Shinas (شناص in Arabic), population 53,949, is one of the six coastal Wilayas in Northern Batinah, Oman, near the border between Oman and United Arab Emirates. Shinas has a distinctive collection of traditional buildings, ancient forts, and bustling traditional markets, allowing visitors and cultural enthusiasts to embark on a journey through time. It also offers many water sport activities from sailing and fishing to snorkeling.
Shinas has a fertile agricultural plains that testify its irrigation prowess, utilizing the flowing aflajs to produce a diverse array of fruits and vegetables. The Wilaya also has a seafaring legacy much like the other coastal Wilayas in Oman, with thriving trade in fish, livestock, and many fresh produce. At the heart of this maritime heritage lies the port of Shinas, where traditional dhows still sail the waters bringing a rich catch of seafood, destined for the neighboring city's.
Location of Shinas
Shinas is located in the northernmost part of the plains of Al Batinah region. It is bordered to the north by the United Arab Emirates, overlooking the Sultanate's most important land crossings which are Khatmat Milaha, Al Wajajah, and Umm Al Ghaff. To the south, it is bordered by the Wilayat of Liwa, and to the east lies the Sea of Oman, while to the west is the Wilayat of Mahdah. The area of the Shinas province is approximately , and it is situated approximately away from the Muscat Governorate, needing a 3-hour drive to reach it.
Forts and Towers
Shinas has many ancient forts, some of which are:
Shinas Fort:Shinas Fort is a rectangular-shaped fortress located near the beach, surrounded by a wall with corner round-shaped towers and a rectangular tower on the northern east part. It was built during the Nabhaniya regime in 650 AH/1229 AD for defense, protection, and as a dwelling, court, and school. The fort played a crucial role in repelling invaders and is one of the significant fortresses in Batnah. Inside the fort, there are rooms for storing weapons and food, as well as spaces for guards and discussions about state affairs. It also includes a mosque, a well, and five cannons. The fort has four towers, three round-shaped and one rectangular-shaped, with varying dimensions. The fort's walls, made of bricks and clay, are decorated with openings. It was rebuilt after being partially destroyed in the early 19th century during conflicts with Motlek Elmatery and Mohamed Ben Ahmed Eltangy forces. The Ministry of Heritage and Culture restored the fortress in 1984, and it was opened in 1986 during the reign of Sultan Qaboos Bin Said. Risa'at Al Malh Fort Khidhraween Fort Ajeeb Fort Al Asrar Fort (scarce remains are left) Aswad Fort A' Darr Fort, located at the wadi of Rajma
There are also around 35 ancient towers scattered across the Wilaya, some of which are:
Al Muraba'a Tower
Aswad Tower
Al Aqr Tower (scarce remains are left) Al Mareer Tower
Among the other tourist attractions in the province is Shinas Park and the dense Al Qurm Tree Park along the sea creek, which has garnered attention from the municipality and local authorities, making it a beautiful tourist park. Additionally, there are other landmarks such as Wadi Fayd and Wadi Hameera.
Marketplaces
The Wilaya has some marketplaces, known as souqs, some of which are:
The Wilayat Market, located in the center of Shinas. The Old Wilayat Market, situated near the fort in the center of the wilaya. Al Aqar Market, located in Al Aqar town, abundant with restaurants and new service shops due to its location at a crossroad. Souq Al Asrar. Souq Sur Bani Khuzaymah (currently being established).
Economical Activities
Agricultural activity
Given the extensive expanse of Shinas province, spanning between lands, coastal beaches, hills, plains, and mountains, with its diverse terrains, important artisanal economic activities have been carried out by the province's residents. One of the most crucial activities is agriculture, taking advantage of the flat lands, plains, and valley plateaus for cultivating various seasonal crops like watermelon, cantaloupe, tomatoes, and all types of vegetables. The province has also become renowned for its citrus cultivation, particularly Omani lemons, which were exported to numerous friendly and sister countries, generating lucrative income and financial returns for farmers and traders alike.