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11 Beautiful Places to Visit in Oman

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Oman isn’t a country that many people consider visiting, which is a shame as it has a lot to offer and is one of the safest countries in the Middle East.

In Oman you can visit forts and deserts, mountains and beaches, mosques and souqs, and swim in stunning wadis.

These are our picks for the best places to visit in Oman.

You’ll find a map at the end of the post with all these Oman tourist places.

Video: Best Places to Visit in Oman

The most beautiful places to visit in oman, places to visit in oman map, is oman worth a visit, more oman tips.

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1) Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Muscat

Most trips to Oman begin in the capital Muscat and high on everyone’s list is a visit to the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque .

It’s a stunning modern mosque that lives up to its name with space for 20,000 worshippers.

The extravagant main prayer hall features a massive chandelier, intricately detailed blue mosaic tiles, and the second largest handmade Iranian rug in the world—it took 600 women four years to weave.

The mosque’s grounds are a serene place to wander and enjoy the harmonious lines and archways of the various buildings and beautiful gardens. It’s certainly one of the best places to visit in Muscat.

On our visit a rare rain shower turned the marble floors into a reflective pool.

Women need to cover their hair, arms and legs when visiting the mosque. Men should wear long trousers.

Details: The Grand Mosque is open to non-Muslim visitors from 8.30am to 11am every day except Friday. There’s no entrance fee. Where to Stay: Beach Bay Hotel has comfortable rooms, a great breakfast, and is only a two-minute walk from Qurum Beach in the diplomatic area of Muscat. You can use the Grand Hyatt’s pool next door for a small fee. Suggested Tour: Combine your visit with this Private Group Sultan Qaboos Mosque & Bait Al Zubair Museum Tour .

2) Mutrah Corniche, Muscat

Before sunset head to the other side of Muscat to the Mutrah Corniche .

Join the locals for a stroll along the lovely seafront where white buildings and mosques are backed by rocky mountains and forts that glow golden in the late afternoon light.

Nearby you can shop in the narrow lanes of the Mutrah Souq , one of the oldest markets in Oman and a top Muscat tourist attraction.

Browse the stalls for frankincense and myrrh, ceramic incense burners, silver jewellery, pashminas, turbans, genie lamps, fluffy camels, and much more.

Where to Stay: You could stay at Beach Bay Hotel (above), but Mutrah Hotel is within walking distance of Mutrah Corniche and is cheaper (but a bit more basic).

3) Jabrin Fort (Jibreen Castle)

From Muscat we recommend taking a trip inland to the Nizwa area where you can explore forts, mountains, and ancient villages.

See our Oman road trip itinerary for more details of all the places on this list.

Jabrin Fort (also known as Jabreen or Jibreen Castle) dates back to 1675 and looks like a sand castle amidst an oasis of date palms.

You can wander through the labyrinth of rooms and see the defensive methods used like the murder holes, gaps in the floor where they used to pour boiling date oil on enemies.

Details: Entrance to Jibreen Castle is 500 baisa. It’s open from 9am to 4pm Saturday to Thursday and 8am to 11am on Friday. Where to Stay: Nizwa is a good base. Our self-catering apartment at Al Karam Apartment Hotel was spacious, comfortable, and affordable. Suggested Tour: Why not book this Private Historical Tour which includes Jabreen Castle, Nizwa Fort (see below) and other sites?

4) Nizwa Fort

The 17th-century Nizwa Fort is one of the most popular places to visit in Oman.

It features a massive circular tower which you can climb for views of the mosque, souq, distant rocky mountains, and the date palms that surround this oasis city.

Nizwa Fort has been refurbished and there are now historical items on display like jewellery, tools, and a timeline of the area’s history.

You can also watch women making crafts and baking bread over an open fire. Look out for the murder holes here too.

Details: Entrance to Nizwa Fort costs 5 OMR. It’s open from 8am to 8pm (except on Fridays when it’s open 8am to 11.30am and 1.30pm to 8pm). Where to Stay: We stayed at Al Karam Apartment Hotel —see above. Suggested Tour: This full-day Nizwa tour includes Nizwa and Jabrin forts.

5) Jebel Akhdar

Jebel Akhdar means Green Mountain but you might wonder why as you ascend its slate grey and burnt orange sides, barren except for a few thorny dried up bushes.

The green refers to the villages of the Saiq Plateau , 2000m above sea level, where abundant rainfall allows the growth of pomegranates, grapes, peaches, apricots, and roses for the rose water that’s used in Omani sweets and as perfume.

Spring is the best time to visit when the roses are in bloom and the terrace plantations are a vibrant green.

Jebel Akhdar is an easy day trip from Nizwa (or even Muscat), but you do need a 4WD to ascend the steep winding road (we hired a driver at the police checkpoint just outside Birkat al Mawz ).

There is a moderate 3.2 hike that takes you to spectacular views from the top of the villages surrounded by jagged peaks, and the cold air is a relief from the hot plains.

Where to Stay: We stayed at Al Karam Apartment Hotel , a 15-minute drive from the base of the mountain in Birkat al Mawz. If you can afford it, Alila Jabal Akhdar high up in the mountains looks stunning. Suggested Tour: This Full-Day Guided Tour to Jebel Akhdar includes visits to rose farms and fruit markets depending on the season.

6) Misfat al Abryeen

Most of the old villages in Oman have been abandoned, but Misfat al Abryeen is still inhabited and is one of the most picturesque in Oman.

It’s a maze-like village of crumbling mud houses in narrow passageways sloping down the mountainside.

Below the village you can follow the falaj irrigation channels and walk through the lush date and banana plantations—it’s shockingly green after the desert.

Where to Stay: We visited Misfat between Nizwa and Jebel Shams. For an interesting local experience and home-cooked food, you can stay at the Misfah Old House guesthouse. Suggested Tour: Learn about fascinating legends and facts in this Best Of Misfat Al Abriyeen Walking Tour .

7) Jebel Shams

It’s a long drive on steep, rough roads to the top of Jebel Shams , Oman’s highest mountain.

It’s worth it for the stunning views deep down into Wadi Ghul , known as the Grand Canyon of Arabia. It’s one of the most beautiful places in Oman.

Our highlight was the Balcony Walk , a fairly easy but dramatic 2.5-hour hike which winds around the cliffs halfway up the rim of the canyon to the abandoned village of As Sab .

Tiny stone and mud houses perch precariously on the edge of the ravine under a ledge of rock—a perilous place to live.

Where to Stay: Jebel Shams Resort is the nicest of the two hotels at the top of the mountain. We had a good view from our sunset chalet and it was convenient for the viewpoint and Balcony Walk. Suggested Tour: Climb the mountain with a guide on this Jebel Shams Day Trip: The Grand Canyon of Oman .

8) Wahiba Sands

For the true desert experience head to Wahiba Sands for rolling sand dunes, camel rides, and 4WD adventures.

We spent a night in a rustic goat-hair Bedouin tent at the foot of a huge dune which we climbed for sunset and sunrise.

We watched camels wandering past, drank tea by the fire, and gazed at the sky lit up with stars. It was wonderfully peaceful.

Where to Stay: Desert Retreat Camp was the most interesting place we stayed in Oman. We liked the simple tents, excellent Indian food, and peaceful location. Suggested Tour: Wahiba Sands and Wadi Bani Khalid private tour .

9) Wadi Bani Khalid

One of our favourite things about Oman were the wadis, rocky ravines or dry riverbeds that only contain water at certain times of the year, but many have pools you can swim in.

Wadi Bani Khalid is a stunning oasis in the desert with crystal clear green water surrounded by date palms and rugged mountains.

The pools are huge and swimming in them is so refreshing in the desert heat. It’s the perfect place for a relaxing afternoon.

Read more about Wadi Bani Khalid . 

Where to Stay: We visited Wadi Bani Khalid on our way from Wahiba Sands to Sur. The Oriental Nights Rest House is one of the nearest hotels if you want to stay nearby. Suggested Tour: If you limited time this Full-Day Private Wahiba Sands Desert and Wadi Bani Khalid Tour looks ideal.

At Sur the desert meets the sea. You’ll find long empty beaches, the picturesque fishing village of Al Ayjah , a dhow boat building yard, and just north, the turtle reserve at Ras Al Jinz .

You must book turtle viewing tours (9pm and 5am) at the reserve in advance. Sadly, there were no turtles on the beach when we visited in December. The peak viewing season is from May to September.

Where to Stay: You can stay at the turtle reserve , but we chose the cheaper Ras Al Hadd Guest House . After our visit to the reserve we moved to the basic Sur Hotel in the centre of Sur, which is inexpensive and convenient. Suggested Tour: Visit Sur as part of this Coastal Tour and Wadi Hike from Muscat which includes accommodation pickup.

11) Wadi Shab

While Wadi Bani Khalid is all about relaxation, Wadi Shab is about adventure.

You take a boat across the river, hike for 45 minutes through a stunning valley, then swim through a series of pools to reach a cave which contains a waterfall.

It’s gorgeous and one of the best things to do in Oman.

Where to Stay: We visited Wadi Shab on our way from Sur to Muscat. The beachfront Tiwi Sunrise is one of the nearest hotels to the wadi. Suggested Tour: Wadi Shab and Bimah Sinkhole tour .

Absolutely! As one of the safest places to visit in the Middle East we cannot recommend Oman enough. It has so many stunning sights to pack out any itinerary.

What do you think are the most beautiful places to visit in Oman? Leave a comment below as I know we missed many of Oman’s attractions.

• The Best Oman Itinerary: A 7-10 Day Road Trip
• What to Expect When Visiting Oman
• Visiting Wadi Bani Khalid: Oman’s Desert Oasis

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10 Comments

I love this site

Reply ↓

We are going to Oman in March, but not sure about the route to take (1 week). Would you recommend skipping Sur or Nizwa? We prefer hiking in the mountains instead of visiting forts.. Love your blogs! Very helpful :-)

I’d skip Sur. Nizwa is a good base to head up to the nearby mountains like Jebel Akhdar where you can hike. Don’t miss Jebel Shams either.

I have suggestions for a 7 day itinerary in this post: https://www.neverendingvoyage.com/oman-itinerary-road-trip/

Enjoy Oman!

Am coming to Oman very soon to work with one company

olaoluwa are you now in oman

Hi, i have gone through your website and must say that you have very nice photographs.

We are a new tour operator just started our company 6 months before and specialized for India, Oman, Nepal, Bhutan and Sri Lanka.

We are very much interested in your oman most amazing photographs.

Please let me know if you want to sell Oman´s photographs.

Waiting for your reply. regards, Shreekesh Singh

I was in oman 4 yrs ago and i can say its one of the most beautifull countries ive visited

I love Oman, and I’m so happy you enjoy it as well

We do not have enough toilets for public touring the beautiful resorts of Oman. Mindtry of tourism should pay attention to it. Nobody can enjoy while the visiting person has urge and is uncomfortable. I am avoiding day trips for similar reasons. Consider provide facilities against nominal charges for up keeping the facilities.

Absolutely true brother. Hopefully the future of Oman Tourism seems to be on a flourishing track. As new initiatives are being undertaken.

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Oman and beyond.

• 3 Other destinations
• 4.1 History
• 4.2 Climate
• 4.4 Religion
• 4.6 Visitor information
• 6.2 Customs
• 6.3 By plane
• 6.4 By boat
• 7.1 By plane
• 7.3 By taxi
• 10.2 Shopping
• 15 Stay safe
• 16 Stay healthy

The Sultanate of Oman ( Arabic : سلطنة عُمان) is on the eastern side of the Arabian Peninsula . Under the radar of most visitors to the Gulf, Oman is peaceful and prosperous, with amazing natural sights and hospitable people.

Oman has two exclaves separated from it by the United Arab Emirates , the Musandam Peninsula and Madha .

• 23.613889 58.592222 1 Muscat - the historic capital and largest city
• 22.966667 57.3 2 Bahla - oasis town which is home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• 22.683333 58.55 4 Ibra - gateway to the Wahiba Sands
• Matrah - adjoining the capital city and just as historic
• 22.933333 57.533333 5 Nizwa - contains one of the best-known forts in Oman
• 17.019722 54.089722 6 Salalah - the south, which is almost tropical at the time of the Kareef
• 24.342 56.729889 7 Sohar - one of the legendary homes of Sindbad
• 22.566667 59.528889 8 Sur - where dhows are still made by hand

Other destinations

• 23.214861 57.275189 1 Hajar Mountains - a majestic range, the highest in the Arabian Peninsula, which stretches into the United Arab Emirates .
• 25.284444 56.333056 2 Madha - tiny exclave of Oman completely surrounded by the United Arab Emirates
• 20.471111 58.815278 3 Masirah Island - a real desert island experience awaits on this haven for turtles and other wildlife
• 26.198094 56.249189 4 Musandam Peninsula - a rocky exclave on the Straits of Hormuz with some magnificent wadis
• 22 58.833333 5 Wahiba Sands - massive rolling dunes as far as the eye can see

Until Sultan Qaboos bin Said exiled his father, the previous Sultan, in 1970, Oman was an under-developed nation, almost completely closed to visitors and badly manipulated by the British, although never annexed. After the accession of Qaboos, education, public works and tourism took off throughout Oman.

Omanis are friendly people and very helpful to visitors. In turn, tourists should respect the ways and traditions of the Omani people.

Omanis are proud of their country's rapid progress and of their heritage as one of the great seafaring nations. Excellent schools and hospitals, good governance, and on-going infrastructure improvements are all important characteristics of this once introverted and closed nation.

The oldest known human settlement in Oman dates to the Stone Age.

Sumerian tablets refer to a country called Magan, a name thought to refer to Oman's ancient copper mines. The present-day name of the country is believed to originate from the Arab tribes who migrated to its territory from the Uman region of Yemen . Many tribes settled in Oman making a living by fishing, herding or stock breeding and some present day Omani families are able to trace their ancestral roots to other parts of Arabia.

From the 6th century BCE to the arrival of Islam in the 7th century CE, Oman was controlled or influenced by three Persian dynasties: the Achaemenids, Parthians and Sassanids. By about 250 BCE the Parthian dynasty brought the Persian Gulf under their control and extended their influence as far as Oman and established garrisons in Oman. In the third century CE the Sassanids succeeded the Parthians and held the area until the rise of Islam four centuries later.

Centuries after the rise of Islam, Oman became a sultanate under a maritime empire and maintained links with the Portuguese and British Empires . In the 19th century, the Omani Empire reached its height under Sayyid Said bin Sultan. In 1970, following influence with the United Kingdom , Oman became a modern nation under Sultan Qaboos ibn Said until his death in 2020.

In the 21st century, Oman is positioning itself as a hub for diplomacy in the Middle East, having played an important role in mediating the rapprochement between Saudi Arabia and Iran in 2023.

The climate generally is very hot, with temperatures reaching 54°C (129°F) in the summer, from May to October.

Annual rainfall in Muscat averages 100 mm (3.9 in), falling mostly in the winter. Dhofar is subject to the southwest monsoon, and rainfall up to 640 mm (25.2 in) has been recorded in the rainy season from June to September.

While the mountain areas receive more plentiful rainfall, some parts of the coast, particularly near the island of Masirah, sometimes receive little to no rain at all within the course of a year.

• Explorer Publishing , Oman Off-road: 26 Adventurous Routes . Given the dearth of available topo and road maps for the country, this book is indispensable for visitors looking to explore Oman's most outstanding sights, many of which are off the tarmac. Routes and points of interest are described in detail, with satellite imagery and GPS coordinates. Outside of the Gulf region the book may be difficult to find, but it is usually in stock at the bookshop in the arrivals terminal at the Muscat airport, as well as in select bookshops in the city and in the UAE, where it is published.

Officially Oman is a Muslim state, and the Sultan and the vast majority of Omanis are Ibadi Muslims . However, Oman is a very tolerant country; there is a significant Sunni minority in Salalah, Sur and the northern parts of Oman and active Shiite communities in Muscat, Suhar, Al- Khabourah and Saham. Hindus have their temples in Muscat and one is said to be at least 350 years old.

Omani citizens make up the majority of Oman's total population and consist of many different ethnic groups. Oman is home to its shipbuilders, who over the passage of time, have mastered the design of wooden trading ships.

Visitor information

• Oman Tourism website

Arabic is the national language, but most Omanis will speak good to excellent English, and particularly so in major tourist areas and cities. An English-speaking traveller should have no language difficulties unless he or she really travels "off the beaten track".

The historical presence of Indian traders has meant that Hindi or Urdu will be understood in some urban areas. In the southern Dhofar region, a Semitic language called "Jibbali" is spoken. Swahili, and Baluchi are languages spoken by ethnic minorities in Oman, especially in the capital Muscat. The presence of a large number of expatriates from the Indian state of Kerala , has made Malayalam a prominent language.

Citizens of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries ( Bahrain , Kuwait , Qatar , Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates ) may enter Oman without a visa and stay indefinitely.

A single entry visa can be obtained upon arrival at any air, land or sea terminal by citizens of the following countries:

• EU citizens and other Europeans including nationals of Iceland , Liechtenstein , Monaco , Norway , San Marino , Switzerland and Vatican City but not Cyprus and Malta .
• Albania , Andorra , Argentina , Australia , Bolivia , Bosnia and Herzegovina , Brazil , Brunei , Canada , China , Chile , Colombia , Croatia , Ecuador , French Guyana , Hong Kong , India , Indonesia , Japan , Macau , Malaysia , Moldova , New Zealand , North Macedonia , Paraguay , Peru , Russia , Seychelles , Singapore , South Africa , South Korea , Suriname , Taiwan , Thailand , Turkey , Ukraine , United States , Uruguay and Venezuela .

