Muscat

Inaugurated in 2001, this contemporary Islamic mosque is, perhaps, the capital's greatest attraction and largest place of worship. It features five minarets and room for 20,000 worshippers. The handwoven prayer hall carpet alone is a site to behold, its 1,700,000,000 knots took 4 years and 600 craftswomen to weave, and the carpet's total weight exceeds a staggering 21 tons.

Mutrah Corniche is Muscat’s shimmering waterfront promenade, where the azure waves of the Gulf of Oman gently lap against a picturesque harbour lined with palm trees and vibrant architecture. This scenic stretch offers an interesting blend of modern leisure and traditional charm, with its bustling fish market, historic forts, and cafés. As the sun sets, the Corniche transforms into a lively tapestry of illuminated dhows and ambient street life, making it an ideal spot for a sunset stroll. Unique to this coastal gem, the Corniche also boasts striking views of the nearby Al Jalali and Al Mirani forts, which stand sentinel over the bay, adding a touch of historic grandeur to your leisurely exploration.

Although no tours are offered inside Al Alam Palace, the building, which serves as the ceremonial residence of Sultan Haitham bin Tariq is still a must-see on your Muscat itinerary. Perched gracefully against a backdrop of rugged hills and adjacent to the picturesque Mutrah Corniche, the palace's striking façade is a feast for the eyes. You can wander around its grounds to marvel at its intricate exterior and lush gardens. Adding to the grandeur, the palace is flanked by two imposing 16th-century forts, Al Mirani and Al Jalali.

The historic forts of Al Jalali and Mirani date back to the 16th century. Although closed for entry to the general public, they define the cityscape of the Omani capital. The forts were formerly used as defence fortresses and were constructed by the Portuguese during the colonial period. Come at sundown to capture the best views.

The museum is packed with interactive and informative exhibits and offers unique insight into Oman’s gas and oil production that both kids and adults will find fascinating. Entry is free, and explanations in Arabic and English accompany the displays.

The museum offers a complex insight into Oman’s past and showcases the country’s military prowess by displaying all sorts of military equipment, including vehicles, aircrafts and even boats. All visitors are assigned soldier escorts, who are often English-speaking and knowledgeable in military history.

A few local companies offer dolphin-watching tours, which take travellers on short morning trips out into the sea. This is where wild dolphins roam free and sometimes present themselves to curious visitors. Some companies also offer fishing and snorkelling tours.

Located around 156 kilometres from Muscat, Wadi Ash Shab is famous for its canyon, crystal-clear turquoise pools, and a hidden waterfall concealed within a cave. It attracts both seasoned hikers and beginners alike. The adventure begins with a short mandatory boat ride across the river, followed by a 45-minute hike leading to the pools and the cave. It’s an ideal spot for swimming, snorkelling and exploring. Make sure you pack hiking shoes and water shoes, as you’ll need both for trekking and wading through the river.

If you don’t want your visit to Oman to revolve solely around souqs and mosques, make sure to include the Daymaniyat Islands Nature Reserve in your itinerary. This archipelago, located off the coast of the Wilayat of Seeb and the State of Barka, consists of nine islands forming a protected marine reservea, natural wonder often overlooked by visitors. The best way to explore the islands is on a day trip from Muscat. Tour companies operate from Muscat Harbour, offering 40-minute boat rides to the reserve. Because access is strictly regulated to preserve its ecosystem, visiting with one of these licensed operators is the only way to go. The Daymaniyat Islands are among Oman’s most beautiful spots, perfect for snorkelling and diving in crystal-clear waters. The islands are also home to migratory birds, turtles and many marine species.

The Wahiba Sands is a desert of golden dunes stretching as far as the eye can see. Although it lies around 230 kilometres from Muscat, it’s easily reachable, either by driving or, preferably, through a guided tour. Joining a tour is the best option if you want to make the most of your visit and experience the desert safely. The journey takes about two and a half to three hours by car. If you decide to drive yourself, make sure to carry plenty of food and water, and follow all safety recommendations, especially avoiding venturing off-road without proper experience. Keep in mind that April to October are the hottest months in Oman, which can make exploring the desert more challenging. Most travel companies organise overnight stays in desert camps, though day trips are also possible. For a truly memorable experience, it’s worth spending at least one night under the desert sky. Watching the sunset, stargazing, and waking up to a desert sunrise are moments you won’t forget. You can also enjoy activities such as climbing the dunes, camel rides, or dune bashing.