Beruflich Dokumente
Kultur Dokumente
Tourist Guide
Sultanate of
08 INFORMATION // 45
Welcome 01
AHLAN!
Welcome to Oman!
As-salaamu alaykum, and welcome to the Head out of the city, and Oman becomes All of this, as well as a colourful annual
enchanting Sultanate of Oman. Safe and even more captivating. Explore the small events calendar and a wide range of
inviting, Oman will hypnotise you with towns nestled between the mountains. international sports events, ensures
its fragrant ancient souks, mesmerise Visit the Bedouin villages. Drive the a travel experience unlike any other.
with dramatic landscapes and leave incense route. Youll do it all under the
you spellbound with its stories. Home constant gaze of ancient forts dotted A journey of discovery awaits you in
to numerous UNESCO World Heritage throughout the landscape like imposing this welcoming land at the crossroads
Sites, Oman is steeped in history and sand castles. between Asia, Africa and Western
has inspired some of literatures most civilisation. Enjoy all of the marvels of
famous tales. Stop by the date farms and witness the this unique setting, the ideal gateway
harvesting of the roses, that cover the hills to Southern Arabia.
Muscat, the vibrant capital, is full of with delicate hues of pink and fill the air
memorable sites and experiences. with an enchanting fragrance. Spend the
Visitors can take in extraordinary museum night under the stars in a desert camp then
exhibits, visit ancient houses and wander swim in the wadis, stunning natural pools
the fishing port, home to traditional offering respite from the heat. Marvel at
dhows. Evenings offer the chance to eat Omans magnificent beaches, pristine diving
at one of the citys cafes and restaurants sites and nature reserves. There arent many
or even experience the first Opera House places in the world where you can observe
on the Arabian Peninsula the Royal rare species of turtles up close and swim
Opera House of Muscat. with dolphins in the wild, but you can here.
5
Khasab
MUSANDAM
MUSANDAM
Dibba
AL BURAIMI
Suhar
Al Ain
Barka Muscat
united arab emirates
Nizwa
Sur
Adam Al Kamil
saudi arabia
Hilf
MASIRAH Island
Haima
Dawqah
Indian Ocean
YEMEN Salalah
02 Muscat
Discovering Muscat City // 8
7
Muscat 02
Ibadi Islam in 700 AD. This denomination of an Oman Renaissance building. Its broad
also called Ibdiyya is believed to be Royal Opera House collection of traditional clothes, objects
a division of the Khawaji school of Islam. Opened in 2011, the Royal Opera House and jewellery helps paint a picture of daily
the first of its kind in the Arabian
Formed some 50 years after the death of life in the Sultanate over the centuries. The
Peninsula is the Sultans vision for the
Mohammed, Ibadi is the dominant form of future of Omans cultural heritage and museum also has a collection of local and
Islam in Oman and Zanzibar, although there legacy. It is in the heart of the city and contemporary art and organises temporary
are also Ibadis in the Nafus mountains in its calendar features classical music, exhibitions, concerts and events to support
Libya, the Mzad valley in Algeria, the island jazz, symphony and ballet, as well as young and up-and-coming artists. It is open
international acts. To see the list of
of Jerba in Tunisia and in East Africa. from Saturday to Thursday, 9.30am to 6pm.
performances and to buy tickets, visit
The Grand Mosque is open from Monday www.rohmuscat.org.om
to Thursday, 9am to 11am. The old French consulate Bait Fransa has
also been renovated and converted into a
You may not be able to venture inside the exceptional structures make these two delightful museum. Focusing on the building An evening in Muscat
Al Alam Royal Palace in the Old Muscat of the most beautiful forts in the country. of ties between Oman and France, it also Throughout the capital of the Sultanate, youll find exceptional restaurants, both in four- and
five-star hotels, as well as throughout the city.
area, but it is still worth a visit. Built by Sultan has a cool, luxuriant inner garden. It is open
If youre inclined to explore, there are restaurants serving local cuisine and international flavours.
