Salalah: The Jewel of Oman

• Helloمرحبا
  [marhaba]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wada'an]
• Yesنعم
  [na'am]
• Noلا
  [la]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك / على الرحب والسعة
  [min fadlik / 'ala al-rahb was-sa'ah]
• 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 understandأنا لا أفهم
  [ana la afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأريد أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [urid 'an 'ara al-qaimah, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحوم
  [ana la akl al-lahm]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [fi sahtak!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأود أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [awad 'an adfa', min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [al-najdah!]
• Go away!انصرف!
  [insarif!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [iatisal bialshurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بطبيب!
  [iatisal bitabib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت الطريق
  [laqad dalalt al-tariq]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أريد أن أشتري...
  [urid 'an ashtari...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتفرج
  [ana faqat atfarg]
• How much is it?كم سعره؟
  [kam si'ruh?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hatha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك خفض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuk khafdh al-si'ar?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam al-sa'ah?]
• It's one o'clockالواحدة
  [al-wahidah]
• Half past (10)العاشرة والنصف
  [al-'ashirah wal-nisf]
• Morningصباح
  [sabah]
• Afternoonبعد الظهر
  [ba'd al-dhuhur]
• Eveningمساء
  [masa]
• Yesterdayأمس
  [ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [al-yawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalathah]
• 4أربعة
  [arba'ah]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsah]
• 6ستة
  [sittah]
• 7سبعة
  [sab'ah]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamaniah]
• 9تسعة
  [tis'ah]
• 10عشرة
  [asharah]

• Where's a/the...?أين ال...؟
  [ayn al...?]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma huwa al-‘unwan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuk 'an turini (‘ala al-kharitah)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى القادم (الحافلة)؟
  [mata al-qadim (al-hafila)?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ....)
  [tathkirah (‘iilaa ....)]

Salalah, known historically as a major hub in the ancient frankincense trade, was a significant center for the production and distribution of this valuable resin. The region's frankincense trees, Boswellia sacra, were highly prized, and caravans would transport this 'gift of the gods' to various parts of the ancient world, including Egypt, Rome, and Greece. The trade routes connected Salalah to a vast network of civilizations, making it a vital economic and cultural crossroads.

Before becoming known as Salalah, the area was referred to as Zafar. This ancient name is a testament to the region's historical significance. During the late classical era, Zafar was a flourishing port and commercial hub, with connections to the Hadhramaut, India, Persia, and Africa. Archaeological evidence suggests that the city was a thriving community with advanced infrastructure, including sophisticated irrigation systems known as aflaj.

The Al Busaid dynasty, which began in the mid-18th century, played a pivotal role in shaping the modern history of Salalah. Under the rule of Sultan Said bin Taimur, Salalah became the capital of the Dhofar region. The Sultan’s administration focused on building infrastructure, promoting agriculture, and establishing the foundations of modern governance in the region. His reign left an indelible mark on the cultural and political landscape of Salalah.

During World War II, Salalah gained strategic importance due to its location along the Arabian Sea. The British established a military presence in the area to secure their interests and monitor the Indian Ocean. This period saw the construction of an airstrip in Salalah, which later evolved into the modern Salalah Airport. The British influence also impacted local governance and infrastructure development, setting the stage for future growth.

From 1963 to 1976, the Dhofar region, including Salalah, was embroiled in a significant conflict known as the Dhofar Rebellion. This insurgency aimed to overthrow the Sultanate of Muscat and Oman and was fueled by Marxist ideologies and local grievances. The conflict saw intense fighting between rebel forces and the Sultan’s army, supported by British and Iranian troops. The rebellion's resolution led to extensive development initiatives and modernization efforts in Salalah and surrounding areas.

Salalah is renowned for its unique monsoon season, known locally as the Khareef. During the summer months, the region transforms into a verdant paradise with lush greenery and cool temperatures, attracting tourists from across the Arabian Peninsula. The Khareef Festival, held annually, celebrates this natural phenomenon with cultural events, traditional performances, and local cuisine. The festival highlights the rich cultural heritage of Salalah and its significance in the region’s tourism industry.

Salalah is accessible via Salalah International Airport (SLL), which receives both international and domestic flights. Major airlines operate direct flights from cities like Muscat, Dubai, and Doha. Alternatively, you can reach Salalah by road from Muscat, a journey that spans roughly 1,000 kilometers and takes around 10-12 hours by car. Long-distance buses are also available for this route, providing a more economical option.

Within Salalah, transportation options include taxis, which are plentiful and relatively inexpensive. Make sure to agree on a fare before starting your journey. Car rentals are also available and can be a convenient way to explore the region at your own pace. Public buses operate within the city and to nearby towns, but schedules may be irregular. For a unique experience, consider renting a bicycle to explore the city and its scenic surroundings.

The official currency in Oman is the Omani Rial (OMR). Credit and debit 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 Salalah, and currency exchange services can be found at the airport and in major hotels.

Salalah is generally considered a safe city for tourists. However, it's always prudent to take standard safety precautions. Avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas at night and be aware of your surroundings. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, can occur in crowded places, so keep your belongings secure. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it's always best to stay vigilant.

In case of emergency, dial 9999 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Salalah has several hospitals and clinics that offer emergency services. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available throughout the city for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, particularly in public places and religious sites. Men and women should avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always remove your shoes before entering a mosque and dress conservatively. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake, but be mindful that physical contact between genders is often avoided. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don't eat or drink in public during the daytime in Ramadan, as it is considered disrespectful.

To experience Salalah like a local, visit the traditional souks, such as Al-Haffa Souk, where you can buy frankincense, spices, and traditional Omani crafts. Engage with locals who are generally warm and welcoming. Don't miss the annual Khareef Festival, which celebrates the monsoon season with cultural performances and events. For a taste of local cuisine, try shuwa, a traditional Omani dish of slow-cooked lamb.