Oman
Oman offers a quieter, more traditional alternative to its Gulf neighbours, with dramatic mountain wadis, rolling desert dunes and a well-preserved architectural heritage. Muscat, the capital, is a low-rise, whitewashed city framed by rugged mountains and the Gulf of Oman, centred around the striking Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque and the old harbour district of Muttrah with its historic souk. Omani cuisine is subtly spiced, built around slow-cooked meats, rice and dates, often served with Omani coffee (kahwa). Beyond the capital, travellers explore the Wahiba Sands desert, the fjord-like Musandam Peninsula and canyon pools of Wadi Shab.
Explore Oman Destinations: Muscat.
Capital
Muscat
Main Gateway Airport
Muscat International Airport (MCT)
Currency
Omani Rial (OMR)
Languages Spoken
Arabic (official), English widely spoken in tourism and business
Climate & Weather
Desert climate; very hot summers, mild pleasant winters, cooler in the Jebel Akhdar mountains
Best Time to Visit
October to April, cooler weather ideal for exploring wadis, deserts and the coast
Popular Cities to Fly To
Muscat is the main gateway, with road access to Salalah, Nizwa and the Musandam Peninsula
Popular Attractions
Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Muttrah Souk, Wahiba Sands desert, Wadi Shab, Jebel Akhdar mountains
Food & Culture
Slow-cooked meats, rice and dates, Omani coffee (kahwa) hospitality rituals, well-preserved forts and traditional architecture