JournalLand of Frankincense, Oman: Wadi Dawkah, Khor Rori and Al-Balid
In short: The Land of Frankincense in Dhofar, inscribed by UNESCO in 2000 and renamed in 2005, groups four places on the ancient incense route: Wadi Dawkah's frankincense trees, the Shisr site, Khor Rori and the port site of Al-Balid.
Quick facts
| Starting point | Salalah |
|---|---|
| Country | Oman |
| Governorate | Dhofar |
| UNESCO | Inscribed 2000 as Frankincense Trail; renamed 2005 (reference 1010) |
| Components | Wadi Dawkah, Shisr, Khor Rori, Al-Balid |
| Tree | Boswellia sacra |
The four places
- Frankincense Park of Wadi Dawkah, with Boswellia sacra trees.
- Archaeological site of Shisr, the remains of a caravan oasis.
- Archaeological site and natural environment of Khor Rori.
- Archaeological site of Al-Balid.
Why it matters
The sites lie on the Incense Road and were important to the medieval incense trade. Oman is described as the main source of frankincense today, though Somalia has the largest forests.
Season
Dhofar gets monsoon rain from late June to late September with humidity and fog; see the season guide. Visitor details were not found; confirm access first.
What could not be verified
UNESCO listings, opening hours, fees, permits and trail grades were taken from encyclopaedic and press sources and were not checked against Oman's Ministry of Heritage and Tourism. Confirm everything with the ministry or a licensed local guide before you go.
Check before you go
This is a researched guide, not legal, medical or safety advice. UAE rules, permits, fees, opening hours and closures change and can differ by emirate, so confirm with the official tourism authority, municipality or police before you travel.
Frequently asked questions
What is in the Land of Frankincense?
Four components: Wadi Dawkah, Shisr, Khor Rori and Al-Balid.
When was it listed?
In 2000, renamed in 2005.
Which tree makes frankincense?
Boswellia sacra.
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