Mutrah Souq is a delight to the senses, a chaotic mix of sights, sounds and smells. Enter from the Corniche, near the traffic lights where pedestrians can safely cross over and make your way up the main covered corridor. Be sure to look up as there are a couple of spectacular colored ceilings, both glass and wood. The staple offerings are ripe for souvenir hunters and include an array of local Omani and Indian artifacts including traditional textile and jewellery stalls. Of course, there is the predicable spattering of toy and tat stores that can be worthwhile if you’re after this type of thing.
Be prepared to lose yourself in the rabbit warren of alleyways and practice your bargaining before launching into your purchases. The main souq gives way to a gold souq further up the hill and away from the harbour.
When your done be sure to stop at one of the many cafes and restaurants for a juice or smoothie and a delicious local shawarma.
The Fast Food ‘n’ Juice Centre just to the left of the Souq entrance provides local food at reasonable prices and is an atmospheric place to sit at sunset to take in the surroundings.
Would I return?
Yes. I’d return to Mutrah Souq for more souvenirs and another delicious lemon juice and falafel sandwich at the Fast Food ‘n’ Juice Centre.