Oman

Oman: general info for travelers

Oman is a country located in the southeastern part of the Arabian Peninsula, bordering the Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Oman. It has a diverse geography consisting of mountains, deserts, and coastlines with pristine beaches. Its capital city is Muscat, which is a hub for commerce, culture and tourism. Oman has a rich history and culture, which is evident in its ancient forts, souks, and mosques. The country is well known for its hospitality, friendly people, and delicious cuisine. Oman is also known for its natural beauty, including the majestic Wadi Shab, turquoise waters of the Arabian Sea, and the breathtaking landscapes of Dhofar. It is a popular destination for adventure tourism, including activities such as trekking, camping, and rock climbing. Overall, Oman offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it an exciting destination for any traveler.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Oman, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Oman: places to visit

Certainly! Here are some of the main places to visit in Oman, along with a brief description for each of them: 1. Muscat - The capital and largest city in Oman, Muscat offers a unique blend of traditional and modern culture. Some of the must-see attractions in Muscat include the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Mutrah Souq, and the Al Alam Palace.
2. Nizwa Fort - One of the most iconic landmarks in Oman, Nizwa Fort is a beautiful example of Omani architecture and engineering. It was built in the 17th century and is now a museum that provides visitors with an insight into Oman's history, art and culture.
3. Wahiba Sands - A stunning desert landscape that features silvery sand dunes that look almost too perfectly shaped to be natural. The stunning Wahiba Sands is a natural wonder, and a great place to explore either by foot or by camel.
4. Salalah - Located on Oman's southern coast, Salalah is a green city surrounded by lush vegetation and palm trees. It is known for its natural beauty, and its unique monsoon season that transforms the area into a tropical paradise.
5. Jabal Shams - Known as the "Grand Canyon of Arabia," Jabal Shams is a breathtaking canyon that offers stunning views over the Hajar Mountains. It is a great place for hiking and trekking, and a must-see for anyone who loves the outdoors.
6. Al Hoota Cave - Located in Al Hamra, the Al Hoota Cave is one of the largest cave systems in the world that is open to the public. The cave is home to a wide range of flora and fauna, including bats, fish, and even blind shrimp. It is a great place for anyone interested in geology or natural history.
These are just a few of the main places to visit in Oman, and each of them offer a unique experience for visitors.
There is more to see and do in Oman: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Oman: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Oman, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Oman has a tropical desert climate, which means it's generally hot and sunny year-round. The temperature can vary greatly depending on the season and location within the country. In general, the best time to visit Oman is from October to April when the weather is moderate, with temperatures averaging between 25°C-30°C during the day and dropping down to around 15°C-20°C at night. This is also when Oman experiences its peak tourist season.
During the summer months from May to September, temperatures soar to an average of 40°C-50°C during the day, making it difficult to explore the country’s outdoor attractions. However, it's a good time to visit the cooler mountainous regions of Oman. It's important to note that Oman is an Islamic country, so during the holy month of Ramadan, which usually falls between April and May, many businesses and tourist attractions have reduced hours and may be closed.

Oman: activities and what to do

There are plenty of activities and sports to do on holiday in Oman. Here are some popular options: 1. Snorkeling and diving: Oman's clear waters and diverse marine life make it a great destination for water sports enthusiasts.
2. Trekking and hiking: Oman has numerous trails that offer scenic views of mountains, valleys, and wadis (dry riverbeds).
3. Desert safaris: Experience the beauty of Oman's golden sand dunes by taking a desert safari. You can opt for a 4x4 ride, camel ride, or even sandboarding.
4. Rock climbing: Oman has a number of challenging and exciting rock climbing routes that cater to all levels of climbing expertise.
5. Dolphin and whale watching: Oman's coast is home to several species of dolphins and whales that can be observed on a boat trip.
6. Camping: Oman's beautiful and scenic landscapes make it a great destination for camping. You can choose to camp in the desert or in the mountains.
7. Traditional sports: Oman also has traditional sports like horse racing, camel racing, and falconry that are unique cultural experiences.
These are just a few of the many activities and sports you can do on holiday in Oman. It's a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy adventure and cultural experiences.

Oman: few words on history and culture

Oman is a country with a rich and diverse history and culture. The earliest recorded history of Oman dates back to the 4th millennium BC with the emergence of the Magan civilization. Over the centuries, Oman has been ruled by various dynasties and empires including the Persians, the Arabs, the Portuguese, and the Ottomans. However, Oman regained independence in 1650 under the rule of the Al Said dynasty which still reigns today.
The Omani culture is deeply rooted in Islamic traditions and customs. The majority of the population follows the Ibadi branch of Islam, which is unique to Oman. Omanis practice a tolerant and inclusive form of Islam that respects other religions and cultures. Hospitality is an integral part of Omani culture, and visitors are often welcomed with warmth and generosity.
In addition to its history and culture, Oman is also known for its stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and unique landscapes. The country boasts pristine beaches, rugged mountains, desert dunes, and lush oases, making it an ideal destination for adventure and eco-tourism.

