Best Places to Visit in Oman

Oman, located in the Middle East, is a country full of stunning landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality. From its stunning beaches and lush green valleys to its ancient cities and traditional souks, Oman offers something for people of all age groups. 

Apart from these, the country also has delicious cuisine and diverse wildlife. With its incredible views and relaxing atmosphere, Oman is certainly one of the top destinations for a holiday of exploration, relaxation, and adventure. 

Let’s discover the best places to visit in Oman during the winter and summer seasons, and find out more about the best places to visit in Oman with your family.

Best Places to Visit In Oman During Summer

During the summer season, the weather is perfect for exploring the country's amazing sights and activities. The days are filled with sunshine while the nights are cool and comfortable. 

Here are the places to visit in Oman during summer - 

1. Bahla

Bahla, located in the Al Dakhiliyah region of Oman, is filled with fascinating historical sites and cultural attractions. It is home to the Bahla Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest fort in the country. Besides the fort, Bahla is also home to the Bait al-Baha, which is a museum located in a traditional Omani house. It showcases amazing artifacts from the region’s history, including pottery, jewellery, manuscripts, and weapons. 

Bahla is also a great place to explore the local culture. As a visitor, you can explore the weekly souk (market) to purchase handmade items such as carpets and traditional clothing. 

Other Things to Do in Bahla

• You can enjoy traditional Omani cuisine.
• Visit any of the several mosques in the city.
• Experience the culture and history of Oman - the stunning architecture, traditional markets, and cultural attractions of Bahla make it a must-visit for anyone looking for a unique and memorable experience. 

Traditional Food of Bahla

• Mashuai, Mushaltat, Dates, Shawarma, Mishkak, and more

2. Dibba

Dibba is a stunning coastal town that is an ideal destination for anyone looking for a unique and unforgettable vacation. Located on the scenic east coast of the Musandam Peninsula, Dibba offers a wealth of outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and exceptional natural beauty. 

Its beaches make for a perfect setting for a relaxing vacation. The warm and crystal clear waters are ideal for swimming, kayaking, and snorkelling, while the beautiful white and golden sand beaches provide a great place to sunbathe and take in stunning views. The nearby mountains provide excellent trekking opportunities while the bays in the vicinity offer great excellent opportunities for fishing. 

Other Things to Do in Dibba 

• The city of Dibba has various cultural attractions such as old mosques, ancient forts, and historic homes.
• Make sure to explore the traditional markets, sample delicious local cuisine, and the breathtaking scenery of the region.
• The towns nearby Dibba also provide plenty of options for shopping and dining. You can find a wide range of traditional handicrafts, clothing, jewellery, and souvenirs.

Traditional Food of Dibba

• Majboos Chicken Muscat Style, Chicken Qabuli Al Battena Style, and so on 

3. Khasab

Khasab is a beautiful coastal city in the Musandam region of Oman. Located on the Strait of Hormuz, it is renowned for its spectacular natural beauty, incredible views of the Persian Gulf, and the nearby Hajar Mountains. It is an excellent destination if you seek a relaxing getaway or a chance to explore the local culture and attractions. 

The reason why Khasab is considered one of the best places in Oman is its beautiful beaches, where you can explore a wide range of activities such as swimming, snorkelling, and fishing. Other than that, there is a wide variety of restaurants and cafes serving delicious traditional Omani cuisine and international dishes that you can certainly try. 

Other Things to Do in Khasab

• Explore the local markets filled with colourful products of all sorts.
• Visit historical sights such as the ruins of the old city of Khor Fakkan and the forts of Baniyas and Mirbat.
• Those interested in culture and art can also visit the local museums, galleries, numerous mosques, and other religious sites. 

Traditional Food of Khasab

• Karak Omani Tea, Hummus Dip And Kuboos bread, Omani Halwa, Tabbouleh, and more  

4. Quriyat

Quriyat is an ancient city located on the southeast coast of Oman and is known for its picturesque coastline, rich culture, and beautiful landscape. If you are a beach person, Quriyat is surely among the best places to visit Oman for you. It has multiple beaches that can make for a memorable beach holiday. 

Other beautiful attractions and activities for tourists include the Quriyat Fort and the old souk. Quriyat fort was built in the 17th century and offers a unique insight into the city’s past. The souk, on the other hand, is full of unique items such as spices and handicrafts as well as traditional Omani clothing and jewellery. 

Other Things to Do in Quriyat

• You can explore diving and snorkelling options in the city.
• The clear blue waters of the Indian Ocean offer an opportunity to explore the rich marine life that inhabits the region.
• On the coral reefs, you can spot colourful fish and other creatures. You can experience the Quriyat’s wildlife and see dolphins, turtles, and even the endangered Arabian Oryx.

