Oman Holidays

Why should you discover Oman?

Original Travel tipped Oman for the big time as far back as 2003 and the country continues to be a firm luxury holiday favourite today. Even among members of the team, who have repeatedly visited the top-class beach hotel options in the vicinity of the capital city, Muscat, and in the Musandam Peninsula (an exclave at the tip of the Arabian Peninsula), both of which make for ideal honeymoon in Oman and/or christmas holiday in Oman options. It’s a location that’s proven to draw people back and continues to tick countless boxes, no matter the holiday you’re seeking...

What to do in Oman?

The hotel variety on offer in Oman truly has it all, from spa treatments and excellent restaurants to activities, unforgettable adventures and of course endless opportunities for exploration. You'll never want for luxury on your holiday in this breath-taking destination. Plus, we will tailor the entire trip to your bespoke holiday requirements, meaning we can arrange snorkelling, peaceful dhow trips along the coast or something a little more active, like water sports, excellent diving or an exclusive, privately guided adventure through the dramatic Hajar Mountains and into the desert, to take in some of the best scenery that the Middle East has to offer.

While enjoying a luxury holiday in Oman, be sure to visit some of the oasis villages where traditional rural life continues largely unchanged beneath dense clusters of date palms. Or head to ‘Oman’s Grand Canyon’ at Wadi Ghul, or travel on up to the scenic Jebel Akhdar ('Green Mountain') for panoramic views. Visit medieval forts that look just how castles should and spend the night under the stars at a Bedouin camp amid the huge, rolling dunes of the Wahiba Sands. After washing off the desert dust with a swim in one of the natural swimming pools that form in the wadis, head for the coast, where you can sail on a traditional wooden dhow accompanied by dolphins and watch rare giant turtles coming ashore at night to lay their eggs. There is so much to be discovered in this idyllic spot and you’ll easily find yourself lost in the magic of Oman.

Experience the Omani culture

In the south of the country, the coastal oasis town of Salalah is the perfect base for exploration of a region made rich by the fabled frankincense route and the distinct Omani culture is more than apparent here. The south is also home to the enormous and mysterious Empty Quarter, the largest sand sea in the world and the site of Wilfred Thesiger's epic journeys with the nomadic Bedouin. Oman has been the gateway for ships travelling across the Strait of Hormuz, the Indian Ocean and the Arabian Sea for generations. Its prime positioning at the tip of the Arabian Peninsula also proved a major factor for the Omani ancestor's involvement in the Silk Road and Spice Routes. It’s a history that’s deeply woven into the fabric of Oman and noticeable in every corner and crevice of this vast land.

Who is Oman best for?

Oman is continually cited as being one of the friendliest places in the world, making it the perfect spot to escape to as a family, with friends, solo or with a partner. The Omani sense of togetherness ripples throughout the main city of Muscat and into its neighbouring five million inhabitants spread across the land. This is a sand-scape where friendly faces tell of their traditions and rich history, with a sense of warmth and hospitality that’s apparent from the moment your flight lands. The Omani people welcome travellers like family, confirming this is a child-friendly spot and adventurous escape worth experiencing in the Middle East. There is something for all travellers to enjoy here, be it temple visits, ancient treasures, foodie delights or more child-friendly activities to keep little ones enthused and learning without realising. Whatever you’re after, our expert team can tailor your Omani trip to ensure you discover the wonders that are held here.

Best Time to Visit Oman

A country like Oman, with its reliably and consistently warm climate, means there really is no wrong time to visit. However, the scorching summer months between June and August might be a little too warm for comfortable sightseeing, which is why many instead opt for a trip between October and April. Favouring the manageable temperatures and the promise of turtles that can be seen at Ras al Jinz, picture perfect sunsets and even more serene sunrises that bask this craggy landscape in golden warmth.

Whenever you choose to explore Oman, we have several members of the Original Travel team who have travelled in (and even been on honeymoon) here, ready to advise and construct the perfect holiday. We do this by revisiting existing properties and new lodges on a regular basis, constantly exploring new regions and working with only the very best guides, dive outfits and drivers so you can fully explore and appreciate this truly beautiful country while on a luxury holiday.

