Imagine strolling through a village where the past feels as vibrant as the present. As you walk along narrow, sunlit pathways, the ancient walls echo with stories centuries old. The warm breeze carries, faintly, the aroma of spices and oven-baked bread from humble roadside stalls. Every turn introduces you to weathered mud-brick houses, their carved wooden doors whispering secrets of generations of Omanis who called this place home. Perhaps you pause by a small mosque with its intricate calligraphy, or stop momentarily to admire a bustling old market corner where traders once called out prices in lively calls, their voices merging into a familiar hum of timeless commerce. In this moment, you feel more connected — as if you’re both an explorer and a guardian of history. Here, in Hamasa, every step immerses you deeper into a living chapter of Oman’s heritage.
In today's travel landscape, there’s a noticeable shift. Modern explorers are no longer satisfied with surface-level sightseeing; they yearn for genuine experiences that unlock the true soul of a place. They seek stories behind the stones, traditions preserved through centuries, and communities that continue to live and breathe their history. Hamasa perfectly embodies this trend — a place where the ancient and the living intertwine.
Tucked in the western part of Al Buraimi Governorate, Hamasa is characterised by its rich historical significance and strategic location near the Oman–UAE border. It has long been a crossroads for traders, travellers, and communities, with its landmarks standing as testaments to its pivotal role in the region’s history. One of its most iconic sights is the Al Khandaq Fort, a formidable structure surrounded by a protective water trench — a distinctive feature in Omani architecture. Covering around 3,700 square metres, this fortress features twelve rooms and four commanding watchtowers on each corner, a testament to its once formidable defensive purpose. The trench surrounding it, about 7.5 metres wide and 3 metres deep, was part of a strategic defence system that now, after restoration in 1993, serves as a symbol of resilience.
Just beyond the fort lies the old Hamasa Market, which for generations was a hive of activity every Thursday and Friday. Traders would call out wares and prices in a lively, honest barter — a glimpse into a way of life where community was at the heart of commerce. The market’s call-out system remains a vivid memory of the village’s lively social fabric, a tradition passed down through countless generations.
Walking through Hamasa’s streets, visitors can admire traditional mud-brick houses — designed with practical elegance to suit Oman’s climate, with thick walls, shaded courtyards, and beautifully carved wooden doors. The old mosques further reflect the deep spiritual and cultural roots of this enduring community. Surrounding the village are farms still irrigated by the ancient falaj channels, especially the Hamasa Falaj, which continues to supply water todate. These farms produce date palms, lemons, pomegranates, and seasonal crops, embodying the enduring bond between Omanis and their land.
The archaeological significance of Hamasa has attracted scholars and researchers. In 2015, teams from Sultan Qaboos University, the Ministry of Heritage and Culture, and Zayed University undertook excavations and surveys, aiming to deepen understanding and safeguard the village’s rich history for future generations.
Today, as Oman embraces cultural tourism, Hamasa is emerging as a cherished destination for those eager to uncover authentic stories. It’s accessible from the centre of Al Buraimi, offering a tranquil yet enlightening escape where history, culture, and natural beauty blend seamlessly. Whether you’re a family seeking an educational day out, a photographer capturing timeless scenes, or a history enthusiast wanting to step into Oman’s living past, Hamasa promises an experience that resonates well beyond superficial sightseeing.
More than just an old village frozen in time, Hamasa is a living testament to Oman’s enduring identity. Walking its streets is like strolling through the pages of history — an invitation to discover, learn, and connect with the heart of a nation that cherishes its past as much as its future.
Photos by Mohammed al Mashari
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