs is carrying out a comprehensive programme to develop the site, which is a collection of ruins covering a rectangular area of 64 hectares, surrounded by high walls to the east and north, and a small trench to the west. The wall has four gates.

The ancient city was divided into three main sections: commercial, residential and a section devoted to services. There were also a mosque and a fort on the west side. In 2000, Al Balid City was registered by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.

Al Balid Fort: These monumental ruins represent the remains of Al Balid Fort. They tower to a height of 13 metres, with three circular towers in the corners, as well as several other semi-circular towers. The low ground in the middle of the fort is the remains of a large courtyard. It is believed that Al Balid Fort once comprised more than four storeys.

Al Madinah Wall: To the north-west of the fort lie the remnants of the ancient city wall, used for protection from the seasonal rains that flooded the mountains of Dhofar.

The largest mosque in Salalah is definitely an inspired place of worship that’s worth a visit if you are in Salalah to enjoy the Khareef rains. Named after His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, The Sultan Qaboos Mosque is located in the heart of the city, where people who come to pray and also the visitors stand in awe as they admire its architectural beauty inspired by the Islamic and cultural motifs from Oman’s history. Inside the mosque, the prayer hall is beautifully decorated with crystal chandeliers, handwoven carpets in shades of green, and patterned walls. The towering mosque welcomes thousands of worshipers for prayers each day. note: Make sure to visit the landmark during the visiting hours: 8am to 11am. Non-Muslim visitors must dress modestly and women should cover their head.

Salalah Central Market was established in 1979. It represents a new stage of commercial activates and marketing in Dhofar governorate. It was necessary to construct market that an answer all the needs of Salalah town and the neighboring areas. In this market you can find bedu jewelley, frankincense, bukhoor, bells, khanjars and Omani traditional dress. The unique thing about this market is that you can find a fresh grilled fish for a delicious outdoor lunch.

Our guide will drive you to this religious land mark of Salalah, prophet Job Tomb, a 25 km from Salalah in the hills overlooking the city. The place brings a sense peace, tranquillity and spirituality. Moreover, driving up to the mountain gives another reason and advantage to do this visit, as you can enjoy the road trip to these beautiful lush valleys of Dhofar mountains and may on the way be able to see some the local Salalah cattle, like, camels, cows and gouts.

Non-Muslim visitors must dress modestly and women should cover their head.

 Al Hafah Souq lies 3 kilometres from the city of Salalah in Dhofar Governorate. It is surrounded by lofty coconut trees and is the perfect place to buy the best kinds of gum and incense, not only in Dhofar, but also in the Sultanate.

Al Hafah Souq is replete with a variety of products, including traditional textiles and clothing, gold and silver jewellery as well as many other traditional artefacts.

With your guide, you will have a visit to the (prophet) Umran Tomb in the down town. This is a religious landmark which is believed to be the grave of Prophet Umran whom name was mentioned in the Quran and believed to be the father of Mary. Non-Muslim visitors must dress modestly and women should cover their head.

Driving 23 km from the Salalah heading to the beautiful mountain of itin overlooking Salalah city. Stop at a very fascinating view point of itin restaurant balcony overlooking the city and enjoy a few minutes at this view point, then start a few minutes walk to the cave. Accompanied by your guide, he will explain to you about the history and brief geo-information about the cave formation and the beautiful plantations around.

Khor Dahariz (Beach Lagoon) lies at the Eastern entrance of Salalah city just near Dahariz coastline. It is one of the promising wetlands in the region and a major attractive place for many beautiful migratory birds, like the ibis, flamingo, ducks, grey heron and white heron. Additionally, this lovely lagoon serves many other indigenous species, such as, fish and crustaceans.