The 30-day visa costs 20 rials, 10-day one - 5 rials. You can pay online before arrival at the Royal Oman Police e-visa website or at MCT airport where you need to get the visa from the money changers which add a 1 rial commission. Your passport should be valid for no less than 6 months from the date of arrival. Any visa fees can be paid using UAE dirhams at a rate of ten dirhams to one Omani rial. At the airports, visa fees can be paid in any Gulf Co-operation Council currency, euros, and US dollars.

Oman has a common visa facility with the Emirate of Dubai. If you pass through Dubai immigration and are granted a visa to Dubai for at least 3 weeks, you will then be entitled to a free-of-charge visa for 3 weeks to Oman. You will need to show your passport stamp from Dubai to the Omani immigration officers. Visas are sold by private businesses at some ports of entry and these people may not be familiar with this and will try to convince you that you need to buy a visa from them. If it is your first visit to that particular port of entry, it may be difficult to know how to navigate past these people. If you make it to an immigration officer they will be familiar with the visa fee waiver and allow you to enter without paying. The countries benefiting from this type of visa are: Portugal, Spain, France, Switzerland, Italy, Britain, Sweden, Greece, Austria, Ireland, Finland, Germany, Iceland, Belgium, Norway, The Netherlands, Denmark, South Korea, Japan, Brunei Darussalam, Malaysia, New Zealand, USA, Canada, Australia, Singapore, Hong Kong, Luxembourg, Vatican City, Monaco, Andorra, and San Marino.

This scheme is with the Emirate of Dubai only and not with other emirates of the UAE, therefore, if you enter the UAE via Abu Dhabi or elsewhere, then your UAE visa will be granted by some other emirate and while this allows you to travel within the UAE and to Dubai, the Omani visa fee will not be waived.

Citizens of Egypt , Iran , Jordan , Morocco , and Tunisia can apply for a one-month visit visa only at air terminals.

The visa can be extended another month by submitting your passport to the Royal Omani Police in Muscat, however there is one line, and the wait can be as long as 2 hours. The concept of personal distance is different in the Middle East than it is in Europe. Queue jumping may be a problem for Europeans unless you set aside that personal distance concept. If you are on a budget and need to extend your visa, consider taking a trip to the United Arab Emirates . Buses are 10-12 rials return. A same-day round trip flight to Sharjah on Air Arabia costs about 50 rials. Even a taxi would be an option. Visa is not required for nationals of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states and a short stay visa will be granted on arrival to residents of GCC member states and regardless of nationality.

GCC expatriate residents are granted a visit visa valid for up to 4 weeks (extendable by 1 week) for a fee of 5 rials.

It is prohibited to bring firearms, narcotics or pornographic publications into Oman. Non-Muslims are permitted to bring two litres of alcohol into the country at Muscat International Airport only. You are not allowed to bring alcohol into the country in private cars at land border crossings.

Virtually all international flights arrive at Muscat (Seeb) International Airport ( MCT  IATA ) in Muscat. There are also regional international flights to Salalah ( SLL  IATA ). Purchasing a visa on arrival in Salalah can be quite difficult, as the airport is small and immigration officials tend not to have change for larger notes.

Oman Air is the flag carrier of Oman, operating an extensive network of flights around the Middle East and India, but only select destinations in Europe and Asia. Most large Middle Eastern and European airlines also fly to Muscat. The most frequent connections are via Dubai (DXB).

The port in Muscat is used by cruise ships. There are regular ferry and fastboat lines between island Masirah and Shannah port. Additionally, there are fastboats from Musadam peninsula and city Khasab and ferry port Shinas in Northern Oman. Schedule and booking on NFC Online page.

There are multiple border crossings from the United Arab Emirates into Oman some of which are listed below:

• Hatta border at Wadi Hatta and Al-Wajajah (this crossing can only be used by GCC Nationals)
• Wadi Jizzi between Sohar and Buraimi,
• Jebel Hafret leading to Ibri and Nizwa,
• Khatmat Milahah from Fujairah
• from Ras al Khaimah emirate to Bukha/Musadam
• from Fujeirah emirate to Dibba/Musadam.
• Al Ain (Abu Dhabi) 3 border posts, 24.21077 55.95367 1 Khatam Al Shukla ( Khattm Al Shiklah ) street border post (serving expatriates)

Driving directions and border crossing from Abu Dhabi to Muscat - For Abu Dhabi residents crossing to Oman, there are 3 border posts in Al Ain - Buraimi Border post (reserved exclusively for GCC Nationals)), Hilli Border post (also exclusively for GCC Nationals) and Khatam Al Shukla street border post (serving expatriates, you will not find any traffic signal in the city indicating the direction of the border).

Roads are excellent and the border crossing is quite easy. Don't forget to bring along some cash, as you have to pay for the visa to enter Oman, and also, as of 2019, many petrol stations, especially in southern Oman, take only cash. If you are taking a car from the UAE into Oman, you will need to produce evidence at the border that the car is insured in Oman. There is a departure tax of 35 UAE dirhams when leaving the UAE by car, and an 2 rials tax when leaving Oman by road.

Weekends and public holidays are very busy at the various borders that UAE shares with Oman as residents and visitors cross into Oman for tourism purposes as well as visa runs. Crossing during the work week (Sunday to Thursday) will avoid much of the crowds.

Additionally, make sure that your passport is stamped with the relevant entry and exit stamps. This should go without saying, but some border officials will forget part of the procedure and cause administrative hassles later. Additionally, crossing from Oman to the UAE is often a chaotic business, so it is easier to miss out on the all-important stamp than one might expect.

Crossing from Oman to Yemen is significantly more challenging, and those of an adventurous bent should familiarise themselves very carefully with the regulations regarding that border. In previous years, there has been a law that no solo female travellers can exit Oman to Yemen. Additionally, bear in mind that the easternmost parts of Yemen are exceptionally remote.

While a border (unmarked) exists between Oman and Saudi Arabia , this is a very inadvisable crossing, as it involves going through most (if not all) of the Empty Quarter and there are no permanent roads.

There is a regular bus service between Muscat and Dubai in the UAE. There are private operators as well as the state owned Mwasalat (formerly Oman National Transport Company) and the ride (which usually takes between 4 and 5 hours) is quite comfortable, thanks to the excellent roads.

Mwasalat operates the Dubai to Muscat and Dubai to Salalah routes. The bus to Muscat departs from Al rigga road in Deira, Dubai at 07:15 and in the afternoon. The bus to Salalah departs at 15:00 from the same bus station. The tickets are bought at Al Manhal stationery by the bus stop and cost 55 UAE dirhams one way to Muscat (Dec 2010). The bus stop is hard to find, it is close to the Caravan restaurant and close to the Dnata building, the taxi drivers know where the bus stop is. To go to Nizwa you need to go with the Salalah bus. Dress warm for the bus ride and prepare for border control including baggage check! If you enter UAE through Dubai you don't need to pay for Visa for Oman, show your stamp at the border control.

Oman Air is the national carrier and flies regularly between the two airports in the country (Muscat/Seeb, and Salalah). Air Arabia offers flights to Salalah and Muscat from the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

There are regular, daily bus services connecting the bigger cities within Oman ( Muscat , Salalah , Sohar , Sur and Nizwa ). There are several, daily bus services from Muscat to Dubai. There is one bus a day from Muscat to Abu Dhabi. For details see the pages of the Oman National Transport Company [1] .

Mowasalat is state-operated public transportation company in Oman. The company operates bus lines which connect some of the major cities in Oman.

All taxi drivers in Oman are Omani nationals as this is a protected profession. In Muscat there are call/telephone taxi services. Whilst safe and generally turn up when you want them to the costs are comparatively high. Look for "Hello Taxi" and "Muscat Taxi" amongst others.

The orange-badged taxis are usually owner-operated, these are un-metered with negotiated fares before departure. If you get a very cheap price, then do not be surprised if the Taxi stops to add extra passengers unless you request for it to be private. You may ask for engaged , just say 'engaged taxi' to the driver, and you will pay for all the seats (4) and now have the taxi to yourself. Women must always sit alone in the back. This is for your own safety and comfort.

There are also mini-buses (Baisa buses), the principle is you share the bus or car with others and pay a lower price as a result. This is how women living in Oman travel if they must use public transport. Women should sit next to other women if there are any in the bus. Men should move to other seats. If they do not move immediately, simply stand at the door, looking at them expectantly. They will take the hint and move. Although this might feel strange to foreigners, it is expected behaviour for Omanis. Not sitting next to a man will avoid any unfortunate situations of mixed signals.

Driving around Oman in your own (rented) car is quite easy. A four-lane road connects Muscat and Nizwa and a four-lane highway goes from Muscat to Sur (however, between Muscat and Quriyat it is still one lane each way through the mountains).

There are still large parts of the Sur - Muscat route that has no mobile phone signal. If you break down be prepared to wait it out. Or hitch a ride to the next town and find a mechanic to bring back to your vehicle.

Lovely seaside camping can be found between Muscat and Sur. Best to take the paved route to Sur, then over to Wadi Shab to find your way safely into this coastal road. If you intend to drive in wadis (unsealed valley roads in river beds) a 4WD is highly desirable. You can never be sure how the road will be and if it starts raining the wadis will turn into rivers quickly.

If at all possible, hire a 4-wheel drive. There is spectacular off-road driving to be had in Oman, and you will want to veer off the tarmac again and again.

Since about 2001 Oman has been experiencing severe flash flooding annually. The force of the water rushing down the rock hard treeless mountains do push even landcruisers off the road and upside down. Beware . If you see dark clouds or rain starts, find high dry ground, shelter and stay put. You can put a call into the local authorities to see if they can advise you better. The problem is the flash floods move quickly from town to town; it is easy to get trapped by washed out roads. Many wadi crossings have white and red poles to indicate when it is safe to cross the wadi in case of a flood. These are painted white on the bottom and red on top. If the water level reaches the red-painted part, do not attempt to cross, even in a 4WD.

If you managed to get a map of Oman regard it as how Oman would like to have the roads. Some roads might be drawn as well-built streets but are not even paved. Roads not visible on the map might just end and may even be painted till the end!

The typical rented car has a limit of 200-250 km per day. Prepare to pay and negotiate for extra kilometres. Monthly rates sometimes include unlimited kilometres.

Petrol in Oman is very cheap by European and even North American standards. As of June 2016 the price for regular petrol was approximately 0.17 rials per litre, even cheaper than in neighbouring United Arab Emirates .

In order to try and limit the rather frightening road death toll, the motorways/dual carriageways are littered with speed cameras. In the centre of Muscat they are every 2 km, not all look like they are active - but be warned. According to locals, the tolerance on the speed cameras is 19 km/h.

Oman is famous for its historic forts which are the country's most striking cultural landmarks. There are over 500 forts and towers which were the traditional defence and lookout points to deter potential invaders. Some of the best examples are in the capital, Muscat . Jalali and Mirani forts stand at the entrance to Muscat Bay and date from the early 16th century.

Bahla Fort at the base of the Djebel Akhdar highlands is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has 7 miles of walls. It was built in the 13th and 14th centuries when Bahla was a thriving oasis town.

Oman's rugged mountains offer some stunning scenery and probably the best opportunities for driving in dry wadis anywhere in the world. Many of the wadis have made roads (often unsurfaced but decent enough) while others require serious off-roading. You can easily get well off the beaten path into remote areas.

Huge desert dunes roll for as far as the eye can see at Wahiba Sands .

Oman's beaches are major breeding locations for various species of sea turtle . Masirah Island is the perhaps best bet where four species breed, including the largest number of leatherbacks anywhere in the world.

The country has vast expanses of desert, hundreds of kilometres of uninhabited coastline, and mountains of over 2,740 m (9,000 feet).

• Drive off-road to explore Oman's most outstanding sights.
• Go scuba diving off the coast of Oman in places like Masirah .
• Visit tribal Bedouin villages in the Musandam Exclave .
• Take a cruise on a dhow , an Omani/Emirati traditional fishing boat.

The currency in Muscat is the Omani rial , denoted by the symbol " ريال‎ " (ISO currency code OMR ). Wikivoyage uses "RO" to remote the currency. One rial is made up of one thousand baisa (also written baiza , Arabic: بيسة). The Omani rial is tied to the US dollar at 1 rial = US$2.6008 making it one of the largest units of currency in the world; exchange rates on the streets are a percentage point or two lower.

Banknotes that circulate are in 0.100 rials (a small, green banknote and not to be confused with the 20-rial note), 0.500 ( 1 ⁄ 2 ) rial, 1, 5, 10, 20 and 50-rials. Coins in circulation in Oman come in denominations of 5, 10, 25 and 50 baisa.

There are ATMs at the airport and plenty of them in Muscat and every main town, although not all of them take foreign cards. You can change foreign currency at the counters inside the airport and at money exchanges throughout Oman.

The Omani national symbol is the silver-sheathed dagger known as the khanjar . These vary widely in quality and cost, but almost every shop will stock several different models. Most of the modern ones are made by Pakistani or Indian craftsmen under Omani direction, while many are actually made in Wazirabad Pakistan or India. There is a large variety in quality, from the handles to the sheath. The best handles are made of silver-adorned sandalwood, while the lesser quality handles are made of resin. Look carefully at the sheath to determine the quality of the silver work. A good quality khanjar can cost more than 700 rials. Typically, those will come in a presentation box, and include a belt.

Another reminder of the country's tribal past is the walking stick known as arsaa . This is a cane with a concealed sword in it, which can prove quite a talking point at home. In many countries, it will prove a talking point with customs officials rather than friends and family. In Musandam, the khanjar is frequently replaced by the Jerz as formal wear, a walking stick with a small axe head as the handle.

Omani silver is also a popular souvenir, often made into rosewater shakers and small "Nizwa boxes" (named for the town from which they first came). Silver "message holders" (known as hurz, or herz), often referred to in souks as "old time fax machines" are often for sale as well. Many silver products will be stamped with "Oman" on them, which is a guarantee of authenticity. Only new silver items may be so stamped. There is a large quantity of 'old' silver available which will not be stamped. Although it may be authentic, stamping it would destroy its antique value. Caveat emptor are the watch words. Stick to reputable shops if you are contemplating buying antique Omani silver of any sort.

There is a wonderful selection of Omani silver available as jewellery as well. Items for sale in the Muttrah souk may not be genuine Omani items. Instead visit Shatti Al Qurm just outside of Muscat or the Nizwa Fort.

For any purchases of silver, knives, and sword-canes, make sure that you can legally import the amount you purchase back into your home country. Travelers thinking of bringing their purchases home via airplane should rather mail their purchases back, as it is usually an easier way since you won't have to cart the purchases around Oman or through security and customs.

The distinctive hats worn by Omani men, called "kuma", are also commonly sold, particularly in the Muttrah Souk in Muscat. Genuine kumas cost from 80 rials.

Frankincense is a popular purchase in the Dhofar region as the region has historically been a centre for production of this item. Myrrh can also be purchased quite cheaply in Oman.

As one might expect, Oman also sells many perfumes made from a great number of traditional ingredients. Indeed, the most expensive perfume in the world (Amouage) is made in Oman from frankincense and other ingredients, and costs around 50 rials. You can also find sandalwood myrrh and jasmine perfumes.

Opening hours during the holy month of Ramadan are very restricted. Supermarkets are less strict, but don't rely on being able to buy anything after iftar. At noon, most shops are closed anyway but this is not specific to Ramadan.

Using credit cards in shops is hit or miss. It is better to get cash at an ATM. Small denomination notes are hard to come by but necessary for bargaining. Unless you are in a supermarket, restaurant or mall bargaining is recommended, and this should be conducted politely.

Omani food tends to be simple but rewarding and filling. Rice is the main staple and so is bread. The national dish is called " Qabuli", consisting of; spiced rice, lamb or chicken, split peas and caramelized onions. It can be found in many restaurants across the country. Another popular dish is "shuwa" which consists of a whole roasted lamb wrapped around banana or palm leaves and marinated in a plethora of different spices, before being buried underground and cooked for an overnight. Shuwa is often served with plain rice but in some upscale restaurants it can be served as a sandwich with fries and ketchup. You have to try harees whenever possible, which is a porridge-like dish of cracked wheat, ghee, chicken or beef and some spices. With a long coastline, Oman has a rich seafood culture and freshly caught fish served with a salad and rice is not unheard of for lunch.

Street food is now becoming a trend. Make sure to try shawarma- strips of chicken or lamb grilled on a rotating spit, shaved and served in a wrap with an abundance of pickles, vegetables, tahini sauce (if lamb) or garlic sauce (if chicken) and French fries or deep fried chickpeas and beans balls called "falafel". They can be found in many street corner cafeterias for a very cheap price. For an authentic delicacy try barbecued meat marinated in tamarind and chili called "mishakeek". It can be bought from the stalls along just about any beach in Oman.

Omani sweets are well known throughout the region, with the most popular being "halwa". This is a hot, semi-solid substance which behaves a little like honey and is eaten with a spoon. The taste is similar to Turkish Delight. Omani dates are among the best in the world and can be found at every social place and at offices.

Luckily, you can find just about any cuisine in Oman. Be it Japanese, Chinese, Thai, Lebanese, Persian, Turkish, Tex-Mex or Indian; it's all there! American franchises like McDonald's, Burger King, KFC, Pizza Hut and Papa John's are extremely popular, especially among the younger generations

Alcohol is available only in some restaurants and large hotels and is usually very expensive (ranging from 1.5 rials for a 500 ml Carlsberg to 4 rials). Drinking alcohol in public is prohibited, but you can get your own drinks and enjoy at public areas but in privacy such as camping by beaches, sands, mountains, or actually in any remote areas. Only foreign residents can buy alcohol from alcohol shops and with certain limits. But an alcohol black market is widely spread around the cities and alcohol can be found easily.

