If you’re craving a vibrant holiday destination teeming with diverse activities and attractions, look no further than Oman.

A realm of beauty and enchantment, it’s a perfect choice for anyone hoping to escape into nature and discover unrivaled sights and stunning scenery. Hiking in the Al Hajar mountains, getting active in the desert and taking a dip in the Sea of Oman will thrill outdoor-enthusiasts, while culture-lovers can get their fill touring ancient UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Be immersed into Omani cuisine by sampling a plethora of delicious dishes or attend a show in the magnificent Royal Opera House in Muscat. Exceptional year-round weather and consistently sunny days makes this a superb destination for holidays with family, friends or as a couple. Don’t just take our word for it, pay Oman a visit and see for yourself. To help whet your appetite, we’ve put together a list of must-dos for your escape. Take a look at the treats on offer and start planning your adventure today.

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Head Into The Desert

Get your adrenaline racing with an excursion to the Arabian desert. Oman is the perfect destination to access the famous Rub’ al Khali, or “Empty Quarter”, where you’ll find vast terracotta dunes that reach up to a monstrous 300 metres high. Sandboarding, dune buggy rides and 4X4 jeep safaris are some of the epic activities to enjoy, all while taking in the expansive views that seem to never end. For a more chilled-out adventure, you might enjoy a hot air balloon ride. Keep a look out for the legendary lost city, Ubar, said to have been located in the Empty Quarter, and engulfed by sand. An enchanting desert oasis can also be found among the dunes; The Wadi Bani Khalid is an exceptional spot to cool off from the sunshine as it’s great for swimming. Picnic and sunbathing areas provide the chance to enjoy this natural wonder all day as a family, couple or solo traveller.

Hit The Water

Cool off from the divine warm weather and take a dip in the refreshing Sea of Oman. With a number of sandy shorelines to choose from across the Sultanate, you won't have a shortage of fun aquatic activities. Qurum Beach is a hotspot for exploring the deep with scuba diving and snorkelling available, as well as jet skiing across the surface and paddleboarding in the nearby mangroves. Masirah Island is renowned for superb kitesurfing conditions and crystal-clear waters, while Al Fahal Island, also known as Shark Island, is the perfect place to swim alongside marine creatures like reef sharks, barracudas and octopi. If you’re searching for dolphins, Mirbat Beach is the place to visit between January and April, or you could spend a fun-filled day at Oman’s naturally-occurring waterpark, Wadi Bani Awf. A collection of small pools are hidden among the mountain faces with “slides” to transport you into the cerulean water below.

Discover Authentic Oman

Oman is a wonder waiting to be discovered and you can explore an array of cultural hotspots. Bursting with ancient architecture and historical sites of interest, you can travel back in time to some of the Middle East’s earliest settlements. Bahla Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a restored fortress that dates back to the third millennium BC and includes remnants of an oasis, souk, mosques and houses. The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is a majestic structure in Muscat’s skyline. The interior includes a spectacular handwoven Persian prayer carpet and a 46ft-tall chandelier hanging in the prayer hall. For a truly authentic taste of Oman, getting your teeth into the traditional cuisine is a must. The capital city, Muscat, is a hub for street food, where you’ll find dishes like mishak, mushaltat and kebab. Coffee, also known as kahwa, is mixed with cardamom powder and served alongside dates.

Tackle The Mountains

The Al Hajar mountain range is a staple of Oman’s varying landscape and is the home to a plethora of exhilarating activities and attractions. Teeming with diverse plants, including fig, date, olive and apricot trees, and animals like vultures, gazelles and the endangered Arabian leopard, you’ll be in a haven of natural beauty that will leave you in awe. You can investigate this terrain through a number of hiking trails that are suitable for all abilities. The balcony walk over Oman’s Grand Canyon is a particular favourite among holidaymakers as it showcases the views of Jebel Shams, the tallest peak in this range. Hidden within the mountains of Oman is the abandoned village of Wadi Bani Habib. This area is a hive for perfectly preserved Omani architecture that’s built into the cliff face.

