Nizwa Souq — Local services in Ad Dakhiliyah Governorate

About one hour and a half from Muscat to reach Nizwa Suq located just beside Nizwa Fort which was built in the 1650s. so you can imagine how old is the place and history behind it which is really interested even for me as a local. Nizwa Souq will give you a glimpse of old Oman, with some sections having retained its ancient architecture and unrenovated structures. The Suq is well arranged and sections for different products like Fish, Local Vegetables, Halwa “Omani Sweet”, Hand Crafts, Silver Crafts, Clay Crafts and so on. Old Gates and doors giving you an ancient feeling of the place. Many products that you can see and buy to take home to decorate as well as souvenirs for beloved once. Many doors to enter the Suq which takes you to different parts and a classic car tour “below there social account” you can take where they take you around the Suq and explain story behind it and how it was developed over the years till reached the way it is right now. I really liked this this tour, and I am certain that I will do it every time I visit Nizwa because of the stories and the information I heard which I didn’t know before even thought I have been to Nizwa thousands of times. They are Omani Brands for coffee shops with fantastic views and decoration that you can go, set and enjoy the vibes. Around the suq and in between the corridors will notice Falajs and some of them passed beneath the houses around the suq. Plus, local business that can rent you scooters and give you the freedom to take your own tour and enjoy your time. If you are there, you need to try the Omani Halwa which is an omani traditional sweet made locally by certain families over the years contains saffron, nuts, rose water, cardamon, sugar and so on which is worth trying. After the Halwa for sure you will need a cup of Omani Coffee to balance the mood. Many things to say about this location but this is a quick summary to encourage you to build good memories about the place and hoping this review will help you to enhance your experience when you visit.

Insta: Classic Car...

Nizwa was the capital of Oman in the 6th and 7th centuries AD. With its deep connection to the root of Islam, Nizwa possesses a number of renowned mosques, such as Sultan Qaboos Jama (Friday mosque), So'al Mosque built in the 2nd century AH (9th century AD), Ash-Shawathinah Mosque in Uqr and Ash-Sharja Mosque. There are also Al-Ain Mosque, Ash-Sheikh Mosque and Shuraij Mosque in Tanuf built in 377 AH (around 1000 AD).[citation needed]

A handwritten letter from the Islamic Prophet Muhammad in 630 asked the locals of the mountain town of Nizwa to convert. The locals then sent a return delegation to Medina and embraced Islam. A tutor was sent by Muhammad to teach the new Muslims of Nizwa the fundamentals of the religion.[1]

The explorer Ibn Battuta visited in the 14th century, noting Nizwa as "a city at the foot of a mountain, enveloped by orchards and streams, and with fine bazaars and splendid clean mosques."[2]

In the early 1950s, the large round tower of the ancient fort built in the center of the town was bombed and rocketed by the British Royal Air Force, who were called in to assist the then-reigning Sultan Said bin Taimur in suppressing a revolt by leaders of the interior Imamate of Oman.[citation needed] The conflict was driven by a struggle for a share of Oman's newly discovered oil wealth.

Nizwa has become a more modern city since 1970 under the reign of Sultan Qaboos.[citation needed] Improvements include connections to Muscat via a two-lane highway, which has increased tourism. Communications have been improved to include broadband access, and the city is home to a substantial hospital. It is also a hub for education including a technical college, College of Applied Sciences, The University of Nizwa, and the training academy for the Royal Oman Police. There are now many hotels and tourism is promoted...

If you’re visiting Nizwa, this souq is a must-visit! 🏺✨ Located near Nizwa Fort, it offers a true glimpse into Oman’s rich heritage and is the perfect place to experience the lively atmosphere of a traditional Omani market.

🛍️ What You’ll Find:

✅ Silver Jewelry & Handicrafts – Beautiful handcrafted Omani silver jewelry 💍, khanjars (traditional daggers) 🗡️, and pottery 🏺. ✅ Spices & Frankincense – The scent of fresh spices, dates, and frankincense fills the air 🌿🌰. ✅ Traditional Omani Clothing – You’ll find dishdashas and embroidered kummahs (Omani caps) 👕. ✅ Local Food & Dates – Don’t miss out on the fresh Omani dates, honey 🍯, and dried fish 🐟. ✅ Authentic Omani Halwa – One of the highlights of the souq is the delicious Omani Halwa 🍮, a rich, gelatinous sweet made with saffron, cardamom, rosewater, and nuts. The plain halwa is a must-try for those who love traditional flavors!

🐪 Friday Livestock Market: If you’re in Nizwa on a Friday morning, don’t miss the livestock auction 🐏🐐🐄! It’s a unique experience where local farmers trade goats, cows, and sheep in an exciting traditional style. Even if you’re not buying, watching the auction is fascinating. All place can get crowded during the Friday livestock market 🐏.

☕ Authentic Atmosphere & Friendly Locals: Omani shopkeepers are warm and welcoming, often offering you Kahwa (Omani coffee) ☕ and fresh dates while you browse!

🎭 Traditional Architecture: The mud-brick walls, wooden doors, and shaded walkways make this souq feel authentic and untouched by modern commercialization.

💰 Bargaining Tip: Bargaining is expected for jewelry and souvenirs. Be polite, and you might get a...