Foreigner travellers are allowed 2 litres of spirits as duty free baggage allowance. Visitors can buy spirits at the duty-free shop in the arrival lounge.

During Ramadan, drinking anything in public is prohibited, even for foreigners. Take care to drink in the privacy of your room.

Oman has the full spectrum of accommodation - from ultra-luxurious hotels to extremely rustic huts in the desert constructed from date palm leaves.

Oman has been attempting to turn itself into something of a five-star destination for the well-heeled traveller, there are five five-star hotels in the capital. This does not pose a problem to the budget-minded in Muscat, and even outside of the capital there is still a range of budget options. In some parts of the country, however, accommodation may be limited to higher-end hotels and resorts.

Working in Oman requires that you hold a residence permit. In common with other Gulf countries, you must be sponsored by an employer to obtain a residence permit. It's not uncommon for people to enter on a tourist visa then look for a job - this is fine. Penalties for the employer are substantial if they are caught employing illegals, although this naturally varies depending on how good their connections are.

The majority of positions are filled by expats from the sub-continent. Positions for Europeans tend to be restricted to upper management levels or specialised occupations, so don't expect to pick up a position as you pass through unless you are prepared to work for very little!

Homosexuality is a crime in Oman. LGBT tourists should be self-aware.

Driving in Muscat can sometimes be a problem, although this is due more to congestion than bad driving on the part of the locals. Outside of the major cities, a common driving risk is falling asleep at the wheel due to the long stretches of featureless desert. Driving in Oman calls for attention to the unexpected. It has 85.3 road fatalities per 100,000 motor vehicles, which is more than double the UAE and much higher than most European countries.

Omani drivers outside of the cities tend to drive very fast and pass with impunity. Driving at night is especially hazardous as many drivers fail to turn their headlights on, or are unaware of people crossing the road on foot for example on the road from Sohar to Muscat . Camels will walk into the road even if they see cars approaching, and collisions are often fatal for both camel and driver.

See the above section on driving in wadis for off-road safety.

Female travellers should be careful to dress modestly, as not to offend local customs.

Visiting gambling and adult sites is also a crime in Oman. Internet censorship in Oman is very serious, so you need to be careful to stay safe online.

Stay healthy

Bottled drinking (mineral) water is easily available at most stores. Tap water is generally safe; however, most Omanis drink bottled water and to be safe, you should too. 500ml bottles of water will generally cost 100bz in the majority of shops with a 1.5l bottle costing only 200bz.

Oman is warm year-round and summers can be extremely hot. Always carry drinking water with you and be wary of de-hydration in high temperatures. If you're not used to the heat it can sneak up on you and cause serious health problems.

Several people have tried to cross stretches of the Omani desert on their own in a rented 4WD. Some of these people have died or got rescued just in time.

Travelling through a desert requires proper preparation. It looks easy from a modern air-conditioned 4WD, but if that fails you are suddenly back to basics.

Never go off-road alone. A minimum of two to three cars (of the same make) is the rule. Leave your itinerary with a friend with clear instructions if you do not return in time. Take at least:

• recovery tools: spades, rope (and attachments), sand mats or ladders
• two spare tires and all required equipment
• a good air pump (high capacity)
• sufficient water (at least 25 litres more than you think you will need for drinking)
• sufficient petrol: there are no petrol stations in the middle of nowhere.

If you have – or can get – a satellite phone, take it. (Mobile phones work only in limited areas.) Check your car before embarking on such a trip.

Before he died in 2020, Sultan Qaboos did more to develop the nation than any Arab leader, or most world leaders in recent history for that matter. Qaboos is held in the highest regard — even revered — by the vast majority of Omanis. Visitors should refrain from making any comments or statements that could be construed as disrespectful.

The Omanis are generally humble and down-to-earth people. The usual rules of respect when travelling in a Muslim country should be followed in Oman, even when locals appear to be a little less "uptight" than their neighbours. Homosexuality is illegal due to Islamic law but is practised with discretion; however as elsewhere in the Gulf it is taboo to discuss such topics.

While Omanis may not say anything to foreigners who dress in tight or revealing clothing, it is considered to be very disrespectful. Yes, some visitors push the goodwill of the Omanis in choosing their attire, but a little sensitivity goes a long way. A rule of thumb is that women should always keep shoulders, knees, and midriff covered, and avoid tight or revealing clothing. For men, shorts should be worn only for outdoor activities; longer shorts (i.e. at or below the knee) are fine in the city.

Staring is quite common in Oman; children, men and women are likely to stare at you simply for being a foreigner, especially if you travel off-season and in out-of-the-way places. This is not meant as an insult, it rather shows an interest, and a friendly smile will leave children giggling and showing off, and the adults happily trying out their few English phrases. Depending on which area of Oman you are in, smiling, though, may not be a good idea. In larger areas in which the locals have had excessive amounts of one-on-one experience with foreigners, smile away. Outside of Muscat and Salalah, it's not advised to smile at anyone of the opposite sex regardless of how friendly they are (save for tour guides) as nearly any interaction with the opposite gender (even holding doors open, picking up something that has fallen and handing it to the owner, eye contact, etc.) is viewed as flirtatious. It is especially important for Western women to take into account that an innocent smile saying, "I see you seeing me, do you need something" means "I'm interested, come closer" to most Omani men. They live in a heavily gender segregated society and so any chance they have to speak to the opposite gender is usually viewed as having at least semi-sexual overtones.

Under Omani law, an Omani can be taken to court for insulting another person, whether it is calling them an insulting name (one of the more common Arabic insults of "donkey," "dog," "pig," "sheep," etc.) or worse. Omanis, although "humble" are extremely sensitive to anything they perceive as criticism whether personal, national, or anything they perceive as being directed at the Gulf. Although Saudi Arabia is usually a fair target for jokes in the Arab world (especially in the Levant), Omanis don't take well to it. What Westerners would usually consider hypersensitive is fairly normal in Oman and due largely to the fact that Omanis have grown up in an environment in which criticism and name-calling is more or less outlawed. This is especially important to know for those who come to teach Omanis, unlike those from the Levant and parts of north Africa where teasing and intellectual "jousting" can be used as a form of building relationships or a sign of friendship, it doesn't work here and Omanis do not interpret it positively, save for those who have lived in the West or have worked with Westerners for extended periods of time.

As Oman is a member of the Arab League, its stance on Israel is one much like the other members, including the boycott. However, the Omani government was one of the first to recognize the existence of Israel, and has essentially been a liaison between the Arab League and Israel on multiple occasions, including setting up a meeting between the Israeli government and PLO leaders in the mid-2000s. Oman allows foreigners who travel to Israel to enter it for similar reasons, but it still participates in the boycott and holders of Israeli passports (citizens of Israel and dual-citizens of Israel and another country) aren't allowed entry. Due to this, the topic of Israel is best left undiscussed.

While Oman is very socially and politically liberal compared to its neighbors in the region, it remains an absolute monarchy where criticism of the Sultan is rare and the citizens can't elect direct leaders (they can elect representatives for certain positions, but the true power remains with the Sultan). On the flipside, most Omanis loved and/or respected Sultan Qaboos, so very few Omanis ever lodge any complaints. It is best for the traveller to avoid talking about the Sultan in a negative manner, and with Omani politics in general.

The "official" state religion, the Ibadi branch of Islam, is one of the most tolerant branches of Islam, in stark comparison to the Wahhabist Saudi Arabia. Ergo most Omanis will be open and accepting with travellers of other religions and creeds. However, Islam is still taken very seriously in Oman (not as much as in other states, though), so the traveller should refrain from making anti-Islamic comments or degrading Islam.

The country code for Oman is 968 .

Dialling out from Oman you will need to dial 00 + International Code + Number

Dialling into Oman callers use +968 followed by an 8 digit number...

These 8-digit numbers generally start with a 9 if it is mobile number, and with 2 for land lines, though other numbers will eventually start to get used.

Pre-paid mobile SIMs are available from several counters at the airport arrivals area. Your passport details are required to register the SIM. Often the staff will be helpful in activating the SIM for use when you buy.

Visitors may be interested in the monthly English language lifestyle magazine, Oman Today [dead link] , which is widely available in Oman.

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The Ultimate Oman Travel Guide

Updated March 2024,  The Ultimate Oman Travel Guide was originally written in April 2018

Oh Oman, the gem of the Arabian Peninsula. Easy to travel, overwhelmingly safe, absolutely beautiful sceneries, and a strong culture. Oman is often overlooked by most travelers to the region who typically head to more glitzy destinations like Dubai and Abu Dhabi. 

For those that have never visited a country in the Middle East, I highly recommend Oman as it’s clean, safe, friendly, and gorgeous. As many of you know, I traveled in  Yemen  and fell in love with the country in 2014 (and again in 2019 and 2020) which was what initially sparked my interest in visiting Oman.

The countries are drastically different, yet share many similarities, so for those interested in getting to Yemen (I get several emails about it per week), and have concerns about safety, I highly recommend travel in Oman for the time being.

If you’re starting to plan your Oman travels, I recommend picking up a copy of Bradt’s Oman guidebook .

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The currency of Oman is the Omani Rial. The current exchange rate is 1 OMR = $2.60 USD as of February 2024 .

The official language of Oman is Arabic. With that said English speaking travelers will have no problem getting around the country without knowledge of Arabic as many Omanis speak English quite well. Many road signs are written in English and Arabic.

The government of Oman doesn’t keep official stats on religion in the country. With that said most Omanis follow the Ibadi sect of Islam. The remaining population is mostly Muslim of Sunni or Shia sects with a small number of Hindus and Christians.

What To Wear In Oman

Conservative dress is recommended out of respect to the locals.

Women : Long trousers and shirts that at least cover the shoulders are recommended. Always carry a headscarf with you for the impromptu mosque visit. If you want to swim somewhere, swimming in clothing is what local women do. Of course, if staying at a western resort anything goes.

Men : Long trousers and covered shoulders are best. Make sure knees and shoulders are covered when entering mosques.

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How Long To Visit Oman

1-2 weeks is a common amount of time to visit the country for travelers. 2 weeks is a good amount of time for those wanting to quickly explore both the north and south of the country. A month will offer you the flexibility to hit the highlights and see some off the beaten path destinations in Oman. 

Check out my one week in Oman itinerary and travel guide

When To Visit Oman

Oman can get unbearably hot in summer. It is not recommended to visit in June, July, and August. The best months for visiting are November-April.

Getting around in Oman is easiest by renting a car and self-driving. Driving in Oman is quite easy unless you want to go off the beaten path which will involve off-roading. For those wanting to explore the Wahiba Sands and the mountain roads of the country, you should rent a 4×4.

Compare car rental prices on Expedia

• It is illegal to drive around with a dirty car in Oman. Fines are 10 OMR, but usually police will just tell you to get it washed.
• There are speed cameras all over the place. Always try to stay at or under posted speed limits.
• Public buses connect most major cities in the country. Those wanting to travel by bus will have difficulty reaching most places of interest for visitors.
• You can get around in cities by taxi.

You can enter Oman by flight or by road.

Flights : Most international flights arrive in Muscat. There are a few international flights that arrive at Salalah Airport as well.

Road : There are several border crossings with the UAE which is how virtually all tourists arriving by road will come from.

There is a border crossing with Yemen in western Oman. It is difficult to get across, and you’ll need to arrange this trip well in advance and it is not unheard of for border officials will turn you around, even if you have a valid visa.

Travel to Yemen is not recommended right now for obvious reasons at this time. There are intrepid travelers that have managed to cross here more recently. Note that solo females travelers have been denied to cross this border in the past.

Oman does share a long border with Saudi Arabia. There are no official crossings and it’s not advisable to enter Saudi Arabia from Oman as it requires you to cross the Empty Quarter.

• Leave your drugs, guns, and porn at home- they’re all prohibited in Oman.
• You can bring in 2 liters of alcohol per person if flying into the country, though you cannot bring in alcohol if you enter the country by road.

Several countries are now eligible for an e-visa to enter Oman. You can apply for your e-visa  here . Most single entry, 30-day e-visas will cost 20 OMR.

There is a loophole to get into Oman for free without a visa, it’s called the  Dubai-Oman Common Visa . You will be eligible to travel in Oman for up to 21 days so long as you have a valid visa or stamp from the Dubai Airport in your passport and are one of the eligible nationalities.

You must travel directly from Dubai to Oman via Al-Wajajah land crossing, Muscat airport, or a seaport. It will not work with other border crossings or at other (Salalah) airports. Read more about to Dubai-Oman Common Visa  here .

Note that Israeli passport holders will be denied entry.

Omani food has a lot of Arabic influence from its neighbors, however, it is a lot less spicy. Thanks to Oman’s long coastline there’s plenty of seafood to eat.

The dates in Oman are among the best in the world and Omani halwa (a delicious sweet) is one of their best-known sweets. With that all said, Omani food is hard to come by in restaurants but if you look hard enough you’ll find it. Some local dishes to try are:

Otherwise, you’ll find dishes served up from other parts of the Arabian Peninsula, Lebanon, Turkey, India, and Pakistan. In bigger cities, you’ll be able to find the typical American fast-food restaurants.

Omani Qahwa ( coffee ) and sweetened shai ( tea ) accompany most meals.

Accommodation

This is where you’ll either blow your budget or save heaps. Most accommodations geared toward tourists are high-end and come with a high price tag. With that said you can find budget-friendly options around the country. Better yet- you can camp freely in many parts of Oman.

If you’re planning to free camp in Oman, don’t f*** it up for everyone else. Don’t leave waste behind ( human, rubbish, or otherwise ), and do not camp in places where it is prohibited such as Ras al-Jinz.

Use the search box below to find accommodations in Oman!

Things To Do In Oman

Oman is blessed with rugged mountains, massive sand dunes, stunning coastline, historic fortresses, and a vibrant culture.  Click here to check out my One Week In Oman Roadtrip Itinerary  for ideas. Here are just a few highlights of the country:

Bustling City Souks : Souks are a great place to head to get a taste of Omani culture, and get some shopping done as well. Spice souks are always a fave with the exotic smells filling the air. Nizwa Souk, Muttrah Souk in Old Muscat, and Ibri Souks are some of the most well-known and interesting ones.

Trekking In The Jebel Shams : Jebel Shams is a 3,009m peak situated in the Al-Hajar Mountain Range, located about 240km from Muscat. There are a number of treks that can be done in the area, and it’s spectacular at sunrise.

View this post on Instagram ‘Camping on top of Jebel Shams, the highest mountain in #Oman was an adventure in itself. Often referred to as the Grand Canyon of Arabia, this popular destination sits within the Al Hajar Mountains range. As soon as we arrived local campers called us to join them for fresh fruit, dates and coffee as goats milled around by the cliff edge precariously. The hospitality, warmth and kindness we experienced that day summarises the Omani people and culture to me; it was one of the safest and most welcoming countries I have visited.’ – @danflyingsolo, #lpInstaTakeover. #travel #BestinTravel A post shared by Lonely Planet (@lonelyplanet) on May 28, 2017 at 3:08am PDT

Cruise The Musandam Fjords : The word  fjord  doesn’t usually come to mind when you think of a country on the Arabian Peninsula. Sure enough, Oman has fjords! At the northern end of the Oman Peninsula, not far from the UAE exists such a place. Take a dhow boat and go explore the beautiful landscapes for a day or three.

Visit The Desolate Masirah Island : With a desolate interior and a rugged coastline, Masirah Island is begging to be explored. It’s only recently been open to tourists, and in the few short years, it’s attracted mainly kitesurfers. Reach the island by ferry from Shannah, check out the ferry schedule  here .

Get Historical At Fortresses & Ruins : If you manage to visit Oman without seeing a single fortress I’d be impressed, but more confused than anything else. There are heaps of historic fortresses scattered all over the country. Some well maintained, and some in ruin, but either way they’re completely fascinating. Some will have entrance fees while others do not.

Explore The Wadis : Oman is home to more wadis than you’ll know what to do with. To fill you in- wadi is the Arabic word for canyon. Some of Oman’s most beautiful wadis are filled with crystal clear turquoise water and the occasional palm tree oasis.

Experience The Hospitality That Knows No Bounds : I know I say this about many places in the Middle East and Central Asia, but I wouldn’t keep repeating it if it wasn’t true. Omani people are incredibly welcoming and friendly. From the group of coworkers out enjoying an afternoon at Wadi Ghul inviting us for qawa and snacks, the troop of friends having lunch on a beach who completely took over our tire change and sent us for a swim, halwa, tahini & date given to us Nizwa Souk, a keffiyeh wrapping lesson in the middle of a busy market, to those Bedouin ladies who stopped to make sure we were okay and to offer us sweet shai in the Wahiba Sands- Omanis will be the biggest and best-lasting impression of your trip.

Where To Go In Oman

Northern Oman

Delightfully authentic for a change from the over-the-top capital cities of its gulf neighbors. Muscat is the capital of Oman and likely your first stop in the country.

With a backdrop of rocky slopes and buildings required to reflect traditional Arabian architecture you really feel you’re in Arabia. Muscat is actually three towns that seem to have overgrown and connected over time.

The area referred to as Old Muscat is the walled city, home to the royal palaces. Mutrah, which is home to the famed Mutrah Souk and was originally a fishing village. And finally, Ruwi which is where commercial things go on, and is the main transport hub for the city.

With that said, Ruwi is a good area to head for cheaper eats and shopping.