Qaboos in 1972, its elaborately decorated The fortress-style Old Town gates now house from Sunday to Thursday, 9am to midday. Enjoy generous portions of fish and Turkish dishes at reasonable prices at Turkish House (Al Khuwair
faades and the impressive courtyard give a magnificent museum that allows you to district, +968 24 48 80 71). Ubhar is one of the few Omani restaurants in the capital (Bareeq Al
visitors a good idea of the opulence within explore how the city appeared from its Nature lovers will take great pleasure in Shatti, +968 24 69 98 26). Renowned Omani chef Issa recently opened Al Mandoos (Al Ghubra,
the palace, which is used for high-profile ancient wells to sprawling souks in days discovering the flora and fauna of the +968 96 91 11 40). Take a seat either at an outside table or a Bedouin tent at Kargeen, which serves
public ceremonies and meetings. past. From its highest windows, there is also Sultanate including some in fossilised form oriental, Yemeni and continental specialities (Madinat Qaboos, +968 24 69 22 69). Mumtaz Mahal
a panoramic view of the city and ocean. at the fantastic Natural History Museum in is among the most popular Indian restaurants in the capital (Qurum, +968 24 60 59 07). On the
floor below it, you can enjoy a drink and some tapas at The Left Bank (Qurum, +968 24 69 36 99).
Opposite the Palace, the imposing forms of the Ministry of Heritage and Culture Building
Kurkum offers simple and inspiring fusion meals blending Indian and Arabic flavours dont miss
the Jalali and Mirani Forts stand on the high The beautiful home of Bait al Zubair is a in the Al Khuwair area. The star exhibit, the refreshing lassis (Muttrah, +968 24 71 41 14).
ground around the city and are among its complex of private buildings transformed dominating an entire room, is an enormous Before dinner, work up an appetite with a walk on the waterfront. Qurum public beach is very popular
most distinguishing features. Built in about into an ethnographic museum. It has skeleton of a whale. The museum is open among Omani people at sunset, as is the Muttrah corniche alongside the harbour. Take in the stunning
1580 during the Portuguese occupation, their recently been extended, with the addition from Sunday to Thursday, 9am to midday. array of colours at sunset and inhale the delicious fragrances of saffron, mint and zaatar in the air.
10
Khasab
MUSANDAM
Dibba
AL BURAIMI
Suhar
Al Ain
Barka Muscat
united arab emirates
Nizwa
Sur
Adam Al Kamil
SHARQIYA SANDS
saudi arabia
Hilf
MASIRAH Island
Haima
Dawqah
RUB AL-KHALI
Indian Ocean
YEMEN
Salalah 03 The DeSERT and NIZWA
Sharqiya Sands //14
RUB AL-KHALI // 15
13
The desert and Nizwa 03
The Desert of One overnight camping and, with more days at your Victoria) lies partly in the Sultanate and partly
Thousand and disposal, youll be able to take longer trips to in neighbouring Saudi Arabia and Yemen. One
see truly remarkable views. of the few areas on Earth not to have been fully
One Nights explored, it was nicknamed the Desert of the
With its seemingly endless expanses steeped For an unforgettable experience, visitors can Deserts by the explorer Wilfred Thesiger.
in silence, the desert has a unique appeal. The spend up to two days crossing the entire
landscape is rich and varied, ranging from Sharqiya desert from north to south, ending As it covers the northern region of Dhofar, the
classic high sand dunes to rocky surfaces with the journey with the sight of golden dunes southern part of the Sultanate, it is accessible from
stones in countless different shades. Whatever descending into the Arabian Sea. To extend the city of Salalah. A number of tour operators
form it takes, it is always spellbinding and offers the tour, continue along the coast once you organise trips lasting several days in the area.
