Ten amazing places to visit in Oman – stumble upon a nation’s prized possessions

Covering a colossal 416,000 square metres is the largest mosque in the entirety of the Sultanate – the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque which can accommodate well over 20,000 worshippers at a time. Studded in the architectural styles of the Middle East, Oman and that of the Islamic faith, this place of worship is a mere 2 km from the city centre and is one of the few mosques which permits non-Muslims to enter.

Stretching out for 3 km along the waterfront is the glorious Mutrah Corniche which features a good mix of cafes, restaurants and markets to check out for those based at Oman Hotels. As one of the most cherished Oman tourist places to spend time at, the Corniche is an excellent vantage point to catch a glimpse of the Oman Port and harbour on one side coupled by the stunning Hajar Mountains and Portuguese watchtowers on the other.

Whether you want to picnic with the family or simply wish to unearth the raw beauty of Oman’s outdoors, then consider heading for Wadi Bani Khalid. Encircled by tall palm trees, this wadi comprises emerald green waters to immerse yourself in while to the avid hiker, Wadi Bani Khalid will surely put your endurance levels to the test.

Having once been entrusted with guarding the port of Muscat in times long gone, Al Mirani Fort was the brainchild of the Portuguese during the 16th century. This stronghold displays a host of ancient war tools and played a pivotal role in driving out the Portuguese. Al Mirani Fort looks out over the Gulf of Oman and is a wonderful destination to use as a backdrop for all your photography skills.  

Established by the Zubair family, Bait Al Zubair is a private museum nestled in the Old Muscat City that provides a once in a lifetime opportunity to explore the cultural, social and military allure of the Sultanate. Among the museum’s noteworthy artefacts are costumes, jewellery and weaponry that speak volumes of Oman’s celebrated heritage.

Modelled on Westfield, London is your gateway to a high-end luxury store that ticks all the right boxes. Covering two floors in Al Khoud, Muscat, Al Araimi Boulevard boasts more than 200 retail stores to shop at and offers visitors ease of access to a 4D cinema experience and a chance to sample mouthwatering fare from a wealth of restaurants and eateries.

Found within the borders of Oman’s 2nd largest city of Nizwa is the ever-popular Nizwa Souq which offers a retail therapy outing with a touch of history and tradition. Encounter silversmiths applying their trade with amazing efficiency while you pick and choose from authentic textiles, pottery and numerous paraphernalia.

Hugging a portion of the southwestern part of Al Hajar mountains is where you will stumble upon Misfat Al Abryeen. Rated as a traditional Omani village, Misfat Al Abryeen contains a slew of houses hewn out of mud which are found atop gigantic stone boulders. With varying nooks and crannies to discover, the village will educate you on how life was lived in yesteryear.

Situated some 200 km from the nation’s capital of Muscat, the port city of Sur which is thought to be the spiritual home of folklore hero Sinbad the Sailor affords a charming escape. Replete with a natural harbour, castles, mosques and the local dhow factory to call by where you can learn of how these vessels are built, Sur is a beautiful coastal city that you will fall in love with the longer you linger.

Fascinated by sea turtles? Then beeline for the easternmost point on the Arabian Peninsula which is where you will come into contact with the Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve. The beaches here are a nesting ground for the endangered green turtle and for the most insightful experience, it is a must that you join a guided tour. Lie in wait as adult female turtles lay their eggs or watch as hatchlings make a dash for the ocean.