Traditional Food of Quriyat

• Khawa, Ruz Al Mudhroub, Maqdeed, Muqalab, Mishkak, and many more

Best Places to Visit in Oman During Winter

The winter season is perfect for the outdoors and exploring the country’s stunning landscapes, diverse cultures, and delicious cuisine. During the winter months, the temperatures tend to remain mild and pleasant, allowing you to enjoy outdoor activities such as trekking, camping, and camel rides. 

Let’s check out some of the best places to visit in Oman in winter -  

1. Muscat

Muscat is the capital of Oman and truly represents the tradition, pride, and culture of the nation. It is widely popular for traditional souks and hospitality, with Muscat locals being welcoming to the tourists. This Middle East port city is an ideal place for relaxing and enjoying the serenity of Oman. 

Here, you can feel the oriental culture of the country and the picturesque beauty of the Oman coastline. Enrich your Muscat visit by experiencing the old architecture, mountains, and crystal-clear water of the city.  

Other Things to Do in Muscat

• Wadi Bani Khalid is one of the top-most attractions of Muscat. It is a riverbed that is easily accessible to tourists and allows you to enjoy the natural aquamarine pool and feel the essence of tranquillity. 
• The Wahiba sands are one of the best places to visit in Oman. This is a desert region that stretches over 125 miles from the Eastern Hajar mountains to the Arabian sea. You can see the unique amber-coloured sands and towering sand dunes here. 
• If you are into historic stuff, don’t forget to visit the Bait Al Zubair museum where you can explore Oman’s heritage and culture and view ancient artefacts, ornaments, and weaponry.  

Traditional Food of Muscat

• Mushaltat, Mashuai, Shawarma, Falafel, and more 

2. Salalah

Situated in northern Oman, Salalah is one of the prominent places in the country. Salalah is one of the best places to visit in Oman during winter because of the pleasant weather. The city is primarily famous for its white beaches. 

Other Things to Do in Salalah

• The Wadi Darbat valley is one of the most-visited places in Salalah. You can feel the serenity of the waterfalls here and even go boating on the natural canal here.
• You can also explore the Land of Frankincense, a World UNESCO Heritage site. It has four components, namely, Wadi Dawkah, Wubar Archeological site, Al Baleed Archeological site, and Sumhuram Old City.
• The Empty Quarter of Oman, one of the world’s most famous deserts, is a must-visit. 

Traditional Food of Salalah

• Ma'ajeen, Kak bread, Indian Ocean Seafood, Khubz Lahooh, etc. 

3. Sohar

Sohar is a magnificent city in the Sultanate of Oman, located in the Al Batinah region. It is one of the oldest cities in the region and has a rich heritage and culture. Among its incredible historical sites is the Sohar Fort, which was built in the 16th century and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Sohar is also known for its beautiful beaches with golden sand and clear blue waters, with the beaches offering a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and fishing. You can also participate in other activities such as kayaking, sailing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing.  

Other Things to Do in Sohar

• If you are a partygoer, make sure to experience the city’s vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars, restaurants, and cafes.
• You can also find multiple shopping and entertainment options across the Sohar Mall, the Sohar Beach Mall, and the Sohar Souq. 

Traditional Food of Sohar

• Omani Shuwa, Maqdeed, Muqalab, Mishkak, and more 

4. Al Suwaiq

Al Suwaiq, located in the Arabian Peninsula, is an excellent spot for travellers looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure. You will find mixed cultures in the city and have a great time exploring them all. To get a glimpse of the city’s history, you can explore its numerous mosques and forts. Al Suwaiq has several museums and cultural attractions as well, with the Al Suwaiq National Museum and the Al Suwaiq Cultural Center being prominent names for the same. 

You can also take part in activities such as trekking, mountain biking, and canyoning in the nearby mountains. Don’t forget to take a stroll on the beautiful beaches and enjoy swimming, snorkelling, and windsurfing as well. 

Other Things to Do in Al Suwaiq

• Al Suwaiq has a vibrant nightlife with plenty of bars and clubs to choose from.
• While roaming around in the city, you will find plenty of restaurants, cafes, and street food vendors offering the authentic cuisine of Oman. 

Traditional Food of Al Suwaiq

• Halwa, huwaa, Shorbat Adas, Kibbeh with garlic sauce, Dijaj Mashwi, Shawarma, etc. 

Best Places to Visit in Oman With Family

Oman is a perfect destination in the Middle East for family trips. The country is safe and welcoming, making it worth visiting for families and an unforgettable experience for them! 

