15 Things to Do in Oman: A Middle Eastern Hidden Gem

Oman, a hidden gem in the Arabian Peninsula, offers a captivating blend of ancient history, stunning natural landscapes, and warm hospitality. As a destination that has remained relatively untouched by mass tourism, Oman provides a unique opportunity to experience authentic Arabian culture and immerse yourself in its breathtaking beauty. From exploring majestic forts and wadis to basking in the sun on pristine beaches, there are countless things to do in Oman that will leave you with unforgettable memories.

This diverse country caters to a wide range of interests, whether you’re an adventure seeker, a history buff, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway. From hiking through rugged mountains to snorkelling in crystal-clear waters, Oman offers a variety of activities that will keep you entertained and engaged. Discover the ancient forts and souqs of Muscat, explore the breathtaking wadis and dunes of the interior, or relax on the pristine beaches of the Omani coast.

Explore Ancient Forts and Heritage Sites

Oman is renowned for its rich history and cultural heritage, reflected in its numerous ancient forts and heritage sites. These architectural marvels offer a glimpse into the country’s past and provide a fascinating insight into Omani culture and traditions. Here are some of the must-see things to do in Oman when it comes to exploring these historical gems:

Muscat: A Historical City

• Al Alam Palace: This iconic palace is the official residence of the Sultan of Oman and is a stunning example of Omani architecture. Its imposing facade, adorned with intricate details and vibrant colours, is a sight. Visitors can admire the palace’s exterior, take photos, and learn more about its history and significance.
• Muttrah Souq: This bustling souq is a vibrant hub of activity where you can find a wide range of traditional Omani handicrafts, textiles, and spices. The narrow alleyways and colourful shops offer a unique shopping experience where you can haggle with local merchants and discover hidden treasures.
• National Museum of Oman: This world-class museum showcases Oman’s history and culture through a fascinating collection of artefacts, exhibits, and interactive displays. Explore the museum’s galleries to learn about the country’s ancient civilisations, maritime heritage, and Islamic traditions. Don’t miss the interactive exhibits that bring history to life.

Other Forts and Heritage Sites

• Nizwa Fort: This impressive fort is considered one of Oman’s most important historical landmarks. It features a towering watchtower, underground passages, and a traditional Omani village. Explore the fort’s ramparts, visit the museum, and learn about the region’s military history.
• Bahla Fort: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a massive fortress complex that dates back to the 12th century. It offers a glimpse into Oman’s rich history and is a popular destination for history buffs. Wander through the fort’s labyrinthine passages, climb the watchtower for panoramic views, and admire the intricate details of its architecture.
• Jabrin Castle: This beautifully preserved castle is known for its intricate carvings, ornate ceilings, and stunning gardens. It’s a great place to explore and admire the craftsmanship of Omani artisans. Discover the castle’s hidden chambers, explore the gardens, and learn about the history of the Jabrin family.

Immerse Yourself in Nature’s Wonders

Oman is a land of breathtaking natural beauty, with diverse landscapes that range from towering mountains to crystal-clear wadis. Here are some of the must-do things to do in Oman for nature lovers:

Explore the Wadis

• Wadi Shab: This hidden oasis is a popular destination for hiking, swimming, and exploring. Hike through the narrow canyons adorned with lush vegetation and towering cliffs. Swim in the crystal-clear pools fed by natural springs, which offer a refreshing escape from the heat. Discover the hidden cave and waterfall, a must-see for any visitor to Wadi Shab.
• Wadi Bani Khalid: This picturesque wadi is known for its stunning pools, lush greenery, and abundant wildlife. Relax in the calm waters of the pools, surrounded by palm trees and lush vegetation. Explore the surrounding area and discover hidden waterfalls and swimming holes. Don’t miss the opportunity to spot local wildlife like birds, fish, and turtles.

Conquer the Mountains

• Jebel Shams: As Oman’s highest mountain, Jebel Shams offers breathtaking panoramic views and challenging hiking trails. Hike to the summit for stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape, including the Grand Canyon of Oman. Experience the thrill of conquering a mountain peak and the sense of accomplishment of reaching the summit.

Experience the Desert

• Sand Dunes: Explore the vast and empty desert of Oman, where you can experience the thrill of sandboarding, camel riding, and camping under the stars. Sandboarding is a fun and exhilarating activity that allows you to glide down the steep slopes of the dunes. Enjoy a camel ride through the desert and experience the peaceful tranquillity of this unique landscape. Camp under the stars and enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the night sky.

