WELCOME to Ibra, Al Sharqiya Region, Sultanate of Oman

Ibra is...

Known as the ‘Gateway to the East’ of Oman

Famous for its fine horses, its wonderful souq, a dramatic cave and beehive tombs. There’s heaps to see in the area and it makes a great stop if travelling in this eastern area.

With trading links to East Africa Ibra has always been a mercantile town, yet today its old houses in the once-wealthy Al Kanaatir and Al Minzfah areas have fallen into disrepair. The Al Harithy tribe are numerous in the area.

Today most people know Ibra as the ‘Gateway to the East’, perhaps because it was situated on the caravan routes between the interior and the once grand port of Sur. Its horses and horsemen are famous as is the women-only souq on a Wednesday morning.

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How to get there in Ibra

Ibra lies in North East part of Oman, 160 kilometres away from capital city Muscat.

By Bus

Take buses/coaches belonging to the Oman National Tourist Corporation (ONTC) going to Sur. Cars can be hired from Car Rental agencies. The bus terminal is located at Ruwi.

Average drive time is 1 1/2 hours.

By Taxi

Starting point of taxis is located at Al-Rusayl Taxi Station.

By Private Vehicle

Follow the North Expressway Road (Route 23) going to Sur and take the exit point at Bidbid point (Gasoline station).

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Oman - at a glance

Capital: Muscat

Area: 309,500 sq. kms.

Time: GMT +4 hours

Language: Arabic is the official language. English is widely spoken.

Currency: OR = Omani Riyal

Exchange rate: One US Dollar = 0.384 OR

Visas: Single entry visa, Multiple entry visa, Express visa

Electricity: 220/380 volts

Hours of Work/Business: Government departments are open from 0730 - 1430 hrs adn closed on Thursdays and Fridays.
Private sector offices are open 0800 - 1300 and from 1600 - 1900 (except on Thursdays, till 1400 hrs), closed on Fridays.

Climate: The hottest months are May through August. The summer monsoon just touches the southern coast of Dhofar during these months bringing regular light rain to Salalah and reducing the average daytime high to 25c.
The most pleasant months to visit Oman are mid October through March when daytime temperatures fall into the lower 30s and below.

Airport: Muscat Interanational Airport is the main airport. Salalah also has an international airport. There are domestic airports at Sur, masirah Islan and Khasab (Musandam).

Information:
Ministry of Tourism
www.omantourism.gov.om

Courtesy info: Oman - at a glance, Wings of Oman (Magazine of Oman Air) Volume 1 - 2009