Oman: how to move around on holiday

There are several means of transport that you can use to reach and visit Oman: 1. Airplane: The easiest and most common way to reach Oman is by plane. Oman has two main airports, Muscat International Airport and Salalah Airport, with flights connecting to major cities around the world.
2. Car rental: If you're already in the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) region, driving to Oman might be an option. You can rent a car from one of the neighboring cities like Dubai or Abu Dhabi and drive down to Oman.
3. Bus: There are several buses that connect Oman to the neighboring countries like UAE, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia. Buses are a cheap option for travel, but they might not be the most comfortable.
4. Ferry: You can also take a ferry from the UAE to Oman. There are several ferry companies that operate between the two countries, and the journey can take anywhere from an hour to six hours, depending on the route.
Once you're in Oman, you can use taxis or rental cars to get around and visit different tourist attractions like historical sites, beaches, and other natural wonders. To hire a car to visit Oman, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Oman: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Oman with a full stomach:D
Certainly! Oman has a rich culinary scene with a variety of dishes influenced by its geographical location and rich history. Here are some of the main typical foods of Oman: 1. Shuwa: Shuwa is a delicious and tender meat dish that is slow-cooked with spices, wrapped in banana leaves, and cooked in a fire pit. The result is a juicy and flavorful meat that is often served with rice.
2. Harees: Harees is a traditional Omani porridge made from wheat, meat, and spices. The ingredients are slowly cooked together until they are soft and creamy. It is often served during Ramadan.
3. Machboos: Machboos is a popular rice dish in Oman that is typically made with chicken or fish. The rice is flavored with a blend of spices, including cardamom, saffron, and cinnamon. It's often served with a side of salad or pickle.
4. Omani Halwa: Omani Halwa is a sweet dessert that is made from a blend of sugar, corn starch, and ghee. It's flavored with rosewater, saffron, and cardamom, and often served with coffee or tea.
5. Balaleet: Balaleet is a sweet Omani breakfast dish that is made with vermicelli noodles, sugar, and spices. It's often garnished with sliced almonds and served with a side of eggs.
6. Luqaimat: Luqaimat are small, deep-fried dough balls that are served as a dessert or snack. They are crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, and often soaked in a sweet syrup.

Oman: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Oman can be considered a bit pricey compared to other countries in the region, but it is still relatively affordable compared to popular tourist destinations like Europe or the United States. Some of the biggest expenses in Oman are accommodation, transportation, and food. However, there are ways to save money, such as staying in budget hotels or hostels, taking local buses instead of taxis, and eating street food or at local restaurants. So, it really depends on your travel style and budget. Overall, Oman is definitely worth visiting, and with a bit of planning, you can have a great trip without breaking the bank.

Oman: where to find accodation

There are several websites and platforms where you can look for accommodation in Oman, some of the most popular ones are: 1. Booking.com: Booking.com is a well-known platform for booking hotels, resorts, apartments, and more. It has a wide range of options for accommodation in Oman, from budget to luxurious.
2. Airbnb: Airbnb is another popular platform that offers a variety of options for accommodation in Oman, including apartments, houses, and villas. It is a great option if you are looking for unique and authentic experiences.
3. Agoda: Agoda is a travel booking platform that offers a range of accommodation options in Oman, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury resorts.
4. Expedia: Expedia is a popular travel booking company that offers a wide range of accommodation options in Oman. You can find hotels, resorts, and apartments on Expedia.
5. Oman Tourism website: The Oman Tourism website is also a good resource for finding accommodation options in Oman. It lists a variety of hotels, resorts, guesthouses, and more, and provides information about each property's amenities, location, and pricing.
You can check hotel prices in Oman here:
Booking.com

Oman: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
According to the National Centre for Statistics and Information, Oman received more than 3.5 million tourists in 2019. The peak tourist season in Oman is from October to March, during which time the weather is pleasant and cool, and a few events and festivals take place as well. However, there are generally no very crowded periods because Oman is not as heavily visited as some other popular tourist destinations.
Oman is generally considered to be a very safe destination for tourists. Crime rates in Oman are low and acts of terrorism are rare. The government places a high priority on the safety and security of tourists visiting Oman. However, as with any destination, it is important to exercise caution and common sense when visiting Oman. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuable items in public, and be aware of your surroundings at all times.
There are no specific places that tourists should avoid in Oman, but it is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions. It is also important to note that some areas of Oman may be sensitive or restricted due to military activity or other reasons, so it's always a good idea to check the latest travel advisory from your home country's government before planning your trip.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Oman on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Oman: events for tourists

