Sumharam is an ancient port city located on a small hill beside the creek water in the Khor Rori area. It lies on the eastern side of Salalah City, just beyond the village of Taqa.

The ruins date back from the 4th century BC to the 4th century AD. Therefore, historians consider Sumharam one of the oldest known settlements in Oman.

Sumhuram is also known by different spellings, such as Samharam, Samhuram, and Sumharam.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Sumhuram is proudly listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In 2000, UNESCO recognized several locations around Salalah for their historical role in the frankincense trade.

The Ruins of Sumharam Old City

Archaeologists carried out the excavation in 1996. Although the ruins are smaller than those at Al Baleed, the team conducted the excavation carefully and completed the restoration successfully. As a result, visitors can clearly see important architectural and historical remains.

These remains include:

  • Fortifications
  • Temples
  • Residences
  • Frankincense storage rooms
  • Private and public buildings inside and outside the city walls

The Temple of Sin stands out as one of the most important structures. Located inside the city walls, it served as a place of worship for the Mesopotamian moon god and remains one of the city’s most remarkable buildings.

Aerial view of the Sumhuram archaeological site in Salalah, Oman
Aerial view of the Sumhuram Archaeological Site in Salalah, Oman

Objects Discovered in Sumharam

During the excavation, archaeologists uncovered many valuable objects that reveal daily life in the ancient city.

  • Limestone inscriptions
  • Incense burners
  • Coral and shells used as oil lamps
  • Pottery of various sizes, shapes, and materials
  • Mortars
  • Water storage basins
  • Globular jars
  • Handmills
  • Fishing tools
  • Women’s ornaments made from beads, shells, and metal
  • Coins

Opening Timing of Sumharam

The Sumhuram Archaeological Site remains open daily from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm, allowing visitors to explore the ruins comfortably.

Entrance Fees

A nominal entrance fee applies. This fee covers access to both the open-air archaeological site and the on-site indoor gallery.

Interestingly, the authorities calculate entrance charges based on vehicle type. Saloon cars and 4WD vehicles pay 2 Omani Rials. Vans pay 20 Omani Rials, while coaster and coach fees are 50 and 100 Omani Rials respectively.

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