Corniche Sculptures

As you move around Muscat, you’ll notice several fish sculptures scattered through the city, especially along the Muttrah corniche, close to the sea, and in certain parks or roundabouts. Sometimes large and striking, sometimes more discreet, they all point to the city’s deep and lasting bond with the ocean. Long before oil was discovered, Muscat lived from fishing, seafaring and trade along the Indian Ocean routes, and fish remain a strong symbol of this coastal identity. Oman is also often linked to the legendary tales of Sinbad the Sailor, the famous hero of medieval Arabic literature whose adventures unfold across the seas of the Indian Ocean. From the 70s onwards, oil and gas became central to the country’s development, financing roads, schools, hospitals and public services. But Oman’s reserves are more limited than those of some neighbouring Gulf states, which has pushed the country to diversify its economy. Today, tourism, port activities, industry, fishing and services all play a growing role, especially in Muscat. These fish sculptures are therefore a simple but meaningful tribute to the fishermen and maritime life of the past, which shaped Oman for centuries before the country became what you see today.