Nizwa: The Jewel of Oman

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

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأريد رؤية القائمة، من فضلك
  [urid ru'ya alqaima, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
  [ana la aakul allaham]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [fi sahtak!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأريد أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [urid an adfae, min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [alnajda!]
• Go away!انصرف!
  [ansarif!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [atsal bialshurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بطبيب!
  [atsal tabib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت الطريق
  [laqad dalalt altariq]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أود أن أشتري...
  [awad an ashtari...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتطلع
  [ana faqat atatala]
• How much is it?كم هو ثمنه؟
  [kam huw thamanuh?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hatha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك خفض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuk khafd alsu'r?]

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

• Where's a/the...?أين...؟
  [ayn...?]
• 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 tarini (ala alkharita)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى الحافلة التالية؟
  [mata alhafilat altalia?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى...)
  [tazkira (ila...)]

Nizwa, once the capital of Oman, has a history that dates back to the early days of Islam in the 7th century. As the political and cultural hub of the region, it played a significant role in the spread of Islam throughout the Arabian Peninsula. The city's strategic location made it a key center for trade and governance.

Constructed in the mid-17th century by Imam Sultan Bin Saif Al Ya'rubi, Nizwa Fort is one of the most iconic landmarks in Oman. The fort, with its massive circular tower, was designed to protect the city from invaders. Its architectural design, which includes secret shafts, traps, and defense mechanisms, reflects the military ingenuity of the time.

The Ya'ruba Dynasty, which ruled Oman from 1624 to 1744, was instrumental in unifying the country and expelling Portuguese forces from the region. Nizwa served as the dynasty's capital, and under their rule, the city flourished as a center of learning and the arts. The dynasty's legacy is still evident in the architectural and cultural heritage of Nizwa.

Nizwa Souq is one of the oldest and most prominent markets in Oman. It has been a bustling center of commerce for centuries, offering a variety of goods including traditional Omani crafts, spices, and silverware. The souq's layout and atmosphere provide a glimpse into the daily life and trade practices of Omani culture.

During the 19th and early 20th centuries, Nizwa was the seat of the Imamate of Oman, a religious and political institution that governed the interior regions of the country. The Imamate played a crucial role in maintaining the Islamic and cultural traditions of Oman, and its influence is still felt in the city's religious and cultural practices today.

In contemporary times, Nizwa has evolved into a vibrant city that balances modernity with its rich historical heritage. The city has become a popular destination for tourists who are drawn to its historical sites, cultural festivals, and traditional markets. Despite modernization, Nizwa has managed to preserve its unique identity and continues to be a symbol of Oman's illustrious past.

Nizwa is located in the Ad Dakhiliyah region of Oman. The nearest international airport is Muscat International Airport, approximately 150 kilometers away. From Muscat, you can take a taxi or rent a car to drive to Nizwa. The journey typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours by road. There are also bus services operated by Mwasalat that connect Muscat to Nizwa.

Nizwa is relatively small and many of its attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips, taxis are readily available and reasonably priced. Public buses operate within the town and connect to nearby villages. Renting a car is also a convenient option for exploring the surrounding areas at your own pace. Be aware that driving is on the right-hand side of the road.

The official currency in Oman is the Omani Rial (OMR). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are available throughout Nizwa, and currency exchange services can be found at major banks and in Muscat.

Nizwa is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is advisable to take standard precautions such as avoiding walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keeping an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 9999 for immediate assistance. There are local police stations and medical facilities available in Nizwa. 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 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 Nizwa like a local, visit the Nizwa Souq where you can buy fresh produce, spices, and traditional Omani goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about their culture. Don't miss visiting the Nizwa Fort, a historical monument offering insights into Omani history. For a unique experience, attend the Friday cattle market to witness local trade practices.