What to buy in Oman – Frankincense. The heady, evocative smell of Omani frankincense is everywhere you travel in Oman. Hotel lobbies burn it in great clouds, as people swish past their robes contain the lingering scent and even in modern shopping centres, they pump out the smell. To the Omani people, frankincense is part of the important welcome to guests. And it is a wonderful gift to yourself or someone else when you’re looking for what to buy in Oman. If you’re searching for the best souvenirs from Oman, frankincense has to be one of the most authentic and meaningful things you can bring home. Deeply woven into Omani culture and history, it’s far more than just a fragrance – it’s part of the country’s identity. Whether you discover it in the souks of Muscat, luxury hotels or roadside stalls in Salalah, the scent quickly becomes one of the defining memories of travelling in Oman.
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A history of Oman Frankincense
Frankincense in Oman has a long history. Although now overtaken in the world’s production by Somalia it is still considered by many to be the highest quality. Frankincense is obtained from the Boswellia sacra tree. It’s often the Bedouin tribes who are responsible for collecting the resin that seeps out of the bark.
Once more valuable than gold it is still revered in Oman. Often clothes are dried under a Frankincense burner so the scent binds itself to the fabric and lasts the day.
It is a sweet, musky, perfumed smell that once you start to recognise it all over Oman you can’t stop.
For centuries frankincense was one of Oman’s most important exports and helped establish ancient trading routes across the Middle East, Africa and Europe. The famous Frankincense Trail connected southern Oman to the wider world and brought enormous wealth to the region.
Today, UNESCO even recognises parts of Oman’s frankincense heritage through the Land of Frankincense sites in Salalah and Dhofar.
Burning frankincense
One of the things we loved most about travelling in Oman was how often frankincense appeared in everyday life. It wasn’t treated as something purely for tourists. Instead, it felt genuinely embedded into homes, hotels and restaurants.
Many hotels gently perfume their entrances with burning frankincense and it creates such a calming, luxurious atmosphere. Even now, the scent immediately transports us back to Oman.
What does Omani frankincense smell like?
If you’ve never experienced frankincense before, it can be surprisingly different from what you might expect.
Omani frankincense has a warm, woody and slightly citrus scent with musky undertones. It smells clean, rich and calming rather than overly sweet.
Different grades and regions produce slightly different fragrances too. Some are lighter and fresher while others are deeper and smokier.
The scent lingers beautifully without ever feeling overpowering.
Where to buy frankincense in Oman
It also turns up in the unlikeliest of places. We went for a meal in Muscat, at the lovely traditional restaurant Bait al Luban and were served Frankincense water.
There is even Frankincense ice cream available at places across the country so eating it is becoming ever popular.
The best Frankincense is said to come from Salalah in the south of Oman. But it can be purchased from souks up and down the country.
We stopped off in Muttrah Souk in Muscat. Pushing back away from the hoards of cruise-ship day trippers to the dusty stalls at the back where the Frankincense burned deep.
What should you buy along with frankincense?
I picked out a traditional Omani shaped burner. Square and with a little handle.
A bag of dusty, cheap Frankincense and some of the small coal burners and we were all set to create our own little corner of Oman at home in the UK.
If you’re planning to buy frankincense in Oman, it’s worth purchasing a few of these extra items too:
- A traditional incense burner (mabkhara)
- Charcoal discs for burning the resin
- Frankincense oils or perfumes
- Small decorative storage boxes
- Different grades of frankincense to compare
The burners themselves make lovely souvenirs and often feature intricate Omani designs.
How to burn frankincense at home
Using frankincense at home is very straightforward and instantly creates that unmistakable Middle Eastern atmosphere.
To burn traditional frankincense resin you usually:
- Light a charcoal disc
- Place it carefully in the burner
- Add small pieces of frankincense resin on top
- Allow the fragrant smoke to drift through the room
You only need a tiny amount to create a strong scent.
Some people also use electric burners now which are easier indoors and don’t require charcoal.
Why frankincense makes the perfect Oman souvenir
It’s a wonderful reminder to take back when you’re looking for what to buy in Oman. And the perfect gift to give others a little idea of this beautiful country.
Unlike mass-produced souvenirs, frankincense feels connected to Oman’s culture, history and landscape. It’s something that immediately evokes memories of the country long after your trip ends.
Every time we burn ours at home it instantly reminds us of warm evenings in Muscat, wandering through souks and the smell drifting through hotel courtyards.
If you’re wondering what to buy in Oman, frankincense is easily one of the most meaningful keepsakes.
Other traditional souvenirs to buy in Oman
Khanjars
The traditional curved Omani dagger, known as a khanjar, is one of the country’s national symbols. Decorative versions make beautiful souvenirs.
Omani silver jewellery
Traditional silver jewellery is sold across many souks and often features intricate Bedouin-inspired designs.
Dates and halwa
Omani dates and halwa are fantastic edible souvenirs and perfect gifts to bring home.
Pashminas and scarves
Soft woven scarves and shawls are widely available in Muscat and Nizwa souks.
Pottery and woven baskets
Traditional handicrafts also make lovely authentic keepsakes from Oman.
FAQ – buying frankincense in Oman
Yes, frankincense is generally very affordable in Oman, especially if bought in local souks rather than tourist gift shops abroad.
Muttrah Souk in Muscat and the markets in Salalah are among the best places to buy frankincense in Oman.
Omani frankincense, particularly from the Dhofar region, is considered some of the highest quality in the world thanks to its rich scent and purity.
Yes, dried frankincense resin is usually easy to bring home in luggage, although it’s always worth checking customs regulations for your own country.
Frankincense symbolises hospitality, tradition and heritage in Oman and is often burned to welcome guests.
Check out our top things to do in Oman for lots more suggestions from this beautiful country as well as our ultimate guide to Oman with kids. Don’t miss our feature on Our Oman road trip or our Top 10 things to do in Muscat with kids. We also have a detailed 14 day Oman itinerary.
