Sur, Oman

Capital City

With a population of 120,000, Sur is no quaint seaside town. This former trading hub has struggled to adapt since the collapse of its maritime economy, and the bureaucratic inertia is a persistent headache for residents. The climate is unforgiving, with Sur battered by cyclones that regularly disrupt daily life. Yet the city's ancient forts and shipbuilding heritage offer a unique window into Oman's past, drawing visitors eager to explore its rugged charms. Sur may appeal to the historically-inclined, but those seeking modern comforts should look elsewhere.