Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
For many years the inseparable twin of Al-Ain, in the UAE, Buraimi is now divided from
its alter ego by a large barbed-wire fence. This shouldn't be interpreted as a cooling of re-
lations between Oman and its neighbour, just an attempt to sort out a border that leaked in
both directions.
Buraimi has a large and interesting fort (admission 500 baisa; 9am-4pm Sat-Thu) with decora-
tions that give it a Saharan flourish in comparison with the austere exteriors of most of
Oman's interior forts. The market opposite sells barasti (plaited palm fronds traditionally
used for roofing and fencing) while just along the road a lively souq trades in locally
grown fruit and veg from neighbouring plantations, dates and honey from the mountains,
and a handful of crafts (including camel sticks and Bahla pottery) from around Oman.
There are lots of local eateries in this area too.
Despite these attractions, it's fair to say that there's not much reason to make a special
visit other than if you're using the UAE border for Al-Ain and Abu Dhabi. If you do visit,
take your passport: you cannot pass through the border post (which is in Wadi Jizzi -
50km before the UAE border) without it.
There are several simple places to stay in town, the best of which is Al-Buraimi Hotel (fax 25
642010; r OR25; ) , along the road to Sohar on the edge of town. It's dated, with lime
green walls and cavernous corridors, but it is also clean and friendly. Three daily buses
leave Muscat at 6.30am, 1pm and 4pm for Buraimi (OR4.200, 4½ hours).
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