Enchanting Oman is a place of outstanding beauty and wonder – but what type of getaway in this spellbinding destination is the perfect match for you?

Maybe your idea of holiday heaven is a romantic time in picturesque surroundings, fun-packed days with family, solo adventures on sun-kissed shores or exhilarating activities with friends. Whatever you desire, this magical Arabian nation is the place to experience an escape like no other. Prepare to be enthralled by rich history and culture, beautiful wadis, rolling desert sands, ancient tombs, mighty mountain ranges, cerulean lagoons and coral reefs teeming with marine life. Officially known as the Sultanate of Oman and comprising many regions, including Muscat, Al Buraimi, Dhofar and Al Wasta, this awe-inspiring country is also home to pristine beaches, big city thrills, bustling souks and irresistible cuisine. With so much to enjoy, we decided to take a look at the types of holidays on offer in this scintillating destination.

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Family Holidays In Oman

There’s never a dull moment during a family holiday in Oman, with a multitude of activities to enjoy. Get lost in a labyrinth of rooms in Oman’s forts, have a splashing time in the rock pools at Wadi Shab canyon or embrace the rush of a dune-bashing adventure in a 4x4 vehicle in the desert. Families can also explore the Majlis al Jinn, the second largest cave chamber in the world, or visit the Al Wusta Wildlife Reserve in the desert and coastal hills, the only breeding ground for the rare Arabian Oryx. Family-friendly hotels in Oman feature kids’ clubs, pools and playgrounds, while amazing beaches to discover include Al Bustan Beach, Sur Beach, Salalah Beach and Al Sifah Beach. What’s more, if you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind souvenir to take home, the colourful souks in Muscat are great places to pick up hand-make toys and more.

Solo Adventures In Oman

Oman is a superb choice for solo travellers, with the chance to unleash your spirit of adventure and experience a warm welcome everywhere you go. A range of excellent guided tours are a great way to explore the Sultanate and meet new friends. You’ll travel in a private air-conditioned coach or 4X4 vehicle, with the opportunity to visit key attractions such as the Wahiba Sands, the remote village of Wadi Habib, Bimmah Sinkhole and Oman’s Grand Canyon. Swim in a refreshing wadi pool, meet turtles by moonlight on Ras Al Jinz beach or visit the Temple of Sin in the ancient city of Sumhuram. The Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus Tour in the capital Muscat is perfect for single travellers who want to discover the city’s many landmarks, including Muttrah Souk, the Royal Opera House and Al Alam Palace, an official residence of Sultan Haitham bin Tariq Al Said.

Romantic Holidays In Oman

Oman is a dream come true for honeymooners and couples. Soak up the heavenly sunshine on the sands of Qurum Beach, or set sail on the tranquil waters of the Musandam Peninsula in a traditional Dhow boat, where graceful dolphins will swim alongside you. Go hiking to hidden waterfalls, take a scenic drive through the Al Hajar Mountains or stroll hand in hand along the captivating 3km waterfront at Muttrah Corniche, taking in the breathtaking vistas and witnessing spectacular sunsets. Opportunities for relaxation at your hotel include indulgent spa sessions, dinners on the beach, lazy hours beside the pool and romantic Arabian nights under the stars. A visit in the alluring desert is also recommended, with the chance to sit down for Omani coffee and dates with a Bedu family in the dunes around The Wahiba, or spend intimate nights under canvas in a traditional Bedouin camp.

Activity Holidays In Oman

Take flight to beguiling Oman for the ultimate activity holiday in jaw-dropping natural surroundings. This sun-drenched destination is a fantastic choice for groups of friends yearning for a feast of thrills, spills and adventure. Get your walking boots out for some serious trekking in the spectacular Omani Grand Canyon (Wadi Ghul), or venture into the vast desert expanse at Rub' al Khali (the Empty Quarter). Here you can enjoy a range of activities, including camel rides, jeep safaris, sandboarding and hot air balloon trips. Go dolphin watching on a boat tour at Dimaniyat Islands, scuba dive to marvel at green turtles, whale sharks and manta rays, or explore the caves, waterfalls and pools in Snake Gorge. A myriad of other exciting activities in Oman includes ziplining, rock climbing, abseiling, kitesurfing, canyoning, off-road driving, jet skiing, paragliding, mountain biking, camping and horse riding on the beach.

