waterfront road under the Corniche of Mutrah in Muscat with cars (Angelo D'Amico)
With vast, rippling sand dunes, unspoiled breathtaking coastlines, dramatic peaks and canyons, the spectacular nation of Oman is full of wondrous surprises around every corner.
Located on the southeastern tip of the Arabian Peninsula, Oman began as a humble nation of Bedouins, fishermen, seafarers and frankincense traders. Cultures from India, Persia, Zanzibar, Britain and Portugal lend themselves to the unique blending of ancient and modern, which permeates through the country and Omani people.
Muttrah Corniche and Souq
The sprawling capital of Muscat stretches out along the Gulf of Oman. With brilliant blue water lapping at the shore, take a stroll along the Muttrah Corniche. This artfully paved seawall winds its way through the former commercial center. Old mercantile shops and vendors line the narrow alleys. Practice your haggling skills at one of the oldest “souqs,” or marketplaces, in the world at the Muttrah Souq. Get lost as you peruse colorful piles of trinkets, find one-ofa-kind treasures and alluring perfumes and frankincense.
Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
Piercing the blue sky with a 50-meters-high dome is the impressive Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. This stunning place of worship took six years to complete and was finished in 2001. The enormous, hand-loomed Persian rug took four years to finish and was once the largest in the world. Hanging in the center of the main prayer hall is a jaw-dropping Swarovski crystal chandelier, embellished with more than 600,000 jewels. The mosque can accommodate up to 20,000 worshippers, including 750 women in a private prayer room. Non-Muslims are invited tovisit between 8 and 11 a.m., women must dress conservatively.
Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque ()
Nizwa Fort and Birkat Al-Mawz
Situated approximately an hour southwest of the capital, the Nizwa Fort is a perfectly preserved piece of history. This cylindrical fortress was built in the 17th century, upon a foundation dating back to the 12th century. Visitors can wander through the labyrinth of rooms and hallways, discovering ancient artifacts and examples of what life was like for early Omani soldiers. The enchanting village of Birkat Al-Mawz is home to another similar restored architectural gem, Bait al Redidah. The town is nestled in the crevasse between the mountain and plain. A prehistoric falaj irrigation system still exists and has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hike through nearby Wadi Al Muyadin and take in the striking copper-colored cliffs, deep green palm trees and clear water below.
Handicraft products in the ancient Souq of Nizwa, in Oman ()
Jebel Shams
Approximately 3.5 hours southwest of Muscat, Jebel Shams is the highest peak in Oman and third-tallest in the Arabian Peninsula. Translated to “Mountain of Sun,” the peak offers pectacular views of Wadi Guhl and sheer cliffs dropping below. Deep rifts and fissures cutting between smooth plateaus are reminiscent of the Grand Canyon. Hikers and those looking for a little more adventure can trek along the canyon rim on the well-marked Balcony Walk while drinking in gorgeous panoramas.
Wadi Ghul in Jebel Shams, Oman. (Alexey Stiop)
Bat, Al-Khutm and Al-Ayn Necropolises
Just west of Jebel Shams, near Jebel Kawr, lie peculiar beehive-shaped outcroppings dotting the desert. These ancient structures date back to 3000 BC and are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Unsure of their true purpose, it is believed they were once used either as ritualistic tombs, or as silos and/or holding tanks. Be sure to bring a map and four-wheel drive. There are no posted signs or placards, and you may need to go off-road a bit to find them.
Bimmah Sinkhole, Wadi Shab and Wadi Tiwi
Situated 90 minutes southeast of Muscat is a spot full of beautiful turquoise water and plenty of lore. Measuring 50- by 70-meters wide and 20 meters deep, locals believe a meteorite caused the impressive natural formation. Newly constructed concrete stairs provide easy access for visitors to enjoy the warm, calming waters. Even further south are Wadis Shab and Tiwi. Wadi Shab is the more well-known between the two, and has brilliantly hued fresh water pools between sheer limestone gorges. Palm trees grow among the stone, creating a magical oasis. Wadi Tiwi is lesser-known and requires four-wheel drive to access. You can drive all the way into the wadi; however, it is frowned upon by the locals who live nearby.
Bimmah sinkhole, Oman (Araya Gerabun)
Wahiba Sands
The picture-perfect wind-swept undulating dunes of Wahiba Sands are well worth a visit. Located on the eastern side of the country, it provides a slightly otherworldly feel. Drifting upwards of 350-feet tall, the rich terra cotta colored desert stretches an impressive 12,500-square kilometers. Between glamping, camping, traditional camel rides, or going for a ride in a dune buggy, there is no shortage of activity in this unforgettable and pristine site. If you’re building your Bahrain bucket list, travel outside the border. With stunning scenery, historic and ancient sites, warm and welcoming people, Oman is beckoning.
Human footprints in the sand dunes of Sharqiya (Wahiba) Sands, Oman ()
