DISCOVER OMAN
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Recently voted one of Conde Nast Traveller's Top Ten 'IT Destinations', Oman boasts an intoxicating mix of modern opulence and traditional culture...

Welcome to Oman, a country of breathtaking beauty interwoven with rich cultural history. From the moment you arrive to the time you leave, Oman will captivate and inspire you like no other destination.

Recently voted one of Conde Nast Traveller's Top Ten ‘It Destinations’, Oman boasts an intoxicating mix of modern opulence and traditional culture, vast barren deserts and rocky deepwater fjords, ancient castles and five-star hotels. Combined with a reputation for timeless hospitality and exquisite cuisine, Oman delivers such diversity that it will delight even the most seasoned traveler.

         DISCOVER THE WONDERS OF OMAN

Oman possesses a wealth of natural, cultural, and historic wonders awaiting your discovery.

Natural wonders

Start with the Musandam region in the country's northwest, and discover the Fjords of Arabia. Here you'll witness the majesty of rocky slopes descending almost 2000 vertical metres sheer into the turquoise sea, where they are met with dazzling coral reefs teeming with marine life. Spend several hours or several days absorbing the tranquility of this spectacular location.

Journey south over the vast Hajjar Mountains to the interior region and discover the Al-Hoota Cave – an enormous 2.7km long tunnel complete with subterranean lake, fed by the oases of the surrounding region. The cave itself displays magnificent rock formations in a palette of delicate colours, while the lake is home to an array of exotic species which thrive in the unique environment. Perhaps surprisingly, this amazing underground spectacle is accessible to visitors of all fitness levels.

After sampling the desert heart of the country, you'll be amazed at the contrast to be found in the lush southern region of Dhofar. The birthplace of the frankincense trade, this is the only place in all of Arabia to possess a monsoon climate, and for several months of the year the landscape is converted into a patchwork of iridescent green. Dhofar is also home to Salalah, Oman’s bustling 'capital of the south'.

Of course, every traveler's itinerary should include a visit to the incomparable vastness of the Wahiba Sands. Boasting sand dunes soaring up to 150m high, the country's largest desert is also the perfect playground for four-wheel driving and offers a taste of the barrenness found across much of the Arabian Peninsula.

Historic wonders

Few places can boast the depth and flavour of Oman’s history. Guarded by over one thousand forts and castles, Oman’s civilisation dates back more than twelve thousand years. From ancient times to its part in the Hemiarite kingdom, through to the Portuguese influence of the 17th century, a journey through Oman will bring a distant past to life with stories of the frankincense trade, sultans of bygone eras, and visits to architectural relics. Amongst spectacular surroundings, discover ancient castles, towering mosques, and guarded forts – all part of an architectural landscape several thousand years in the making.

Without a doubt, one of Oman’s most stunning national monuments is Nizwa Fort. Dating back to the mid-1600s, this majestic stronghold was built as a key defence site to guard the lucrative caravan routes which dissected the region. Also well worth a visit is the nearby Bahla Fort. Recently listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its imposing form is comprised of 15 gates and 132 watchtowers.

In the southern Dhofar region you’ll find Samharam, a lost city dating back to the third millennium BC. Only discovered some sixty years ago, its fortified stone walls contain ancient carvings testifying to its title as one of the oldest ports in the region. Hear enchanting tales of the early frankincense trade and discover the legendary story of Balqis, the Queen of Sheba, who is thought to have had her famed perfume jars loaded at Samharam before they continued their journey to Solomon’s temple.

Further establishing Oman’s place in ancient history is the city of Sohar, home of the legendary Sinbad the Sailor. Once a powerful trading hub, Sohar was known as the Gate to China due to its role in the Asian shipping trade. Take a tour of the impressive Sohar Fort, built around two thousand years ago and noted for its unique whitewashed exterior and five prominent watchtowers.

Cultural wonders

One of the highlights of your journey will be discovering the richness of the beautiful Omani people, whether they be traditional Bedouin desert tribes or citizens of modern Muscat. Wherever you travel, you’ll be greeted by the same gracious and hospitable smiles of people proud to share their unique culture with you.

