The ancient city of Qalhat, located on Oman‘s eastern coast, was a thriving port between the 11th and 16th centuries under the Kingdom of Hormuz. It played a pivotal role in trade across the Arabian Peninsula, India, China, and Southeast Asia, exporting horses, dates, pearls, and incense. The city’s ruins, enclosed within its original walls, offer exceptional archaeological insight into its cosmopolitan past, showcasing diverse architectural influences and a well-preserved urban layout.

Abandoned after Portuguese attacks in the 16th century, Qalhat remains one of the most authentic representations of medieval Islamic trade hubs.

Today, it is a protected national heritage site undergoing conservation, with plans for controlled tourism to preserve its integrity. Its strategic location between mountains and the sea adds to its historical and cultural significance, reinforcing its legacy as a vital center of commerce and cultural exchange in the Indian Ocean region.