Top sights recommend to visit in Muscat

• Sultan Qaboos Mosque
• Mutrah Souk
• Muscat Royal Opera House
• Al-Jalali Fort & Al-Mirani Fort
• Mohammed Al-Amin Mosque
• Sultan’s (Al-Alam) Palace
• Oman National Museum

Where To Sleep In Muscat

• Budget:  Mutrah Hotel |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Midrange:  Levatio Hotel Muscat |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Luxury:  Shangr-La Al-Husn Resort & Spa |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Muscat Tours

Check out this  half-day guided tour of Muscat . Want to see the city by night? Have a look at this  Muscat by Night tour . Want to see both Muscat and the surrounding areas such as Seeb and Quriyat?  Click here  to read about this full-day tour.

If you want to experience an Omani town without trailing too far from Muscat, head to Seeb. It’s about a 30 minute drive northwest of Muscat, not far from the airport. There isn’t much in way of attractions in Seeb, but for those looking to get a feel for Omani culture without much travel time, this is the place to go.

View this post on Instagram The past weekend I took over the @LonelyPlanet Instagram account to share some of my favourite times in #Oman – if you haven’t considered visiting head over and take a look, I think it will surprise you… Have you been? #BestInTravel #arabia #Mosque A post shared by Daniel James (@danflyingsolo) on May 30, 2017 at 2:06pm PDT

Recommended Sights In Seeb

• Al-Zulfa Mosque
• Seeb Beach & Cornich Park

Where To Sleep In Seeb

• Budget:  Muscat Royal Suites |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Midrange:  Remas Hotel Suites | Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Luxury:  There are no luxury hotels in Seeb, but you can head to Muscat for them.

A lovely little fishing village an hour’s drive headed east from Muscat. Quriyat was once an important Omani port but now is just a sleepy village. Makes for a great day trip from Muscat with a stop at Mazara to check out the Wadi Dayqat Dam. There are no accommodations in Quriyat.

Sights To See In Quriyat

• Quriyat Fort
• Quriyat Beach
• Quriyat Watchtower

Bandar Khayran

Bandar Khayran also makes for a good day trip from Muscat, or as a stop for those headed south along the coast. Comprised of a series of Khors ( inlets ) it’s a great place to check out beaches, snorkel, watch fisherman casting for catches, and watch the sandstone reflections in the water in the late afternoon. There are currently no accommodations in Bandar Khayran, there are places you could wild camp.

Bandar Khayran Tours

Take a day trip from  Muscat by boat to explore the Bandar Kharyan area  and to view wild dolphins.

The gateway to the Jebel Shams, Wadi Ghul, and Jebel Akhdar, and home to one of Oman’s best fortresses and souks. During the 6th and 7th centuries Nizwa was the capital of Oman.

Make sure to tour around the Nizwa Fort ( 0.500 OMR admission ) and make a lap around the Nizwa souk in search of antiques and delicious halwa.

What To See In Nizwa

Where to sleep in nizwa.

• Budget:  Bait al Aqr |  Booking.com  |  Agoda.com  |
• Midrange:  Nizwa Heritage Inn |  Booking.com  |  Agoda.com  |
• Luxury:  Sama Hotel Jabal Al Akhdar |  Booking.com  |

Tours In Nizwa

There are a number of tours in and around Nizwa, and even ones that include surrounding areas such as Jebel Shams, Bahla, and Jebel Akhdar.  Click here to shop tours to Nizwa .

Jebel Shams, Wadi Ghul & The Al-Hajar Mountains

Jebel Shams is Oman’s Highest Mountain at 3,075 meters situated in the Al-Hajar Mountain Range. With that said, Jebel Shams isn’t well known for the peak itself, but the sometimes nerve-wracking views down into Wadi Ghul. Wadi Ghul is known as the Grand Canyon of Arabia.

Several treks can be done in the mountains and wadis, but do come prepared with enough water. Jebel Shams can be visited as a day trip from Nizwa or even Muscat, but it’s highly recommended to camp up here for a night especially for those wanting to catch the sunrise over the rugged landscape.

What To Do At Jebel Shams

• Purchase a locally made carpet

Where To Sleep In Jebel Shams

Sleeping up in Jebel Shams itself is not a cheap endeavor if looking to stay at a hotel. I highly recommend wild camping at Jebel Shams. Sama Heights Resort has a great lunch buffet available for a fee to those not staying there.

• Sama Heights Resort |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Jebel Shams Villa |  Booking.com  |  Agoda.com  |
• Jebel Shams Resort |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Sunrise Camp |  Booking,com  |  Hotels.com  |
• There are more and cheaper accommodation in nearby Al-Hamra,  shop rooms here

Jebel Shams Tours

For those not wanting to drive themselves and dedicate a night out in the mountains, you can take day tours to Jebel Shams from Muscat. Check out this Jebel Shams day tour  here .

Jebel Akhdar

The ‘Green Mountain’. This area isn’t known for the mountain itself but for the plateaus around it. With cooler weather and more rainfall its home to fruit gardens all over the upper and lower plateaus. You’re only allowed to make your way to Jebel Akhdar in a 4×4.

What To Do At Jebel Akhdar

• Diana’s View Point
• Wadi Bani Habib

Where To Sleep

• Budget:  Salassel Al-Jebel Al-Akhdar Guesthouse |  Booking.com  |  Agoda.com  |
• Midrange:  Jebel Akhdar Hotel |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Luxury:  Alilia Jebel Akhdar |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Tours To Jebel Akhdar

Click here  to book a tour of Jebel Akhdar and Nizwa in one day.

Bahla & Jabrin

Known for it’s fort of the same name and it’s pottery. The Bahla Fort is one of the best walled cities in the world to explore. You can combine a visit to Bahla with nearby Jabrin to explore the less impressive yet well preserved fort. Admission to both Bahla Fort and Jabrin Castle is 0.500 OMR.

What To Do In Bahla

• Shop For Pottery
• Visit The Old Souk
• Jabrin Castle

Where To Sleep in Bahla

• Budget:  Jibreen Hotel |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Midrange:  Bahla Hotel Apartments |  Booking.com  |  Agoda.com  |
• Luxury:  Go to Nizwa

Bat & Al-Ayn

Nearby to the Buraimi border crossing with the UAE and worthy of a stop for those entering or exiting Oman here. Bat and Al-Ayn are home to strange beehive tombs that dot the hilltops.

What To See in Bat & Al-Ayn

• Check out the beehive tombs
• Go off-roading to the nearby mountain villages

Search Al-Buraimi Hotels here

Musandam Peninsula

The Norway of Arabia because of its stunning Khors ( fjords or inlets ). Separated from the remainder of Oman by the UAE.

Khasab is the capital of the tiny province and exclave. Khasab is where you’ll want to base yourself for trips around the Musandam Peninsula. Be sure to explore the Khasab Fort, Khmazera Castle, and souk while back in the city.

What To See Around Khasab

• Khasab Fort
• Khasab Souk
• Khmazera Castle
• Organize dhow boats to explore the Khors

Where To Sleep In Khasab

• Midrange:  Khasab Hotel |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Luxury:  Atana Musandam Resort |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Khasab & Musandam Peninsula Tours

From city tours in Khasab to dhow boat trips around the khors, there’s probably a tour to suit just about everyone.  Click here  to check out Khasab city tours and dhow trips.

The Musandam Khors

Hop on a dhow boat or organize a tour of the Musandam Khors and explore this fascinating area. Visit the fishing villages with inhabitants so remote that they speak a dialect that those from Muscat cannot understand, eat freshly caught seafood cooked up on your dhow, and take in the amazing scenery.

What To See & Do In The Musandam Khors

• Visit Telegraph Island & Khor Ash-Sham
• Camp on the bay of Khor An-Najd
• Cruise the sea by dhow boat
• See wild dolphins
• Visit remote villages

Musandam Peninsula Tours

Check out this  2 day tour of the Musandam Khors  including a night on a dhow boat. Just looking for day tours? Shop dhow day trips from Khasab  here . You can also book a 4×4 day trip to Khor An-Najd as well as Jebel Harim  here .

Jebel Harim

A great day trip by 4×4 from Khasab to Jebel Harim, the ‘Mountain of Women’, littered iris and geranium flowers and views of the Rawdah Bowl Below.

Jebel Harim Tours

You can visit Jebel Harim along with the beautiful Khor An-Najd by 4×4 Day Tour,  click here to read more .

The believed home to Sinbad and Ahmed bin Majid- two very famous sailors. Most come to enjoy the sandy beaches and archeological fixtures such as the Sohar Castle.

What To Do In Sohar

• Sohar Castle
• Sohar Beach
• Fish Market

Where To Sleep In Sohar

• Budget:  Atlas Hotel Apartments |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Midrange:  Radisson Blu Sohar |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Luxury:  Crown Plaza Sohar |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

A popular day trip from Muscat as it’s only an hour’s drive from the city. Home to a nice sandy beach and a scattering of islands. Visiting the watchtower on Sawadi Island and snorkeling is what most who do visit come for.

What To Do In Sawadi

• Sawadi Beach
• Island hopping
• Sawadi Watchtower and Sawadi Island

Central Oman

Sur & ayjah.

Nice beaches, two castles, and a corniche are the attractions in Sur, just southeast of Muscat. It’s also a great base or jumping-off point for adventures into  Wadi Shab , Wadi Tiwi, Ras al-Jinz, and Ras al-Hadd.

Admission to castles is 0.500 OMR. Ayjah, which can be seen just across the water from the Sur Corniche is worth a trip to explore the tiny village’s fort and lighthouse. Ayjah and Sur are connected by Oman’s only suspension bridge.

What To See & Do In Sur

• The Corniche
• Sunaysilah Castle
• Ayjah Lighthouse
• Suspension Bridge

Where To Sleep In Sur

• Budget:  Al Jumhour Hotel Apartments |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Midrange:  Resort Sur Beach Holiday |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Luxury:  Head to Ras al Hadd, or back to Muscat

Bimmah Sinkhole (Hawiyat Najm Park)

Just off the highway as you make your way down the coast from Muscat to Sur.  Bimmah Sinkhole  is most definitely worthy of the stop.

Local legend says the sinkhole was created by a meteor strike- hence the local name of Hawiyat Najm, meaning falling star. But in reality, it’s believed to just be a depression that fills with seawater as the ocean is only 600m away and freshwater that collects in there.

Bimmah Sinkhole is incredibly beautiful with its crystal clear vibrant turquoise waters. It’s easy to access as Bimmah Sinkhole was designated a park and they’ve built a staircase down into it. If visiting in the more popular months ( November-March ), I recommend visiting early in the morning if you want to beat the other tourists to it.

You can visit Bimmah Sinkhole along with nearby Wadi Shab by day tour from Muscat for those not interested in making the journey on their own,  click here  to read more about the tour and book.

Plan your visit:  Everything you need to know to visit Bimmah Sinkhole

Steep canyon cliffs, turquoise pools, and even a secret waterfall await those who make the trip to  Wadi Shab , one of Oman’s easiest to reach and most beautiful destinations. Wadi Shab is located right off the Muscat-Sur Highway. From the parking lot under the highway bridge, you’ll need to take a boat across to the other side ( 1 OMR roundtrip ).

Once across, follow the path and prepare to be amazed. You will eventually reach the upper pools where you are allowed to swim. From here you can swim through a narrow slot a little further up the river to enter a giant cave where you can cliff dive into the waters below from the edge of a gushing waterfall.

• It is possible to hike even further to reach villages higher up the wadi.
• Camping and fires are not allowed in Wadi Shab.

Check out my  ultimate guide to Wadi Shab

Just a short distance from Wadi Shab, Wadi Tiwi is a must-see especially in the springtime when the bottom of the canyon is carpeted in lush green foliage. It’s preferred by locals for travelers to visit the 9 villages in the wadi on foot. A two day trek can be done from Wadi Tiwi to Wadi Bani Khalid.

Ras Al-Jinz & Ras Al-Hadd

Ras al-Jinz is the easternmost point of the Arabian Peninsula famous for the thousands of female green turtles that return to this beach year after year to lay their eggs.

Green turtles are endangered and Oman is dedicated to their conservation and has strict punishments for those that harm turtles or their eggs. I’ve learned that the only way to visit Ras al-Jinz for turtle viewing is by organized tour, however, when I visited Oman we were given permission by the men working at the reserve to go in search of turtles.

We did find a massive female laying eggs in the sand which was a great experience. The workers at the reserve even gave us a brief tour of their facilities and let us watch them at work ( finding baby turtles that were confused and heading away from the ocean and putting them in a small kiddy pool that they would take down to the water to set free into the ocean when it got too crowded ).

Ras al-Hadd is the nearby fishing village in which it is possible to camp ( camping is not permitted at Ras al-Jinz for obvious reasons ).

• If you do plan to come to Ras al-Jinz to see the turtles either don’t bring a flashlight/headlamp or bring a headlamp with the red light on it. The red light doesn’t stress and confuse the turtles, but the normal lights will.
• Turtles don’t come to the beach during the day, so the best time to see them is on a night tour.

What To Do In Ras al-Jinz

• Visit Ras al Jinz Turtle Reserve in search of the endangered green turtle
• Spend the night just back off the beach at the Ras al-Jinz Turtle Reserve Hotel

Where To Stay In Ras al-Jinz

• Ras al-Jinz Turtle Reserve , with rooms starting at 40 OMR per night

Where To Stay In Ras al-Hadd

• Budget:  Ras al-Hadd Guesthouse |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Luxury:  Turtle Beach Resort |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Ras al-Jinz Tours

Join a 4×4 tour down from Muscat and back to view the green turtles at Ras al-Jinz,  click here  to read more and to visit the booking page. A cheaper option is to book a visit to the reserve through your hotel in Sur or Ras al-Hadd.

A small fishing village with two beaches on either side of it that are nice for a picnic in the afternoon. Al Ashkara is the jumping-off point to the Wahiba Sands and also the main supply point for the communities that live out there.

One of the nearby beaches is where we stopped for lunch and to change a tire and a group of friends hanging out at the beach quickly took over the task.

Bani Bu Hassan & Ali

Worth a stop for those bound for the Wahiba Sands, Wadi Bani Khalid or Ibra from Al Ashkara or further south. Bani Bu Hassan and Bani Bu Ali sit side by side and are home to forts, ancient plantations, and watchtowers.

What To See In Bani Bu Hassan & Ali

• Bani Bu Ali Fort
• Bani Bu Hassan Fort
• Jami Al Hamoda Mosque
• Explore the plantations

Wahiba Sands (Sharqiya)

At the village of Al-Ghabbi on Highway 23 ( not far from Bani Bu Hassan & Ali and Ibra ) turn off and you’ll quickly arrive at the village of Al-Mintirib that sits right on the edge of  Wahiba Sands .

Al-Mintirib is the gateway to exploring the wild desert of Oman. Carefully follow the jeep tracks out of town and into the great abyss. There are a number of desert camps out here, but it’s entirely possible to camp on your own.

For those wanting to interact with Omani women, Wahiba Sands is your best bet as the local Bedouin women have a more outward role in their society than in other parts of the country. They are also expert drivers and often rescue tourists stuck in the sands.

Whether you camp on your own or you head out to a luxury camp, make sure you look up at night and catch the stars under the clear dark sky.

• It’s advisable to bring shovels and sand mats if you self drive, in case you get stuck out here.
• Make sure to have plenty of water if driving yourself out here.

What To Do In The Wahiba Sands

• Haul ass down desert jeep tracks and up and down through orange sand dunes
• Camp under the stars
• Keep your eyes peeled for camels and Arabian Oryx running around
• Meet Bedouin women and watch their driving skills

Read my guide to  spending the night in the Wahiba Sands

Where To Stay In The Wahiba Sands

• Desert Wonders Camp |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Arabian Oryx Camp |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Desert Bedoua House |  Booking.com  |  Agoda.com  |
• Safari Dunes Camp |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Tours To Wahiba Sands

Don’t want the stress of driving a 4×4 yourself through mountains of sand with the fear of getting stuck in the middle of nowhere? There are several tours offered to the Wahiba Sands ranging from day trips to overnight trips and more.  Click here  to browse different desert tours to the Wahiba Sands.

Wadi Bani Khalid

Beautiful emerald and turquoise pools await at Wadi Bani Khalid. You’ll wind high-up in the Eastern Hajar Mountains to eventually arrive at a parking lot.

From here it’s a short walk to the pools and a little further to Moqal Cave. This is about as touristy as it gets in Oman as well- there’s a restaurant at the lower pools and there is a concrete path there from the parking lot.

You can swim in the pools here, but you should swim in clothes like many Omanis here visit here do as well. For those not claustrophobic, continue along the trail past the restaurant ( the trail quickly turns to rocks ) and you can climb inside the cave. There are spots where you’ll find local boys cliff diving as well.

Tours To Wadi Bani Khalid

Some tours that visit from  Muscat to the Wahiba Sands include a stop at Wadi Bani Khalid . You can also self drive here, or contact local Omani tour agencies to arrange trips here.

Ibra is an ancient city, so old it predates the calling of the prophet. Ibra is also the gateway to the Wahiba ( Sharqiya ) region from the north. These two factors make a stop off here worthy of your time when traveling to or from the Wahiba Sands and beyond.

Try to arrange a visit on a Wednesday morning to see the local souk at its busiest and the women’s souk is active. The women’s souk is for women buyers and sellers to barter and trade, and men are not welcomed here.

Make sure and walk to the Old Ibra Village ( walk toward Al-Munisifeh from the souk area ) to explore ancient and crumbling buildings.

