attractions: shopping oman 2012


SHOP 'TILL YOU DROP


From authentic souks to modern shopping malls, Oman offers a variety of options for delegates looking for some retail therapy


BUYING LOCAL Shopping is one of the undoubted


highlights of a stay in Oman as shoppers get to swap the sterile air-conditioned environment of a conventional shopping mall for an authentic souk experience. In an era of mass production, the country's weavers, artists and silversmiths are still diligently producing a unique selection of handicrafts that ensure that local culture and heritage remain preserved. Numerous local galleries, herit- age exhibitions and souks provide the perfect opportunity to hunt down a unique souvenir, making the retail trail a hot ticket item on the 'must do' list for visitors to the country. Items that top the list for many visitors include silver trinkets, handcrafts, spices and gold, all of which are easily sourced in any of the country's bustling markets. Clay pots and hand-woven baskets, weighty silver jewellery and intricately decorated khanjars (the curved daggers that are part of Omani national dress for men), frankincense, quality pashminas and modern Arabic artworks all make the choice a difficult one.


SOUVENIR HUNTING The many opportunities to uncover


unique souvenirs is what makes Oman a shopping delight. For the ultimate in authenticity, a foray into the interior of Oman will pay unrivalled dividends with visits to the source of many of these age old crafts. Bahla, for example, is acknowledged as the centre of the pottery industry, where row upon row of simple clay jugs, pots, urns and incense burners lay waiting to be fired inside the giant kilns before being snapped up by eager visitors. Nizwa's silver souk shouldn't be missed either, particularly for those intrigued by the national symbol of the khanjar. There are antique or cheaper modern versions, but an authentic khanjar should be made of pure silver, and come with a filigree case and leather belt to fasten around the waist. The very best examples can cost several thousand dollars. A simpler but equally fascinating and fragrant souvenir is frankin- cense Ð a gum resin collected from ancient trees located principally in the southern Dhofar region, and used in incense burners for an


MALL TRAWLING If air-conditioned comfort is more


instant scent of all things Arabic. Local guides can be arranged to escort visitors to the Bedu markets of the desert. Sinaw Souk near the Wahiba Sands is the most accessible, and here you can find rugs and camel acces- sories in the bright colours and geometric patterns that represent classic elements of desert life such as bird or snake tracks.


Bargain hunters


For delegates who believe they possess finely honed negotiation skills, a trip to one of Oman's many authentic souks will give them the perfect opportunity to put their talents to good use. Although be warned, souk traders are worldly wise, bartering daily with an international audience. When bartering in the local souks start off asking 50 percent off the asking price and work back from there. Don't be afraid to walk away if you don't reach a price you're comfortable with Ð the vendor will usually try and tempt you back with a better offer!


your thing then Muscat's retail industry also offers a host of mod- ern day shopping centres all stocking the latest international brands. Muscat City Centre is recog- nised as Oman's first 'super-mall', with 44,000 square metres of retail space and parking for more than 1,500 vehicles. The mall features Oman's first Carrefour hypermarket, around 150 stores, a food court and a children's Magic Planet. Qurum City Centre, one of Muscat's newest shopping malls, boasts Oman's first H&M and Cold Stone Creamery. With 75 stores to choose from even the most ardent shopaholic will be satisfied. The Jawharat Al Shatti complex, tucked away near the beach in the Shatti Al Qurum area, provides a more boutique shopping experi- ence. Outlets stock a range of high-end items from crystal ware and local handicrafts to quirky household items at Pomegranate. Covering an area of 34,000 square metres, the Markaz Al Bahja shopping complex features a variety of retail outlets including Marks & Spencer and Toys 'R' Us, as well as a cinema complex and 10-pin bowling facility.


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