The Omani city of Sur, located along the Arabian Sea, is the Arab Tourism Capital for 2024.
Two hours away from the country's capital, Muscat, Sur is a coastal gem known for its rich history and culture, traditional architecture and warm hospitality.
Sur offers pristine beaches, historic landmarks, vibrant souks and traditional dhows.
Sur Old Town
Sur Old Town offers visitors a glimpse into the city's rich cultural tapestry through its ancient architecture, bustling souks and vibrant community life.
As well as several well known historical landmarks, Sur Old Town is home to traditional Omani houses (with whitewashed walls, wooden doors and carved balconies).
There are also lively souks with stalls selling spices, textiles and jewellery, and the chance to join a local artisans' workshop as well as sampling traditional Omani cuisine.
Bilad Sur Castle
This historic fortress, an example of Omani architectural heritage and a testament to Sur's past, was built in early 19th century as a fortification against maritime invasions.
Today, Bilad Sur Castle attracts visitors for its architectural beauty and the chance learn about the region's rich history.
The castle offers an insight into life in medieval Oman, showcasing exhibits on weaponry, governance and daily life.
Sur Lighthouse
The Sur Lighthouse, one of Sur's most prominent landmarks, was built in early 20th century to guide ships navigating the waters near the city.
The lighthouse is distinguished by its tall tower and distinctive white-and-red colour scheme and a tower topped with a lantern room housing the lighthouse's beacon.
Fatah Al Khair
Fatah Al Khair is a historic shipyard which serves as an open-air museum dedicated to Sur's shipbuilding lineage.
The shipyard served as a vital centre for maritime trade and shipbuilding along the Arabian Sea coast.
Visitors can see the craftsmanship involved in building traditional Omani dhows and gain insights into Sur's maritime history.
Ras Al Hadd
Ras Al Hadd, a short drive from Sur, is a coastal village known for its rugged coastline, pristine beaches and clear turquoise waters.
The village is also known as a nesting site for green and hawksbill turtles, and is home to the Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve, where visitors can observe endangered turtles coming ashore to lay their eggs.
Khor Jarama
The lagoon of Khor Jarama, just outside Sur, has serene waters, rugged cliffs and lush mangrove forests.
Two of Khor Jarama's defining features are its extensive mangrove ecosystem, which support a diverse array of flora and fauna, and its floating chalets.
These are houses at the water's edge that serve as accommodation for visitors looking for something off the beaten track.
The floating chalets are equipped with modern amenities and are built with eco-friendly materials.Floating guests can enjoy a wide variety of activities including swimming, snorkelling and fishing.
Marvelous Sur
Marvelous Sur is a white-sand beach known for its crystal-clear waters.
It is relatively secluded, and retains a sense of tranquillity and seclusion. Visitors can swim, snorkel or simply sunbathe with views of the Arabian Sea. Sunrises and sunsets over the horizon.
Oman
Found on the East Coast of the Arabian Peninsula, Oman itself offers visitors a mixture of history, culture and adventure.
It has over 3,000 km of Indian Ocean coastline and mountains that provide cooler temperatures during the hotter summer months.