What To Do In Ibra

• Visit the souk, espeically on Wednesday mornings
• If you’re a woman, visit on Wednesday mornings to get a glimpse into local women’s lives at the Women’s Souk
• Wander crumbling mud-brick buildings in Old Ibra and Al-Musinifeh

Where To Sleep In Ibra

• Budget:  Al Sharqiyah Sand Hotel |  Booking.com  |  Agoda.com  |
• Midrange:  Tafadal |  Booking.com  |

Masirah Island

Come here for rugged coastlines and the wild interior that have been attracting kitesurfers out here for the last few years. Take a ferry over from Shannah to this desolate island out in the Indian Ocean.

Camping and exploring by 4×4 is the best way to experience Masirah Island.  Click here  to view the National Ferry Company of Oman’s schedule. There are a few hotels on the island now in the town of Half for those not wanting to camp.

What To Do On Masirah Island

• Visit the small town of Ras Al Hilf
• Explore the rugged coastline and search for dhow boat wreckages
• Find camels wandering around as you traverse the island

Where To Sleep On Masirah Island

• Midrange:  Maan Hotel Apartment |  Booking.com  |
• Higher End:  Masirah Island Resort |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Southern Oman

The capital of the Dhofar Region and famous for its frankincense.  Salalah  is a bit more colorful than other cities in Oman thanks to its ties to East Africa. Make sure to visit the beaches, pay a visit to Sultan Qaboos Mosque, and wander into the Museum of Frankincense Land.

What To See In Salalah

• Fruit Plantations
• Museum of Frankincense Land
• Al-Husn Souk
• Visit the nearby Al Fizayah & Al Mughsail Beaches

Plan your visit:  The Salalah Travel Guide

Where To Sleep In Salalah

• Midrange:  Belad Bont Resort|  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Midrange:  Salalah Gardens Hotel |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Luxury:  Crown Plaza Hotel Salalah |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Luxury:  Fanar Hotel |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Luxury:  Millennium Resort Salalah |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Super Luxury:  Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Tours In Salalah

Take a half day Salalah City tour , or take a tour of  East Salalah to Taqah  and other sights, or a  tour west of Salalah  to head towards the Yemeni border and visit valleys of frankincense trees, visit the Mughsail Bay, and to the fishing village of Dhalkut.

This fishing village sits on the other side of a nice white sand beach from Salalah. Come here to visit Taqah Castle ( 0.500 OMR ).

Just a few kilometers east of Taqah sits a lovely little bay called Khor Rouri. You can sit and watch animals like flamingos and camels here. Khor Rouri was also an important port along the Frankincense trading route about 2,000 years ago. Little is left behind from those times aside from the Sumhuram Ruins ( 1 OMR to enter ).

You can reach Wadi Dharbat from Khor Rouri and visit its waterfall and lake.

Mughsail Bay

A drive 48km east of Salalah will bring you to the beautiful Mughsail Bay that trails off into giant cliffs that continue on to the east. Nearby the Marneef Cave is with a stop as well.

View this post on Instagram ‘The #Oman coastline is over 1600km long and touches three seas. Driving along the dry rugged coastline and climbing down rocks to empty beaches were common pit stops on my road trip. One morning, after a night spent camping on a beach, we woke early and visited another to watch sea turtles laying their eggs. By early evening we had arrived in the desert and were surrounded by camels. The diversity in wildlife for such a small country is one of the reasons Oman captured my heart.’ – @danflyingsolo, #lpInstaTakeover. #travel #BestinTravel A post shared by Lonely Planet (@lonelyplanet) on May 27, 2017 at 10:02am PDT

Oman Travel Budget

It’s not a secret that Oman is not the cheapest destination, but for those willing to get a little dirty and sleep under stars you can stretch your money a lot further here. With that said, the sky is the limit in Oman with its plethora of luxury resorts.

13 OMR/$35 USD Per Day

Splitting the cost of renting a 4×4 with a group of 4, camping each night and preparing most your own meals

27 OMR/$70USD Per Day

Staying in budget accommodation (2 persons), eating at low key restaurants, and car rental

60 OMR/$150 USD Per Day

Sleeping in midrange hotels, dining at a combination of cheap eateries and nice restaurants, and car rental

120 OMR/$300 USD Per Day

Taking guided tours, staying in resorts, and eating at upscale restaurants

Oman Packing List

Remember that respectful dress is the best for traveling in Oman. Pack light, breathable fabrics. For those planning to adventure in the mountains do bring some layers as it can get chilly out there in winter, especially at night. The Bradt Oman guidebook is a handy tool for travel planning.

Recommended Gear For Those Planning To Wild Camp, Trek, & Adventure In The Desert

• Inreach Explorer+
• Solar charger
• External battery pack
• Lightweight Tent
• Sleeping bag
• Hiking Boots
• Lightweight cooking camp set
• Water Purifier
• Trekking Poles
• Prescription & Over the counter medications
• Sand Plates

Internet & Mobile

Hotels in Oman will usually have wifi. If you’d like to buy a SIM card to stay connected they are easy and quick to purchase. Look for Omantel and Nawras shops and kiosks. Omantel has plans starting at 2 OMR and Nawras at 3 OMR.

Health & Safety

Oman is an incredibly safe country in regard to crime and violence. The most dangerous thing in the country is the heat.

• Always have some water with you, especially when venturing out into the desert or hiking in the mountains
• Don’t go off roading alone in case that you do get stuck and need help getting out. It’s best to travel in a convoy with others
• Take caution while driving. Oman does have a relatively high car accident fatality rate. Things to look out for are other drivers, camels in the road and falling asleep at the wheel
• Take maps and GPS if planning to off road through the desert and mountains, or trek in the peaks and wadis
• Always take sunscreen with you, the Omani sun is relentless

Important Notes

• Acts of aggression and insulting others are punishable in Oman. So no road rage exists here. One instance you’ll see this is when taking taxis in Muscat- if your driver gets cut off ( more than likely it’ll happen on your way in from the airport ), rather than honk and flip the offender off, they’ll drop their right hand down low near the shifter and slap it back and forth. This is the Omani f*** you.
• With Oman having outlawed insults and aggression, it’s led to the population being quite sensitive. What you may think of as a joke making fun of someone, a place, or so on may come off as very offensive. So definitely think before you blurt things out.
• Be prepared to be stared at. Omanis will stare at you, only because you’re foreign and they’re curious.
• Especially outside of the larger cities of Muscat and Salalah avoid smiling at members of the opposite gender as it is usually always perceived as flirting. Oman is still a fairly segregated country in regards to gender. I never had any issues when we were traveling the country speaking with men we met in various places, but I did visit Oman immediately after leaving Central Asia. After traveling Central Asia for over two months I had the co-ed interactions in the Islamic world down pretty well.
• Homosexuality is punishable in Oman, although not as severely as in neighboring countries. You could land yourself in jail for up to 3 years if caught in some sort of homosexual act. This doesn’t mean LGBT travelers cannot travel in Oman, but if you do so just make sure to not display affection in public. It’s easy enough to tell people you meet that you are friends if traveling with a romantic partner. Note that in Oman, like in much of the Middle East and Africa it’s not unusual for friends of the same gender to hold hands.

Have More Questions That Aren’t Answered In This Oman Travel Guide?

Ask in the comments below!

More Posts from Oman:

12 Best Things To Do In Oman

The Best Road Trips In The World

What It Was Like To Camp In The Wahiba Sands, Oman

The Ultimate Guide To Visiting Wadi Shab, Oman

Salalah Travel Guide + 10 Things To Do In Salalah

Dubai-Oman Common Visa

The Yemen-Oman Border Crossing

One Week in Oman: A Self-Drive, Budget Itinerary

Visiting Bimmah Sinkhole, Oman: Everything You Need To Know

Oman Tour: To The Empty Quarter & Dhofar

20 thoughts on “the ultimate oman travel guide”.

Hello Nicki, Thanks for the well written blog. I’ll be traveling to Oman from Oct. 13-22 as part of a multi country trip. I’m also a travel photographer. I’d like to know if I’m allowed to bring a drone (Mavic 3 Pro) into the country. Thanks.

Hi Hans, I have not traveled to Oman myself with a drone so I am unsure of if you will be hassled by immigration coming into the country with one. That said, we were looking to film/photo with a drone on our first trip to Oman in 2016 and after some digging I do know that you have to apply for a permit from civil aviation authorities in order to legally fly a drone in Oman and that they only issue them for commercial purposes. Ultimately we decided not to bring one altogether.

So I would recommend that you contact Oman’s CAA to at least make sure you can enter with it even if you’re not planning to fly and if there is documentation that can be provided for entry.

This website has some info on Oman (and other nations): https://uavcoach.com/drone-laws-in-oman/

The email and phone for the Omani CAA is [email protected] or +96824354467

Dear friend superb guide you covered almost everything a traveler should look into. I’ve been thinking lately that I would love to visit I am glad to read your blog about your travel experience very interesting thanks. Your personal experiences and vivid descriptions truly bring the city to life, making me feel like I’m right there with you on this incredible journey. Your blog is a wonderful source of inspiration for fellow adventurers looking to explore the magic of. Keep sharing your stories and insights – they’re a delight to read! Sreenandhana from Kerala tourism.

HEy Nicole! This guide is amazing – thank you so much!

Thank you for this wonderful article. It is new information for me.

Nicole, being a Local Omani, I am impress with your knowledage about Oman. No doubt, you’ve written an informtive, well-researched and impressive guide on Oman.

Thanks for this great blog! Your pictures give a great insight to the country. Which camera are you using?

Thanks, I mostly shoot on a Canon 5DSR and sometimes a 5DMIII

Impressive article, enjoyed reading it. Thanks for the info.

Thanks a lot, the article is so perfect

What a great article! We’re currently dreaming of going to Oman again – we’ve been there before and we love, love love it! Here’s to a year with loads of travel plans and new experiences!

Nice post. Thank you for sharing such informative information with us.

Hi, First, I would like to thank you for sharing the useful guide on Oman Tours. As Oman is the best destination for traveling & tours and has lots of amazing places to visit. As per my experience, Salalah is also a very good destination for spending holidays. I have read your blog and I found that your tips and guide will be very helpful for visitors.

Thanks for the information even if I am planning to come to Oman. through e-visa this is very needful information

Nice post, Thanks for sharing!

Salalah is very beautiful tourist city and I loved to visit again

Salalah is a great place, greetings from Salalah.

Regards Beautiful Salalah Tours The best travel operator in Salalah

Thanks Salma, Salalah is just lovely. I’d love to return!

Hello lovely Nicki, I want to say you have a great article here about Oman. We offer desert tours in UAE and to the Musandam Peninsula from Dubai, hope to see you there one day Inshallah.

Thanks, I hope to be back one day too!

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Travel guide to Oman

Oman is the most beautiful and fascinating country in the Middle East. It’s a shame that recent events in the world have caused anxiety for tourists and particularly (understandably) to the Middle East. However, Oman is a perfectly safe country, located in a turbulent region, and should be on your bucket list. Its grandiose landscapes and fascinating culture have inspired myths, legends and dreams that still take hold of the imagination. Oman has spectacular mountains, lonely deserts, idyllic beaches, picturesque villages, and elusive wildlife. A welcome and authentic respite for the modernism of its popular neighbor – the United Arab Emirates – Oman still offers a sense of the oriental spirit of 1001 nights with its low-key profile tourism profile. Now is the time to immerse yourself in the mysterious beauty of Oman, because the country gears up to attract much more tourists, with a new airport, a large conference center and a string of new hotels.

Get the most out of your (luxury) trip to Oman with my travel guide. Find out more about:

• Best time to visit
• How to get there
• Travel requirements
• Getting around
• Inspiration, highlights, & travel tips
• Suggested itineraries
• Recommended luxury hotels (+ reviews)

BEST TIME TO VISIT

Oman’s weather is typical of the Arabian peninsula, with scorchingly hot summers (April to September) and pleasantly temperate winters (October to March). However, the varied topography & geography of Oman makes its climate varied too:

• For most of the country, including the capital Muscat , the summer season is extremely hot, humid and unsuitable for travel. The temperature during this season peaks up to an average of 40°C (104° F). Sometimes the temperature can go as high as 50°C (122°F) during the day. Winter is the best time for travel, with an average temperature during the day of about 27°C (80°F) while the nights are breezy and cooler with temperatures dropping down to an average of 15°C (60°C). Winter days are filled with sunshine for most of the time (although recent years have seen an increase in the number of overcast and rainy days).
• The temperature in the mountains is around 15°C (30°F) degrees cooler than in Muscat year round, making it a great place to escape from the heat of the lower plains in the summer months, or for a refreshing break and perhaps a view of snow-capped peaks under the winter sun.
• The Dhofar area in southern Oman –   where the beach resort of Salalah is located – sees monsoon rains from June to September. The rain falls under the form  of a constant drizzle, transforming the landscape into  a green, lush oasis.

HOW TO GET THERE

Most visitors arrive into Oman via Muscat International Airport, although an increasing number of visitors fly in via Salalah International Airport.

• Muscat International Airport (MCT) is the country’s largest airport and the main entry to Oman. It is situated close to the capital Muscat and features flights to several regional destinations as well as some intercontinental services to Asia, Africa and Europe. Click here for a list of airlines that offer direct flights to Muscat.
• Salalah International Airport (SLL)  is the Sultanate of Oman’s secondary international airport, and is the main gateway to southern Oman and the beach resort town of Salalah. Click here for a list of airlines that offer direct flights to Salalah.

Before you buy a plane ticket, consider reading my  tips & tricks for buying the cheapest plane ticket .

It’s also possible to enter Oman over road from the United Arab Emirates. The Musandam Governorate – where the Six Senses Zighy Bay  resort is located – is an exclave, separated from the rest of Oman by the United Arab Emirates, and is best accessed by land from the United Arab Emirates (2 hour drive from Dubai).

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

Requirements for entry into Oman differ from country to country, and are subject to change. Prior to departure, always check with your government and your nearest Omani embassy or consulate what documents you need for travel to Oman.

• You need a passport with at least six months validity to enter Oman.
• You must obtain a  visa  prior to travel unless you come from one of the visa exempt countries (which are part of the Gulf Cooperation Council) or one of the countries whose citizens are eligible for a one-month travel visa that can be purchased on arrival at any land, sea or air entry port in the country.

Make sure you read my 10 tips to plan a worry-free trip .

GETTING AROUND

There’s very little public transport in Oman. You can get to the main towns and cities by public coaches, but to really see anything of the country you’ll need your own transport:

• Most travelers will rent a car . This indeed the easiest way of getting around the country. Car rental companies are present at major airports and central city locations. Although the road infrastructure is excellent, the driving conditions can be dangerous because of the undisciplined driver habits of the locals.
• One of the best ways to travel worry-free around Oman is by signing up for a tour or hiring your own guide-driver (which can be arranged via most hotels at an affordable cost).
• Domestic flights  might be an option if you don’t have a lot of time and want to travel in a fast way from Muscat to Salalah (90 minute flight instead of a 9 hour drive). Flight are operated by Oman Air , the country’s flagship carrier.

INSPIRATION, HIGHLIGHTS & TRAVEL TIPS

There are several good reasons why you should put Oman on your bucket list:

• The old city center, Sultan Qaboos Mosque and Opera House in Muscat
• The magnificent Hajar Mountains
• Boundless Arabian deserts
• Stunning fjords of the Musandam Peninsula
• Gorgeous beaches, mainly around Muscat and Salalah
• Salalah’s coconut-fringed beaches and banana plantations

The following, in-depth article may also inspire you and help you plan your next holiday to Oman:

• Top 10 most fabulous luxury resorts in Oman
• Tips & tricks for getting the best deal at a luxury hotel
• Tips & tricks for buying the cheapest plane ticket

SUGGESTED ITINERARIES 

It’s impossible to suggest one itinerary for Oman, but I hereby share with you a schedule based on my holidays to Oman. This is a great itinerary if you want to see country in a time frame of one week (although two weeks are recommended if you have more time and want to see all of the country)

• Days 1-4 : Muscat & beach (recommended hotel: The Chedi Muscat , Al Bustan Palace , or Shangri-La Al Husn ).
• Days 5-7 : Hajar Mountains (recommended hotel: Alila Jabal Akhdar or Anantara al Jabal Al Akhdar ).

If you have more time, you can also extend your vacation with a couple of days at the Musandam Peninsula, which is best accessed via road (via the UAE) and which harbors stunning fjords in addition to Oman’s most fabulous hotel ( Six Senses Zighy Bay ). If you have two weeks time, you could also visit Oman’s Dhofar region in the south, around the beach resort town of Salalah (recommended hotel: Al Baleed Resort Salaha by Anantara ).

RECOMMENDED LUXURY HOTELS (+ REVIEWS)

Considering visiting my top 10 list of the best luxury hotels in Oman if you are eager to know how I rank Oman’s top properties, based on my own experience at each one of them.

Below, you find my reviews of hotels in Oman (with pros, cons, and tips to save money per hotel).

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I have been living in Oman. I suggest plan to visit Oman between Nov to April.

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© The Luxury Travel Expert 2024

PREPARE TA VALISE - LE BLOG VOYAGE DE JULIE & NICO & MATTÉO

REJOINS-NOUS POUR SUIVRE NOS AVENTURES EN FAMILLE À TRAVERS LE MONDE !

preparetavalise

• 18 min de lecture

Road trip à Oman : notre itinéraire de 10 jours

Dernière mise à jour : 28 févr. 2023

Le Sultanat d’Oman est un pays du Moyen-Orient situé au sud de la péninsule d’Arabie, frontalier aux Emirats Arabes Unis (donc pas très loin de Dubaï). Recouvert aux trois quarts de montagnes, de désert mais aussi de canyons, c’est un pays qui promet des paysages spectaculaires. Ici, on respecte les coutumes et on vit au rythme des prières. Ses locaux bienveillants et souriants ; ses paysages surprenants ; son odeur d’encens partout, tout le temps ; son ambiance apaisante ; son authenticité… Un ensemble qui fait que Oman est aujourd’hui l'un de nos voyages préférés tant on a été séduits. Bientôt 2 semaines que nous sommes rentrés lorsque je vous écris ces premières lignes et je suis déjà bien nostalgique. Notre road trip à Oman restera un merveilleux souvenir.

