Khasab
Khasab is a city in an exclave of Oman bordering the United Arab Emirates. It is the local capital of the Musandam Governorate and has frequently been dubbed the "Norway of Arabia" because of its extensive fjord-like craggy inlets and desolate mountainscapes. Khasab is a small city when compared to nearby cities of the United Arab Emirates. It has many residents who mostly live in mainland Oman and come to Khasab for vacations.
The city is surrounded by the northern mountains of the Western Hajar Range. Khasab has a fully functional hospital and several hotels, beaches, and parks across the city. The city's population is dominated by ethnic Omanis from the mainland. Khasab also has a fort which is known as Khasab Fort. The seaport is dominated by the dhows which take tourists for a cruise across the natural, dry "fjords".
The city is frequently visited by residents of UAE as the Khasab Coastal Road provides access to the city from UAE by connecting with the E11 Highway on the UAE side. The city can also be accessed by the ferry which is maintained by the Government. The ferries are modern.
History
The Portuguese built Khasab at the beginning of the 17th century, at the height of their naval presence in the region. The natural harbor gave shelter from rough seas. Unlike many forts, which were built on high ground for defensive purposes, Khasab was designed as a supply point for dates and water for Portuguese ships sailing through the strait. Today, Khasab is protected from floods by three large dams.