unparalleled experiences for anyone who loves reach the sea, following a well-maintained road
adventure and getting back to nature. through the wild, entrancing region that lies Another way to explore the coastal plains is
between the dunes of the Sharqiya Sands and to drive from Muscat to Salalah, visiting Rub
Seventy per cent of Oman is desert and there the blue sea. al Khali on the way. The 12-hour journey along
are many ways to explore it. Accommodation a route of approximately 1,000 kilometres
options range from complete comfort and Any Omani desert experience should be led by provides a great opportunity to admire the vast
luxury to more low-key options for adventure a licensed tour guide as they have the best local desert plains known as hamadas in the heart of
lovers and the budget-conscious. It also offers Sharqiya Sands area in the country. Using either of these two knowledge on traversing the wide plains. the country. It is also an excellent chance to see
a great experience for families: imagine camel The vast Sharqiya desert also known as cities as a base means you can experience the the elusive Arabian oryx and the giant volcanic
riding during the day and camping under the the Wahiba Sands, since this is the name of desert in a day trip. Rub al-Khali rock formations called the Mushroom Rocks in
stars at night. the local tribe lies at the heart of Oman. A vast area of Oman is covered by the Rub the provinces of Dhofar and Al Wusta.
Throughout the day, its dunes change colour Although tours lasting just a few hours are al Khali, the largest expanse of sand in the
A journey into the desert allows visitors to from white to yellow to red. available, it is worth remembering nothing world. This Arabic phrase means the Empty The desert is one of the
witness the daily lives of the exceptionally compares to the magic of a night spent under Quarter, and this desert stretches over a
hospitable Bedouins who still live on Just a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Muscat star-studded skies in the bewitching silence of quarter of the entire Arabian Peninsula. Its key parts of a voyage to
its outskirts. or Sur, it is the most easily accessible desert the desert. There are lots of opportunities for enormous surface area (twice the size of the Sultanate of Oman.
14 15
The desert and Nizwa 03
AL BURAIMI
Suhar
Al Ain DIMANIYAT Island
Barka
Muscat
united arab emirates
Nizwa
Sur
Adam Al Kamil
RAS AL-JINZ
saudi arabia
Hilf
MASIRAH Island
Haima
Duqm
Dawqah
DHOFAR
Indian Ocean
YEMEN
Salalah Mirbat 04 The Omani Coast
Enjoying the coast in Muscat // 21
19
The Omani Coast 04
24
Khasab
MUSANDAM
Dibba
AL BURAIMI
Suhar
Al Ain
Barka Muscat
united arab emirates JABAL SHAMS
Nizwa
JABAL AL AKHDAR
Sur
Adam Al Kamil
saudi arabia
Hilf
MASIRAH Island
Haima
Dawqah
DHOFAR
Indian Ocean
YEMEN
Salalah 05 The Wadis and the
Mountain of Sun
The Hajar Mountains //28
MUSANDAM //29
DHOFAR //29
WADIs //30
27
The wadis and the Mountain of Sun 05
The Wadis and the The Hajar Mountains sunshine each day. At 3,075 metres they are Musandam
Mountain of Sun The Hajar Mountains, Omans major stretch
of peaks, are 600 kilometres long from the far
the highest points in the Sultanate and some
of the most beautiful locations in the country.
The Musandam Peninsula is an enclave of Oman
separated from the rest of the country by the
Postcard villages sitting between rock faces and north in Musandam to the south of Sur. They are Another natural wonder not to be missed in United Arab Emirates. The northernmost part
breathtaking canyons with fertile, lush orchards divided into two ranges: the lower Jabal Akhdar the area is Wadi Nakhar, better known as the of the country, it is known for its Arabian fjords
bearing almonds, apricots and pomegranates and the higher Jabal Shams. Outdoor activities Grand Canyon of Oman due to its majestic, tall cliffs plunging into the sea and creating
can be found in Omans mountain ranges, the for people of all ages and levels of fitness are breathtaking views. It can be admired from marvellous views. A short scenic mountain road
largest in the Arabian Peninsula with peaks available, all with a stunning backdrop. an altitude of 1,950 metres at the site known that can be travelled along by vehicle or on
rising to more than 3,000 metres. They start at simply as the plateau by the locals. foot winds its way from its capital, Khasab, to
the well-known Arabian fjords in Musandam Jabal Akhdar, with its terraced agricultural land the heart of the peninsula. Wadi Bih also offers
and stretch through to the Hajar Mountains on steep mountain slopes, is considered a A visit to the area also provides a chance good hiking opportunities. Hikes through the
and the peaks of Dhofar in the far south. regional highlight. Translated from the Arabic to head underground at the Al Hoota Cave. mountainous areas of the peninsula can be
Omans mountains offer spectacular views, for green mountains, it is an incredibly fertile Thought to be more than two million years old, combined with trips through the fjords in kayaks
each with a unique landscape and a broad area that is pleasantly cool with a large number Al Hoota is 4.5 kilometres long and home or traditional dhows.