Préparer son voyage à Oman : infos pratiques

Visa : faire la demande directement sur internet 2 semaines avant le départ. Nous avons reçu les nôtres quelques minutes après avoir envoyé le formulaire,

Passeport : valide 6 mois après la date de retour en France,

Monnaie : le rial Omanais : 1 OMR = environ 2 €,

Décalage horaire : + 2h en été / +3h en hiver,

Langue : arabe et anglais partout,

Transport : véhicule de location, 4x4 indispensable pour aller dans le désert mais aussi pour monter au plateau de Sayq (Djabel Akhdar). Attention à bien respecter les limitations de vitesse, il y a beaucoup de radar à Oman,

Internet : on a souscrit l’offre à 29€ avec notre opérateur français pour 10Go mais vous pouvez vous procurer une carte sim pour 16€,

Quand y aller : de novembre à avril pour avoir des températures plus fraiches (25 à 30 degrés en moyenne),

Combien de temps : entre 10 et 15 jours, pour pouvoir rajouter à notre itinéraire la péninsule du Musandam et pourquoi pas Salalah au sud du pays,

Indispensable dans la valise : crème solaire, chaussures d’eau, casquette/chapeau, pull pour le désert,

Tenue vestimentaire : afin de ne pas importuner les locaux et respecter leur culture, veillez à avoir les épaules et les jambes couvertes. Si vous êtes une femme, on vous demandera également de couvrir votre tête pour visiter la mosquée de Mascate. Pour la baignade, plusieurs panneaux rappellent aux touristes de porter un tee-shirt et un short. S’il vous plait, respectez les consignes .

Bon à savoir :

- Le vendredi à Oman c’est un peu le dimanche en France, beaucoup de choses sont fermées,

- Les Omanais sont très attachés à l’hygiène. Leur apparence est toujours soignée et ils sentent très bon,

- Il est interdit de crier,

- Il est rare de croiser des femmes, très souvent ce sont les hommes qui font les courses,

- Un homme peut avoir 4 femmes s’il souhaite, mais il doit leur offrir la même vie.

La solution idéale pour réserver vos vols et voitures de location

On passe toujours par Expedia pour réserver nos vols et notre voiture de location : une solution simple, pratique et très abordable. Avec leurs filtres de recherche, on trouve facilement ce que l’on cherche en fonction de nos critères et de notre budget. Si vous cherchez une solution rapide et efficace pour réserver vos vols ou une voiture de location, on vous conseille de passer par Expedia.fr .

Road trip à Oman : avec un bébé ?

La question est revenue de nombreuses fois sur les réseaux sociaux, la réponse est OUI. Rien de particulier à signaler, on s’est senti en sécurité tout le long de notre séjour, les enfants sont appréciés dans le pays.

Vous trouverez des « carrefour » dans les grandes villes pour pouvoir acheter des produits particuliers à votre bébé (pomme pot’, lait, couches, petits pots) mais, ceci dit, on a aussi acheté des couches Pamper’s dans une petite alimentation à Tiwi.

La cuisine est savoureuse mais pas vraiment épicée, Mattéo (2 ans) n’a pas eu de difficulté à manger comme nous. Lorsque nous avions des doutes sur l’abus d’épices, nous lui commandions des frites, avec un Lemon-Mint (une citronnade à la menthe) ; c’était le plus heureux.

Portez une attention particulière à l’hydratation de votre enfant, il peut vraiment faire très chaud.

Itinéraire de notre road-trip de 9 jours à Oman :

Jour 1 : Nizwa

Jour 2 : Misfat

Jour 3 : Mascate

Jour 4 : Bimmah Sinkhole / Wadi Shab

Jour 5 : Wadi Tiwi

Jour 6 : Sour

Jour 7 : Ras Al Hadd

Jour 8 : Wadi Bani Khalid

Jour 9 : Sharqiya Sands

Road trip à Oman – Jour 1 : Que faire à Nizwa ?

Depuis Dubaï, il nous a fallu un peu moins de 6h (4h30 de route + 1h pour passer la frontière à Al-Aïn) pour arriver à Nizwa. Cette ville s’impose comme une étape incontournable lors d’un séjour dans le Sultanat d’Oman. Ancienne capitale du pays, on vient à Nizwa pour découvrir son fort, ses souks et déguster la halwa, une douceur locale à base d’eau de rose, de sucre et d’épices, réputée pour être la meilleure du pays.

Situé au pied du fort, le vieux souk de Nizwa est le meilleur endroit pour se retrouver au contact des locaux. L’ambiance est animée, les produits sont variés (poteries, encens, épices, dattes, fruits & légumes, etc…) et les senteurs sont exaltantes.

Sachez que le vendredi matin, très tôt, se tient le marché aux bestiaux. Les hommes en tenue traditionnelle vendent leurs bêtes aux enchères. Un spectacle que nous n’avons pas pu voir puisque nous avons visité Nizwa le lundi.

Le Fort de Nizwa

Le Sultanat d’Oman compte plus de 500 forts éparpillés un peu partout dans le pays. Construit à la fin du 17eme siècle et parfaitement rénové, le fort de Nizwa est aujourd’hui le fort le plus visité d’Oman. Déambuler dans les nombreuses salles fraiches, grimper sur les toits, jouer à cache-cache avec Mattéo mais aussi déguster une délicieuse crêpe fromage/miel sont les raisons pour lesquelles cette visite fût très agréable.

N’oubliez pas de monter au sommet de sa tour, elle offre un panorama à 360° sur les montagnes Jebe Akhdar, le dôme de la mosquée et l’oasis.

Infos pratiques : ouvert tous les jours de 8h à 18h, sauf le vendredi 8h à 12h. Le prix est de 5 OMR par personne, environ 12 €.

Où dormir à Nizwa ?

Nizwa Heritage Inn : situé à quelques pas du souk, l’emplacement est idéal pour visiter Nizwa. Cet hébergement traditionnel rénové possède une terrasse sur le toit, très agréable pour se reposer ou prendre un café. Le petit déjeuner est sous forme de buffet. Pour accéder aux places de parking devant l’hôtel, ne suivez pas votre GPS qui va surement vous faire prendre des ruelles très très étroites. Passez devant le fort pour rentrer dans le vieux Nizwa. Prix : 50€ la nuit avec petit déjeuner.

Où manger à Nizwa ?

Nous avons mangé au restaurant Al Aqur Traditional situé juste en face de notre hôtel. 26€ à 4 pour un plateau de viande mixte + crudités/pita et des softs.

Road trip à Oman – Jour 2 : Misfat, en passant par Djebel Akhdar

Le massif du Hajar occidental réserve des paysages de folie, avec d’un côté Djebel Akhdar et de l’autre Djebel Shams. Pour cette deuxième journée, nous avons choisi d’explorer le Djebel Akhdar avant de nous diriger vers Misfat (ou Misfah) al Abriyeen, au détriment du Jabel Shams et du plus grand canyon d’Arabie. Parfois il faut faire des choix et celui-ci a été vraiment difficile !

Diana’s Viewpoint

Le Djebel Akhdar, culminant à + de 3000 mètres d’altitude, doit son nom de montagnes vertes aux jardins en terrasses qui se trouvent sur ses flancs. Avant de pouvoir rouler dans cette partie du Hajar, un barrage de police vérifie les papiers du véhicule et contrôle qu’il s’agit bien d’un 4 roues motrices. Ça grimpe fort jusqu’au plateau de Sayq, les canyons apparaissent et les paysages sont impressionnants. Le Diana’s Viewpoint se trouve à l’intérieur de l’ hôtel Anantara mais vous pouvez aussi continuer jusqu’au bout de la route, marcher 2 minutes et admirer le paysage.

Infos pratiques : voici les coordonnées GPS 23.066447, 57.671446

Où manger au plateau de Sayq ?

Robou alsaab trade : c’était le seul restaurant ouvert lors de notre passage. Nous avons commandé du moutabal, du houmous, des manakeesh épinard/labneh et encore et toujours des lemon mint pour un total de 15€ pour 5. C’est pas de la grande cuisine, mais ça dépanne.

Misfat al Abriyeen

Situé sur le flanc des montagnes, dans la province d’Al Dakhiliyah en Oman, Misfat est un village à ne pas manquer : c’est un véritable coup de cœur pour nous. Cette densité de vert, dans un décor aussi aride nous a laissés sans voix. C’était très agréable de se balader le long des petits canaux datant de l’époque Perse, appelés Falaj. Dans cette palmeraie, qui fut un excellent terrain de jeu pour Mattéo, nous pouvions écouter les oiseaux entre 2 appels à la prière. Si vous le souhaitez, vous pourrez emprunter un des sentiers de randonnée pour explorer d’un peu plus prêt la montagne aride.

Bien que le vieux Misfah soit très peu habité, vous pourrez lire sur un panneau à l’entrée du village quelques règles à respecter comme celle de dire bonjour aux gens ou encore de couvrir vos bras et vos genoux.

Infos pratiques : avant de nous rendre dans le vieux Misfah, nous nous sommes arrêtés à des endroits plutôt photogéniques que vous pourrez découvrir par vous même si le cœur vous dit.

1er stop : une vue sur le village de Al Hamra. Nous sommes ensuite passés dans la palmeraie en direction de Misfat. Coordonnées GPS : 23.116631, 57.278392 ,

2e stop : une vue sur le village de Misfah al Abriyeen. Coordonnées GPS : 23.137750, 57.308635 .

Où dormir et manger à Misfat ?

Misfah Old House : situé en plein cœur de la palmeraie, cet hébergement est l’endroit idéal pour déconnecter. Les chambres sont simples et les lits posés à même le sol. Nous avons profité de la terrasse sur le toit pour diner, c’était très agréable. Le diner est servi sous forme de buffet et est complet : poulet, riz, poisson au curry, dahl (un des meilleurs que nous avons pu manger à Oman et croyez-moi, on en a mangé un paquet de fois !) et fruits/gâteaux pour le dessert. Le petit déjeuner, même principe. Prix : 130€ la nuit avec petit déjeuner.

Road trip à Oman – Jour 3 : Que faire à Mascate ?

Nichée entre mer et montagnes, Mascate est la capitale du Sultanat d’Oman. Bien qu’elle soit l’une des plus petites capitales au monde, cette ville est très étendue. Il est nécessaire d’avoir une voiture et une bonne organisation pour la visiter sans perdre de temps. Si autrefois Mascate n’était qu’un port de pêche, elle s’est développée rapidement ces dernières années mais a su conserver son authenticité. Que faire à Mascate en une journée ? Voici les 5 endroits que nous avons pu visiter .

La Grande Mosquée du Sultan Qaboos

Financée par le Sultan Qabus ibn Said, la Grande Mosquée du Sultan Qaboos est la plus grande du pays. Elle est composée d’un dôme central d’une hauteur de cinquante mètres et de 5 minarets qui représentent les 5 piliers de l’Islam. Dans la grande salle de prière vous trouverez un spectaculaire lustre central en cristal ainsi que le plus grand tapis persan artisanal réalisé dans le monde. Cette salle est réservée aux hommes lors des prières mais les femmes sont autorisées à la visiter.

Lors de notre voyage au Maroc , nous étions frustrés de ne pas pouvoir découvrir l’intérieur des mosquées alors nous attendions la visite de la Grande Mosquée de Mascate avec impatience. Nous avons exploré chaque recoin : tout est homogène, c’est sobre, propre, beau, accueillant et incroyable comme on s'y sentait bien !

Infos pratiques : ouverte tous les jours de 8h à 11h, sauf le vendredi. L’entrée est gratuite. Les jambes et les bras doivent être couverts, ainsi que les cheveux pour les femmes. Il est possible pour les non musulmans de rentrer dans les salles de prières, en vous déchaussant évidemment.

Royal Opera House of Muscat

Avec son architecture imposante et luxueuse, c’est une visite à ne pas manquer lors de son séjour à Mascate. Si de l’extérieur l’opéra royal est un chef-d’œuvre, vous serez également surpris par les décors en bois qui se trouvent à l’intérieur. Cet opéra peut accueillir jusqu’à 1100 spectateurs et c'est le seul au monde à posséder un orgue.

Infos pratiques : l’Opéra Royal de Mascate est ouvert tous les jours de 8h30 à 17h30 et fermé le vendredi. Vous pouvez consulter le programme sur le site internet de l’Opéra .

Souk de Mutrah

Situé sur la corniche, à deux pas du Palais du Sultan, le souk de Mutrah est un incontournable à Mascate. Les yeux fermés, vous trouverez l’entrée du souk grâce à l’odeur d’encens qu’il dégage. Entièrement couvert, vous trouverez ici des bijouteries, des pashminas, des luminaires mais aussi toutes sortes de souvenirs. Contrairement à ce qu’on peut vivre au Maghreb, personne ne vous appellera la gazelle et vous prendra la main pour vous tirer dans l’une des boutiques . Dans le souk de Mutrah les vendeurs vous inviteront simplement à regarder mais sans jamais insister. C’est vraiment une partie de plaisir que de venir acheter quelques souvenirs ici.

Infos pratiques : parce que j’adore vraiment l’odeur des Omanais, j’ai discuté avec un vendeur qui m’a expliqué qu’ici les hommes portent tous des dishdasha (tenues traditionnelles) et qu’ils ont des petits pompons sur le côté qui servent à mettre du parfum. Voilà leur secret !

Corniche de Mutrah

Animée aux heures les plus douces (matinée et soirée), ce lieu de promenade est particulièrement apprécié par les Omanais. Vous pourrez admirer les bâtiments du front de mer, la Mosquée Bleue, le fort, l’encensoir géant, les parcs et aussi les bateaux traditionnels. Pour découvrir un joli panorama sur la capitale, vous pouvez visiter le fort de Mutrah.

Plage Qurum

Située à 15 minutes en voiture du Souk de Mutrah, elle fait partie des plus belles plages de Mascate. Bien qu’elle soit légèrement plus fréquentée que les autres, elle reste très paisible et agréable. C’est l’endroit idéal pour admirer le coucher de soleil alors c’est ici que nous avons choisi de terminer notre journée. Après un petit bain, Mattéo a joué au ballon avec d’autres enfants pendant que nous profitions des derniers rayons de soleil.

Conseils : parce que je pourrais l’écrire 40 fois dans cet article, il y aura toujours des touristes qui feront comme chez eux, alors encore une fois, oui j’insiste, si vous vous baignez évitez le bikini !

Que faire à Mascate si vous y restez plus d’une journée :

Visiter le National Museum of Oman,

Passer devant le palais du Sultan,

Excursion pour rencontrer les dauphins,

Visiter la Mosquée Muhammad al-Amin.

Où manger à Mascate ?

Bait al Luban : le meilleur restaurant de notre road trip à Oman. Installés sur des coussins à même le sol pour le plus grand plaisir de Mattéo, nous avons goûté à leur soupe de lentilles, leur shuwa, leur harees dijaj et leur lemon-mint (pour changer !) qui est le meilleur du pays. Prix : 150€ à 5,

Kargeen : manger un buffet avec des spécialités dans une jolie décoration orientale. Vous pourrez également manger une pizza ou encore fumer une chicha,

Ushbar : un autre très bon restaurant où nous avons pris des salades fatoush, des machboos, du houmous et des lemon mint.

Où dormir à Mascate ?

Fort Guesthouse : à deux pas de la corniche, vous trouverez dans cet hôtel de style omanais, des chambres pleines de charme. La terrasse est très agréable. Difficile de trouver mieux en rapport qualité/prix. Prix : 50€ par couple.

Road trip à Oman – Jour 4 : Bimmah Sinkhole / Wadi Shab

Nous quittons Mascate pour découvrir la côte orientale d’Oman. Les paysages sont, comme depuis le début de notre séjour, incroyables. Nous roulons pendant une bonne heure le long du littoral, au pied des monts Hajar. La région qui s’étend de Mascate à Sour bénéficie de nombreux attraits touristiques. Si vous avez un peu plus de temps que nous, vous pourrez vous rendre au Wadi Al Arbeieen avant de découvrir le Bimmah Sinkhole et de continuer jusqu’au Wadi Shab. Faites également quelques arrêts le long de la mer pour découvrir les plages d’Oman mais aussi pour observer les tortues. Nous avons eu la chance d’en voir depuis la plage : un moment unique, que nous avons particulièrement apprécié.

Bimmah Sinkhole

Egalement appelé “Bait Al Afreet” par les Omanais, le Bimmah Sinkhole est une curiosité naturelle qui se trouve dans le Najm Parc Hawiyat, à ne pas manquer lors d’un road-trip à Oman. Ce trou d’eau turquoise est assez magique.

Cependant, nous avons un avis assez partagé sur ce lieu. Pour ma part, j’ai adoré me baigner dans cette piscine naturelle et profiter gratuitement d’une fish-pédicure, surtout que nous avons eu la chance d’être seuls lors de notre passage au Bimmag Sinkhole. Mais Jérôme, le cousin de Nico avec qui nous partagions notre voyage à Oman, n’a pas apprécié l’aménagement qui dénature complètement le lieu (béton, aire de pique-nique, jeux pour enfant).

