One of the Middle East’s mellowest and most sublime destinations, Oman has endless charms to offer the visitor: a rich heritage reflected in its ancient mosques and historical sites, incredible dive sites, beautiful sandy beaches and an exotic Arabian culture. It is set on the Arabian Peninsula, featuring a magnificent landscape of vast desert, endless coastlines and undulating dunes. Highlights include: the elegant, evocative capital of Muscat; the friendly port town of Sur; the charming mountain settlement of Misfat Al Abryeen; the prehistoric tombs bordering the Western Hajar; diving around the Daymaniyat Islands Marine Reserve; and watching hundreds of green turtles emerging from the ocean at Ras Al Jinz to lay eggs.
Fringing the Gulf of Oman, Muscat is sandwiched between the desert and ocean, featuring a dramatic mix of pristine coastline, rugged mountains and hauntingly beautiful sandscapes. It is a prime example of ancient history blended seamlessly with contemporary charms. The city has done an admirable job of preserving its old-world splendour, age-old Bedouin culture and traditional values while simultaneously embracing the modern and cosmopolitan. Visit bustling markets permeated with the fragrance of frankincense; feast on shawarmas at local cafes or streetside stalls; catch a world-class performance at the Royal Opera House; or wander the streets of Mutrah at sunset for beautiful views of Arabian architecture and fishing boats against a backdrop of mountains. Muscat’s opulence and vibrance is complemented by its striking scenery.
Jebel Akhdar, meaning ‘Green Mountain’, is a rugged mountainous region in the central Al Hajar Mountains. It serves as a gateway to learn about the area’s natural wonders, rich history and cultural heritage. Perched 2000 metres above sea level, Jebel Akhdar provides a respite from the desert heat and is a welcome retreat for nature lovers and adventurers with its mild Mediterranean climate. Dubbed, 'The Fruit Bowl of Oman', the landscape is peppered with lush orchards of prize pomegranates, apricots, other local fruit, walnuts and Oman’s famed damask roses; as well as deep canyons, numerous caves, a collection of charming hamlets, and ancient abandoned villages. Visitors can enjoy views of the eponymous, Jabal Akhdar Mountain, and the majestic Jebel Shams, Oman’s highest mountain.
Located in central-eastern Oman, the locally known Wahiba Sands, also called the Sharqiya Sands, is a vast desert of rolling sand dunes stretching across the Al Sharqiyah region. The dunes vary in colour from pale gold to deep red and rise to impressive heights, creating a striking landscape that changes with the light. Visitors can stay overnight in one of the many desert camps and experience the tranquillity of the desert under a star-filled sky. Popular activities include 4WD desert excursions, camel rides, guided horse rides, trekking, sandboarding and quad biking. Visitors can also discover traditional Bedouin culture and browse locally handcrafted goods, including camel bags and colourful woollen items. Golden sunsets and sunrises provide spectacular views across the sweeping dunes, while the clear night skies offer excellent opportunities for stargazing.
With an idyllic location on the breathtaking Musandam Peninsula in Oman, Zaghi is a secluded resort town fringed by a mile-long sand beach. Until recently, this tiny gem was accessible only by boat. Now, albeit by a winding pass, it is only a two-hour drive from Dubai International. The seaside village is situated in a beautiful crescent bay with towering ochre mountains. The mountain and the ocean are the stars of the show here. A nature lover and adventure seekers paradise, visitors to Zaghi can hike, paraglide, enjoy a sunset picnic from one of the vantage points, or head into the deep blue for some snorkelling or a dhow cruise.
