Oman is known for its stunning natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere, and for its safety advantage, which gives the tourist a beautiful, exceptional experience, making it a prime choice for anyone searching for things to do in Oman.
Visitors praise Omani hospitality, as the Omani people receive them with kindness, warmth, and welcome.
According to experts, Oman ranks among the safest countries in the world in terms of security and safety; it enjoys stability that makes it a preferred destination for families and travelers alike, especially for those planning things to do in Oman.
For flexible planning of a comfortable trip to engage in the most beautiful activities in Oman, you can benefit from the Mix Fly feature from almatar, it allows you to choose different airlines for the outbound and return flights, which gives you greater flexibility in travel times and cost savings, a helpful perk while organizing things to do in Oman.
Impressions of visitors to the Sultanate of Oman
Many tourists relate a positive impression of Oman from the moment they arrive.
Many of them express amazement at the great diversity, from towering mountains and green plateaus to golden deserts and calm coasts, with Omanis welcoming them with kindness and hospitality.
Travelers describe the experience as Oman being a natural paradise infused with a rare sense of safety and comfort.
Thanks to this blend of enchanting nature and social calm, visitors find themselves living an anxiety-free experience, which makes them enjoy activities, that is, things to do in Oman, during their sightseeing tours.
The 10 best things to do in Oman for first-time visitors
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Strolling through the historic Muttrah Souq
It is one of Muscat’s oldest and most vibrant markets, where its narrow alleys interlace and fill with old shops and traditional goods.
Muttrah Souq is considered a journey through time, as it was a main commercial center before the discovery of oil.
Here you will find everything from aromatic spices and incense beads to silverwork and traditional Omani textiles.
It is recommended to visit at sunset to enjoy wonderful atmospheres under the lantern lights.
You can also sip cardamom coffee in one of its heritage cafés while you wander among its shops for a unique and exciting experience, a favorite on many lists of things to do in Oman.
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Visiting the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
A tour in Muscat is not complete without visiting the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, the largest mosque in the Sultanate which was completed in 2001.
This magnificent architectural landmark is known for its minarets and massive white dome, and it can accommodate about 20,000 worshipers.
Tourists are captivated inside by the luxurious handmade prayer carpet, artworks, and Arabic inscriptions on the walls.
The mosque is open to non-Muslim visitors as well, and it is considered an example of contemporary Islamic architecture.
You can schedule your visit at appropriate times (with modest dress for women) to enjoy the beauty of the design and the serenity of the place, and to get to know Omani religious culture.
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Diving at the Daymaniyat Islands Nature Reserve
The Daymaniyat Islands lie off the coast of Muscat, and they are a globally renowned nature reserve with a distinctive marine heritage.
The islands are famous for their pristine white sands and clear waters rich in coral reefs and diverse marine life.
You can set off on a boat trip for scuba diving or snorkeling to explore the reefs and see sea turtles and colorful dolphins up close.
The islands encompass a beautiful, rich marine environment that is a model of marine biodiversity, making them an ideal destination for lovers of water sports and relaxation amid stunning nature, and a highlight among things to do in Oman.
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Exploring Wadi Bani Khalid
Wadi Bani Khalid is considered one of the most beautiful valleys in eastern Oman, where towering rocky slopes meet a series of natural turquoise pools.
These pools are easily accessible via moderate pathways, and you suddenly find yourself in a green paradise interlaced with palm trees and fresh waters that invite swimming and refreshment.
This valley combines the beauty of nature and the charm of rural tranquility, and it allows everyone, including children, to enjoy the sight of flowing waters and the surrounding scenery as if you were in a land of fairy tales.
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A desert adventure in the Al Wahiba Sands
Visiting the Al Wahiba Sands desert is one of the most wonderful activities in Oman.
The golden red sands stretch calmly to the horizon, creating an unparalleled enchanting scene.
You can arrange a 4×4 safari to a Bedouin camp prepared for visitors, where you can ride camels and do drift activities on the sand dunes.
At sunset, the sky is painted with dazzling colors and gentle shadows spread across the dunes, and you can camp under the clear desert sky filled with stars.
