Must-See Activities When Visiting Oman

Oman stands as the oldest independent nation in the Arab world. Once celebrated as a leading producer of frankincense, this country—nestled in the southeastern part of the Arabian Peninsula—has recently emerged as an adventurer’s haven, offering myriad opportunities to explore its stunning deserts, mountains, and coastlines.

Explore the Capital(s)

Muscat, the capital of Oman located on the Gulf of Oman, is home to over 1.4 million residents. A highlight of the city is the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, the largest mosque in Oman, renowned for its stunning hand-loomed carpet and enormous chandelier, making it a prominent feature of the skyline. Be sure to catch a show at the historic Royal Opera House, another architectural gem. As the sun sets, stroll along the Mutrah Corniche, which borders Muscat’s harbor, adorned with a variety of restaurants and markets.

For accommodations, consider the Chedi Muscat, a beachfront resort with 162 rooms set in a lush oasis filled with palm trees on the northern side of the capital. The hotel is celebrated for its sophisticated design, a comprehensive spa offering various beauty treatments, and six diverse restaurants serving international cuisine. Another excellent choice is the Jumeirah Muscat Bay, which opened in December 2022. Located a 30-minute drive from downtown Muscat, this resort provides breathtaking Gulf views from each of its 206 rooms and villas. It also features a PADI-certified diving and water sports center, along with trails for exploring the nearby Hajar Mountains.

About a two-hour drive south of Muscat lies Nizwa, which served as the capital during the 6th and 7th centuries C.E. While there, explore the impressive cylindrical Nizwa Fort and visit the bustling Nizwa Souq, especially vibrant on Fridays during the camel and livestock market. If you have time for a trip, check out the modern Oman Across Ages Museum located in Manah, just a 20-minute drive south of Nizwa.

Immerse yourself in Oman’s waters

Embark on a day trip from Muscat with the tour company Husaak Adventures, where you can wade through the stunning canyon waters of Wadi Tiwi and Wadi Shab, or take a refreshing swim in the unique Bimmah Sinkhole. For beach lovers, a personalized tour with Geographic Expeditions to the Dhofar region promises lush coconut and banana groves alongside pristine beaches. To explore the Daymaniyat Islands, writer Sarah Thankam Mathews arranged an excursion with marine tour operator Daymaniat Shells, which provides daily snorkeling trips departing from Muscat.

Discover the mountains

Best reached by a four-wheel-drive vehicle or by enlisting the services of a tour operator like Elite Travel & Tourism, the Hajar Mountains span approximately 430 miles from the United Arab Emirates to Oman’s eastern coastline. During spring, Jebel Akhdar is adorned with blooming pink damask roses, enhancing the beauty of this hiking destination. A splendid base is the opulent Alila Jabal Akhdar hotel, perched atop Jebel Akhdar and surrounded by some of the region’s tallest peaks. The Alila Jabal Akhdar also offers outdoor adventures, including a thrilling via ferrata cave expedition and a hike around Jebel Shams (Mountain of the Sun), renowned for being the first place in Oman to witness the sunrise due to its elevation.

Experience the desert

Located south of Oman’s lush northern coastline, the dunes of Sharqiya Sands serve as an excellent gateway to the vast desert expanse. Explore the area in a 4x4 and consider spending the night at the Bedouin-style camp Sama Al Wasil.

The Travel Advisory Council at Dinogo can assist you in planning your trip to Oman. For further details, reach out to the council..