Infos pratiques : le parc est ouvert à partir de 8h, si vous voulez arriver tôt pour pouvoir profiter du lieu dans le calme, sans touristes. Ceci dit, nous y étions aux alentours de midi et il n’y avait vraiment personne. Peut-être un coup de chance...

Situé dans la région d’Al Sharkiyah, à seulement quelques minutes de Tiwi, Wadi Shab est l’un des wadis les plus connus du Sultanat d’Oman et c’est aussi mon préféré. Nous arrivons en milieu d’après-midi, beaucoup de voitures sont déjà garées sur le parking. Pas de temps à perdre, nous embarquons dans un petit bateau pour 1 OMR (soit 2€) par personne avec notre guide. Il n’est pas nécessaire de prendre un guide, vous trouverez le chemin facilement. Sachez juste que les derniers retours en bateau se font à 17h30 sans guide donc si vous arrivez assez tard dans l’après-midi comme nous et que vous ne voulez pas vous pressez, nous vous recommandons de prendre un guide ou de faire la traversée à la nage.

Arrivés de l’autre côté de la rive, nous commençons la randonnée. Il nous a fallu 45 minutes de marche (avec Mattéo dans le porte-bébé ) au cœur du canyon, le long des parois abruptes, pour rejoindre les piscines. Nous déposons nos affaires sur un rocher et partons nous baigner. Faisant fuir les derniers touristes, nous profitons de cet endroit incroyable seuls.

Je suis restée seule avec Mattéo, le temps que les garçons en compagnie de notre guide remontent la rivière. Après 20 minutes de randonnée aquatique, ils passent à la nage dans un couloir très serré et tombent sur une jolie cascade. Impossible de s’y rendre avec un bébé.

Infos pratiques : n’oubliez pas de prendre avec vous une bouteille d’eau, de la crème solaire, un sac étanche et de quoi vous couvrir la tête car la chaleur peut être écrasante.

Où manger à Tiwi ?

Anwaar : peu de choix de restaurant à Tiwi, nous nous sommes arrêtés dans celui-ci un peu par hasard au bord de la route. Beaucoup de plats indiens, nous commandons des chikens tikkas.

Où dormir à Tiwi ?

Tiwi Sunrise : idéalement situé lorsque l’on veut visiter Wadi Shab et Wadi Tiwi, cet hôtel possède des chambres spacieuses et une piscine. Prix : 50€ par couple.

Road trip à Oman – Jour 5 : Tiwi

Pour ce 5e jour de road trip, nous ralentissons le pas. Nous prenons notre temps le matin avant de partir explorer Wadi Tiwi, puis nous nous arrêtons à la plage avant de prendre la route vers Sur (ou Sour).

Surnommé « la gorge aux 9 villages », le Wadi Tiwi se mérite. En 4x4, longez le wadi pendant 30 minutes jusqu’au village de Mibam. La route est étroite et sinueuse, si c’est compliqué pour le conducteur sachez que ça l’est aussi pour les passagers. Plusieurs fois j’ai fermé les yeux en pensant que la montée était rude, mais que la descente serait pire !

Nous avons trouvé très peu d’informations pour nous y rendre, nous avons galéré pour vous. Voici les coordonnées GPS du parking de Mibam : 22.7730539,59.2155269 . Si des Omanais vous demande de vous garer avant c’est qu’il n’y a plus de place après, écoutez-les. Ils peuvent également vous guider à travers les palmiers dattiers et les cultures en terrasses pour descendre jusqu’aux piscines naturelles. Sinon, au bout de la route, un escalier en béton descend jusqu’à la cascade.

Arrivés en bas, les piscines sont très glissantes et il est impossible de descendre plus bas avec Mattéo en porte-bébé . Nous nous baignons au pied de la cascade avec les quelques locaux qui sont déjà présents.

Infos pratiques : de nombreux locaux viennent aussi se rafraichir ici, alors baignez-vous habillé. N’oubliez pas de prendre vos chaussures d’eau.

Aussi connue sous le nom de « pebbles beach », cette plage de galets est l’une des plus belles plages d’Oman. Les locaux se garent directement sur la plage avec leur 4x4 mais c’est tellement étendu que ce n’est pas dérangeant. En regardant au large, nous avons pu observer quelques tortues. C’est toujours un plaisir de les voir dans leur milieu naturel.

Road trip à Oman – Jour 6 : Que faire à Sur (ou Sour) ?

Situé sur le Golfe d’Oman, Sur est la capitale de la province d’Ash Sharqiyah. Rythmée par les marées et le va et vient des bateaux, cette ville maritime est très agréable. Ce n’est pas une grande ville et une seule journée suffit pour la visiter.

Le vieux Sur

Séparé du reste de la ville par un bras de mer, le vieux Sour se visite à pied. Si l'on y vient c’est surtout pour voir phare d’Al Ayjah et la vue qu’il offre sur la corniche.

La corniche & la plage

Si vous souhaitez vous baigner dans la vie quotidienne locale, c’est sur la corniche qu’il faut vous rendre. En fin de journée, les Omanais aiment s’y retrouver pour discuter ou boire un café. Nous passons la fin de notre journée sur la plage à nous reposer, Mattéo jouent un peu plus loin au football avec d’autres enfants. Encore un endroit où nous nous sentons vraiment bien à Oman !

Souk aux femmes

Avant d’aller diner, nous déambulons dans le souk aux femmes. Bien que les hommes puissent s’y balader, ici on trouve que des boutiques pour les dames.

Où manger à Sour ?

Alhawash : entourés de locaux, nous avons commandé des tajines, une salade fatoush, du houmous et toujours nos lemon mint,

Oysters : excellent buffet pour 20€ par personne.

Road trip à Oman – Jour 7 : Journée off à Ras al hadd

Ras al Hadd est un village côtier qui se trouve à la pointe orientale du sultanat d’Oman. Cet endroit est réputé pour ses tortues marines qui viennent par centaines déposer leurs œufs. Cependant, il n’y a pas grand-chose à faire à part se reposer et profiter.

Turtle beach resort

Nous avons décidé de passer notre journée off dans l'hôtel Turtle Beach Resort . Dans un cadre extrêmement relaxant, nous avons profité de la piscine et des transats sur la plage pour 24€ par personne, repas compris. L’établissement possédait des jeux pour enfant pour le plus grand plaisir de Mattéo. Une journée de pause qui nous a permis de recharger les batteries.

Pourquoi nous n’avons pas visité la réserve aux tortues ?

La réserve aux tortues se trouve à une dizaine de kilomètres de Ras al hadd. Sans construction, ni possibilité d’accéder seul à la plage, il faudra passer par le centre d’accueil de la Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve pour pouvoir rencontrer les tortues marines.

Il y a quelques années, lorsque les copains Max & Elisa des Best Jobers sont venus à Oman, ils avaient fait le choix de ne pas visiter cet endroit à cause du non-respect des reptiles. Plusieurs commentaires sur internet témoignent des débordements lors des excursions nocturnes : selfies avec les animaux, utilisation du flash, trop de monde autour des tortues etc…

Depuis le Covid-19 est passé par là et un mis un coup au tourisme. Nous avons vu très peu de touristes lors de notre road trip à Oman alors nous étions prêts à nous y rendre et à nous faire notre propre opinion, pensant que le problème était simplement le tourisme de masse. Puis quelques jours avant, un nouveau commentaire sur internet témoignait du non-respect d’observation des tortues et même pire : un guide aurait sorti un bébé tortue de sa poche pour faire croire qu’il venait de sortir de son œuf.

Très heureux de ne pas avoir participé à ce désastre, nous ne pouvons que vous conseiller de passer votre chemin.

Road trip à Oman – Jour 8 : Sharqiya Sands, en passant par Wadi Bani Khalid

La fin de notre séjour à Oman approche. Bien que nous ayons traversé de magnifiques paysages et créé de jolis souvenirs, la suite est prometteuse. C’est probablement la journée la plus attendue de notre road trip. Ce soir, nous dormons dans le désert !

Wadi Bani Khalid

Niché dans le massif du Hajar, le Wadi Bani Khalid est vraiment magnifique. Si c’est l’un des wadis les plus connus à Oman, c’est certainement l’un des plus accessible.

Après s’être garés sur le parking, nous marchons une dizaine de minutes pour accéder au premier bassin. Sur le chemin des panneaux demandent aux touristes de se baigner en tee shirt/short. Il est assez tôt lorsque nous arrivons, seuls quelques Omanais se baignent.

Nous longeons la piscine naturelle jusqu’au fond, puis nous continuons la visite sur les rochers. 10 minutes plus tard, nous posons nos affaires et sautons dans l'un des bassins. Un moment rafraîchissant, vraiment très agréable.

Si vous le souhaitez, vous avez la possibilité de visiter une grotte avec des chauves-souris en marchant une vingtaine de minutes le long du Wadi, les locaux vous aideront à trouver votre chemin sans problème !

Sur le chemin du retour, vers 11h, le lieu est bondé de monde. S’ils n’y avaient que des locaux venus pique-niquer l’endroit resterait agréable mais malheureusement ce sont des dizaines de touristes européens qui parlent très fort et ne respectent pas les règles (baignade en bikini).

Très heureux d’avoir profité de ce petit paradis en compagnie de quelques locaux, nous quittons le Wadi Bani Khalid et reprenons la route en direction du désert.

Sharqiyah Sands

Egalement appelé Wahiba Sands, le désert du Sultanat d’Oman s’étale sur 180 kilomètres du Nord au Sud et 80 kilomètres d’Est en Ouest. Pouvant atteindre jusqu’à 200 mètres de haut, les dunes offrent un paysage aux couleurs dégradées d’ocre et de rouge. Le désert de Sharqiyah Sands est facile d’accès, selon votre itinéraire vous arriverez d’Al Mintirib ou d’Al Wasil. Des rabatteurs sur la route, vous proposeront de dégonfler vos pneus en échange de quelques dollars. C’est la première fois en 8 jours qu’on nous demandait de l’argent en échange d’un service.

De nombreuses activités vous permettront de découvrir les dunes de sable selon vos envies : balades à dos de dromadaire, dune bashing, sortie en quad, rencontre avec les bédouins… L’expérience que vous allez vivre ici sera inoubliable, peu importe le type de logement que vous choisirez. Dans le désert de Merzouga au Maroc , nous avons dormi dans une tente bédouine, ici nous avons pris un logement plus luxueux (en partie pour que Mattéo ait tout le confort nécessaire). Si le coucher de soleil vous offrira des couleurs incroyables, n’oubliez pas de monter en haut des dunes pour voir également le lever du soleil.

Où dormir dans le désert ?

Sama al Wasil Desert Camp : situé au pied des dunes, c’est le dernier camp du désert. Isolé mais facilement accessible, il propose des chalets avec salle de bain privative et climatisation. Le diner sous forme de buffet est exceptionnel et le petit déjeuner très varié. Il y a même un petit cinéma en plein air pour regarder un film le soir avec des pop-corn, quoi de mieux !

Road trip à Oman – Jour 9 : Sharqiya Sands – Retour aux Emirats Arabes Unis

Nous avions mis le réveil à 5h30, pour avoir le temps de monter en haut des dunes et pouvoir profiter du lever de soleil. Si vous lisez notre article détaillé de notre expérience dans le désert, vous verrez qu’il s’agit d’une épreuve très sportive ! Nous avons passé 3 heures (peut-être même 4) au sommet des dunes, dans le silence, avec pour seul objectif de profiter de ce moment incroyable. Cette jolie parenthèse en famille est l’un de mes meilleurs souvenirs de notre road-trip à Oman.

Après avoir déjeuné, nous prenons la route en direction d’Abu Dhabi. Oman est l’un de nos voyages préférés, l’avoir partagé avec les cousins de Montréal – Jérôme & Froilan – lui a donné encore plus de saveurs. Oman, merci ! Merci pour ton authenticité, pour tes odeurs, pour tes paysages magiques, pour tes wadis magnifiques, pour ton accueil, pour ta simplicité, pour ta culture, pour ta sécurité, pour tous ces souvenirs.

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Luxury Oman Tours made for you

Ancient history

Visit historic sites and fascinating museums

Desert adventures

Head out into the dunes in 4x4s and explore on foot

Omani cuisine

Discover the tantalising flavours of traditional Omani dishes

Stunning wildlife

See endemic and endangered species and help to protect them

Ancient history combines with memorable landscapes

A country of volcanic mountain ranges, shifting golden deserts, cities that span centuries, breathtaking fjords and beautiful waterfalls – Oman is a truly memorable destination. One of the oldest human-inhabited places on Earth, the country offers a fascinating combination of ancient history, incredible landscapes, mesmerising wildlife and welcoming people.

The country’s port capital of Muscat has a blend of historic buildings and modern architecture, combined with vibrant souks as well as numerous mosques and ancient sites. In the north of Oman, the ancient city of Nizwa is another highlight if you are interested in history, and the Hajar Mountains in the northeast are fantastic for hiking and discovering some of the country’s endemic wildlife.  

The quaint fishing town of Salalah not only invites you to while away the days on sun-toasted sands, but also explore the surrounding mountains and learn about the frankincense trade and how it shaped the region. It’s also the perfect departure point for exploring the astounding ‘empty quarter’ – Rub al Khali. The ever-changing desert is a photographer’s dream as the light shifts through the day and into night.

Cut off from the rest of the country by the United Arab Emirates, the Musandam Peninsula may not be as popular as the rest of Oman, but is one of the most beautiful regions. Cruise along the stunning fjords past towering cliffs, explore Khasab Fort and visit small villages. 

Head away from the towns and cities into the Wahiba Sands for a truly memorable experience of Bedouin life. A few nights in a desert camp reward you with astounding night skies and wholesome Omani cuisine. 

And finally, at Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve you can have the opportunity to observe the fascinating nesting behaviours of endangered turtles, knowing that your visit is helping to preserve them for future generations.

See the second largest hand-woven carpet in the world at the impressive Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Muscat .

Visit the petroglyphs and follow the serpentine tracks of Wadi Bani Awf valley to discover the beauty of the Hajar Mountains .

Spend a full day aboard a traditional Omani wooden dhow in Salalah , getting to know the underwater world of the Indian Ocean while snorkelling.

Observe nesting turtles and spend time in the interactive museum at Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve .

Jack Beckford

Travel Designer

Oman is a wonderful destination in Middle East. Its fascinating ancient history, combined with the modern city of Muscat with its fantastic dining, make it an ideal location for those who are wanting a more active trip. With mountains, the desert and coast all within close distance, Oman’s natural diversity is unparalleled.

Luxury accommodation in Oman

Nizwa and Al Hajar Mountains

Salalah and Empty Quarter

Musandam Peninsula

Wahiba Sands

Trip inspiration

11 Day trip

10 Day trip

15 Day trip

Whatever you want from your Oman tour, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.

Where to go

Known locally as Ruus Al Jibal, the Musandam Peninsula is most certainly among the most beautiful places in Oman.

Oman’s port capital, Muscat is an intriguing blend of modern city structures and historic buildings.

The ancient city of Nizwa, in northern Oman, is known not only for its architecture, but also for its silversmiths and handicrafts.

Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve

The beach of the fishing village of Ras Al Jinz is known for nesting endangered green turtles.

From lush hills and sparkling waterfalls to desert expanses, this region is captivating.

Wahiba Sands invites you to drink in the stark beauty of an ever-shifting desert landscape.

Meet your Middle East team

When to Visit

If you’re looking for warm but comfortable temperatures, the best time to visit Oman is between October and April. The hottest months are during summer, from June to August. The coolest months are January and February, which bring with them some rain.

Pleasant weather

September–October

Rose blooming

March–April

Turtles and birds

Best Time to Visit Oman

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Sustainable Development in Oman: The Ban on Skyscrapers

Plan your trip to oman.

Whatever you want from your adventure in Oman, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.

Why book with Jacada?

Personalised design

We’ll plan your trip around your specific interests, tastes and preferences, providing helpful tips and honest advice based on first-hand knowledge of the destination.

Authentic experiences

Our expert guides and brilliant travel concierges are hand-picked to provide a genuine experience, bringing your destination to life with care and passion.

Responsible travel

Our luxury trips are designed with responsible travel principles that prioritise travel experiences that are both good for you and good for the planet.

I've used several high-end travel companies and Jacada is the best! We just finished our third trip with them. Their agents are very personable and they pay great attention to detail. I also appreciate that I can contact them any time on my trip if I run in to any issues. Highly recommend.

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Beyond Deserts and Palaces: An Unconventional Odyssey in Oman

Oman, a hidden gem in the Arabian Peninsula, has emerged as a top luxury travel destination in recent years. With its stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and unparalleled hospitality, Oman offers a unique and unforgettable experience for luxury travelers. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the world of luxury travel in Oman, exploring the key features, planning tips, top destinations, dining options, and shopping experiences that await discerning travelers.Embark on an extraordinary journey in Oman, transcending deserts and palaces. Discover the untold stories of this unconventional odyssey in our travel guide.

Understanding Oman’s Luxury Travel Scene

When it comes to luxury travel in Oman, there is something for everyone. From breathtaking desert dunes to pristine beaches and majestic mountains, Oman’s diverse landscapes offer a wealth of opportunities for luxury experiences. Whether it’s a romantic desert retreat, a rejuvenating spa getaway, or an adventure-filled vacation, Oman has it all.

The Appeal of Oman for Luxury Travelers

Oman’s allure lies in its untouched natural beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality. Luxury travelers are drawn to the country’s authentic Arabian charm, where tradition seamlessly blends with modernity. From exploring ancient forts and mesmerizing souks to indulging in world-class resorts and fine dining, Oman offers a glimpse into the Arabian heritage in the lap of luxury.

