Qurum: The Jewel of Muscat

• Helloمرحبا
  [marhaba]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wadaa'an]
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [la]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [min fadlik]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [athara]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kayf halak?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bikhayr. wa'ant?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتكلم الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatakallam al'inglizia?]
• I don't understandلا أفهم
  [la afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأرغب في رؤية القائمة، من فضلك
  [urghib fi ru'yat alqa'imah, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
  [ana la akl allahm]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [fi sahtak!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأود الدفع، من فضلك
  [awad aldaf', min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [alnajdah!]
• Go away!ارحل!
  [irhal!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [atassil bialsurata!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بطبيب!
  [atassil bitalib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت الطريق
  [laqad dalalt altariq]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أرغب في شراء...
  [urghib fi shira...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتطلع
  [ana faqat attalaa]
• How much is it?كم سعره؟
  [kam sa'ruh?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hatha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك خفض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuk khafr alsa'ur?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam alsaa'ah?]
• It's one o'clockالواحدة
  [alwahidah]
• Half past (10)العاشرة والنصف
  [al'ashirah walnisf]
• Morningصباح
  [sabah]
• Afternoonمساء
  [masa']
• Eveningمساء
  [masa']
• Yesterdayأمس
  [ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [alyawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalaatha]
• 4أربعة
  [arba'ah]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsah]
• 6ستة
  [sittah]
• 7سبعة
  [sab'ah]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamaaniyah]
• 9تسعة
  [tis'ah]
• 10عشرة
  [asharah]

• Where's a/the...?أين الـ...؟
  [ayn al...?]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma huwa al'anaan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuk 'an tureeni (ala alkharyata)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى الحافلة القادمة؟
  [mata alhafalat alqadimah?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ....)
  [tazkirat (ila ....)]

Qurum's history dates back to ancient times when it served as a vital coastal settlement along Oman's trade routes. Its strategic location on the Arabian Sea allowed for trading activities with various civilizations, including the Persians, Indians, and East Africans. Archaeological findings in the region indicate that Qurum was a hub for maritime trade, reflecting its significance in the economic landscape of early Oman.

During the 20th century, particularly in the 1970s, Qurum transformed from a modest fishing village to a prominent residential neighborhood in Muscat. This shift was largely influenced by the urbanization efforts initiated by Sultan Qaboos bin Said, who sought to modernize Oman. As a result, Qurum experienced rapid development, attracting both Omani citizens and expatriates, leading to its status as a vibrant and diverse community.

Qurum has evolved into a cultural melting pot, showcasing a blend of traditional Omani culture and modern influences. The neighborhood is home to various cultural institutions, including art galleries, cafes, and restaurants that reflect the diverse culinary traditions of Oman. This cultural dynamism is evident during local festivals and events, which celebrate Omani heritage while embracing global influences.

Qurum Beach, one of the most popular beaches in Muscat, has historical significance as it has been a gathering place for locals and visitors for generations. Historically, the beach was not only a recreational site but also a crucial area for fishing and trade, playing a role in the local economy. Today, it serves as a social hub, where people engage in various activities, fostering a sense of community and continuity with the past.

In recent decades, Qurum has witnessed significant urban development, with the establishment of modern infrastructure, shopping centers, and recreational facilities. This modernization has contributed to the neighborhood's appeal as a residential and commercial center in Muscat. The integration of traditional Omani architectural elements in new developments reflects a conscious effort to preserve the cultural identity of the area while catering to contemporary needs.

Qurum is easily accessible from other neighborhoods in Muscat. If arriving from the city center, you can take a taxi, which is the most convenient option, with fares typically ranging between 2 to 5 OMR. For a more economical choice, public buses operate frequently from various parts of Muscat to Qurum, with the journey taking approximately 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic. The nearest major road is Sultan Qaboos Highway, which connects to Qurum.

Qurum is primarily a residential and commercial area, making it easy to navigate on foot. While there are no trains in Oman, local buses operate within Muscat, including Qurum. Taxis are readily available and are a popular option for getting around. For those who prefer cycling, some areas of Qurum have dedicated bike lanes, but be cautious as traffic can be busy.

Qurum is generally considered safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, as in any urban area, it is advisable to remain vigilant and avoid poorly lit areas at night. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, can occur in crowded public places, so keep your belongings secure. Areas with slightly higher incidents of petty crime include some of the more crowded souks and markets.

In case of an emergency, dial 9999 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Hospitals and clinics are available in Qurum, with the most notable being the Sultan Qaboos University Hospital. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are easily accessible in the neighborhood.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in public places and when visiting mosques. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting mosques, women must wear a headscarf and men should wear long trousers. 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 friendly 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 Qurum like a local, visit the Qurum Natural Park for a leisurely stroll or picnic. Engage with locals at the Qurum Souk, where you can find unique handicrafts and traditional Omani goods. For an authentic dining experience, try local restaurants that serve Shuwa (slow-cooked lamb) and Majboos (spiced rice). Don’t miss the sunset at Qurum Beach, where you can enjoy the picturesque view over the Gulf of Oman.