The world is full of interesting places, and it would take a lifetime to discover them all. However, if you’re planning a trip to Oman, all you need is this useful guide!
We’ve searched far and wide to bring you the most interesting attractions in Oman, from the ancient mud village of Misfat Al Abriyeen to the hidden oasis in the middle of the desert.
Before you start booking your airplane ticket, don’t forget to apply for an Oman visa for Indians — and print this article out for easy reference!
The white-walled capital of Oman: Muscat
Let’s begin our journey to Oman in the center of the action: Muscat, the capital and main city of Oman! Even though Muscat is an ancient city, it was only urbanized recently thanks to the careful rule of the previous sultan, Qaboos bin Said, who used the profits from the country’s oil reserves to modernize Oman.
Although the city is an interesting blend of historic palaces, mosques, and modern skyscrapers, the first thing that will surely catch your eye is the lack of color. In fact, from the moment you step into the city, you will realize that almost all of the buildings are painted in a snowy white hue!
This isn’t an accident: in order to create a clean and harmonious aesthetic, the Sultan passed a law where homeowners can only paint their building in one of five official colors.
However, that doesn’t mean the entire city is monochrome. As you pass through the streets of Muscat, pay special attention and you’ll see beautiful doors with intricate patterns and handcrafted details. From golden filigree elements to colorful pops of blue, red, and yellow, the doors of Muscat deserve their own Instagram page.
While you’re in Muscat, don’t miss out on the Mutrah Corniche, a very picturesque seaside promenade on the shores of the Gulf of Oman. The embankment is decorated with fountains, pavilions, and sculptures, as well as the Al-Alam Palace, which was built over 200 years ago. In the evening there is a beautiful light show that fascinates both tourists and locals alike as they enjoy their stroll.
Wadi Shab, a turquoise oasis in the middle of a desert
Dreaming about seeing the azure blue waters of the Maldives without buying an airline ticket? Take a trip to Wadi Shab instead!
Nestled between the major Omani cities of Muscat and Sur, you can only get here by hiring a rental car. However, the 1.5-hour journey is worth the beautiful views and unique experience of swimming in a sinkhole.
To get here, you’ll need to take a small boat and then walk 45 minutes along the gorge before arriving at your destination. However, this “quest” only adds to the sense of adventure that you’ll feel as you’re surrounded with crystal clear water, jutting rocks, and breathtaking nature.
The hidden treasure that lies at the end is the secret cave, which contains a hidden waterfall for you to enjoy.
The goat markets and ancient souks of Oman
Did you know that one of the oldest markets in the Arab world can be found in Oman?
Indeed, the Muttrah Souk is more than 200 years old and is a must-visit for any traveler visiting the country.
However, when it comes time to shop for souvenirs, there is no better place than Nizwa Souk. In addition to the vast array of handicrafts, souvenirs, antiques, local produce, and delicacies, there is also a special goat market!
Every Friday morning, locals come from all over the country to trade livestock such as goats, sheep, cows, and donkeys at the Nizwa Goat Market. A crowd of people gather in a large circle while merchants walk inside with their cattle. If someone is interested in buying a particular animal, they call over the merchant to find out the initial price, barter, and buy.
The amazing handmade dhow boats of Sur
Immerse yourself in Oman’s maritime history by visiting the Dhow Factory Museum in the port town of Sur. The dhow is an ancient vessel that was historically used to carry cargo and travel across the Mediterranean and Arabian Sea. Despite the fact that there are modern ships, this factory still builds dhows the old-fashioned way.
Travelers have a unique opportunity to visit the only remaining factory in the world where dhows are still being built. The craftsmen even use old construction methods, such as using an onion drill instead of a conventional drill and moving the boards by rolling them over logs.
The ships are made to order, as King Abdullah of Jordan had his dhow made here, along with other sheikhs and sultans from neighboring countries. While in Sur, do not forget to visit the museum, where you can learn more about the history of shipbuilding and examine the miniatures of various ships that were built here.
Oman’s curious ‘mud village’: Misfat Al Abriyeen
Misfat Al Abriyeen is a quaint village surrounded by a palm grove in the mountains, located about 1000 meters above sea level. However, what really sets this village apart is its unique style of architecture: the majority of the buildings are sculpted with mud and stones!
As soon as you start exploring the narrow streets of this town, it feels as if you’ve been transported back in time. Imagine children playing with a donkey while a woman carries water in a traditional jug, old and abandoned buildings looming in the background, and palms swaying in the breeze… This, and many other details, quickly immerse you in a rustic and bygone atmosphere.
Those who really want to get acquainted with the local culture should visit around spring, when the Eid al Fitr holiday takes place. The locals celebrate by carving a huge hole in the center of the village and slow-roasting marinated meat (called ‘shuwa’) on the eve of the holiday.
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