What to see in Oman?
Oman is honestly one of my favorite countries.
It’s safe, you can camp anywhere you like and the landscapes are so incredibly diverse. You will not find this combination of features in any other country!
If you’re planning to go to Oman and thinking of what to see, here is a quick recap of 12 things that will surely make you fall in love with the country.
What to See in Oman – Key Takeaways
- Oman features very diverse landscapes from deserts, beaches, rocky landscapes, empty open spaces, mountains, and even jungle-like areas.
- Most sites are very easy to reach by car and the roads are superb.
- Oman is safe and you can camp anywhere you want, outside the city.
What To See In Oman
Wahiba Sands Desert
The Wahiba Sands Desert, also known as Sharqiya Sands, is a remarkable place in Oman. This desert stretches for about 125 miles and is filled with endless golden sand dunes.
You can do various activities here. Dune bashing in 4×4 vehicles is really cool as you speed over the sand. You can also go camel riding for a slower and more relaxed experience.
Spending the night in the desert is my favorite choice. Get a 4×4 and a rooftop tent and go exploring in the wild.
Sunrise and sunset are special moments in the Wahiba Sands. The colors of the sky change beautifully, making it an excellent time for photographs. At night, you can enjoy stargazing under a clear sky.
This unique destination is an essential stop during your visit to Oman, and it’s only about 4 hours driving from Muscat.
Sultan Qaboos Mosque
The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is one of the top attractions in Oman. Located in Muscat, this mosque opened in 2001 and is known for its epic architecture.
Here are a few key points about the mosque:
- Visiting Hours: Non-Muslim visitors can visit from 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM from Saturday to Thursday. Fridays are not open for non-Muslims.
- Photography: You can take pictures of the exterior anytime. Inside is also stunning.
- Transport: You can reach the mosque by taxi, personal car, or bus.
- Best time to visit: As with most attractions, try to come early to avoid the crowds.
While visiting, dress modestly to respect the customs. Women have to cover their heads, and men should wear long pants.
If you don’t have the right clothes, you can rent some at the entrance.
Tours & Things To Do
Discover epic activities in Oman through Viator.
Coastlines
Oman’s coastline stretches over 3,000 kilometers, offering diverse landscapes and activities. The beaches here are clean and inviting, perfect for relaxing or water activities.
It’s amazing to camp along the coastline and wake up to a beautiful sunrise.
Key Coastal Highlights:
- Daymaniyat Islands: A protected area known for its rich marine life. You can enjoy snorkeling and diving here.
- Fins: Famous for its unique wildlife, including sea turtles. It’s a peaceful spot for nature lovers.
- Sur: A coastal city with lovely beaches and a rich maritime history. Lots of fisher boats.
The Mountains
Oman is home to impressive mountains.
Jebel Shams is often called Oman’s highest mountain. It reaches an elevation of about 3,000 meters. The Jebel Shams Canyon lies nearby and provides a great spot for photography and nature appreciation.
Hiking in these mountains is an epic experience. There are trails suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers. The landscapes provide great opportunities for some awesome photos.
What I like so much about these mountains, is that they’re very close to the coast. So you can spend a night along the coast and within an hour or even less you’re driving in the mountains.
Tip: Jebel means mountain!
Beautiful Open And Empty Spaces
Oman has beautiful open spaces that are perfect for wild campers.
And you will most likely not see any other tourists.
When I was camping close to Fins and the Turtle Protected area, I only saw 2 other campers(!) I saw more goats and donkeys than tourists. And this was during the best season in February.
Oman offers so much but it is still kind of undiscovered by the masses. It’s one of the reasons why I Love this country so much.
If you enjoy outdoor adventures, Oman’s open and empty spaces will not disappoint. You can find spots for photography, picnics, or simply soaking in the atmosphere. It’s also a great place for night photography as there is very little ‘light pollution’ at night.
Diverse Landscapes
Oman offers a mix of landscapes that just blows you away after every half-hour driving.
You’ll see mountains, rocky landscapes in all kinds of shapes and colors, (white sand) beaches, coastlines, oases, desert landscapes, and more.
Each region in Oman has its own character. There are even jungle-like areas down in Shalalal.
Architecture In Muscat
Muscat features a mix of modern and traditional architecture.
One standout is the Royal Opera House Muscat. This grand venue is famous for its stunning architecture and cultural performances. The blend of traditional Islamic design with modern elements is worth seeing. The tour inside the Royal Opera House is worth it in my opinion.
