Omanis flock with livestock and several types of vegetables, fruits, and local products at the Ibri Souq. This is the scene at the market every Friday morning, as weekly ‘habta’ is back in action.
The old market souq witnesses an active commercial movement since the early morning on Fridays. Local traders come here from various wilayats and villages to sell the meat, poultry, foodstuffs, sweets, spices, etc. They also bring with them vegetables, fruits and utensils.
The sale of sheep and cows, called ‘Munadah’, are maximum at the souq on Fridays. “Habta of Ibri has become an important place among the local people since ancient times. During festivals and official occasions, the market opens early morning and continues till 11am,” said a trader who regularly comes to the souq.
Last Friday, the ‘Al Habta’ recorded a high footfall. Some 1,000 sheep and 300 cows were sold, and the price ranged between RO 25 and 300.
Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the souq visitors are following the protocols.
There have been requests from some quarters to renovate the market. There were plans also, but that has not yet been implemented.
“It needs renovation because the structure is very old surrounded by walls and old houses built of mud and stones,” said a souq visitor.