Imagine strolling through the narrow alleyways of Mutrah Souq, surrounded by the aroma of exotic spices and the vibrant colors of traditional Omani textiles. As you browse through the stalls, friendly merchants greet you with warm smiles, eager to showcase their unique products. From intricately handcrafted silver jewelry to aromatic frankincense, the souq offers a treasure trove of authentic Omani souvenirs.

For history enthusiasts, Oman’s ancient forts are a testament to the country’s rich past. Imagine standing atop the imposing walls of Nizwa Fort , built in the 17th century, and gazing out at the panoramic views of the surrounding oasis. Inside, you can explore the labyrinthine corridors, marvel at the intricate carvings, and learn about the fort’s strategic significance in Oman’s history.

Key Features of Luxury Travel in Oman

Oman’s luxury travel scene is characterized by unparalleled service, opulent accommodations, and exclusive experiences. Luxury resorts boasting private villas, infinity pools, and indulgent spas are scattered across the country, offering an oasis of tranquility and comfort.

Imagine waking up in a luxurious beachfront villa, with the sound of gentle waves lapping against the shore. As you step onto your private terrace, you are greeted by panoramic views of the turquoise Arabian Sea. The resort’s attentive staff cater to your every need, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable stay.

Indulgence takes on a whole new meaning in Oman’s luxury spas. Picture yourself being pampered with a rejuvenating massage using locally sourced oils and aromatic herbs. The soothing ambiance and skilled therapists transport you to a state of pure relaxation, leaving you refreshed and rejuvenated.

Additionally, bespoke excursions add an element of exclusivity to luxury travel in Oman. Imagine embarking on a private yacht charter, gliding through the crystal-clear waters of the Gulf of Oman. As you relax on the deck, sipping on a refreshing cocktail, you can admire the rugged coastline and secluded coves, accessible only to a privileged few.

For those seeking adventure, Oman’s vast deserts provide the perfect playground. Imagine embarking on an exhilarating desert safari, racing across the golden sands in a luxurious 4×4 vehicle. As the sun sets, casting a warm glow over the dunes, you can enjoy a traditional Omani feast under the starlit sky, accompanied by mesmerizing music and captivating stories of Bedouin life.

In conclusion, Oman’s luxury travel scene offers a myriad of possibilities for discerning travelers. Whether you seek relaxation, cultural immersion, or thrilling adventures, Oman’s diverse landscapes and warm hospitality ensure an unforgettable luxury experience.

Best Time to Visit Oman for Luxury Travel

Oman’s climate is generally warm and sunny throughout the year, making it an enticing destination for luxury travelers seeking a winter escape. The cooler months from October to April offer pleasant temperatures, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring Oman’s natural beauty.

During this time, you can indulge in a variety of luxury experiences, such as private yacht charters along the stunning coastline, where you can bask in the warm sun and enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the Arabian Sea. Alternatively, you can embark on a desert safari adventure, where you can witness the mesmerizing beauty of the sand dunes and experience the thrill of dune bashing in a luxury 4×4 vehicle.

For those seeking a cultural experience, visiting during the Muscat Festival, which takes place in January and February, is highly recommended. This vibrant festival showcases Oman’s rich heritage through traditional music, dance performances, and art exhibitions, providing a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture.

Essential Travel Tips for a Luxurious Experience

To make the most of your luxury trip to Oman, it is important to pay attention to the following:

• Choose luxury accommodations that reflect your travel style and preferences, ensuring they offer exceptional service and amenities.
• Book experiences and activities in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure exclusive access and avoid disappointment.
• Engage the services of a knowledgeable local guide who can provide insights into Oman’s culture, history, and hidden gems.
• Respect local customs and traditions, dressing modestly when visiting religious sites and interacting with the local community.
• Make sure to try traditional Omani dishes and immerse yourself in the local cuisine to truly experience the flavors of the region.

When it comes to luxury accommodations, Oman offers a wide range of options to suit every taste. From opulent beachfront resorts with private villas and infinity pools to luxurious desert camps nestled in the heart of the Wahiba Sands, you can find the perfect retreat to unwind and indulge in ultimate comfort.

For a truly unique experience, consider staying in a traditional Omani castle-turned-hotel, where you can immerse yourself in the country’s rich history and enjoy royal treatment fit for a king or queen. These magnificent properties offer a blend of modern luxury and authentic Arabian charm, providing an unforgettable stay.

When exploring Oman, having a knowledgeable local guide by your side can enhance your experience significantly. They can take you off the beaten path to hidden gems, such as ancient forts and traditional villages, where you can learn about the country’s fascinating history and interact with friendly locals.

As you venture through Oman, don’t miss the opportunity to savor the flavors of the region. Traditional Omani cuisine is a delightful blend of Arabian, Persian, and Indian influences, resulting in a unique and tantalizing culinary experience. From fragrant rice dishes like biryani to succulent grilled meats and fresh seafood, each bite is a journey of flavors.

In conclusion, planning a luxury trip to Oman requires careful consideration of the best time to visit and essential travel tips. By choosing the right accommodations, booking experiences in advance, engaging a knowledgeable local guide, respecting local customs, and indulging in traditional Omani cuisine, you can create a truly luxurious and unforgettable experience in this captivating destination.

Luxury Resorts and Hotels in Oman

Oman boasts a wide array of luxurious resorts and hotels, offering an elevated level of comfort and service. These properties go above and beyond to ensure that guests have an unforgettable experience. From beachfront retreats to mountain hideaways, each resort has its own unique charm and character.

One of the top luxury resorts in Oman is the Al Bustan Palace. Nestled between the rugged mountains and the sparkling waters of the Gulf of Oman, this palatial resort offers stunning views and world-class amenities. Guests can indulge in spa treatments, dine at award-winning restaurants, and relax in luxurious rooms and suites.

The Chedi Muscat is another popular choice for luxury travelers. This serene oasis is located on a private beach and features beautifully landscaped gardens, tranquil pools, and stylish accommodations. The resort’s spa is renowned for its rejuvenating treatments, and the restaurants offer a variety of international cuisines.

If you’re looking for a unique and secluded getaway, Six Senses Zighy Bay is the perfect choice. Situated on the northern Musandam Peninsula, this resort offers a truly immersive experience. Guests can arrive by paragliding into the resort, enjoy private villas with infinity pools, and indulge in gourmet dining experiences.

Exclusive Attractions in Oman

For luxury travelers seeking unique experiences, Oman presents a wealth of attractions. The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is a masterpiece of Islamic architecture and a symbol of Omani culture and religion. Visitors can marvel at the intricate details of the mosque’s design, including the stunning chandeliers and the world’s second-largest hand-woven carpet.

The Royal Opera House Muscat is another exclusive attraction in Oman. With its stunning architecture and world-class performances, it offers a glimpse into Oman’s cultural renaissance. Guests can attend opera, ballet, and classical music performances in a truly opulent setting.

For those seeking adventure, the Wahiba Sands is a must-visit destination. This vast desert of golden dunes stretches as far as the eye can see, offering a surreal and awe-inspiring landscape. Luxury travelers can embark on camel treks through the desert, witnessing breathtaking sunsets and experiencing the tranquility of the desert.

In addition to camel treks, luxury camping experiences are also available in the Wahiba Sands. Guests can stay in luxurious Bedouin-style tents, complete with comfortable beds, private bathrooms, and even air conditioning. This allows travelers to immerse themselves in the beauty of the desert while still enjoying the comforts of a five-star hotel.

Luxury Dining and Cuisine in Oman

Oman’s culinary scene is as diverse as its landscapes, offering a blend of traditional Omani flavors and international cuisine. Indulge in high-end restaurants that fuse local ingredients with global culinary influences, creating a tapestry of flavors. Some recommended dining establishments include the Juniper Restaurant , Ubhar, and Kargeen. To truly immerse yourself in the Omani culinary traditions, don’t miss the opportunity to try traditional dishes such as Shuwa, Majboos, and Harees.

When it comes to luxury dining in Oman, the options are endless. From opulent restaurants nestled in the heart of Muscat to hidden gems in the mountains, Oman offers a plethora of high-end dining experiences that will leave you craving for more. The Juniper Restaurant, located in the luxurious Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa, is known for its elegant ambiance and innovative menu. Here, you can savor dishes that showcase the best of Omani cuisine, prepared with a modern twist.

If you’re looking for a truly unique dining experience, Ubhar is the place to be. Situated in a beautifully restored Omani house in the heart of Muscat, this restaurant combines traditional Omani decor with a contemporary twist. The menu at Ubhar features a fusion of Omani and Mediterranean flavors, creating a culinary journey that is both exciting and delicious.

For those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere, Kargeen is the perfect choice. This charming restaurant, located in the heart of Muscat’s old town, offers a cozy outdoor seating area surrounded by lush gardens. The menu at Kargeen is a mix of traditional Omani dishes and international favorites, ensuring there is something for everyone.

High-End Restaurants in Oman

Oman’s high-end restaurants cater to the discerning palates of luxury travelers, providing exquisite culinary experiences paired with impeccable service. These establishments often showcase breathtaking views, stylish interiors, and world-class cuisine prepared by renowned chefs using the freshest local ingredients.

One such restaurant is The Beach Restaurant, located in the Al Bustan Palace , a Ritz-Carlton Hotel . This stunning waterfront restaurant offers panoramic views of the Gulf of Oman, creating a picturesque backdrop for a memorable dining experience. The menu at The Beach Restaurant features a fusion of international flavors with an emphasis on fresh seafood, sourced locally.

Another notable high-end dining establishment in Oman is Al Angham. Situated in the heart of Muscat, this restaurant offers a luxurious setting inspired by Omani heritage. The menu at Al Angham showcases traditional Omani dishes prepared with a modern twist, using the finest local ingredients. With its elegant ambiance and impeccable service, Al Angham is a must-visit for those seeking a truly indulgent dining experience.

Traditional Omani Dishes to Try

Omani cuisine reflects the country’s rich heritage, with dishes that draw inspiration from Bedouin traditions and seafaring influences. From succulent slow-cooked lamb dishes to fragrant rice-based pilafs and tender grilled seafood, traditional Omani cuisine is a delightful journey for the taste buds.

One traditional Omani dish that should not be missed is Shuwa. This slow-cooked lamb dish is marinated in a blend of spices, wrapped in banana leaves, and cooked in an underground sand oven for up to 48 hours. The result is tender, flavorful meat that melts in your mouth. Shuwa is often served during festive occasions and is a true testament to Omani culinary traditions.

Majboos is another popular Omani dish that is worth trying. This fragrant rice-based dish is typically made with chicken or fish, cooked with a blend of spices, and served with a side of tangy tomato sauce. The combination of flavors in Majboos is truly delightful, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

For seafood lovers, Harees is a must-try dish. This traditional Omani dish is made with a combination of ground wheat and fish, slow-cooked to a creamy consistency. The result is a rich and comforting dish that is often enjoyed during the holy month of Ramadan.

Whether you’re a food enthusiast or simply looking to indulge in a luxurious dining experience, Oman’s culinary scene has something for everyone. From high-end restaurants that offer breathtaking views and world-class cuisine to traditional Omani dishes that showcase the country’s rich heritage, dining in Oman is an experience that will leave a lasting impression.

Top Luxury Shopping Destinations

Muscat, Oman’s capital, boasts several luxury shopping destinations, including The Avenues Mall and Muscat Grand Mall, where international brands and designer labels can be found. For a taste of traditional Omani shopping, head to Mutrah Souq, where bustling alleys are filled with the sights and scents of locally-made handicrafts, textiles, and spices.

Unique Luxury Items to Buy in Oman

Oman’s markets are adorned with unique and exquisite luxury items that serve as cherished keepsakes or thoughtful gifts. Consider investing in items such as intricate silver jewelry, Omani frankincense, high-quality dates, local artworks, and intricately woven textiles.

As you embark on your luxury travel journey to Oman, immerse yourself in the country’s rich cultural heritage, be enchanted by its natural wonders, and be pampered by the highest levels of luxury. Oman welcomes discerning travelers with open arms, promising an unforgettable experience that will leave you with cherished memories for a lifetime. Oman, a country of much natural beauty is not high on the list of traveled destinations, but this presents an opportunity to those willing to venture to this unknown country.

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Launched by Oman's Ministry of Heritage and Tourism in collaboration with local tourism partners, to spread positive vibes to local and regional communities. Explore all that Oman has to offer across 11 governorates with Live the Vibe. Various offers are available to enrich your experience.

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Kempinski Hotel Muscat

Located in the modern community of Al Mouj, Muscat, and encompassing over six kilometers of stunning coastline, upscale award-winning Kempinski Hotel Muscat is an unparalleled luxury beach resort. The hotel features 310 comfortable rooms and suites, state-of-the-art meetings and events facilities, a business centre and an execut ...

Jumeirah Muscat Bay

Nestled between mountains and sea, Jumeirah Muscat Bay offers true tranquility and a great sense of escaping the everyday. A sublime place to disconnect and indulge in relaxing days on the beach, adventurous hikes in the mountains or blissful moments diving in the Arabian Sea. While set in the secluded cove of Bandar Jissah between t ...

W Muscat is a resort situated in the upbeat Shatti Al Qurum beachfront, offering an insider access to what’s up and coming in the city. Step inside one of our 279 luxury hotel rooms and suites where Omani heritage meets contemporary design. All rooms offer breathtaking views of azure waters of the Gulf of Oman. Five tantalizing res ...

Alila Hinu Bay

Unrolling along a natural beach on Oman’s southwest coast, mere steps from the Indian Ocean, Alila Hinu Bay hosts a seemingly endless bay and private beach upping the ante on a tropical oasis. A stunning beachfront resort that radiates sophistication, vibrancy, and vivacity, offering an indulgence of luscious lifestyle facilities, ...

Shangri La Al Husn Resort and Spa

Shangri-La Al Husn Resort & Spa redefines Omani elegance and Asian hospitality. Standing majestically on a high point of the cliff overlooking the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Oman, Shangri-La Al Husn Resort & Spa presents a new model for luxury hospitality in Muscat. As you arrive at the palatial Al Husn, which means “castle” ...

Al Bustan Palace, A Ritz Carlton Hotel, Muscat

Nestled between the Al Hajar mountain range and the Sea of Oman, Al Bustan Palace, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel invites travelers in Muscat to experience ancient beauty and modern luxury in an unparalleled setting. "The Jewel of The Sultanate" showcases the Art of Omani Hospitality and curates extraordinary experiences combining adventure, ...

The Chedi Muscat

Occupying a prime beachfront location, this exclusive 21-acre beach resort is located 20 minutes north of old Muscat, the capital of the Sultanate of Oman, at Al Ghubra. The Chedi Muscat is ideally located for business and leisure travelers alike as the main tourist attractions, the financial center, three golf courses, and Muscat In ...

Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa

Exclusively located on the bay at Barr Al Jissah, the Shangri-La nestles against the dramatic backdrop of the rugged interior mountains and the spectacular waters of the Gulf of Oman. The resort consists of two hotels: Al Waha and Al Bandar. Located in the stunning surroundings of the bay at Barr al Jissah, this beach resort is a hug ...

Alila Jabal Akhdar

Alila Jabal Akhdar is perched in a dramatic location up in the Hajar Mountains of Oman, with spectacular views over the valley below. Opened in 2014, it brings a new level of luxury to the area, combining comfort with an eco-friendly outlook. Very few hotel locations are more dramatic than that of the Alila Jabal Akhdar. The hotel st ...

Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara

Located majestically between a private 250-metre beach and a freshwater lagoon, Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara promises a holiday to Oman that is truly unforgettable. Described as an oasis amid the ruggedly beautiful Omani landscape, Anantara Al Baleed Resort Salalah is a bubble of rich heritage, towering palm trees, tropical g ...

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Travel Itineraries - Oman

An exclusive private journey through Oman is perfect for the discerning luxury traveler. The Sultanate of Oman hugs the coast of the Arabian Peninsula, offering spectacular landscapes where rugged mountains tumble down to secluded beaches, and majestic sand dunes stretch to the distant horizon. Tucked into these areas of scenic beauty are fascinating cultural sites, modern cities, and beautiful luxury resorts.

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Private Travel | Highlights of Oman

Muscat, Wahiba Sands, Salalah An exclusive private journey through Oman is perfect for the discerning luxury traveler. The Sultanate of Oman hugs the coast of the Arabian Peninsula, offering spectacular landscapes where rugged mountains tumble down to secluded beaches, and majestic sand dunes stretch to the distant horizon. Tucked into these areas of scenic beauty are fascinating cultural sites, modern cities, and beautiful luxury resorts.

If you’re considering bespoke luxury private travel to Oman, let our expert Travel Designers make your vacation truly customized from start to finish. Having spent the last three decades traveling and experiencing the best luxury offerings firsthand, Tully Luxury Travel has an exceptional understanding of Oman. We have the contacts and the relationships in place to ensure your travel needs are met – milestone celebrations, romantic dinners, private tours, dietary requirements, special room-service requests – all the details curated in step with your every wish. In Oman, our Private Travel Designers have insider information that will elevate your experience that much more. From the Six Senses Zighy Bay beach resort in the north to the Sahab Resort & Spa in the mountains to the Al Baleed Resort Salalah By Anantara in Salalah in the south, we will transport you through authentic Oman, showcasing the best this Arab country has to offer. The time to start planning your next luxury vacation is now. Our private luxury travel service also allows us to secure the best amenities and VIP extras at no additional cost. That’s the Tully Difference. Talk with a Private Travel Designer and start planning your bespoke luxury Oman vacation today.

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