Bahla: The Enchanted Oasis of Oman

• Helloمرحبا
  [marhaba]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wada'an]
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [la]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك / على الرحب والسعة
  [min fadlik / ala alrahb wasa'a]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  ['udhran]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kayf halik?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bikhayr. wa'ant?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatahadath al'inglizia?]
• I don't understandلا أفهم
  [la afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأريد رؤية القائمة، من فضلك
  [uriid ru'yyat alqaima, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا أكل اللحم
  [ana la akl allahm]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [fi sahtik!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأريد أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [uriid 'an 'udfa', min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [alnajda!]
• Go away!اذهب بعيدا!
  [udhhab bai'dan!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [itassil bilshurtah!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بطبيب!
  [itassil bitabib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت الطريق
  [laqad dalalt altariq]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أريد شراء...
  [uriid shira...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتطلع
  [ana faqat atatala]
• How much is it?كم سعره؟
  [kam sa'rahu?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hadha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك خفض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuk khafd alsar?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam alsaa'a?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [alsaa'a alwahida]
• Half past (10)العاشرة والنصف
  [al'ashira walnisf]
• Morningالصباح
  [assaabah]
• Afternoonبعد الظهر
  [ba'd aldhuhur]
• Eveningالمساء
  [almasa']
• Yesterdayأمس
  [ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [alyawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalatha]
• 4أربعة
  [arba'a]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsa]
• 6ستة
  [sitta]
• 7سبعة
  [sab'a]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamania]
• 9تسعة
  [tisa'a]
• 10عشرة
  [ashara]

• Where's a/the...?أين ...؟
  [ayn ...?]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma huwa al'awn?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuk 'an tureeni (ala alkhari'tah)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى الحافلة التالية؟
  [mata alhafilat altaliyah?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ...)
  [tazkirah (ila ...)]

The history of Bahla dates back to the 3rd millennium BCE. The city has been a significant center for trade and culture due to its strategic location in the interior of Oman. Early settlers in the region were influenced by various civilizations, including the Persian and Mesopotamian empires.

Bahla Fort is one of the oldest and most impressive forts in Oman, constructed in the 13th and 14th centuries by the Banu Nebhan tribe. The fort complex includes a walled perimeter, watchtowers, and a mosque, showcasing traditional Omani architecture. In 1987, it was added to the UNESCO World Heritage list for its historical significance and architectural uniqueness.

During the medieval period, Bahla was the capital of the Banu Nebhan dynasty, which ruled much of the interior of Oman. The Banu Nebhan were known for their advanced irrigation systems, including the aflaj, which are still in use today. Their reign marked a golden era in Bahla’s history, contributing to its cultural and economic prosperity.

Bahla is renowned for its ancient aflaj irrigation systems, which are a testament to the ingenuity of its early inhabitants. These underground channels, some of which date back over a thousand years, were designed to transport water from distant sources to agricultural fields and settlements. They have been recognized by UNESCO for their historical importance and continue to be vital for local agriculture.

Bahla is famous for its traditional pottery, which has been a staple of the local economy for centuries. The town's potters create distinctive earthenware using local clay, a craft passed down through generations. The pottery is known for its durability and unique designs, making it a popular choice for both functional and decorative purposes.

Following the Omani Renaissance in the 1970s, Bahla experienced significant development and modernization. The town has managed to preserve its historical and cultural heritage while embracing new advancements. This period saw the restoration of Bahla Fort and other historical sites, ensuring that the town's rich history continues to be appreciated by future generations.

Bahla is not only a historical landmark but also a cultural hub in Oman. The town is known for its unique blend of traditional and modern lifestyles. Festivals, local markets, and cultural events are integral to the community, reflecting the town's enduring cultural heritage. The preservation of customs, crafts, and architecture makes Bahla a vital part of Oman's cultural identity.

Bahla is located in the Al Dakhiliyah region of Oman. The nearest international airport is Muscat International Airport, approximately 200 kilometers away. From Muscat, you can rent a car or take a taxi for a scenic drive that takes around 2 to 3 hours. Alternatively, there are bus services operated by Mwasalat that connect Muscat to Bahla.

Bahla is a small town, and many of its attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips, local taxis are readily available. Renting a car is a popular option for exploring Bahla and the surrounding areas at your own pace. Public buses are limited, so having a car can be more convenient for visiting nearby sites like Jabrin Castle and the Bahla Fort.

The official currency in Oman is the Omani Rial (OMR). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and market purchases. ATMs are available in Bahla for cash withdrawals, but plan to have some cash on hand before arriving.

Bahla is generally a safe destination for tourists. The town has a low crime rate, but it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but always stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 9999 for immediate assistance. Bahla has a local police station and medical facilities available. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always remove your shoes and cover your head when entering mosques. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A slight bow of the head is also a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Bahla like a local, visit the souq where you can buy traditional Omani crafts and pottery, for which Bahla is famous. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the town's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the Bahla Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For a unique experience, explore the ancient ruins and the old city walls that reflect Bahla's historical significance.