There are also several old forts you can visit that show the history of the capital.
Wild Camels
In Oman, you can find wild camels, often seen roaming freely in the desert but you can basically encounter them anywhere outside the city. They walk in groups, sometimes crossing the roads or just standing there so you’ll have to wait until they have passed.
It’s kind of wild experience to see these animal just walking around!
Key Facts About Wild Camels:
- Wild Camels in Oman: The wild camels here are a special type of Arabian wild camel, also called Omani wild camels. They’re a bit different from the ones you see on farms, and they roam freely in the deserts of Oman.
- Where They Live: These camels live in the Rub’ al Khali, or the Empty Quarter, which is a huge desert. They’ve got amazing skills to survive the scorching heat and can go without water for a long time, making them perfectly suited for this harsh environment.
- Protection Efforts: Wild camels in Oman are considered endangered, so the government’s working hard to protect them. There are special reserves to help keep them safe, and they’re closely monitored to make sure their population stays healthy.
Qantab Beach
Qantab Beach is located near Muscat, Oman. It offers beautiful views of the coastline and various activities for visitors. You can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
The beach is also known for fishing. Local restaurants sell fresh fish catches. Supporting these businesses helps the community thrive.
Go on a boat trip with one of the locals. It’s much more fun and authentic than a commercial trip!
Bimmah Sinkhole
Bimmah Sinkhole is a natural pool located in Oman, near Muscat. It is known for its beautiful turquoise waters and unique geological features.
The sinkhole is about 20 meters deep and formed from a limestone cave that collapsed. You can easily get there; it’s only a 1.5-hour drive from Muscat.
Tips for Visiting:
- Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds.
- What to Bring: Swimwear, towels, and snacks.
- Facilities: There are picnic areas and restrooms available.
Many find the site perfect for a short trip. You can also explore nearby spots like Hawiyat Najm Park for a picnic or more outdoor fun.
Mutrah Souq In Muscat
When visiting Muscat, the Mutrah Souq is a must-see market. It’s one of the oldest in Oman, filled with local goods and rich culture.
As you explore this traditional market, you’ll find a wide range of items. This includes spices, textiles, and handcrafted jewelry. Don’t forget to check out the goat market, where you can see local farming practices.
Nearby, you can also visit Nizwa, known for its famous Nizwa Souq. This market offers a glimpse into the daily life of Omanis. You will find products like pottery, traditional daggers, and lots of fresh produce.
In addition to the markets, consider visiting the historic forts in the region. Bahla Fort and Nizwa Fort are among the biggest in the country. They provide insight into Oman’s rich history and architectural style.
Another interesting site is the Jabrin Castle, which reflects Oman’s past. It was once a center for learning and culture, surrounded by beautiful gardens.
Don’t miss other markets outside Muscat, like Al Rustaq Fort and Khasab Fortress. Each location has unique offerings and showcases Oman’s rich history and crafts.
Take your time to enjoy the sights and sounds of these markets. They are key to experiencing Oman’s culture.
Wadis and hidden pools
Wadis are an important part of Oman’s landscape. These dry riverbeds fill with water during the rainy season, creating beautiful pools and waterfalls. Exploring them is an amazing way to see Oman’s natural beauty.
Wadi Shab is one of the most popular wadis. It has an incredible clear blue hidden pool and a waterfall at the end of a moderate hike. You can swim in its refreshing waters and enjoy the surroundings.
When you plan your trip, consider visiting several wadis to get the whole experience of what Oman has to offer. Visiting two wadis is a great choice,
Read my full post on how to explore the best wadis in Oman.
F.A.Q.
What language do they speak in Oman?
Arabic is the official language of Oman. Many residents of Oman are able to speak English as well.
Is Oman in Dubai?
Oman is not in Dubai. Dubai is a city and is the capital of UAE. Oman is a country that’s right next to the UAE.
Is Oman Expensive?
Prices in Oman are similar to Western countries. Gas for your car will be much cheaper.
is Oman safe for ladies?
Oman is a safe country often compared to Japan. It is safe for ladies to travel in Oman.
What are the ideal number of days to spend in Oman ?
For a fulfilling experience, aim for about five to seven days in Oman.
What to wear in Oman
Alltho Oman is a very traditional country, the Omani are very relaxed towards foreigners and tourists. It’s only expected to wear long pants when inside a mall or supermarket for instance (or a mosque of course)
