Oman

welcome to Oman

Capital of Oman: Muscat
Population of Oman: 4.2 million - 37th in Asia
Size of Oman: 309,500 km2 - 20th in Asia
Languages in Oman: Arabic

Underdeveloped and largely ignored by foreign visitors until the 1970s, Oman now represents one of the region's top vacation destinations, attracting tourists with its pretty beaches, impressive dunes, and friendly mountain villages. A tour of Oman allows travelers to discover a traditional Middle Eastern way of life, authentic cuisine, and thriving urban centers where centuries-old heritage meets every modern amenity under the sun. In a country of well-maintained roads, many visitors choose to drive from one city to the next, where a typical Oman itinerary will include World Heritage Sites, historic forts, modern beaches, and an eclectic dining scene.

Highlights

Watch protected sea turtles in the Ras Al Jinz
Ride a camel through one of the greatest expanses of desert in the world, the Empty Quarter
Cruise along the rugged and beautiful Omani coastline aboard a traditional sailing vessel called a dhow
Learn about Omani history by visiting many of its old forts including Al Jalani Port and Al Mirani Port in Muscat, Bahla Fort in Bahla and the grand Nizwa Fort in Nizwa
Take a peek at how locals practice religion in the huge Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
Sample the distinct flavor of Omani cuisine with a delicious grilled kingfisher dish called mashuai
Haggle for the most famous of Oman’s souvenir items - silver
Join the grand festivities in the capital’s biggest event, the Muscat Festival