The Craftsmen’s Souq at Al Amerat Public Park has emerged as one of the most popular attractions of the Muscat Nights events, drawing visitors eager to explore traditional Omani crafts and industries.
The souq offers a dedicated space where artisans proudly display skills passed down through generations, working in front of their shops on crafts they have mastered since childhood.
Witnessing remarkable popularity during Muscat Nights, the Craftsmen’s Souq reflects sustained efforts to preserve, promote and develop traditional handicrafts while maintaining high standards of quality.
These efforts aim to equip artisans with the skills needed to present and market Omani crafts professionally, enabling them to reach wider local and international audiences. Promoting handicrafts remains a vital field that relies on accumulated expertise, increased visibility of handcrafted products, and recognition of handicrafts as an integral part of Omani life and identity.
Saleh bin Nasser al Shraiqi, a participant from the Wilayat of Bahla, shared that he has been practicing pottery since the age of 12, having inherited the craft from his father and grandfather. Today, his sons also work alongside him in the trade. Al Shraiqi has taken part in numerous local and international exhibitions, including events across the Gulf and in European countries such as Spain. He also conducts workshops in schools, producing traditional items such as water jugs, incense burners and other pottery products.
Praising Muscat Nights, he highlighted its role in connecting artisans with wider markets and noted a growing interest among young people in learning traditional crafts, driven by increased awareness of their cultural and economic value. Similarly, Murr bin Hamid al Rawahi from the Wilayat of Al Mudhaibi, spoke of his lifelong engagement in palm frond crafts, a skill he has practiced since childhood and continues at the age of 75. Using palm fronds and acacia wood, he creates traditional products that have become a sustainable source of income for his family.
Al Rawahi also noted his participation in both local and international exhibitions and praised the strong demand from Omanis and expatriates alike during Muscat Nights.
Renowned for their beauty and authenticity, Omani handicrafts continue to attract wide attention.
The Craftsmen’s Souq features pottery, palm frond products, wooden items and traditional household tools, serving both as a cultural landmark and a dynamic marketing platform for artisans.
With its economic, social and cultural significance, the souq — supported by the Heritage Village at Al Amerat Public Park — offers artisans a unique opportunity to showcase their work, interact with the public, exchange experiences and attract new customers, ensuring that Omani craftsmanship remains vibrant and enduring.
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