Explore Oman, the oldest continuously independent state in the Arab world, boasting a hot and dry climate across its diverse landscape.

From the serene Wadi Shab and majestic Wahiba Sands to the grand Sultan Qaboos Mosque and imposing Nizwa Fort, Oman offers a blend of natural beauty and rich heritage.

Wander through Mutrah Souq’s ancient alleys for traditional crafts, and indulge in Omani delicacies like Halwa and Harees. Visit in winter for the best experience.

Oman, with its peaceful ambiance and modernity amidst tradition, promises an unforgettable journey into Arabian culture.

Discover Oman: Rich Culture, Stunning Landscapes, and Historic Forts

Oman is the oldest continuously independent state in the Arab world. This country shares its land borders with Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Yemen.

The climate of Oman is hot and dry both at the interior and coast. More than half of the population is Arab. It is a peaceful and humble country that has advanced into the modern world while carefully retaining its pristine nature.

The best time to travel to Oman is in winter from October to February.  

Things to do in Oman:

1. Visit Wadi Shab:

This is the best destination to take a stop on your way to Oman. This destination is located a 1.5-hour drive away from the capital, Muscat. The best time to visit this spot is in the early morning. Plan to spend about 3-4 hours here to cool down before your hike.

The sound of the water produces a wonderful natural symphony. To get to the other side of the river you must take a boat ride. The boat ride will take 3 minutes and will cost you $2. Here you can also enjoy swimming, as the water is very warm 

2. Explore Wahiba Sands:

Wahiba Sands is an ocean of regular dunes. This place looks pale gold at noon then the piles of sand shift from rich yellow to copper orange as the sun sets. You will find dunes running from north to south in regular lines and the height of dunes goes up to 100 m.

Constructing a permanent road here is impossible as the dunes are constantly moving by 10 m per year. This spot also has a wide variety of plants and animals. 16,000 species of invertebrates and 200 species of mammals are yet documented. The best time to visit here is between October and March. 

3. Sultan Qaboos Mosque:

It is one of the most important spiritual sites of Oman. Wearing full-sleeve clothes and long pants to the ankle is mandatory for both men and women.

Entry to the mosque is free. Unlike other spiritual sites in the world, this mosque is less crowded. Non-muslims can also visit this mosque except Friday. It opens from 8  to 11 in the morning. 

4. Nizwa Fort:

It is a large castle located in Nizwa, Oman. The main bulk of the fort took about 12 years to complete. The major attraction of this fort is its enormous 30 meter high drum-like tower.

The foundation of the fort goes 30 meters deep into the ground and the portion of tower is filled with rocks. At the entrance you will find two cannons guard. The entrance opens into a maze of rooms, high-ceilinged halls, doorways, terraces, narrow staircases and corridors.

4 more connons are placed on the top of the tower which once served as the fort’s main firepower. To get to the top you have to go through the narrow twisty staircase barred by a heavy wooden door studded with metal spikes. The entry fee to this fort is 5 OMR. It opens from 8 am to 8 pm. 

5. Mutrah Souq:

Mutrah Souq is one of the oldest market in Oman. The market begins at the gate facing the Sea of Oman and Mutrah Corniche and concludes with another gate in the city’s old quarters. Its narrow winding alleys, roofed with wood, characterize this market.

It has earned the nickname “The market of darkness” due to its myriad of alleys and roads lined by shops that block sunlight.

In this market you can shop for handicrafts such as silverware, daggers, traditional cloth, new apparel, and shoes. This market opens from 8 am to 10 pm. 

Food to try in Oman:

1. Halwa:

It is a kind of dessert with a more thick texture than custard. Omani halwa is prepared with sugar, honey, rose water, eggs, various Omani spices, and nuts.

Omani halwa is served with Kahwa and dates. This dessert is served in a big dish with several spoons so that the guests can share the dessert. 

2. Harees:

Harees is a very famous dish in Oman. It is prepared with boiled, cracked, and coarsely-ground wheat, mixed with meat. The wheat is soaked overnight, then simmered in water with meat and butter.

Excess liquid is strained and the mixture is beaten and seasoned. This dish is seasoned with cinnamon, sugar, and clarified butter. It is specially served on the occasion of Ramadan.

How to reach in Oman:

1. By flight:

There are three nearby airports: Muscat, Salalah, and Al Khasab. The Muscat International Airport and Salalah International Airport are more recommended as there are a lot of numerous direct and non-stop flights operating between these airports.

Major airlines of Oman are Emirates, Ethiopian Airlines, and Royal Jordanian Airlines. 

2. By bus:

Oman has its own bus stand by name Oman National Transport Company. It operated between Muscat and Dubai, thus connecting Omand and UAE.

The cost of traveling from Dubai to Oman is AED 55.  

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