selection of outdoor activities. of traditional villages. The ideal place to view to a rich ecosystem including two lakes and countries when temperatures often top
Jabal Akhdar is from the Saiq Plateau, which more than a hundred animal species. However, Dhofar 40C. The landscape is unique and stunning,
The list of adventures on mountain trails and lies at an altitude of 2,000 metres. Spend its the spectacular array of stalagmites and At approximately 800 metres above sea with cows and camels intermingling in the
in the wadis is practically endless: you can days exploring its countless walking paths stalactites that is the real drawcard. level, the southern area of the Sultanate is fields along the valleys.
go swimming in natural pools, canyoning, (not all of which are signposted), discovering particularly deserving of a visit right after the
climbing, scaling via ferrata routes, mountain spellbinding spots and photographing the The western Hajar area has an equally monsoon rains. In the summer months, from The city of Salalah is a great starting point for
biking and caving. Hiking is another fun striking landscape. Access to the plateau is by impressive array of wadis and villages July to September, the peaks are covered in a people travelling around the region. To the east is
option with seven marked trails that can take 4WD only. From the plateau, another road leads surrounded by attractive palm groves. carpet of lush, emerald-green vegetation and Wadi Darbat, one of the most beautiful wadis in
a couple of hours up to a few days to traverse. to the peaks of Jabal Akhdar. The most beautiful valleys include the shrouded in a pearly grey mist. The summer the area with ample opportunities for hiking. See
An additional bonus is the opportunity to fully spectacular Wadi Bani Awf and Wadi al monsoon, known as the khareef, means there the sparkling waterfalls of Jabal Samhan and stop
embrace nature by freely camping anywhere Jabal Shams Arabic for Mountain of Sun Sahtan, which has many riverbeds leading is an amazing contrast between this region and at little stalls selling barbecued camel meat
you like in complete safety. are the first peaks to feel the rays of to nearby picturesque villages. the rest of the country as well as neighbouring and goat shish kebabs. Bedouins in the area
28 29
The wadis and the Mountain of Sun 05
Jabal Akhdar Rock most beautiful and popular natural sites in the Where to stay
Rose harvest In addition to camping, which is highly enjoyable, safe and possible
area, the blowholes of Al Mughsayl, where the
From March to May, the slopes of Jabal anywhere you like in Oman, there are plenty of other accommodation
sea rises through natural cavities and sprays up options in the mountains. It is always best to book in advance.
Akhdar are covered with vast patches of
high in the air like a geyser. Even further to the
pink and the air is filled with a delicate Recently opened near the sea, Wadi Shab Resort offers an authentic
fragrance as the roses bloom. The west, at Dalkut, is a scenic road that zigzags up
experience close to nature. More information: www.wadishabresort.com
indigenous Jabal Akhdar Rock Rose has through one of the most stunning landscapes
been cultivated by the inhabitants of the in the country. Approximately 15 kilometres from the centre of Nizwa is the four-star
mountain villages for generations and Golden Tulip Nizwa with 102 bedrooms, three suites, a garden, pool
their flowers are gathered to produce one
of the Sultanates most quintessential
Wadis and gym. More information: www.goldentulipnizwa.com
products: attar (rose oil). It is a multi- With spectacular oases and natural jade- In the centre of Nizwa, Falaj Daris is a classic, practical three-star hotel
purpose ingredient included in fragrances green pools scattered along their lengths, the with 55 spacious rooms, two pools and a fitness club. More information:
and flavourings for local confectionery and wadis are valleys formed by flowing streams. www.falajdarishotel.com
coffee. The long, fascinating distillation These watercourses are also used in the aflaj In the mountains, the Saiq Plateau offers three accommodation options.
