Oman is a land of forts, mosques, beaches and mountains

Until 1970 Oman was a closed country. The Sultanate was then taken over by Sultan Qaboos, a British-educated progressive thinker, who has led Oman into a period of renaissance. Prosperity has returned, and tourism, though slow, is on the increase. Mindful of its strong faith and heritage, Oman is preserving its history while developing its future. Emphasis has been on restoration and a number of beautifully restored forts in the capital, Muscat, are testament to that. New construction has been kept in keeping with the country’s traditional architecture and there are very few high-rise buildings in the capital or elsewhere. Although most tourist activity takes place in Muscat, there are a number of other places of interest in the country.  These include Salalah - home to the ruins of the palace of the Queen of Sheba, Nizwa, which boasts Oman’s most visited fort, and the verdant coastal city of Sohar with its lush fruit plantations.

Why Go?
Go for the sunny climate, the dramatic scenery, some great trekking, the rich culture, lovely beaches, interesting forts, vast sand dunes and fjords. Go to experience an Islamic country at the very heart of the Middle East that has relatively few western tourists.

When to Go?
Oman is unbearably hot from May to August with temperatures around 38°C. The best time to visit the country is from November to March when daytime temperatures average a reasonable 25°C. February is the coolest month. Rainfall varies according to region, but from June to August, there is a light rainy season in southern Oman. Peak season in the north of the country is from November to March, and in the south June- August is a popular time.

How to get there
There are direct flights to Oman’s Muscat Seeb International Airport (MCT) from London Heathrow. The flight from London takes around seven hours. Nearly all international flights arrive into Muscat’s airport but Salalah Airport (SLL) does receive a few regional flights. Muscat Airport is 25 miles from the city centre - only taxi transfers are available.

Must see
Haggle for items in the Muttrah Souk and see the stunning Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Muscat. Trekking is excellent in Oman, head to the Mountain of the Sun (Jebel Shams) and once climbed, see Oman’s awe inspiring Grand Canyon, the Wadi Ghul. Snorkel in the beautiful Arabian Sea to spot sardines and tuna. Visitors should note modest dress should be worn outside of hotels; men should wear long sleeves and trousers, women should wear dresses below the knee and have covered shoulders. Alcohol is illegal for Omanis, but available to tourists in large hotels and some restaurants.