Discover the Coastal Beauty of Oman

Oman’s coastline is a treasure trove of natural beauty, offering pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and stunning marine life. Here are some of the must-do things to do in Oman for beach lovers:

Muscat: A Coastal Oasis

• Qurum Beach: This famous beach is located in the heart of Muscat and offers a variety of amenities, including swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, relax on the soft sand, and swim in the crystal-clear waters.
• Al Bustan Beach: This secluded beach is known for its calm waters and stunning views of the Hajar Mountains. Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a peaceful day at the beach. Relax under the shade of palm trees, read a book, or simply soak up the sun.
• Muscat Marina: This modern marina offers a variety of activities, including boat rentals, fishing, and dining. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, admire the luxurious yachts, and savour delicious seafood at one of the many waterfront restaurants.

Other Coastal Destinations

• Salalah: This coastal city is famous for its lush greenery and beautiful beaches. Visit Al Mughsail Beach, where you can find natural blowholes that shoot water into the air. Dip in the crystal-clear waters, explore the surrounding area, and enjoy the stunning scenery.
• Masirah Island: This remote island offers pristine beaches, untouched landscapes, and a variety of wildlife. Explore the island’s beaches, go fishing, or simply relax and enjoy the peace. Discover hidden coves, spot dolphins and whales, and experience the unspoiled beauty of this natural paradise.
• Sohar: This historic city is known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant souqs. Visit Al Sifa Beach, where you can swim, sunbathe, and enjoy the stunning views of the Arabian Sea. Explore the city’s historic sites, visit the local souqs, and savour delicious Omani cuisine.

Experience Omani Culture and Traditions

Oman has rich cultural heritage offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience authentic Arabian traditions and customs. Here are some of the must-do things to do in Oman to immerse yourself in the local culture:

Explore Local Markets

• Muscat Souq: This bustling souq is a vibrant hub of activity where you can find a wide range of traditional Omani handicrafts, textiles, and spices. Wander through the narrow alleyways, haggle with local merchants, and discover hidden treasures.
• Nizwa Souq: This historic souq is known for its livestock market and traditional Omani crafts. Witness the lively atmosphere as locals buy and sell animals and explore the souq’s stalls for unique handicrafts and souvenirs.
• Salalah Souq: This vibrant souq is a great place to find local produce, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Sample fresh fruits and vegetables, admire the intricate designs of Omani textiles, and purchase unique gifts for loved ones.

Visit Traditional Villages

• Misfah Al Abriyeen: This picturesque village is known for its traditional Omani architecture and stunning mountain views. Explore the narrow alleyways, admire the mud-brick houses, and learn about the daily lives of the local people.
• Al Hamra: This abandoned village offers a glimpse into Oman’s past and is a popular photographer destination. Wander through the deserted streets, explore the ruins of the old houses, and imagine what life was like in this historic village.

Savor Omani Cuisine

• Try local delicacies: Experience the flavours of Oman by trying traditional dishes such as machboos (rice with meat or fish), shwarma, and halwa (sweet dessert). Machboos is a flavorful rice dish that is often served with a variety of meat or fish. Shwarma is a popular street food that consists of grilled meat or chicken wrapped in pita bread with vegetables and sauce. Halwa is a sweet dessert made with honey, sugar, and nuts.
• Visit local restaurants: Discover hidden gems and savour authentic Omani cuisine in local restaurants and cafes. Enjoy a meal in a traditional Omani setting and experience the warm hospitality of the local people.

Attend Cultural Festivals

• Dates Festival: This annual festival celebrates Oman’s rich agricultural heritage and features a variety of cultural activities. Enjoy traditional music and dance performances, witness camel races, and sample delicious dates and other local delicacies.
• Muscat Festival: This month, Omani culture, music, and arts are showcased. Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the festival, enjoy fireworks displays, and witness traditional Omani performances.

Adventure and Outdoor Activities in Oman

Oman is a paradise for adventure seekers, offering various outdoor activities catering to all experience levels. Here are some of the must-do things to do in Oman for thrill-seekers:

Hiking and Trekking

• Wadi Shab: Explore this picturesque wadi on foot, hiking through the narrow canyons adorned with lush vegetation and towering cliffs. Swim in the crystal-clear pools, which offer a refreshing escape from the heat. Discover hidden waterfalls and swim in natural pools.
• Jebel Shams: Challenge yourself with a hike to the summit of Oman’s highest mountain, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The hike is challenging but rewarding, and the views from the summit are truly spectacular.
• Wadi Bani Khalid: Hike through this lush wadi and discover hidden waterfalls and swimming holes. Explore the narrow canyons, swim in the crystal-clear pools, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this natural oasis.

