Oman

Famous country   , , , , ,
Oman

Oman, officially the Sultanate of Oman, is a captivating country on the southeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula. Known for its rich history, diverse landscapes, and warm hospitality, it offers a unique blend of ancient traditions and modern development.

Area and Geography:
Oman covers an area of approximately 309,000 square kilometers, slightly smaller than Germany. It borders the United Arab Emirates to the northwest, Saudi Arabia to the west, and Yemen to the southwest. Its long coastline stretches along the Arabian Sea, Gulf of Oman, and Persian Gulf. The geography is diverse, with rugged mountain ranges in the north (Hajar Mountains) and south, a large central plain, and vast desert areas, including a portion of the Rub’ al Khali (Empty Quarter). The northernmost part of Oman, Musandam Governorate, is an exclave separated by UAE territory and is famous for its dramatic fjords.

Population:
As of September 2019, Oman’s population was approximately 4.688 million, with 2.669 million Omanis and 1.999 million expatriates.

Language:
Arabic is the official language of Oman. Various dialects of Peninsular Arabic are spoken, including Dhofari Arabic and Gulf Arabic.

Currency:
The currency of Oman is the Omani Rial (OMR).

Religion:
Oman is predominantly a Muslim country. Around three-quarters of Muslims are Ibadi, a school of Islam known for its tolerance. The remaining quarter is largely Sunni, with a smaller Shia population. There are also significant communities of Hindus and Christians, primarily among the expatriate population.

Capital:
The capital city of Oman is Muscat.

Major Cities:
Besides Muscat, other important cities in Oman include:

  • Salalah: Located in the southern Dhofar region, known for its lush greenery and monsoon season (Khareef).
  • Nizwa: Often considered Oman’s cultural capital, famous for its historic fort and souq.
  • Sohar: A significant industrial city and historical port.
  • Seeb: A large coastal city near Muscat, known for its beaches and fishing.
  • Sur: A coastal city with a strong maritime history, famous for dhow building.
  • Bahla: Home to a UNESCO World Heritage site, Bahla Fort.

Attractions and Wonders:
Oman boasts a wide array of attractions, from historical forts to stunning natural landscapes:

  • Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque (Muscat): An architectural marvel and a must-visit.
  • Muttrah Souq (Muscat): A traditional Omani market offering spices, textiles, and handicrafts.
  • Bimmah Sinkhole: A natural water-filled crater perfect for swimming.
  • Wadi Shab and Wadi Bani Khalid: Picturesque wadis (riverbeds) with emerald pools and hiking opportunities.
  • Jebel Shams (Grand Canyon of Oman): The highest peak in Oman, offering breathtaking views and hiking trails.
  • Wahiba Sands (Sharqiyah Sands): A vast desert with towering dunes, ideal for desert safaris and camping.
  • Nizwa Fort: A formidable 17th-century fort offering panoramic views of the city.
  • Bahla Fort: A UNESCO World Heritage site, one of the oldest and largest forts in Oman.
  • Al Jalali Fort and Al Mirani Fort (Muscat): Historic forts guarding Muscat’s harbor.
  • Daymaniyat Islands Nature Reserve: A pristine marine reserve perfect for snorkeling and diving.
  • Ancient City of Qalhat: A UNESCO World Heritage site, an ancient trading port.
  • The Land of Frankincense (Dhofar): A UNESCO World Heritage site encompassing historical frankincense trade routes.

Architecture:
Omani architecture is distinct, blending traditional Islamic and local styles with a focus on functionality and aesthetics. Forts and castles, often made of mud-brick, are prominent throughout the country, reflecting its historical importance as a defensive stronghold. Modern architecture in Muscat often incorporates traditional Omani design elements, such as arched windows and ornate carvings.

Roads:
Oman has an excellent and extensive road network, with approximately 60,000 kilometers of roads, including modern highways connecting major cities and towns. This makes self-driving a popular and convenient way to explore the country.

Hotels:
Oman offers a range of accommodation options, from luxurious resorts and international hotel chains to boutique hotels and traditional guesthouses. Notable luxury options include Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort and Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara.

Restaurants and Cuisine:
Omani cuisine is diverse, with influences from Indian, Persian, North African, and Mediterranean culinary traditions. Common ingredients include fish, seafood, dates, rice, and a variety of spices. Popular dishes include:

  • Shuwa: Slow-cooked lamb or goat marinated in spices and cooked in an underground oven.
  • Majboos (Kabsa): A fragrant rice dish with meat (chicken, lamb, or fish) and spices.
  • Mashuai: Whole roasted kingfish with lemon rice.
  • Harees: A savory dish made from wheat and meat, slow-cooked to a porridge-like consistency.
  • Halwa: A sweet, jelly-like dessert made from sugar, rosewater, saffron, and nuts.
  • Dates and Omani coffee (Qahwa): Essential elements of Omani hospitality.

Annual Travel:
Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Oman saw a significant number of tourists, with 3.506 million arrivals in 2019. While there was a decline in 2020 due to the pandemic (869,000 arrivals), the tourism sector has been recovering, with increased spending by visitors in recent years.

Best Time to Travel:
The best time to visit Oman is generally between October and April, when temperatures are warm and pleasant (17°C to 35°C / 63°F to 95°F). The summer months (June to August) can be extremely hot, especially inland. However, the southern Dhofar region experiences the “Khareef” (monsoon season) from June to September, turning the landscape green and making Salalah a popular summer destination.