Travel Guide: Oman
When my brother planned a family trip to Oman, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. Would it be a Dubai-like megacity? A desert adventure? A hiking-focused extravaganza? It turns out that Oman is difficult to categorize, because it has so much to offer. A hidden gem in the Arabian Peninsula, Oman has beautiful landscapes, a rich cultural heritage, and the warmest hospitality. Fun fact: Oman is the oldest continuously independent state in the Arab world. Somehow, though it borders the UAE, it’s often overlooked. So take it from me, it’s absolutely worth visiting. From deserts and mountains to beaches and wadis, Oman has something for everyone. The country has a fascinating history as a powerful empire and an essential player in ancient maritime trade routes. Sultan Qaboos, the beloved previous leader of Oman, helped to modernize, educate, and uplift the country and the Omani people.
PLANNING
The best time to visit Oman is from October to April when the weather is nicest. Summers can be extremely hot, particularly in the desert and lowland areas, with temperatures over 100F. Oman is a conservative country, and visitors should dress modestly. Many sites do not allow women to wear shorts, and religious sites may require a head covering. I would recommend comfortable walking shoes and a hat for sun protection. Try to plan 8-10 days for your trip. My family was there for a week, and our itinerary (shared below) was packed.
WHAT TO DO
Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque: This architectural marvel in Muscat is the largest mosque in Oman, featuring an enormous chandelier, a Persian carpet that took four years to weave, and intricate Islamic designs. Check visiting hours before you go, as it is not always open to tourists.
Muttrah Souq: One of the oldest markets in the Middle East, known for its labyrinthine alleys filled with spices, jewelry, textiles, and traditional Omani artifacts. This was a fun and sensory-filled activity, but I didn’t end up buying anything.
Royal Opera House Muscat: A premier venue for musical performances, blending Islamic and contemporary architecture.
Al Jalali and Al Mirani Forts: Built in the 16th century by the Portuguese, these forts are incredible to explore and offer stunning views over the Muscat harbor.
Wadi Shab and Wadi Bani Khalid: These are both oases in the desert—breathtaking gorges with turquoise pools, waterfalls, and hidden caves, perfect for hiking and swimming. Spending time at the wadis was one of my favorite activities of the trip.
Bimmah Sinkhole: A natural limestone crater filled with clear blue-green water, believed to have been formed by a meteorite. Nearby are Pebble Beach and Wadi Dayqag Dam, Oman’s largest dam with panoramic views. If you are choosing between visiting the sinkhole and a wadi, I would recommend going to a wadi instead. The sinkhole is worth seeing, but much smaller, and few opportunities to explore beyond taking a dip.
Nizwa Fort and Souq: This seventeenth-century fort is famous for its massive cylindrical tower and well-preserved interior, while the souq offers traditional silverware and handicrafts. The fort is huge, and the stairs are a marvel.
Jibreen Castle: This castle has stunning architecture, painted ceilings, intricate woodwork, hidden passageways, and so much history. The rooftop gives way to beautiful views. We happened to be there around sunset, which I would recommend.
Bahla Fort: A UNESCO-listed fortress dating back to the 13th century, known for its mud-brick walls and historical significance.
Jebel Akhdar: Also called the "Green Mountain," this high-altitude area is famous for its terraced farms, rose gardens, and cool climate.
Jebel Shams: The highest mountain in Oman, home to the Grand Canyon of Arabia, with dramatic cliffs and hiking trails, including the Balcony Walk, which is a long trail into the canyon with spectacular views.
Wahiba Sands: A stunning desert expanse where visitors can experience dune bashing and surfing, as well as traditional Bedouin hospitality. I would highly recommend spending a night camping in the desert. There are many different companies who coordinate trips, and some camps have their own booking websites. Desert trips can range from basic to luxury, so choose what works for you. Be aware that no matter how nice your camp might be, the wifi is not going to be amazing. It is beyond beautiful and not an easily accessible experience. Sunset and sunrise over the dunes are unreal.
Daminyat Islands: A group of protected islands with vibrant coral reefs, pristine beaches, and abundant marine life. Hire a private boat and ride to the islands from Muscat. There are beaches, short hikes, and great snorkeling around this area. The islands are recognized by UNESCO for their ecological importance. We saw turtles, reefs, sharks, and colorful fish.
Qantab Beach: Gorgeous white sand beach driving distance from Muscat.
Here is an example of our rough itinerary for a week long trip:
Day 1: Wadi Bani Khalid, Wahiba Sands Desert Camp; stay overnight at desert camp
Day 2: Nizwa Fort, Jibreen Castle; stay overnight at a hotel in Nizwa area
Day 3: Balcony Walk and travel back to Muscat; stay at AirBnb for remainder of trip
Day 4: Private boat trip to Daminyat Islands
Day 5: Bimmah Sinkhole, Wadi Dayqah Dam, Pebble Beach
Day 6: Wadi Shab, Qantab Beach
Day 7: Muscat city sights- Sultan Qaboos Mosque, Muttrah Souq, Royal Opera House
WHAT TO EAT
As a vegetarian, I didn’t get to eat all of the Omani specialities, but a few must-try items include majboos (a spiced rice with slow-cooked meat), mashuai (grilled kingfish with lemon rice), halwa, kahwa and dates (Omani coffee and dates), and harees (a wheat and meat dish.)
GENERAL TIPS
English is widely spoken, but a local greeting is always polite when greeting locals. Omanis are known for their hospitality and kindness, and crime rates are very low. That said, it is a conservative culture, and PDA should be minimized. Credit cards are widely accepted, but you may want to have cash (Omani real) for small shops. Be mindful—always ask before taking photos of people. Though taxis are available, they often take a long time to arrive. It’s better to rent a car to explore. Be aware that businesses may be closed during Friday prayers.
Above all, savor every second! In an age of overexposure, it’s rare and special to have a truly new and different experience. I loved getting to see a part of the world I knew so little about. If you make the trip, please let me know, and of course, share your favorite moments!