This majestic silence, far from the bustle of cities, offers moments of serenity and contemplation, enriched by conversations around the fire and an authentic Arabian ambiance, a must-try entry on any “things to do in Oman” list.
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Hiking in the Al Hajar Mountains (Jabal Shams)
For lovers of heights and hiking in nature, Jabal Shams in the Al Hajar range offers stunning panoramic views.
This mountain is known as the “Mountain of the Sun” for its altitude that sets the atmosphere aglow at sunrise and sunset.
A tourist can ascend to what is known as (Shurfat Shams), a narrow rocky ledge that overlooks a sprawling valley with views similar to a grand canyon.
The area includes hiking trails with wonderful vistas and a cooler climate compared to the plains, as well as proximity to old mountain villages.
According to the tourist guide, the mountain peaks in this area are a paradise for nature lovers and long-distance hikers, where the visitor experiences the warmth of the Omani countryside and the beauty of rugged roads.
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Visiting Nizwa Fort and its historic markets
Nizwa constitutes an important cultural and historical center in Oman, and its weekly market and ancient fort are among the most prominent landmarks to visit.
On Friday morning, Nizwa’s market comes alive with the livestock market where farmers display their goats to the locals.
After that, you can wander the old city souq to buy silver artifacts, coral, and incense.
It is also worth climbing the nearby Nizwa Fort to take a look at the architecture of old defensive buildings and to learn about the region’s history.
Combining deep-rooted culture with the atmosphere of the traditional market provides an authentic and rich Omani experience, and it is often recommended when planning things to do in Oman.
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Watching turtles at Ras Al Jinz
On Oman’s southeastern coast, Ras Al Jinz is a unique station for observing sea turtles.
Night programs are organized in the reserve to watch green turtles as they dig the beaches to lay eggs under the moonlight.
The scene is enchanting and inspiring; the turtles appear to emerge calmly from the water, then begin digging a pit to deposit their eggs safely.
This experience, as the guide indicates, fills the visitor’s heart with admiration for natural balance and invites contemplation of the marine life cycle.
Visiting Ras Al Jinz is a favorite activity for families and lovers of marine and wildlife, as it offers a direct view of these endangered creatures in their original habitat.
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A boat trip in the Musandam Fjords
Some call the Musandam Strait the “Arabian Norway” because of the variety of its shores and narrow inlets.
You can depart from the nearby city of Khasab on a trip to see the sharp rocky cliffs plunging into the deep waters of the Gulf.
The trip is often accompanied by sightings of friendly sea dolphins leaping around the boat, and by relaxing on its deck.
You can also stop for snorkeling or try kayaking in extremely clear waters.
The Musandam Fjords provide a different climate and a marine nature distinct from the rest of Oman, and they are among the unforgettable activities in any Omani tour, frequently cited among things to do in Oman.
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Tasting Omani foods and sweets
A trip to Oman is not complete without experiencing Omani cuisine.
Traditional dishes such as shuwa (meat prepared underground for several hours), majboos (spiced rice with meat), and the famous Omani halwa are a true delight for gourmets.
You can eat them in local restaurants or by the invitation of a present Omani family hosting you.
After the meal, do not forget to drink Arabic coffee with cardamom along with local dates, as it is a symbol of Omani hospitality and generosity.
This culinary experience adds a pleasant cultural dimension and an unforgettable taste to any family or solo trip, and it rounds out classic things to do in Oman.
Frequently asked questions about tourism in the Sultanate of Oman
What is the best time to visit Oman?
The period from October to April is considered ideal to enjoy mild weather and a comfortable atmosphere in most areas of Oman.
Is Oman safe for tourism?
Yes, Oman is classified as one of the most peaceful and stable countries in the region, and visitors enjoy a high level of safety and notable social calm.
What are the most prominent things to do in Oman for first-time visitors?
Activities are diverse, from visiting the historic Muttrah Souq and the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque to diving in the Daymaniyat Islands Nature Reserve, and do not miss hiking in beautiful wadis, spending a night in the Al Wahiba Sands desert, or watching turtles at Ras Al Jinz.
What is the Mix Fly feature when booking flights?
The Mix Fly feature allows you to choose different airlines for the outbound flight and other airlines for the return, which gives you greater flexibility to choose your flight times at the best prices through almatar.