Sultan's Palace

Salala is the hometown of Sultan Qaboos bin Said. After he ascended the throne, his permanent residence became the capital of Oman Muscat. But sometimes he still uses this palace in Salalah as his summer residence.

Previous sultans, including the current father, lived in Salalah. But Sultan Qaboos decided to change that tradition.

The palace, known as Al Husn, also called the White or Old Port, was built in the 18th century. Interestingly, the reason for the construction was found a source of fresh water, because it was around the dug well that the walls of this fort were erected.

Subsequent hosts have continually improved and expanded it, so it is now a large, modern complex of buildings located south of the city center, overlooking the beach. It is surrounded by a thick stone wall on the land side. The palace is so heavily guarded that even the beach is closed to outsiders. But getting close to the walls and taking a couple of photos is not forbidden. At least the armed guard doesn't seem to mind.

Currently, the Center for Documentation and Research is located in this palace, where scientists study historical documents and ancient artifacts.