Nizwa City Guide
Nizwa, the historic capital of Oman’s interior, is the cultural and spiritual heart of the nation. Located in the Ad Dakhiliyah Governorate at the foot of the Al Hajar Mountains, Nizwa served as the capital of Oman in the 6th and 7th centuries and remains a centre of traditional crafts, Islamic scholarship, and date palm agriculture.
Key Facts
| Indicator | Value |
|---|---|
| Population | ~110,000 |
| Governorate | Ad Dakhiliyah |
| Notable Landmark | Nizwa Fort (17th century) |
| Famous Market | Nizwa Souq (Friday cattle market) |
| Elevation | ~500 metres |
Heritage and Culture
Nizwa Fort, built in the 17th century by Imam Sultan bin Saif, features one of the largest round towers in Arabia. The traditional souq surrounding the fort sells silverware, pottery, and woven goods made by local artisans. The Friday livestock market remains a colourful tradition attracting tourists and locals.
Surrounding Attractions
Nizwa provides access to Jebel Akhdar (Green Mountain) with its rose gardens and terraced farms at 2,000 metres altitude. Jebel Shams, Oman’s highest peak at 3,009 metres, is nearby with dramatic canyon views comparable to the Grand Canyon. Bahla Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, lies 40 kilometres away.
Economy
The local economy revolves around agriculture, particularly date palms and pomegranates. Tourism is growing rapidly with new boutique hotels and guided cultural experiences. The Nizwa Industrial Estate supports light manufacturing and food processing activities.
University Town
The University of Nizwa is a leading private university offering programmes in arts, sciences, and pharmacy. The institution has strengthened Nizwa’s role as a centre of learning and attracted a young student population to the city.