The Sultanate of Oman is mostly gravel desert with lonely mountain ranges in the north and southeast and some 2700km of sandy beaches. These landscapes have helped create a popular tourist destination. Camping in the mountains, sand skiing in the desert and camel racing are other popular tourist activities. The largest events include the Muscat Festival at the beginning of the year and the Khareef Festival in August in Salalah.
Oman is one of the most English speaking nations in the Middle East and warm hospitality is common. Men and women dress largely in traditional clothes but women do not have to cover their faces. For the best weather time your visit between November and March.
Cruise liners call in at Muscat but there are no ferries operating in or out of Oman. Land crossings are often possible at the Yemen and UAE borders on buses or in your own vehicle. The Seeb International Airport in Muscat is how most people enter the country, although some flights land in Salalah. Domestic flights run from Muscat to Salalah and Khasab although more destinations will be added. Efficient intercity buses operate between main provincial towns or you can make use of the slow, long-distance shared taxis and microbuses.
Muscat
The nation’s capital and port city is very attractive thanks largely to a policy of keeping high rise at a minimum and ensuring most buildings are low lying, spotlessly white and feature traditional domes and arabesque windows. The sea is a big part of what makes up Muscat; cruise and goods ships pass through, fishermen operate out of the harbour and it’s a form of recreation for many. Muscat has the largest mall in the country.
Sharqiya Region
This eastern corner is worth exploring for its desert dunes, tiny villages, turtle nesting and good swimming beaches. Rent a vehicle to tour the area.
Jebel Shams
This mountain is the highest in Oman at 3000 metres and is the central point along the northern mountain range. From the top you have a fantastic view into Wadi Ghul, an impressive gorge.
Dhofar
The most southern region of Oman features groves of frankincense, good beaches, Job’s tomb, the blowholes of Mughsail and the popular festival Khareef.