Oman has many interesting events throughout the year that are worth checking out for tourists. Some of the most popular events and festivals in Oman include: 1. Muscat Festival - a month-long celebration of Omani heritage, culture, and traditions held every January.
2. Salalah Festival - a summer festival that celebrates the Khareef (monsoon) season in Salalah, with events including traditional dances, exhibitions, and outdoor activities.
3. National Day - celebrated on November 18th, this is a day of national pride and unity, with parades, fireworks, and cultural events held throughout Oman.
4. Naseem A'Sabaa - a traditional camel racing festival that takes place in the Bidiyah desert in November.
5. Al Dhakira Festival - held every year in July, this festival celebrates the traditional practices and crafts of the Dhakira tribe.
These are some of the most popular events for tourists in Oman. Of course, there are many other smaller events and festivals happening throughout the year that are worth exploring.

Oman: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Oman, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Sure, here's a two week itinerary for a typical tourist in Oman: Day 1-2: Muscat - Visit the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Mutrah Souq, and the Royal Opera House.
Day 3-4: Jebel Akhdar - Hike and explore the stunning mountains of Jebel Akhdar.
Day 5-6: Nizwa - Visit the Nizwa Fort, Thursday Souq, and the nearby Bahla Fort.
Day 7-8: Wahiba Sands - Enjoy a desert safari and witness the beauty of the Wahiba Sands.
Day 9-10: Sur - Visit the beach and the traditional dhow building yards.
Day 11-12: Ras Al Jinz - Experience turtle watching and visit the Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve.
Day 13-14: Salalah - Explore the beautiful beaches, the Al Baleed Archaeological Site, and the Frankincense Land Museum.
You can adjust the itinerary as per your liking. Just make sure to have a mix of culture, adventure and relaxation.

