Plan a CruiseSur is a tranquil fishing town situated on Oman's eastern coast, historically renowned for its dhow building industry and as a vital trade hub with East Africa. While the bustling trade has ceased, traditional dhows are still crafted here today. The port itself is located in Sur harbor, on the outskirts of the main town.
Visitors to Sur can immerse themselves in an authentic Arabian experience, exploring the traditional souk with its Middle-Eastern wares, visiting local forts, the marine museum, or enjoying a stroll along the picturesque quay. Beyond the town, Sur serves as an excellent base for discovering Oman's diverse landscapes, including its beautiful beaches, wadis, and the expansive desert.
Getting Around from the Port
The port in Sur is located on the outskirts of the town, meaning walking to the main town center is not practical. Public transport is limited, with no regular bus service available. Passengers will need to rely on taxis or shared taxis for transport.
Omani taxi drivers are known for being friendly, as this profession is reserved for nationals, and fares are generally reasonably priced. For a private taxi experience, you can ask for an "engaged taxi," which means you pay for all four seats to have the vehicle to yourself.
To reach key attractions outside the town, such as Ras Al Hadd (45 km away) or the Wahiba Sands (approximately a one-hour drive), a taxi will be necessary. Specific costs will vary depending on the destination and negotiation, but are considered reasonable.
Attractions and Activities
- Explore Sur Town: Immerse yourself in the local culture by wandering through Sur's authentic souk, where you can find genuine Middle-Eastern goods. Visit one of the town's historic forts, learn about the maritime heritage at the marine museum, or take a leisurely walk along the quay, observing the traditional dhows.
- Turtle Watching at Ras Al Hadd: Located just 45 km along the coast from Sur, Ras Al Hadd is a significant nesting site for green turtles. This offers a unique opportunity to witness these magnificent creatures, especially during nesting season (check local schedules for best viewing times). Travel time by taxi is approximately 45 minutes to an hour.
- Desert Adventure in Wahiba Sands: For a taste of Oman's stunning natural beauty, embark on a trip to the Wahiba Sands desert. This beautiful desert is roughly a one-hour drive from Sur, offering the chance to experience the vast, golden dunes (often requiring a 4x4 vehicle or tour).
Shopping
The primary shopping experience in Sur is found within its authentic souk, offering a variety of traditional Middle-Eastern goods and a genuine local atmosphere.
Shopping Hours: Generally, shops operate from 9 am to 1 pm and then reopen from 4 pm to 9 pm. Larger establishments like department stores, supermarkets, and shopping complexes often have extended hours, particularly during Ramadan, when they may be open from 9 am to 10 pm with a short break for lunch, every day except Fridays. However, individual shop timings can vary.
Dining
While no specific restaurants are mentioned near the port, the town of Sur will have local eateries where you can sample Omani cuisine.
Currency and Language
The local currency in Sur is the Omani Rial (OMR), which is divided into 1,000 Baisa. The Omani Rial has been officially pegged to the US dollar since 1986, with an exchange rate of 1 OMR = 2.6008 USD. Street exchange rates may be slightly lower by a percent or two. Credit cards are generally accepted in larger establishments, and ATMs are available in town.
Language: While Arabic is the national language of Oman, most Omanis, especially those in tourist areas and major cities like Sur, speak good to excellent English.