The Museum of the Frankincense Land is the only museum in Salalah, Oman, and a must-visit destination for history and culture enthusiasts. This indoor museum features multiple exhibition halls showcasing the rich heritage of the frankincense trade, ancient maritime history, and archaeological discoveries from the Dhofar region. A striking centerpiece of the museum is an actual frankincense tree, symbolizing the deep historical and cultural significance of frankincense in Omani tradition. Explore a wide variety of authentic artifacts, detailed models, and interactive displays that bring the legacy of Salalah’s frankincense to life.

The Museum is in Al Balid Archeological Site

On the Eastern side of Al Baleed Archeological Park, an indoor air-conditioned museum is located. The museum is called “The Museum of the Frankincense Land” or “The Museum of the Land of Frankincense”.

The Only Museum in Salalah

The Museum of the Land of Frankincense is the only museum in Salalah and the only major museum in southern Oman. Located in the historic Al Baleed Archaeological Park, this indoor museum offers a comprehensive look into the region’s rich history, particularly its pivotal role in the ancient frankincense trade. With multiple halls and a wide variety of artifacts on display, it stands out as a central cultural attraction in Dhofar.

While there are small exhibit sections at Taqa Castle, Mirbat Fort, and Sumhuram Archaeological Site, these are limited in number and variety, and do not match the scale or depth of the Museum of the Land of Frankincense. A unique highlight of the museum is the presence of an actual frankincense tree displayed in the center of the building, offering visitors a rare, up-close look at the plant that shaped Oman’s global legacy.

In conclusion, this is the only museum in Dhofar and around.

What’s in the Museum?

The museum hosts the following:

  • Artifacts excavated from Al Baleed, Sumhuram and Ash Shisr, which are other UNESCO sites.
  • Governorate of Dhofar’s historical and archaeological heritage.
  • Superb models of Omani boats from 3000 BC to current.

Moreover, you can find other things and informative material inside the museum.

Halls Inside the Museum

There are two halls inside the Museum of the Frankincense Land – Maritime Hall and History Hall.

1. Maritime Hall

The first hall is Maritime Hall. It hosts beautifully crafted wooden models of Omani boats like Battil, Boom, Sambuq, Ghanjah, for instance.

In addition, this hall exhibits other items like navigational instruments and other similar things.

2. History Hall

The adjacent History Hall exhibits many historical items. Firstly, these are artifacts and are the ones excavated from the next door Al Baleed Archeological site. Moreover, these artifacts are also the ones unearth from other historical sites located at Sumhuram and Ubar. The artefacts comprises of pottery and metal work found in these ancient sites in Oman.

Secondly, this hall exhibits various models of mosques and tombs in Oman. This includes models of Tombs of Prophet Ayub, Prophet Hood, and Prophet Saleh and Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, for instance.

Thirdly, you can find various colorful manuscripts of Holy Quran in the History Hall. Also, this hall displays other poetry and linguistic manuscripts.

In addition, one of the most important things in History Hall is the copy of letter sent by Prophet Mohammed (Peace Be Upon Him) to the people of Oman. The letter is in Arabic and has seal of the Prophet. This letter was sent in 8th century.

Tourist Attractions Near Museum of the Frankincense Land

Since it is in the city, the museum is adjacent to other popular tourist attractions. Some of these attractions are as follows:

Opening Timing of Museum of the Frankincense Land

The site opens twice daily, with a small day break in the middle. Firstly, its open from 8 am to 2 pm. Secondly, from 4 pm to 8 pm. This opening hours is valid for all days of the week except on the weekend.

On Friday, archeological park opens at 4 pm and closes at 8 pm.

Entrance Fees

A nominal entrance fees applies. It includes entrance to Al Baleed Archeological Park, as well. Interestingly, the entrance charges are based on the type of vehicle like saloon car, 4WD, van, coaster, or bus.