Sohar

Introducing Sohar

Rumoured home of two famous sailors, the historical Ahmed bin Majid and the semifictional Sinbad, Sohar is one of those places where history casts a shadow over modern reality. A thousand years ago it was the largest town in the country: it was even referred to as Omana, though its ancient name was Majan (seafaring). As early as the 3rd century BC, the town’s prosperity was built on copper that was mined locally and then shipped to Mesopotamia and Dilmun (modern-day Bahrain).

Now it is one of the prettiest and best-kept towns in the country, but with little more than legend – and a triumphal arch over the Muscat–Sohar Hwy – marking its place in history. A new port-side industrial area is helping to change that.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009