FEATURED DESTINATIONS
Muscat
Compared to other tourist cities in the United Arab Emirates, such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi, Oman offers a more traditional and less commercialized experience, rich in history, natural beauty, and authentic experiences.
For Canadian travelers, Muscat, the capital, is the destination’s main international gateway. It’s a fascinating port city surrounded by mountains and desert.
Excellent facilities and high-end hotels cater to business travelers, while, after meetings, customers can shop for jewelry, spices, and handcrafts at the bustling Souk Mutrah, or visit the opulent Royal Opera House. The Muscat Grand Mall offers more dining, shopping, and entertainment options. Because Oman Air’s network links Muscat to key destinations in Europe, Asia, and Africa, Muscat could also be an easy meeting point.
Leisure customers will enjoy Muscat’s stunning natural and historic attractions. There are beautiful beaches along the Gulf of Oman, as well as water sports to keep visitors entertained. The nearby Hajar Mountains are popular for hiking and other adventure activities. The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world, is another destination calling card. For more cultural immersion, direct visitors to the Forts of Al Jalali and Al Mirani, twin forts that flank the entrance to the port of Muscat, or suggest a traditional dhow cruise along the coast for fantastic views.
Trip planners suggest planning visits during the cooler months, from October to April, when the weather is pleasant – especially for outdoor activities. Customers should also pack modest clothing, especially when visiting mosques and cultural sites.
Khasab
Khasab, located at the northern tip of Oman’s Musandam Peninsula, is a hidden gem. Known as the ‘Norway of Arabia’, Khasab boasts a tranquil coastline, dramatic fjord-like landscapes, and rugged mountains.
Accessible via Oman Air’s flights from Muscat and a scenic drive or ferry into Musandam, Khasab is an ideal base for exploring Oman’s natural beauty and rich maritime history. For travel agents, it provides a unique destination that combines adventure, relaxation, and cultural discovery.
For leisure travelers, Khasab is famous for its stunning fjords and marine life. Booking a dhow cruise through the fjords is a must, offering spectacular scenery, dolphin sightings, and opportunities for snorkeling and swimming in crystal-clear waters. The area is also renowned for its diving, windsurfing, and fishing. A visit to the Khasab Fortress, built by the Portuguese in the 17th century, offers insight into the region’s strategic importance and history.
Day trips from Khasab include trips to the nearby Telegraph Island, a historic site and a key oil exploration station, along with hiking adventures in the surrounding mountains.
Travelers can also experience traditional Omani culture through visits to local villages, markets, and cultural sites, where they can enjoy fresh seafood and learn about the region’s maritime lifestyle. (Khasab is a paradise for seafood lovers, offering a variety of local dishes such as grilled fish, lobster, and shrimp, all prepared with traditional Omani spices and cooking methods.)
Salalah
Salalah and Muscat are both major cities in Oman, but they offer visitors very different experiences.
Salalah is known for its lush landscapes, seasonal monsoon rains, and stunning nature. There are vast wadis and waterfalls, and visitors flock to see the blowholes at Al Mughsail Beach, which spurt water into the air at high tide.
The climate in Salalah is cooler during the rainy season, from July – September, which is generally the best time to book outdoor activities and eco-tours in the area.
Some of the most popular organised tours include Al Mughsail Beach and Blowholes excursions. There’s also the Sumhuram Archaeological Park, an ancient port city and UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering insights into Oman’s maritime history and the region’s role in the frankincense trade.
The Frankincense Land Museum, located near the city centre, gives visitors an in-depth look at the history of frankincense, showcasing tools, artifacts, and tales about the trade, while the Raymun Summer Palace and Fortress is another popular activity, offering visitors stunning, panoramic views.
The lush valley of Wadi Darbat, another top attraction, features waterfalls, lakes, and scenic eco-tours.
Along with plenty of opportunities to unwind and connect with nature, Salalah caters to business travelers with excellent conference facilities, luxury hotels, and easy access to and from regional markets.