Oman: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Oman described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Al Ashkharah is a coastal town located in the Ash Sharqiyah Region of Oman. It is situated on the eastern coast of Oman, around 300 km from the capital city of Muscat. The town is known for its pictur... CONTINUE here for a trip to Al Ashkharah
- Al Awabi is a small village located in the north of Oman, approximately 50 km away from the capital city of Muscat. It is situated in the foothills of the Al Hajar Mountains and is known for its beaut... CONTINUE here for a trip to Al Awabi
- Al Ayn is a city situated in the region of Dhofar in the southern part of Oman. It is known for its beautiful greenery and lush landscapes, which make it a popular tourist destination. Some of the maj... CONTINUE here for a trip to Al Ayn
- Al Buraimi is a governorate of Oman that is located in the north-western part of the country. It borders the United Arab Emirates to the west and is a relatively small, but historically rich region. T... CONTINUE here for a trip to Al Buraimi
- Al Hamra is a town located in the Ad Dakhiliyah region of Oman. It is a historic town known for its traditional mud-brick houses and narrow alleyways. The town is situated at the foot of the Jebel Sha... CONTINUE here for a trip to Al Hamra
- Al Hazm is a small town located in the Al Buraimi Governorate of Oman. It is known for its historic fort, which was built in the 18th century and has undergone significant restoration in recent years.... CONTINUE here for a trip to Al Hazm
- Al Jazer is a small village and a tourist spot situated in the Al Dakhiliyah Governorate of Oman. It is located about 150 km from Muscat, the capital city of Oman. The village is known for its stunnin... CONTINUE here for a trip to Al Jazer
- Al Kamil is a small coastal town in the Ash Sharqiyah region of Oman, located about 175 km southeast of the capital city, Muscat. It is known for its beautiful beaches, rich history, and traditional O... CONTINUE here for a trip to Al Kamil
- Al Mudhaibi is a town located in the Al Sharqiya Governorate of Oman. It is known for its traditional souqs and markets selling handicrafts, as well as its beautiful landscapes and historic buildings.... CONTINUE here for a trip to Al Mudhaibi
- Al Rustaq is a city in the Al Batinah region of Oman, located approximately 160 km northwest of the capital, Muscat. It is known for its historic fort and hot springs, as well as its beautiful natural... CONTINUE here for a trip to Al Rustaq
- Al Sawadi is a small beach town located on the north coast of Oman, approximately 60 km from the capital city of Muscat. It is known for its beautiful sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and stunning... CONTINUE here for a trip to Al Sawadi
- Al Wasil is a small town in the Al Sharqiyah Region of Oman. It is located about 160 km southeast of the capital city of Muscat and is known for its beautiful landscapes, including mountains, deserts,... CONTINUE here for a trip to Al Wasil
- Bahla is a charming city located in the Ad Dakhiliyah Region of Oman. It is known for its ancient fortress, historic houses, and traditional handicrafts such as pottery, weaving, and silverwork. The c... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bahla
- Bidbid is a small city located in the Al Dakhiliyah region of Oman. It is famous for its traditional souqs (markets) and historical landmarks such as the Bidbid Fort which is believed to date back to ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bidbid
- Ibra is a historical city located in the Al Sharqiyah region of Oman. It is situated approximately 160 kilometers from the capital city of Muscat and has a population of around 55,000 people. Ibra is ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ibra
- Jabrin is a historical town located in the Al Dakhliyah region of Oman. It is known for its magnificent castle, which was built in the 17th century. Jabrin Castle is considered one of the most importa... CONTINUE here for a trip to Jabrin
- Khasab is a city in the Musandam region of Oman, located on the northern coast of the Arabian Peninsula. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, including its proximity to the Musandam Fjords and... CONTINUE here for a trip to Khasab
- Masirah is a beautiful island located off the eastern coast of Oman in the Arabian Sea. It is approximately 95 km long and 13 km wide, with a population of around 13,000 people. Masirah is known for i... CONTINUE here for a trip to Masirah
- Musandam is a Governorate of Oman, located in the northern tip of the country. It is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including fjords, rocky mountains, and turquoise waters. Musandam is a p... CONTINUE here for a trip to Musandam
- Muscat is the capital city of Oman located on the country's northeast coast along the Arabian Sea. It is one of the largest cities in Oman and is known for its charming traditional architecture and st... CONTINUE here for a trip to Muscat
- Nakhal is a historic town in Oman, located in the Al Batinah Region. It is known for its ancient Nakhal Fort, which dates back to the 17th century and is a popular tourist attraction. The town is also... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nakhal
- Nizwa is a city in Oman located in the Ad Dakhiliyah region and is the capital of the Nizwa District. It is known for its historical landmarks such as the Nizwa Fort, the Souq, and the Falaj irrigatio... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nizwa
- Quriyat is a coastal town located in the Muscat Governorate of Oman. It is situated about 80 kilometers to the southeast of the city of Muscat, and it sits on the shores of the Arabian Sea. Quriyat is... CONTINUE here for a trip to Quriyat
- Salalah is a city located in the southern part of Oman, near the border with Yemen. It is the capital of the Dhofar Governorate and is known for its natural beauty, unique culture, and rich history. S... CONTINUE here for a trip to Salalah
- Shinas is a coastal town located in the northern part of Oman, near the border of the United Arab Emirates. It has a population of around 43,000 people and is known for its beautiful beaches and rich ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Shinas
- Sohar is a coastal city located in the Al Batinah region of Oman, approximately 200 kilometers north-west of the capital, Muscat. It is home to one of the largest ports in Oman, which has been an impo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sohar
- Sur is a coastal city in the northeastern region of Oman, situated about 150 kilometers southeast of the capital Muscat. It has a population of approximately 71,000 people and is known for its rich hi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sur
- Wadi Arbayeen is a popular tourist destination located in the eastern region of Oman, surrounded by rugged mountains and beautiful landscapes. The valley is about 40 km away from the city of Muscat an... CONTINUE here for a trip to Wadi Arbayeen
- Wadi Bani Awf is a breathtakingly beautiful canyon located in the Al Hajar Mountains of Oman. It is known for its stunning scenery with towering cliffs, deep gorges, and crystal-clear pools of water. ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Wadi Bani Awf
- Wadi Bani Khalid is a very popular tourist destination located in the Eastern region of Oman. It is an oasis in the middle of the desert and is known for its crystal-clear pools of water surrounded by... CONTINUE here for a trip to Wadi Bani Khalid
- Wadi Dayqah is a beautiful natural reserve located in the Al Dakhiliyah region of Oman. It is known for its stunning landscapes, fresh water pools, and diverse flora and fauna. The wadi is popular amo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Wadi Dayqah
- Wadi Shab is a popular tourist destination located in the Al Sharqiyah region of Oman. It is a canyon with a natural water body, crystal-clear pools, and lush greenery. The canyon offers a perfect spo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Wadi Shab
- Wahiba Sands is a vast desert region located in Oman, covering an area of nearly 12,500 square kilometers. It is named after the Wahiba tribe who are known for their history of desert living. The dese... CONTINUE here for a trip to Wahiba Sands


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