process is still carried out in the traditional Jabal al Akhdar Hotel is a traditional chalet with 24 rooms and excursions
that forms the traditional irrigation system Wadi Bani Khalid lies in the Sharqiya region, approximately 200
manner in many areas, with the petals and hiking trips in the surrounding area. More information: +968 25 42 90
being heated over a fire in large containers throughout the Sultanate. They create extremely kilometres from the capital. Its pools are always full of water and
striking landscapes and are among the main 09. With incredible views, the Sahab Hotel offers a variety of activities, such are very busy at the weekend when the local Omani people come
called bormas. A visit during this time of as caving, hiking and archaeology excursions, as well as visits to local farms
the year really is breathtaking. attractions in the Sultanate. There are to milk goats or harvest rose petals. More information: www.sahab-hotel. for a swim and to picnic with their families and friends.
especially large numbers of them in the com. The luxurious Alila Jabal Akhdar resort consists of 86 villas, a spa
Hajar Mountains and at Nizwa. and swimming pool. The resort has been built to blend with the natural Adventure lovers can follow the riverbed on a journey lasting
often serve these delicacies to visitors curious environment and has breathtaking vistas of Green Mountain and the three days and two nights all the way to Wadi Tiwi, which opens
to discover traditional life in the mountains. It takes just a few hours to drive from Muscat ranges. More information: www.alilahotels.com up among lush palm groves. Another less commonly followed
to the interconnected Wadi Dayqah and Wadi For those looking for a deep connection with nature, tented The View route passes gigantic rocks to the villages of Bidah and Saiq. The
On the western side, the mountain range slopes As Suwayh. Explore more than 60 kilometres (Al Hamra) epitomises the idea of eco-luxury, combining environmental wadis that weave their way through the western part of the Hajar
friendliness with deluxe facilities. Its respect for the ecosystem, magnificent
down to the sea, creating a series of beaches, of tracks here in an off-road vehicle, stopping Mountains Wadi Shab and Wadi Tiwi stretch down to the sea,
views of the valley below and attention to detail make this a truly special,
inlets and rocky stretches of jagged coastline with occasionally for a break to plunge into crystal- welcoming place. More information: www.theviewoman.com so are perfect for combining an excursion in the mountains with
great visual appeal. It is also home to one of the clear freshwater pools. a camping holiday on the beach.
30 31
Khasab
MUSANDAM
Dibba
AL BURAIMI
Suhar
Al Ain
Barka
Muscat
united arab emirates
Nizwa
Sur
Adam Al Kamil
saudi arabia
Hilf
MASIRAH Island
Haima
Dawqah
Indian Ocean
Salalah
YEMEN
33
Nature, hiking and adventure 06
Nature, hiking flight from the capital. At least three days are
and adventure Hiking or biking in the needed to take in the beauty of the fjords that
Hajar Mountains drop sharply into the crystal-clear waters of
With its 3,165 kilometres of coast, two great There are at least 30 trails covering the gulf.
several hundred kilometres in total in the
deserts, mountain chains and rich natural
Hajar Mountains. Serious trekkers can
environment, the Sultanate of Oman is perfect take the 12-day tour from Jabal Shams A little more action
for people who love the great outdoors. and Jabal Akdhar, covering the western If you like active holidays and adrenaline rushes,
part of the Hajar massif. The Al Hamra spend two weeks trying out everything the
Nature lovers area offers the opportunity for mountain Sultanate has to offer. As soon as you arrive
biking led by a guide. Many professional
Starting from Muscat, head out on a in Muscat, book a diving trip for the next
tour operators are on hand to offer you
two-week journey of discovery. There are the best experience.
