Popular Destinations in Oman
Muscat
Capital of Oman, Muscat is a port city on the Gulf of Oman. Surrounded by
the mountains and desert, the city is the political, cultural and
commercial hub of the country. With its prominent harbour, Muscat is a
significant hub of trade in the Middle East. Like many capitals of ancient
lands, the city is marked by historic landmarks alongside modern
high-rises. Muscat is home to 16th century Portuguese Forts,
namely, al Mirani and al Jalali, and the huge contemporary Sultan Qaboos
Grand Mosque. Other major landmarks in Muscat are Al Alam Palace, Port
Sultan Qaboos, Mohammad Al Ameen Mosque, Marah Land, PDO Planetarium, Old
Watch Tower, and Jazirat Masqat. The city’s old waterfront is beautiful,
and visitors can spend hours unwinding here. The Corniche promenade is at
the heart of the city’s tourist activity and perfect for a leisurely
stroll. Beach buffs can head over to the busy public beach, Shatti Al Qurum
while nature lovers can explore the lagoon reefs at Bandar Khayran, Fahal
Island, and Bandar Jissah. The cultural city is lined with several museums,
cultural institutions, parks, and performing art venues such as Bait Al
Zubair, Royal Opera House Muscat, National Museum, Muscat Gate Museum, Oman
Natural History Museum, and Riyam Park.
Nizwa
Located in the Ad Dakhiliyah region, Nizwa is an ancient city in northern
Oman. The beautiful region is characterized by palm
plantations and seasonal rivers. The 17th century Nizwa Fort
built to defend the city (along a major trade route) is emblematic of
Nizwa. Nearby, visitors will find the maze-like Nizwa Souk which is lined
with vendors selling handicrafts and other wares, and silversmith
workshops. Other tourist attractions in Nizwa are Fortress of Fiqain, Falaj
Daris Park, Manah Mosque, and Goat Market. North of Nizwa, nature lovers
can explore the Al Hajar mountain range, which encompasses Jebel Akhdar, an
area marked by jagged rocks, steep valleys, cultivated terraces, and
waterfalls. The mountain range offers hiking trails past waterfalls and
gorges. In addition to hiking, visitors can enjoy several activities such
as climbing, biking, and swimming. The highlight here is Oman's highest
peak, Jebel Shams. The mountain overlooks a gorge called Wadi Ghul. Al
Hoota Cave, situated at the foot of the mountains, features an underground
lake with extremely rare species of blind fish.
Salalah
Capital of Dhofar province, in southern Oman, Salalah is known for its
Arabian Sea beaches, banana plantations, and waters abundant in sea life.
Al Haffa, the old city, features a buzzing souq and several mosques.
History enthusiast here can explore multiple archaeological sites, namely,
Al Balid Archaeological Site (UNESCO World Heritage Site) and Khor Rori.
Salalah is the former capital of the Sultanate of Oman and Muscat, and
abode of the Sultan. The present Sultan, Qaboos shifted his capital to
Muscat, 1,000 kms north of Salalah. Each year, monsoon transforms Salalah’s
desert landscape into a lush green terrain and creates seasonal waterfalls.
Nature lovers can head over southwest of the city and unwind at the Al
Mughsayl Beach which is ringed by caves and cliffs, including Marneef Cave.
The region is Oman’s prime diving destination with exquisite offshore and
coastal diving spots which reveal shipwrecks, sea caves, and coral reefs,
as well as parrotfish, green turtles, numerous whale species, and moray
eels.