A Land of Rich Culture, Adventure, and Hospitality
Oman, a hidden treasure in the Arabian Peninsula, captivates visitors with breathtaking landscapes, centuries-old traditions, and warm hospitality. From towering mountains and golden deserts to pristine beaches and lively souqs, the country offers a diverse and immersive travel experience.
HE. Mr. Issa Saleh Abdullah Alshibani, Ambassador of the Sultanate of Oman to India, shares his insights on Oman with TravelJingles Media.
What sets Oman apart as a travel destination compared to its neighbouring countries?
Oman sets itself apart by offering an authentic Arabian experience rooted in history and nature. Unlike some neighbours, Oman has preserved its traditional architecture and heritage – you won’t find towering skyscrapers overwhelming its skyline. Instead, visitors encounter historic forts, bustling souqs, and heartfelt Omani hospitality at every turn. The country’s landscapes are uniquely diverse: one can journey from rugged mountains and emerald-green wadis to serene desert dunes and the monsoon-cooled hills of Dhofar. This makes Oman a rich tapestry of culture, scenic beauty, and a strong ethos of hospitality.
Tell us about the three must-do things in Oman.
They are many things to talk about, but the three things are: Cultural immersion in Muscat: Start in the capital by visiting the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque – a masterpiece of Islamic architecture – then wander through the historic Muttrah Souq with its scents of frankincense and array of handicrafts. For a taste of contemporary culture, catch a performance at the Royal Opera House Muscat, a modern architectural gem.
Desert adventure in Wahiba Sands: Journey into the golden Wahiba Sands for an exhilarating dune-bashing experience. Spend a night at a Bedouin-style desert camp under a canopy of stars and enjoy a traditional meal by the camp fire.
Explore the green south (Dhofar): Fly to Salalah in the Dhofar region during the khareef (monsoon) season, when lush green hills and waterfalls transform the landscape. Explore its frankincense heritage at ancient sites and lively souqs and relax on Salalah’s coconut-fringed beaches – a tropical side of Oman that surprises many.
How would you introduce Muscat’s cultural and historical significance to someone visiting for the first time?
Muscat is a city where Omani heritage shines in every quarter. As a strategic port along age-old trade routes, Muscat has been a crossroads of civilization for centuries. Today it still retains an old-world charm. A first-time visitor can explore 16th-century Portuguese forts overlooking the harbour and wander the Muttrah Corniche, where wooden dhows still sail as they have, for generations. The grand Sultan Qaboos Mosque showcases exquisite Islamic architecture, while the National Museum of Oman offers insight into the country’s history. Muscat’s seamless blend of ancient traditions and contemporary elegance makes it the cultural heart of Oman.
What are some lesser-known attractions in Oman that deserve more attention from travellers?
Oman offers hidden gems that reward the traveller. One such treasure is Misfat Al Abriyeen, a mountainside village with ancient mud-brick houses and lush terrace farms fed by aflaj canals – a glimpse into Oman’s timeless rural life. Masirah Island boasts secluded beaches and is a haven for nesting turtles and kite-surfers. History enthusiasts should not miss the UNESCO World Heritage site of Bat, where Bronze Age beehive tombs stand in silent testament to an early civilization. These lesser-known destinations offer authenticity and a deeper insight into Oman’s diverse heritage.
What initiatives are in place to promote sustainable tourism in Oman, and why is responsible travel important?
Oman has made sustainable tourism a priority. By the end of 2024, 153 eco-lodges were licensed, inviting travelers to experience nature and local culture with minimal impact. We have also launched the ‘Journey into the Heart of Oman’ campaign with partners in India to showcase eco-conscious travel experiences. From preserving turtle nesting beaches and coral reefs to maintaining the integrity of historic forts and wadies. Responsible travel ensures that tourism benefits local communities and safeguards natural beauty and traditions, allowing future generations to enjoy the same extraordinary experiences.
What role does Omani cuisine play in shaping a visitor’s experience, and which dishes best represent the country’s flavours? Are vegetarian items easily available in the country?
Cuisine is a vibrant part of the Omani experience and key to understanding our culture. Sharing food is central to Omani hospitality – guests are often greeted with dates and cardamom-spiced coffee. Signature dishes like shuwa, marinated meat slow-cooked underground until tender, and majboos, a fragrant spiced rice with meat or seafood, showcase the rich blend of Arabian, Indian, and East African influences in our cuisine. Sweet Omani halwa, made from sugar, ghee and rosewater, is traditionally served on special occasions. Vegetarian options are easy to find; many restaurants offer Indian and Middle Eastern vegetarian dishes.
From mountains to beach, Oman is a potpourri for adventure lovers. Comment.
Oman’s diverse terrain offers adventures to suit every explorer. In the north, the Hajar Mountains beckon trekkers and climbers – from hiking the ‘Grand Canyon of Arabia’ at Jebel Shams to canoeing in Wadi Shab’s waterfalls. In the desert, thrill-seekers race across the dunes of Wahiba Sands in 4x4s, sandboard down golden slopes, and camp under a star-filled sky. Along the coast, the Daymaniyat Islands provide world-class snorkeling and diving among vibrant coral reefs, while the fjords of Musandam are perfect for kayaking and sailing. From its highest peaks to its turquoise shores.
What makes Omani souqs and markets unique, and how do they reflect the country’s heritage?
Omani souqs are not mere marketplaces, but living reflections of the country’s heritage. A traditional bazaar like Muttrah Souq or Nizwa Souq, the aroma of frankincense drifts through the air and every corner brims with traditional wares – gleaming silver jewellery, spices, textiles, and ceramics. These markets have thrived for centuries as vibrant centers of commerce and community. Their labyrinthine alleys and wood-beamed ceilings preserve the ambience of old Arabia. Whether haggling for a keepsake or chatting over a cup of tea with a shopkeeper, visitors are immersed in an authentic cultural experience that echoes Oman’s rich past.
Do we have any similarities between India and Oman?
Oman and India share a bond rooted in centuries of maritime contact across the Arabian Sea. Historically, Omani sailors traded frankincense and dates for Indian spices and textiles, fostering a lasting cultural exchange. Both are known for their hospitality, diverse traditions, and strong family values – an Indian visitor in Oman often remarks how at home they feel. A large Indian diaspora in Oman further knits our societies together. From a love of flavorful cuisine to an appreciation of music and the arts, we enjoy many common threads that continue to strengthen the friendship between our nations.