Ubar Archaeological Site (Shisr)
أوبار / الشصر
A desert oasis trading post in the 'Land of Frankincense' World Heritage area, often called the 'Atlantis of the Sands' and the gateway to the Rub' al Khali desert.
The ruins of Ubar (أوبار / الشصر) are located in Shisr village, about 170 km north of Salalah. In ancient times, it was a supply station for frankincense caravans before they crossed the Rub' al Khali (Empty Quarter) desert. The site is believed to be linked to the lost city mentioned in the Quran and in One Thousand and One Nights. It was rediscovered in 1992 with the help of satellite imagery. Remnants of a stone-built fort and a collapsed well shaft can be seen on site, and a small exhibition hall stands nearby. Visits are usually combined with a day trip to the empty desert dunes. Driving there takes about 2.5 hours one way. In desert areas, carry plenty of drinking water and make sure you have enough fuel.
Opening hours
About 08:00–17:00 (confirm on site)
Nearby sights
- Wadi Dawkah Frankincense Park
- Job's Tomb (Nabi Ayoub)
- Ayn Razat
- Sultan Qaboos Mosque, Salalah
- Tomb of Nabi Imran
- Al Haffa Souq
- Al Baleed Archaeological Park & Museum of the Frankincense Land
- Ayn Athum