Close-up of a tree trunk with peeling bark and twisted branches against a blue sky.

Frankincense Oman

Frankincense Oman

It is reported in traditions that camel caravans had to cover more than 100 days' marches to reach their destination Gaza after 3400 kilometers. Frankincense was considered a miraculous remedy of the gods during the times of the Roman Empire and was transported in tonnage. The high demand for frankincense in ritual practices was responsible for the prosperity of the route, as well as the cities and empires it connected, since the 5th century BC.

Written by: Philip Eichkorn Last updated at: September 30, 2025

The Frankincense Route meant a tremendous economic upswing for the adjoining regions, and so in the 8th century BC, trade with jewelry, gold, and other precious goods also took place along this route. Today, most of the ancient caravan routes of the Frankincense Route have blown away, and their cities have sunk into the sand. Only a few lonely oases appear now and then. In 1984, a junction of three trade routes was located using satellite images. Excavations began, and the ruins of a city were found, which some researchers believe to be the legendary Wubar. In the tale from One Thousand and One Nights, Wubar was considered the Atlantis of the desert, which was destroyed by Allah because its inhabitants had become arrogant and greedy.

Discover Oman with experts who have called it their home

Your dream holiday, tailor-made by experts.

We don't just know Oman from books, we visit the country several times a year to experience the culture, landscape and people first-hand.

From your first enquiry to your return home, we are there for you personally - by phone, email or WhatsApp, whenever you need us. Our trips are as unique as you are: individually planned and provided with exclusive privileges and high-quality arrangements that will make your trip unforgettable.

You might also like this

The Royal Opera House in Muscat, Oman, a grand white building with classical architecture, set against a clear blue sky with a flag on top and colorful flowerbeds in front.

Royal Opera House Muscat

8 min read

The Royal Opera House Muscat is considered a gem in Oman’s cultural landscape, captivating travelers from around the world. Since its opening in 2011, it has not only established itself as a leading center for music and performance in the Middle East but also as an architectural masterpiece that combines traditional Omani elements with modern design. For culture enthusiasts and discerning travelers, the Opera House offers an unparalleled experience, harmoniously blending art, architecture, and luxury. With its diverse programming, unique architecture, and top-notch service, the Royal Opera Hou...

Traditional pottery shop in Nizwa Souq with clay pots and a palm tree in Oman.

Nizwa Souq

3 min read

The market of Nizwa is definitely worth a visit. You are most likely to get an impression of the life and hustle of an Arabic souq if you visit the market in the morning hours. The area where the various market sections are located is well-organized, but still offers a great variety of goods and offers. The souq, located to the east of Nizwa Fort, is completely surrounded by a wall and thus clearly distinguishes itself from the other districts. The market is divided into six areas. These are the West Souq, the East Souq, the fruit and vegetable hall with associated buildings for meat, fish, an...

A wooden pier extending into the calm blue sea with a person standing at the end in Salalah, Oman.

Weather Salalah

1 min read

The climate in the Dhofar region in southern Oman is tropical. This makes it significantly different from the rest of the country. The temperatures experience minor fluctuations and it is overall more humid. While daytime temperatures are around 27°C during the winter months from December to February, it is about 32°C warm in the summer months. Even at night, temperatures rarely drop below 20°C throughout the year. From June to September, the Khareef, a branch of the monsoon, occurs. The weather in Salalah is then very humid and brings significant rainfall. The region becomes a green oasis....