Memories of Mutrah, Oman

'Memories of Mutrah, Oman: Fishing Village to Vibrant City' brings forth the fishing background of the villages of Sur on the East Coast of Oman, and Mutrah. Sur is where the trading ships from India would sail to during the monsoon season before sailing onto Zanzibar on the East Coast of Africa. Fishing was always the lifeline for local inhabitants along the coast of Oman. Today fishing is still a main export as freezer loads are driven daily from villages to Dubai to sell. A wadi forms the main alleyway of the market area known as Mutrah Souq. Dating as far back as 600 years the local inhabitants have gathered here to exchange news, reflect on the health of their families, and purchase food and living requirements from this traditional marketplace. The first shops were built in the souq around 300 years ago. They were small with shelves for displaying goods and had no roof. The souq was a functional souq back then. Shops sold rat traps, brushes, ropes, foodstuffs, and fish along with traditional Omani fabrics from India. Today, Mutrah is a vibrant city, still catering to the local population as it has over the centuries while retaining the feel of a small fishing village. On the arrival of the late Sultan Qaboos bin Al Said in Muscat in July 1970, the development plans of his father were put forward making Muscat the capital. He also set out plans for his 'Muscat Capital Area' consisting of joining Mutrah and the main port area to Muscat via a corniche. Mutrah is also a popular tourist destination offering the wonders of a traditional souq along with a new fish and vegetable market complex, featuring restaurants and cafés. The Mutrah Fort has undergone renovations allowing visitors to walk up the many steps and take in the scenic view over the port and Mutrah city.