Visit Sur, Oman

Sur, a placid sea coast town with its striking traditional dwellings, is a pleasant getaway and one of the most important towns in the eastern region. A trip through Sur's labyrinth of streets reveals many fine old houses with carved doors and arabesque windows.

From the corniche, the dhows in the harbor can be seen against the scenic backdrop of the Gulf of Oman.

Sur's history

Sur has a long history as one of Oman's foremost trading ports. Though now surpassed by Muscat, it is still a thriving town. A glimpse of how it used to be can be seen in old Sur and the small suburb of Aija.

Sur's dhow yards are world-renowned (and presumed home of the legendary Sinbad the Sailor). Though demand for dhows has declined sharply in the past 100 years it is still possible to see traditional dhow builders at work.

Sur is also famous for its breeding sites of the world's rare sea turtles in Ras Al Jinz, which has been declared a protected wildlife area.