The main attraction of Muttrah for visitors is the traditional market. This is one of the oldest souks on the Arab peninsula, although the building itself was rebuilt in the 1970s. A palm frond roof has recently been added to make it more authentic. Because tourists are a relative rarity this is very much a market for local people. The shopkeepers will try to attract the attention of curious visitors but not so insistently as in souks in more popular destinations.
t is a pleasure just to wander in the maze of dark alleyways. The souk is divided into different sections: the gold and silver souk has rows of shops piled high with modern and antique jewellery, and there are also sections devoted to household goods, shoes and clothes, and perfumes and spices. Across the street from the souk is the fish market, by the harbour where fresh fish are landed every morning.
