Oman

Oman is a hidden gem on the Arabian Peninsula where visitors can experience bustling culture, contrasting with endless open sands.

Muscat has modern boutiques alongside ancient, bustling souks. At the heart of the old walled city stands the Sultan’s beautiful Palace, guarded by the twin Portuguese forts of Jalali and Nirani.

Just outside the city are the contrasting rolling dunes of the Wahiba Sands, the Wadi Gul with its 1 km drop - Oman’s answer to the Grand Canyon; and miles of untouched golden sandy beaches.

Scott Dunn’s highlights for Oman:

Discover the dramatic Zighy mountains on the Musandam peninsula. Paraglide over Zighy Bay, a truly thrilling experience; try this for stunning views of the bay below and an adrenaline rush.
Explore Ras al-Jinz, part of the eastern Arabian Peninsula. An important turtle nesting site; be sure to visit in the evenings to watch them lay their eggs.

The Musandam Peninsula is located on the Northern tip of Oman, and is best known for its dramatic scenery, stunning fjords and small fishing villages. Shihuh tribes have settled here, and make their living farming goats, fields and fishing. They’re wonderfully friendly and hospitable. The United Arab Emirates splits Oman into two, making Dubai the nearest airport, only about 90 minutes away.

Muscat is divided into three main districts; the old town, Muttrah (the port area) and Ruwi. It’s a remarkably laid-back capital city with a friendly atmosphere, and lots to explore, with its souks and gated walls enclosing the area around the port, the Sultan’s Palace and the harbour.

Surrounded by mountains on all sides, Nizwa is one of the oldest cities in Oman and was the Omani capital in the 6th and 7th centuries. The Nizwa Fort is the most visited monument in Oman.

The epitome of Arabia: this is where you’ll find the rolling sand dunes of many a desert film location. The most impressive dunes can be found in the north east, some reaching an enormous 300 feet high. The Wahiba Sands stretch to the Arabian Sea so, contrary to any assumptions about the desert, there’s a rich wildlife here, including gazelle, mongoose and the large migrant bird populations that f