Explore Muscat

Oman’s historical capital, Muscat, is a centre of the Sultanate’s culture and heritage. Bordering the Gulf of Oman, this port city is home to not only a number of luxury hotels but traditional architecture that highlights the diversity of this country and modern, exciting attractions. For an evening of showstopping performing arts, ballet, opera singing and live music, visit the Royal Opera House or, for a traditional shopping experience, head to the Muttrah Souk. This traditional bazaar is the perfect place to practise your bartering skills and buy a unique Omani souvenir. The Mall of Muscat offers exciting days out for the whole family, with a cinema, indoor rock climbing wall, fairground rides and VR experience as well as Oman Aquarium that offers diving experiences with the aquatic animals. Old Muscat is home to Oman’s ancient fortresses, including Al Jalali and Al Mirani, as well as the Al Alam Palace.

Best time to visit

Sunshine and warm weather is a staple of Oman holidays, as you’ll experience the wonderful subtropical climate that the Persian Gulf is known for. The best time to visit this divine Sultanate is between September and April, as temperatures are slightly cooler, remaining between the mid to high-20s. Conditions are perfect for touring Oman’s historical and cultural hotspots, as well as shopping at the souks and sampling the array of traditional food in Muscat’s street markers. For those seeking a summer holiday, May to August is when the mercury really rises. Temperatures are consistently in the high-30s, making for superb beach holidays dipping into the Sea of Oman to cool off. June is the hottest month, when you can expect on average 13 hours of sunshine per day. Water sports are an excellent pastime all year round as the sea remains warm and inviting. If you’re hoping to dive with marine life, follow the migration and breeding times so you don’t miss anything special.

“Ensure your Oman holiday in 2025 is jam-packed with exhilarating adventure, authentic cultural immersion and fun activities in some of the most beautiful spots on Earth.

“Oman’s diverse landscape is a playground for thrill-seekers as you can reach the peak of the Al Hajar mountains or venture to the legendary Empty Quarter of the Arabian desert.

“The Sea of Oman is a marine wonderland filled with exciting possibilities. Relax on the sun-soaked beaches that border these shores or dive beneath the surface to see a colorful world of exotic marine life like reef sharks, dolphins and turtles.

“Exploring Muscat is a great way to learn about Oman’s history and heritage as well as being in convenient proximity to an array of luxury hotels and fine-dining establishments that will make your Oman holiday memorable.

“Whether you're visiting on an amazing family holiday, a beach getaway, romantic couples’ retreat or as a solo traveller to discover a one-of-a-kind destination, Oman will surpass all of your expectations.”

Barceló Mussanah Resort

Comfort and luxury is prioritised at the Barcelό Mussanah Resort. Located in the bustling port city of Muscat, you’ll have spectacular sea views and unlimited access to an array of attractions. Relax in Oman’s glorious sunshine poolside or on the private beachfront before dining in the exceptional venues and enjoying a tipple in the bars. Guests can also expect a kid’s club, spa, fitness studio, sports courts, water sports facilities and a cinema within this superb resort.

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Kempinski Hotel Muscat

Discover opulence at this family-friendly haven. Staying at the 5-star Kempinski Hotel Muscat means you’ll be able to experience Oman from the luxury of your stunning suite. Dining options are available to suit all tastes, with cuisines including European, Middle Eastern, Thai and Indian. A private beach location and dazzling swimming pools ensure days are filled with sunshine and serenity, while the health club, spa and tennis courts will keep your mind and body relaxed.

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Shangri-La Al Husn, Muscat

Located in Oman’s vibrant capital, the Shangri-La Al Husn, Muscat is an exceptional choice for your next holiday. Opt for blissful days soaking up the sun on this 5-star resort’s exclusively private beach, tantalising treatments in the spa and exhilarating desert excursions. You'll be wowed by the chic eateries, including the Mahhara Beach Restaurant that promises an al fresco dinner and a view and the luxury afternoon high tea served daily.

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Salalah Rotana

Indescribable luxury is ensured when you stay in Oman’s 5-star Salalah Rotana resort. Expansive views of the Indian Ocean stretch out before you from the comfort of your private balcony and warmly decorated accommodation. The premier facilities of this hotel include a spa, fitness club, swimming pools, tennis courts and a closely situated beach for unlimited moments of peace and relaxation. Exceptional dining venues offer cuisines from across the globe to wet your whistle alongside delicious beverages.

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