Perhaps the most comprehensive snapshot of Oman culture can be found in Muscat’s network of museums, including the Omani-French Museum and Bait Al Zubair. Here, you’ll find collections of ancient artifacts including costumes, weaponry, and tools from the country’s millennia of history. Of most interest will be items from Wattayah, reported to be the oldest area of permanent human settlement with history dating back ten thousand years.

However, for a truly immersive cultural experience, visit one of the country’s many souks (traditional markets). Located from Muscat to Nizwa, entering a souk will provide you with an encounter of an entirely different way of way of life: get lost in the maze of alleys; surround yourself with the sounds, scents, and colours of an Arabian marketplace; go searching for everything from gold and fine jewellery to antiques and spices. It’s a cultural adventure that will leave you overwhelmed with sensory delight. Oman’s favourite is Mutrah Souk, a covered maze of lanes and alleyways found in Muscat, the nation’s capital.

         DISCOVER ULTIMATE HOSPITALITY

Luxury

The advent of tourism has only been relatively recent in Oman, and as a result, the majority of the country’s hotels and tour operations are incredibly modern. With a focus on quality, luxury, and sustainability, visitors will benefit from the government’s holistic plan for establishing Oman as a premiere tourism destination. Of course, consideration is also given to those who want to experience all that the country has to offer whilst traveling with more modest means.

Accommodation

Boasting some of the world’s most exclusive hotels, Oman offers a selection of opulent accommodation to meet the needs of the most discerning travelers. Whether your idea of luxury is a private apartment on a secluded stretch of windswept beach, or a suite in a glamourous city hotel, you’ll be sure to find an option to exceed your expectations. However, budget-conscious travelers are also well catered-for with a myriad of excellent venues at affordable prices.

The Omani passion for experiencing everything in complete opulence extends even to their wilderness safaris. Here, you can enjoy the beauty of the rugged landscape by day while blissfully retreating into your deluxe permanent desert camp at night. For those seeking additional luxury, mobile accommodation units are available with air-conditioning, running hot and cold water, separate bathroom, and luxury Tempur mattresses.

Cuisine

Renowned for their hospitality, Omanis will welcome the opportunity to share their unique cuisine with you. Whether that’s the simple tradition of offering qahwa (local coffee) and dates to all visitors as a welcome gesture (or even the sticky-sweet local delight known as halwa, made from eggs, honey, sugar and spices), you’re sure to embrace the unique tastes and aromas of this ancient country.

Of course, Oman also has much to offer the selective palates of fine-dining travelers. Throughout the country’s network of luxury five- and six-star hotels, you’ll find restaurants featuring local and international chefs serving up the flavours of the region together with more exotic dishes. From a la carte to full degustation, your dining experience in Oman will be something to savour.

        DISCOVER WORLD CLASS ADVENTURE

Adventure

For those with an adventurous spirit, Oman’s landscape provides plenty of opportunities to interact with nature in a somewhat more intrepid fashion.

Scuba diving and snorkelling

One of Oman’s true treasures is its beautiful coastline, which presents an abundance of diving and snorkeling opportunities. With azure waters and a wealth of colourful marine species – including spectacular coral reefs – it won’t take long for you to understand why Oman was recently voted one of the top ten dive destinations in the world.

Climbing and caving

Feeling a little more adventurous? Welcome to one of the hottest climbing and caving spots on the world map. An almost infinite number of climbs and descents await you in some of the most spectacular surroundings imaginable, including one of the world’s largest caves: the magical ‘Home of the Genie’.

Four-wheel driving

A favourite visitor activity, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to participating in four-wheel driving adventures. Take a deep breath as you roar up a hundred-metre tall sand dune before cresting the peak for the ride down the other side; make sure the windows are up as you splash through one of the many wahdis found in the Omani desert; or simply enjoy the sights as you travel through the barren wilderness of the interior in your air-conditioned vehicle.  

        DISCOVER UNIQUE TASTES & AROMAS

Oman proudly offers some of the world’s finest dining restaurants within its network of five-star hotels. These remain the primary avenue for those looking for a sumptuous way to sample both local cuisine or international flavours. Influences range from Indian to Oriental, to neighbouring Arabic and also European. While most offer a la carte dining, some now feature full degustation menus to tempt even the most sophisticated palates.