FAQs

Culture

What is Oman known for?

When it comes to international tourism, Oman is often overshadowed by some of its Middle Eastern neighbours. However, the sector here is growing year on year, and tourism is becoming an increasingly important part of the country’s economy.

Visitors can experience local history and culture in spades in Muscat and other prominent cities –?the souks in the capital are the perfect places to immerse yourself in local life. Or, if you’re visiting in search of utter peace and quiet, the country’s spectacular landscapes – from beaches to mountains –?will offer the ideal backdrop for your relaxing escape.

Plus, as Oman has grown into a more established holiday destination, a greater number of high-end hotels and accommodation options have been developed in the main tourist regions. Luxury and opulence are two words commonly associated with this part of the world, and the country’s catalogue of hotels certainly lives up to this reputation.

What food should I try in Oman?

Hospitality is ingrained in Omani culture, and food plays an important role in this regard; dining is as much about the experience as eating here. The country’s culinary influences have come from all over the world, since Oman is situated on ancient trade routes connecting Africa and Asia. Expect to find dishes rich in spices and heavy on meats, like machboos, where rice is cooked in the same pot as the meat, allowing the flavours to permeate every part of the plate.

A delicacy reserved only for special occasions, shuwa is a national favourite in Oman. Meat (often lamb, goat or camel) that’s been marinated in a spicy paste is wrapped in banana leaves before being slow-cooked in a fire pit in the ground. While the spices can vary depending on the region, the cooking process remains the same, ensuring the meat is incredibly tender.

Planning your trip

What is the best way to get around Oman?

The most common way for visitors to get around Oman is by hiring a car. This will give you the opportunity to venture beyond the tourist trail to discover deeper recesses of Oman’s fascinating natural world; there is a lot to see here, but the main tourist sites are dispersed across the country. Roads are largely well maintained, and traffic is generally light (outside of the main urban areas) meaning competent drivers should have no trouble navigating the roads in Oman. Road signs are written in both Arabic and English.

Travellers planning on staying in the main tourist areas might instead consider public transport (the modern buses are cheap, convenient and comfortable) or rely on taxis, with local apps available to help you find a driver. Domestic flights are also an option, with routes connecting the major cities: a journey from Muscat to Salalah will take approximately one hour and 40 minutes.

What is the weather like in Oman?

Oman experiences a dry and subtropical climate year-round, but regional variations do exist. Average rainfall in the north can be as high as 300 mm, while averages in the south can be as low as 50 mm –?comparable to the driest countries in the world. Expect temperatures to be well into the 30s during the summer months, while daytime temperatures in the winter rarely drop below 20ºC. The slightly milder (yet still pleasant) conditions at this time of year make the winter months the best time to visit.

Where can I stay in Oman?

If it’s your first visit to Oman, we recommend staying in Muscat. Staying in the capital will give you a flavour of the country’s culture and offer easy access to other popular parts. Due to its coastal location, Muscat is also the perfect place to stay if the beaches are set to feature heavily on your itinerary.

Where is Oman?

Oman is situated on the southeast coast of the Arabian Peninsula in West Asia. It’s bordered by the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Yemen

Local information

What is the capital of Oman?

Muscat is the capital city of Oman. It sits on the Gulf of Oman in the north of the mainland.

What languages are spoken in Oman?

Arabic is the official and most prominent language in Oman. Urdu, Baluchi and English are other widely spoken languages.

What's the time zone in Oman?

Oman observes Gulf Standard Time (GST) which is four hours ahead of GMT.

Travel information

What currency does Oman use?

The Omani rial (OMR) is the national currency of Oman. Even though cards are widely accepted across the country, it’s always recommended to carry a small amount of cash for smaller transactions.

How long does it take to fly to Oman from the UK?

A direct flight from London to Muscat will take approximately 7 hours and 10 minutes.

Do I need a visa for Oman?

British citizens need an E-Visa to enter Oman. You can apply for a ten-day or 30-day E-Visa, and applications can be made in advance from the official website. Your visa is valid for one month from the date it’s approved, so be careful not to apply too early or you may be denied entry on arrival. Our team will be able to advise on the Oman entry requirements before you travel.