Nizwa Souq

Nizwa Souq is about a two-hour drive from Muscat. The central market stands outside the renovated fort. Here you can purchase antiquities, pottery and silver jewellery. Nizwa silver craft is considered to be the best in the country. As always you can haggle for your purchase and you may be surprised at the deals you can find.

On any day of the week you can experience the usual hustle-bustle of the traditional markets selling fruits and vegetables, spices, meat and fish. But on Fridays everyone in the town gathers early in the morning at the goat walk at the far end of the Souq to purchase livestock from the local farmers. Cows, goats and sheep are offered for inspection and purchase. The scene is invariably crowded and busy and provides travellers with an excellent opportunity to observe local customs. Livestock is inspected, auctioned and sold to the highest bidders. The scene is crowded and busy especially on the eve of Eid festivities.

 It is one of the most important souks in the country besides Muttrah. The souq bustles with vendors selling everything from meat, fish, fruits and vegetables to spices, dates, gold and silverware. Nizwa is renowned for its silver jewelry which is considered to be the best in the country. Its people are masters in Khanjar making (curved dagger), recognised for its distinctive style and patterns. They also make copper ware, coffee pots, swords, leather goods and pottery.