Water Sports

• Snorkeling and Diving: Explore Oman’s coastline’s vibrant coral reefs and marine life. Discover a variety of colourful fish, sea turtles, and other aquatic creatures. Snorkel in shallow waters or dive deeper to explore the reefs more thoroughly.
• Kayaking and Canoeing: Paddle through tranquil wadis and coastal lagoons. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings, spot wildlife, and explore hidden coves and caves.
• Surfing: Catch waves at popular surf spots like Al Mughsail Beach. Experience the thrill of riding the waves and enjoy the stunning coastal scenery.

Desert Adventures

• Sandboarding: Glide down the steep slopes of Oman’s dunes for an exhilarating experience. Feel the adrenaline rush as you carve down the dunes, enjoying the breathtaking views of the desert landscape.
• Camel Riding: Explore the vast desert landscape on a camel safari. Experience the unique rhythm of a camel’s gait and enjoy the peaceful tranquillity of the desert.
• Camping: Experience the tranquillity of the desert under a starry sky. Set up camp in a remote location, enjoy a campfire dinner, and marvel at the beauty of the night sky.

Other Activities

• Rock Climbing: Challenge yourself with rock climbing routes in the Hajar Mountains. Test your skills and enjoy the thrill of scaling towering cliffs.
• Mountain Biking: Explore Oman’s diverse landscapes on a mountain bike. Ride through rugged mountains, sandy deserts, and lush wadis, experiencing the country’s beauty differently.
• Birdwatching: Spot various bird species in Oman’s national parks and reserves. Oman is home to diverse birdlife, including many migratory species. Use binoculars to spot birds in their natural habitats.

Tips for a Great Trip to Oman

To make the most of your trip to Oman, consider the following tips:

• Dress modestly: Oman is a conservative country, and it’s essential to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or traditional areas. Avoid wearing revealing clothing, such as shorts, tank tops, or swimwear.
• Respect local customs: Be mindful of local customs and traditions. Avoid public displays of affection, especially in religious areas. Respect local customs related to food, dress, and behaviour.
• Learn some Arabic: While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, learning a few basic Arabic phrases can enhance your interactions with locals and show appreciation for their culture.
• Stay hydrated: Oman can be hot, especially during the summer months. Drink plenty of water, especially when exploring outdoor attractions. Avoid strenuous activities during the hottest parts of the day and take breaks to rest and rehydrate.
• Pack appropriately: Wear comfortable clothing suitable for the climate. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun. Also, pack comfy shoes for walking and hiking.
• Be respectful of wildlife: Oman is home to various wildlife, including some endangered species. Be respectful of wildlife and avoid disturbing their natural habitats. Do not feed wildlife, as this can disrupt their natural behaviour.
• Bargain at the souqs: Bargaining is a common practice in Omani souqs. Don’t be afraid to haggle over prices and have fun negotiating. However, be respectful and avoid becoming aggressive or rude.
• Try local cuisine: Omani cuisine is delicious and diverse. Try regional specialities such as machboos, shwarma, and halwa. Explore the many different flavours of the country and discover new culinary delights.
• Respect religious sites: When visiting religious sites, dress modestly, remove your shoes, and respect local customs. Avoid taking photos or videos inside religious buildings without permission.
• Plan your itinerary: Oman is a large country with many attractions. To make the most of your time, plan your itinerary. Consider the distance between attractions and the time it takes to travel between them.
• Consider a local guide: Hiring a local guide can provide valuable insights into Omani culture and history. They can also help you navigate the country and discover hidden gems.
• Be aware of safety precautions: Oman is generally a safe country, but it’s essential to be mindful of safety precautions. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas. Be cautious when using ATMs, and keep your belongings secure.

A Country of Endless Discoveries

Oman, a hidden gem in the Arabian Peninsula, offers a captivating blend of ancient history, stunning natural landscapes, and warm hospitality. With its diverse attractions and experiences, there is something for everyone to discover in this fascinating country.

From exploring majestic forts and wadis to basking in the sun on pristine beaches, Oman offers a truly unforgettable experience. Immerse yourself in the country’s rich culture and traditions, savour delicious Omani cuisine, and embark on thrilling adventures in the great outdoors.

Oman has everything you need to seek adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion. So pack your bags, embark on a journey of discovery, and create memories that will last a lifetime.