Follow the scent of history. Discover the ruins, ports, and trees that made Salalah the center of the ancient world’s most luxurious trade.
The Article: Long before oil, there was Frankincense. This aromatic resin, harvested from the Boswellia sacra tree, was more valuable than gold in the courts of Rome, Egypt, and China. Salalah was the heart of this global trade, and its legacy is still visible today.
The Sacred Trees of Wadi Dawkah
Our journey starts at Wadi Dawkah, a protected park where thousands of Frankincense trees grow in their natural habitat. You will learn the delicate art of harvesting—how the bark is “tapped” to allow the milky sap to “tear” and harden into the golden resin the world covets.
The Ancient Ports: Sumhuram & Al Baleed
To understand the scale of this history, we visit the coastal ruins.
- Sumhuram (Khor Rori): This fortified city dates back to the 3rd century BC. It was the main port for shipping resin to the Mediterranean. Standing on the cliffs overlooking the sea, you can almost see the ancient dhows loading their precious cargo.
- Al Baleed Archaeological Park: Located in the heart of Salalah, this UNESCO site features an excellent museum (The Museum of the Frankincense Land) which showcases Oman’s maritime strength.
The Modern Market: Haffah Souq
We conclude the day at the Haffah Souq. This is not just a tourist stop; it is where locals buy their daily supply. The air is thick with smoke from traditional burners. We teach you how to identify Hojari Frankincense—the highest grade in the world—characterized by its large, silver-green tears. It is the ultimate authentic souvenir from your time in Dhofar.
