Oman tourism has grown over the years and this fact can be seen in several facets of life. The country itself is a jewel in many respects, and there are dozens of interesting sites all throughout Oman. Oman tourism can be enjoyed by travelers of all ages and there is something for everyone here. Whether you seek ancient ruins, pristine beaches, or modern-day glitz and glamour, Oman tourism has it all.
Oman is formally the Sultanate of Oman and is located on the southwestern part of the Arabian Peninsula in Western Asia. Like all the other nations of the Middle East, Oman shares its border with its neighbor UAE but also has an offshore oil rig in its waters. In addition to being a popular tourist destination, Oman is also a safe country with low crime rates and low inflation. It recently passed a landmark United Nations Security Council resolution that calls for its citizens to be free of drugs and alcohol.
Oman is currently undergoing rapid economic development due to its location at the crossroads between East and West Asia. The small country has one of the youngest populations in the area, and it’s expected that the economy will continue to grow for several decades. There is so much to see and do in Oman that most visitors end up staying for a short while rather than sticking around long.
While in Oman you might want to visit the Oman Grand Palace, which is located on Jumeirah beach. The palace was built during the rule of Hamad bin Laden, and it features a World Heritage site as well as a dome for government officials. There are gardens with a beautiful fountain, and there is even a mosque. While in town, be sure to visit the Oman Museum & Art Gallery, which is housed in a palace called al-Azhar. In addition to the exhibits inside, the museum features works from some of the world’s greatest artists.
Another popular activity is bird watching. There are dozens of species of birds in Oman and most of them can be seen throughout the year. One of the most popular birds is the Omanican Fours Only Black-cheeked pigeon. The bird has a long, sleek body, big yellow bills, and a red heart-shaped crest.
For those who like a bit of action on their vacation, the Sultan Qaboos Cultural Center and Museum of Oman are where you should go. This museum houses a wide array of artifacts, including sculptures and paintings. The Omani authorities have preserved most of the artifacts, making them easily reproductions. The museum is also home to a substantial collection of books, codices, and other reading materials. For an activity that’s not too far out of the ordinary, you might consider going to the desert on a camel ride.
When you’re done seeing the Omani people and culture, head back to Dubai for the day and then on to Abu Dhabi. Enjoy the beaches and the shopping till you drop, and then head back to Oman for a night in the city and a few nights in luxury at a five-star resort. You’ll have unforgettable memories of both deserts and cities. You should really make this a priority in your travel plans and make sure you check out the Omani sites before you leave.