In 6th century Sur was an established center for trade with East Africa and later in 16th century as a trade center with India and East Africa. This continued until the mid-19th century, when the British outlawed the slave trade. The city was further ruined by the opening of the Suez Canal, which saw it lose trade with India.
Historical location gives Sur the hand to monitor the Gulf of Oman and the Indian Ocean. Many ships have been built in this city, like the sambuk and ghanjah (types of dhow). They went as far as China, India, Zanzibar, Iraq and many other countries, mostly filled with fish and dates. These vessels were also used in pearl fishing.
Today the city has retained its reputation as a major dhow-building town, the very same vessels that were used for trade two centuries ago.
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