Beit al Zubair Museum

Skills developed over centuries were usually passed from father to son, mother to daughter, but as a result of modernization, Omani craftsmen are now producing fewer products than before. However, the production of traditional goods has remained the lifestyle of individuals or small families.

Bait al-Zubair is actually a house that has become a museum. It first opened its doors in 1998 and is still fully funded by its founders, the Zubair family. Currently, the museum complex consists of three separate buildings and a garden in the traditional style. A fourth building is planned, but it is still under development.

The main building of the museum, Bait Al Bagh, was originally the home of Sheikh Al Zubair ibn Ali, who served under the three sultans as minister and adviser. This house was a gathering place for the elite. The exhibits presented here tell about the dynasty of the current sultan. The galleries on the ground floor feature Omani daggers, collections of men’s and women’s costumes, traditional swords and firearms, antique jewelry and household items.

The first floor has a temporary exhibition area and a library. In the garden you can see the ancient system of water distribution and the skeleton of the boat.