Here are some of the best places to visit in Oman for family vacations - 

1. Rustaq

Rustaq is a small city located in the Al Batinah Region of the country. Here, you will find some of the oldest forts of Oman as well as the rustic Al Hazm Castle. Another place to visit here is the Imam Sultan bin Murshid Mosque, which is an exquisite piece of Islamic architecture. 

Rustaq is known for its outdoor activities. The nearby Nakhal Fort, located in the foothills of the Al Hajar Mountains, for instance, is a great place to explore the local culture and stroll around. The city is also a great spot for hiking, rock climbing, and camping, making it one of the best places to visit in Oman for those looking for an activity-filled vacation. 

With that said, plenty of things are in store for those looking for a relaxing experience as well. You can, for instance, participate in traditional activities such as fishing, swimming, and boating.  

Other Things to Do in Rustaq

• Make a visit to Wadi Hoqain, which has pools of turquoise and cobalt blue water. 
• You can also have a relaxing session with your family in the Ayn Al Kasfa hot spring. 
• Check out the Rustaq Souq and find traditional Omani handicrafts, jewellery, and food.  

Traditional Food of Rustaq 

• Omani Coffee and Dates  

2. Nizwa

Nizwa is a city in Oman located in the Ad Dakhiliyah Governorate. It is a must-visit for those seeking to explore Oman’s culture and history, with the city having various attractive monuments and architectural pieces. 

Nizwa is renowned for its iconic fort, which was built in the 17th century and is considered to be one of the best-preserved forts in the region. Another reason why it is considered one of the best places to visit in Oman is because of Nizwa Souq, a marketplace of traditional goods and crafts that has been functioning for centuries. 

Apart from these, there are a number of museums that you can check such as the Nizwa Fort Museu, and the Nizwa Heritage Museum, which showcase traditional Omani crafts and artefacts. 

Other Things to Do in Nizwa

• For a unique exploration, you can take a trip to the nearby Jebel Akhdar mountain range and visit the ancient village of Tanuf.
• You can explore the incredible landscape and learn about traditional farming techniques.
• Nizwa is also well-known for its unique cuisine, with the city being home to a variety of eateries and restaurants serving traditional Omani dishes.

Traditional Food of Nizwa

• Majboos, Shuwa, Dates, Omani Breads, and more 

3. Seeb

Seeb, another one on the list of the best places to visit in Oman, is a picturesque city with a wide variety of attractions. The city is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the country, with awe-striking views of the Arabian Sea. You can find plenty of things to do here, right from enjoying a variety of water sports to relaxing on the beach and soaking up the sun. 

The city also boasts plenty of great shopping spots, with traditional markets offering everything from local handicrafts to luxury items. The city’s culture is a blend of the traditional and modern, combining beaches, markets, and mosques in a unique way. Seeb also has many parks and gardens that allow you to chill and take in the sights and sounds of the city. 

Other Things to Do in Seeb

• Seeb is close to many of Oman’s major attractions like the Grand Mosque, the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, and the Bait al Baranda Museum.
• The city is also home to a number of historic forts and castles.  

Traditional Food of Seeb 

• Lokhemat, Maqbous, Aursia, and many more 

4. Sur City

The final entry in the list, Sur City is an amazing destination in Oman and offers a rare blend of ancient and modern. Located southeast of Muscat, Sur is home to several ancient forts such as the Sultan’s Palace and the Al-Jalali Fort. You will also find some of the oldest mosques in the country, such as the Al-Kutub Mosque, making it a great place for those interested in cultural and religious history. 

Sur City is one of the best places to visit in Oman due to its serene beaches, mountains, and desert landscapes. You can explore them and take part in outdoor activities like hiking and camping. The nearby Ras Al-Hadd Turtle Reserve is a must-explore - you can see turtles nesting on the beach. 

Other Things to Do in Sur City 

• Sur City offers a great range of restaurants, cafes, and shops to explore.
• The city is popular for its vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars and clubs to choose from. 

Traditional Food of Sur City

• Harees, Qahwa, Luban, and more  

Travel Insurance for Oman

Although travel insurance for Oman from the UAE is not mandatory, it is always advisable to secure your trip with travel insurance. Having such a policy ensures a hassle-free trip as it protects you from large financial losses in case of unforeseen circumstances. 

From covering emergency medical expenses to reimbursing for trip cancellation/ trip curtailment, travel insurance provides it all. You can easily obtain travel insurance for your Oman trip on policybazaar.ae. We provide you with the best travel insurance options to choose from and a platform that makes the application process seamless for you. Another benefit of applying with us is that you can get in touch with our customer support team if you have any queries or issues while applying.  

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