Sur City: The Jewel of Eastern Oman — a Story of Civilization and Ancient History
Last updated: June 15, 2026
The Wilayat of Sur, located in the Governorate of South Al Sharqiyah in the Sultanate of Oman, is nicknamed "the Jewel of Eastern Oman". It enjoys an important strategic location on the Arabian Sea and the Sea of Oman, which made it a beacon for trade and sea voyages across the ages.
A beacon of civilisation:
Sur is considered one of the oldest human settlements in Oman, its history dating back to 2500 BC. Malik bin Fahm Al Azdi of Oman took it as the capital of his kingdom, making it an important centre of civilisation.
A Phoenician legacy:
It is believed that the Phoenicians founded the city of Sur, drawing its name from another Phoenician settlement bearing the same name in southern Lebanon.
An ancient sea port:
Sur was renowned for its maritime skills and shipbuilding, having been an important sea port since antiquity. Its sailing fleets played a leading role in trade across the seas and oceans, and carried the name of Oman to various parts of the world.
An ancient commercial history:
Sur emerged as an important commercial centre over centuries, being the gateway of eastern Oman and a historic meeting point of the sea routes. The Suri ghanja and baghla ships carried the name of Oman across the seas and oceans, and generations of great merchants dominated the region's trade for thousands of years.
Economic diversity:
The activities of the Wilayat of Sur were not limited to maritime trade alone, but developed to include a wide range of sectors, including agriculture, industry and tourism.
A prominent landmark:
The Al Ayjah area is one of the most beautiful areas in the Wilayat of Sur, where the Al Ayjah lighthouse stands, considered one of the oldest sea lighthouses in the Sultanate.
A distinctive tourist destination:
The Wilayat of Sur offers tourists an exceptional opportunity to explore its ancient history and rich culture, in addition to enjoying its stunning beaches and varied natural scenery.
Natural treasures:
The Wilayat of Sur enjoys stunning natural beauty, comprising golden sandy beaches, clear turquoise waters, towering mountains and fertile valleys.
Rich wildlife:
Sur is home to diverse wildlife, including antelopes, gazelles and migratory birds.
An ancient culture:
Sur enjoys an ancient culture embodied in its folk heritage, handicrafts, arts and delicious cuisine.
Hospitality:
The people of Sur are known for their generous hospitality and kind treatment of visitors, which makes the experience of travelling to Sur an unforgettable one.
Sur: an unmissable destination for lovers of history, culture and natural beauty.