numerous amazing beaches, such as Bandar
Al Jissah, Qantab, Yiti and As Sifah, spread
Camping
There are no official campsites in the
along the coastal road to the east of the the dunes of Sharqiya Sands by sunset and Sultanate, but lovers of the natural
capital. Theyre perfect for a relaxed day at spend the night in one of the campsites. The environment and outdoor life can choose
the seaside, but you can also camp on them at next few days can be devoted to the Hajar to camp in some truly remarkable
night and look directly up at the stars before Mountains. Three days should be enough to locations. The laws of the country impose
no restrictions in this respect, so you can
falling asleep. The same applies to Fins Beach, see the main wonders of the region: Jabal camp wherever you like: near wadis, in the
an ideal starting point for exploration of Wadi Shams, Jabal Akhdar, the Saiq Plateau, the mountains, on the beach or in the desert. With its wide open spaces,
Shab and Wadi Tiwi. Its a two-hour drive huge Al Hoota Cave and Wadi Nakhar, also The only requirement is to show respect for
from Fins to Ras Al Jinz turtle reserve (another known as the Grand Canyon of Oman. It is a the environment and local people. The ideal the Sultanate of Oman is a
hour in the car will deliver you to the town of very good idea to travel around this area with period for camping is between October paradise for outdoor sports
and April, but even in the summer pleasant
Sur). Day four can be spent exploring Wadi a guide who has expert knowledge of the temperatures and astounding views can and activities.
Bani Khalid, with its natural pools great for region. The ninth day can be used to return be found on high ground, such as the Saiq
a cooling swim and perfect picnic spots in to Muscat, before spending the final few Plateau and the peaks of Jabal Shams.
the shade of palm trees. You can make it to days in the Musandam Peninsula, a one-hour
34 35
Nature, hiking and adventure 06
Dibba
AL BURAIMI
Suhar
Al Ain
Barka Muscat
united arab emirates
saudi arabia
Hilf
MASIRAH Island
Haima
Dawqah
Land of Frankincense
YEMEN Salalah 07 The Culture of Oman
Indian Ocean
Land of Frankincense //40
39
The culture of Oman 07
Traces of the countrys extraordinary heritage flourish and decline. Oman has always been of Wadi Dawkah, the remains of the caravan the Al Husn souk in Salalah. Once a year, in
can be found in its archaeological sites, one of the largest exporters of the resin that oasis of Shisr, the port of Khor Rori, and the September, a big market trading solely in resin
historical buildings, craftsmanship, clothing comes from the local Boswellia sacra tree. archaeological site of Al Balid, dating back to and its essential oil is held in Salalah.
and cuisine. Visitors will find countless pleasant the 4th century BC (although it was rebuilt
surprises big and small making a holiday in The Dhofar region is the starting point for the during the Middle Islamic period). In Salalah, UNESCO World Heritage Sites
the Sultanate incredibly special. famous incense route that first connected the the Al Balid Maritime Museum displays 5,000 A number of sites and cultural features in
Arabian Peninsula with the Mediterranean in years of the Sultanate of Omans history, from Oman have been added to the UNESCO
The Land of Frankincense Roman times. The great historical and cultural naval construction to navigation and maritime World Heritage List. As well as the Land of
From ancient times, the cultivation and export value of the area has been acknowledged by routes over the Indian Ocean. Frankincense sites, they include the ingenious,
of incense helped to establish Oman on the UNESCO, which added four sites that make up multi-branched canals of the traditional
major trading routes that were capable of the Land of Frankincense to its World Heritage Incense is still produced in the region today irrigation systems known as aflaj. Then there
making cities and places of commerce both List in 2000. They include the frankincense trees and it can be bought all over Oman and at are the historic sites of Bat, Al-Khutm and Al Ain,
40 41
The culture of Oman 07
which form the largest and best preserved The Bedouin Events
The term Bedouin comes from the Omans citizens have a very healthy appetite for culture and the arts, and there are numerous events, from fashion
collection of settlements and necropolises from
Arabic badawi meaning desert festivals to sporting contests, held throughout the year.