Of course, Oman offers a selection of more casual dining options also. Combine this range with Oman’s growing coffee culture and reputation for wonderful hospitality, and you have the recipe for culinary experiences you will savour long after you return.

Al Bustan Palace Muscat - Al Khiran Terrace

Offering a seasonal menu and featuring the freshest in market produce, this restaurant highlights the chefs’ innovative approach to cuisine which samples Asian, French, and Italian influences..

The Beach Pavilion

The Beach Pavilion is magically set upon the edge of pristine white-sand beaches and includes local specialties such as tuna served as a carpaccio or a tartar and fresh grilled prawns served in a seasoned mango and citrus dressing. The focus is upon delivering the freshest of local seafood, sharing with visitors the best Oman has to offer.

VUE by Shannon Bennett

VUE is a true highlight of Muscat’s growing dining culture. The menu focuses on the highly acclaimed skills of Australian chef Shannon Bennett, who combines fresh local ingredients with his own inimitable style to deliver a fine dining experience without equal. Complemented by an extensive wine list, VUE is sure to leave an impression.

The Chedi, Muscat

This premiere property offers visitors a selection of dining options including a la carte seafood in a relaxed environment together with more formal offerings featuring Asian, Arabic, Indian, and European influences. Of course, all come with beautiful views from within this spectacular property.

Discover Oman, and experience a breathtaking journey beyond your greatest expectations.

        DISCOVER 6 STAR LUXURY

Chedi Muscat

One of Oman's premiere properties, the Chedi Muscat is situated on its own pristine beachfront just twenty minutes from the nation's capital. Redefining standards of opulence and luxury, Chedi guests will be treated to views of either the stunning water gardens or Oman's majestic Hajar Mountains, all whilst surrounded by the property's dramatic traditional architecture.

Shangri-La Bar Al Jissah

Set privately amongst 124 acres of grounds, this exclusive resort is only 15 minutes from Ruwi business district, Mutrah, and the old city of Muscat. It is also within easy access to local shopping and cultural attractions. Nestled in the sparkling bay of Al Jissah with a stunning mountain background, guests have a choice of three properties within the complex – these range from family resort to six-star luxury residences with private spa.

Al Bustan Palace Muscat

The palatial and iconic Al Bustan has recently undergone extensive refurbishment to once again take pride of place amongst Oman's premiere properties. With over 200 acres of spectacular grounds, the Al Bustan combines old-world luxury with modern Arabian hospitality.

Six Senses Hideaway Zighy Bay

Located on the remote Musandam Peninsula, this resort provides a serene environment for the ultimate in relaxation. Breathtaking views combine with beautiful indigenous architecture and a private marina to make the Six Sense Hideaway Zighy Bay a true place to escape and unwind.

For those seeking more affordable options, Oman also has a range of quality three-star properties, including but not limited to the following:

Coral Muscat

Situated only fifteen minutes from Muscat's international airport, ten minutes' drive from the city's CBD,and just a brief stroll to the beach, the Coral is an ideally situated property for both business and leisure travelers.

Bowshar Hotel

Combining grand design with a convenient location, the Bowshar Hotel represents excellent value for money in a traditionally luxurious environment. In the heart of the business area, it is also a short distance from major tourist attractions and shopping malls.

Falaj Daris Hotel Nizwa

Set amongst the wonderfully historic Nizwa, this hotel has recently undergone a complete renovation. Beautifully appointed rooms and extensive facilities make this property an ideal base for exploring the surrounding city.

         GETTING THERE

Regular flights service Oman via the two major regional hubs of Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Two of the world's most prestigious airlines, Emirates and Etihad, combine with Oman's national carrier - Oman Air -  to bring you to this unique destination. All major cities in Australia have at least one direct service to Dubai via Emirates, while Etihad operates eleven weekly services from Sydney to Abu Dhabi direct and three weekly services from Brisbane to Abu Dhabi via Singapore. Etihad also recently launched daily non-stop services between Melbourne and Abu Dhabi.

         FAST FACTS

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