Cultural Quests In Oman

Oman is steeped in history and culture, with a multitude of sights and landmarks from days gone by waiting to be explored. Historic forts, castles, tombs, towers and beautiful mosques are among the delights in store. Culture vultures will be captivated by traditions and rituals relating to the Sultanate’s history of trading, exploration and seafaring, while the National Museum of Oman will impress with its amazing artifacts showcasing the nation’s heritage. Visit the village of Bat to observe the beehive tombs from the Bronze Age, gaze in awe at the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque or check out a host of architectural treasures including the 6th century Nizwa Fort, Bahla Fort, Jibreen Castle and Al Hazm Fort. It’s also recommended to attend a camel racing event, which has been a traditional sport since Medieval times, and tuck into Omani street food favourites, including Shuwa, Majboos and Mashuai.

Best Time To Visit

Glorious year-round weather makes Oman suitable for a holiday at a time of your choosing. October to April is a prime time to visit, with temperatures around 27°C, with minimal rainfall. The coolest month of the year is January, when temperatures still average a pleasant 21°C. The wettest month is February, when around 30mm of rain is experienced as brief showers, and June is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 35°C and around 13 hours of sunshine each day. The high temperatures in the summer months, between June and August, mean conditions are less than ideal for getting out and about to explore Oman’s phenomenal natural attractions and landmarks. It is, however, a perfect time for a laid-back holiday experience, when you can unwind in the shade beside the pool or under a beach umbrella on the silky soft sands.

“The beauty and charm of Oman will take your breath away, with the promise of fun-filled days in a mesmerising land of wonder.

“There’s something to capture the heart of every visitor, whether you’re a culture fiend, a nature lover, a thrill seeker or someone simply wanting a chilled out experience, lazing beside the pool.

“It’s definitely worth visiting one of Oman’s bustling souks for a flavour of local life and the chance to buy a few gifts and souvenirs for your return home.

“Your days will be filled with exciting adventures and activities, and there’s no shortage of entertainment after dark, with lively bars and nightclubs among the delights in the capital Muscat.

“With its opulent hotels, exceptional natural attractions, great food, fantastic shopping opportunities and wonderful hospitality it’s no wonder Oman is a compelling Arabian getaway that just keeps growing in popularity.”

Alila Hinu Bay

Prepare to be wowed by opulence, elegance and style at this lavish retreat boasting classic Arabian design, a stunning private sandy beach and breathtaking gulf views. You’ll savour gastronomic delights in top-class dining venues and spend heavenly nights in a choice of exquisitely-appointed accommodation which includes deluxe pool villas. An infinity family swimming pool, a plush spa, a kids club and a multi-functional court are among the delights at this beachfront haven of relaxation in Salalah.

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The Chedi Muscat

Jet off for sun-kissed days and romantic Arabian nights at this magnificent 5-star hideaway next to the crystal-clear water of the Gulf of Oman. Restful evenings await in immaculate accommodation featuring a myriad of facilities, while Japanese, Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine will tantalise your taste buds in an array of gourmet restaurants. You’ll also discover a sumptuous spa for head-to-toe pampering, a cutting-edge fitness centre for keeping in shape and 3 sparkling swimming pools for a refreshing dip.

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Ritz-Carlton Al Bustan Palace

A taste of paradise awaits at this sensational 5-star beachfront sanctuary at the foot of the majestic Al Hajar Mountains. A splash park, 6 glistening swimming pools, a zipline and a pristine private sandy beach are among the delights to ensure a feast of family fun. Art Deco influences and elegant furnishings create complete comfort in your wonderful accommodation, while you’ll dine in style in an array of superb restaurants. Other fabulous amenities include a relaxing spa, a well-equipped fitness centre, tennis courts, Hammam rooms and a beauty salon.

Check out the Ritz-Carlton Al Bustan Palace