the 3rd millennium BC in the world. Finally, dweller. There are many nomadic
there is the immense fort in Bahla, capital of tribes in Oman who live not only in the From September until May, the Royal Opera House in Muscat, the first classical music structure of its kind in the Arabian
the Banu Nebhan tribe from the 12th to the deserts but also in the mountainous Peninsula, offers a prestigious program featuring the biggest names both local and international in classical music,
end of the 15th century, which has been fully areas and along the coast. They make jazz, opera and ballet. More information: www.rohmuscat.org
a living by fishing, raising livestock
restored. More information:
and taking part in seasonal work such From the end of January to the end of February the Muscat Festival takes place, enlivening the already magical city as it
whc.unesco.org/en/statesparties/om as growing date palms and harvesting presents the best of Omani culture. There are craft displays, light shows, concerts, sporting events and the citys celebrity
crops. Bedouins are very hospitable chefs cooking top traditional dishes for everyone to sample. More information: www.muscat-festival.com
The fort route people who are faithful to their
Looking like enormous sandcastles, traditions but also show a cautious In February, the Tour of Oman attracts the top cyclists from all over the world, including Australias Cadel Evans.
openness to the modern world. More information: www.tourofoman.om
magnificent, immense forts can be found on
The men from the different tribes can
high ground and rocky outcrops throughout be distinguished by the colours of their For fashionistas, Muscat Fashion Week is a must-see, as designers from Oman, Asia, Africa and the Middle East
the Sultanate. More than 500 forts, castles and turbans and the ways in which they showcase their latest creations. More information: www.muscatfashionweek.com
watchtowers each with its own special charms wear them. Similarly, it is possible to
or distinctive features have been built over identify the tribe of a woman by looking From October until March, camel races are organised almost every week, mainly in Al Batinah and Sharqiya regions.
at her extremely colourful clothes, such Wintertime is also the season of bullfights in Seeb and Barka.
the course of Omans long history. Muscat, the
as her embroidered trousers and shawls,
capital city, is dominated by the awe-inspiring as they reflect the tribe or ethnicity of The Salalah Festival, held during July and August, celebrates the khareef (monsoon season), which brings cool
Mirani and Jalali Forts. Standing on top of a the person. temperatures and sees vegetation burst into life. There is a full schedule of concerts, traditional cultural shows and
rocky plateau that juts out of an endless green activities for families with children, including the fantastic kite festival. More information: www.salalahtourismfestival.com
plain of date palms, the Nakhal Fort is truly
The Sultanates ancient sailing tradition continues thanks to a number of high-profile international competitions. Sailing
majestic. The Bait Naman and Al Hobe forts enclosed by delicately carved wooden panels.
Arabia: The Tour, held in February, has legs throughout the north of the Arabian Peninsula (www.sailingarabiathetour.
are two more unmissable sights. From the highest point of the building, the views com). High-speed catamarans are the drawcard during Marchs Extreme Sailing Series (www.extremesailingseries.com).
of the Hajar Mountains are breathtaking. Dhofars In March, Mussanah Race Week, an international dinghy regatta, is held (www.mussanahraceweek.com/en/).
Jabrin Castle is also spellbinding, with its Taqah Castle, the birthplace of Omans current
secret passages, painted ceilings and courtyards ruler, Sultan Qaboos, has been fully restored.
42 43
Khasab
MUSANDAM
Dibba
AL BURAIMI
Suhar
Al Ain
Barka Muscat
united arab emirates
Nizwa
Sur
Adam Al Kamil
saudi arabia
Hilf
MASIRAH Island
Haima
Dawqah
08 INFORMATION
Indian Ocean
Salalah A profile of the Sultanate //46
YEMEN
Vocabulary //49
Getting to Oman country (Muscat, Salalah, Sohar, Sur, Al Buraimi). of hotels from three-star to luxury five-star wa alaykum assalaam (and with you).
