Omani cuisine offers a rich array of flavours shaped by centuries of trade, cultural exchange, and Arabian tradition. With influences from Persia, India, and East Africa, Omani dishes are characterised by the delicate use of spices, slow-cooked meats, and aromatic rice.

Majboos

Majboos is a traditional mixed rice dish that traces its origins to Saudi Arabia. Widely popular across the Arab world, particularly in the Gulf region, including Oman, this flavourful dish features long-grain basmati rice cooked with meat or chicken, vegetables, and a fragrant blend of spices, and is commonly found in restaurants in Salalah.

Dates

Palm trees are the most common plantations found across Oman, yielding an abundance of delicious dates that vary in size, colour, and texture. These dates hold a special place in Omani culture, often served to guests as a symbol of the country’s renowned hospitality. In addition to being enjoyed on their own, dates are sometimes blended with sesame paste, sesame seeds, or ground coconut, and can be easily sought out even in places like the Al Baleed Resort Salalah.

Halwa

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Halwa, which means dessert in Arabic, is also the name of one of the most renowned sweets in Oman. It has a dense, firm texture, thicker than custard, and despite its brown colour, it contains no chocolate. Omani Halwa is made from a blend of sugar, honey, rose water, eggs, a variety of traditional spices, and nuts.

Harees

Harees is a distinctive traditional Omani dish typically prepared for special occasions. It consists of wheat combined with meat and is commonly served with a flavourful special sauce, and ends up with a porridge-like texture.