Airlines More information: www.ontcoman.com to suit all budgets and tastes, and visitors A more informal greeting is sabah al khayr
Currently there are no direct flights from Australia and New Zealand. can expect exceptional service. The recent (good day), to which the response
However, Emirates, Etihad Airways and Qatar Airways offer regular air Documents development of tourism in the country has is sabah annur (which literally means
services with daily connecting flights from Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Doha. To enter the country, you need a passport encouraged expansion into natural areas day of light).
Oman Air does not fly into Australia but visitors can connect with Malaysian valid for at least six months. New Zealand with fewer visitors, such as the regions In the evening: mas al khayr (good evening),
Airways at Kuala Lumpur and Thai Airways at Bangkok into Muscat passport holders do not require a visa, while around the mountains of Nizwa and the coast to which the response is mas annur.
International Airport. Australian travellers can apply for a visa upon along Sur where striking, unique desert and Welcome: ahlan wa sahlan.
arrival at Muscat International Airport at mountain camps are available. Even today Goodbye: maasalama.
Getting around Oman the cost of either five Rials (for stays of up it is possible to camp freely anywhere in How are you?: kef halak?
Oman Air operates a number of domestic flights that connect Muscat to to 10 days) or 20 Rials (for stays from 11 to Oman, including in the mountains and on (if you are asking a man) or
Salalah (five to seven flights a day) and Khasab (one flight a day). 30 days). If you plan to travel by land to the the beaches under a canopy of stars. Kef halik? (if you are asking a woman).
Musandam Peninsula from Muscat, you will Well: ana mabsout (man),
It takes five hours to travel from Muscat to Khasab by high-speed need to pay for a second visa when going ani mabsouta (woman).
catamaran (on a weekly basis). The service is provided by the National through the United Arab Emirates border. Vocabulary Thank you: shukran.
Ferry Company, which also connects Khasab to Shinas (four-hour trip, If you fly to Musandam, the visa from your Omanis are always very happy to come Youre welcome: afuan.
on a weekly basis). More information: www.nfc.om arrival in Muscat will be sufficient. across a visitor to their country who speaks Yes, please: naam, shukran.
a little Arabic. It is a good idea to learn a few No, thank you: laa, shukran.
Visitors can travel by car on Omans main long-distance roads and in off- Conduct simple greetings and introductory words. Whats your name?: Aysh ismak?
road vehicles on smaller roads and tracks. Driving takes place on the right- It is always best to ask for permission before (if you are asking a man) or
hand side of the road. Visitors can drive by themselves on the main road taking photographs of people, especially of Unlike certain other languages, there are no aysh ismik? (if you are asking a woman).
links, but for more demanding trips in the desert or the mountains, it is women and children. distinct formal and informal versions of the My name is...: ismi...
much better to have a local guide and driver. Taxis are available in Muscat. word you in Arabic.
The Oman National Transport Company operates a line of comfortable, Where to Stay The most formal greeting is as-salaamu alaykum
efficient coaches that provide links between the main cities in the The Sultanate of Oman offers a wide range (peace be with you), to which the response is
48 49
Useful contacts
In Australia IN OMAN
The Consulate General of the Ministry of Tourism
Sultanate of Oman PO Box 200 PC 115
Level 4, Suite 2, 493 St Kilda Road, Madinat Al Sultan Qaboos, Muscat
Melbourne VIC 3004 Tel. +968 24 58 87 00
Tel. +61 (0)3 9820 4096 Fax +968 24 58 88 80
Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm info@omantourism.gov.om
c.general@oman.org.au www.omantourism.gov.om
www.oman.org.au
Australian Embassy and Consular Section
In New Zealand
Sultanate of Oman Tourism
PO Box 279, Auckland 1140
Tel. +64 (0)9 977 2222
50
Sultanate of
www.tourismoman.com.au