Cultural Activities

Arts and entertainment Performance at the Royal Opera House Muscat

Cultural Activities

The Sultanate of Oman has a great variety of cultural and entertaining activities, if you are a fan of international music; you can spend a special evening at the Royal Opera House Muscat and enjoy watching one of the most famous international bands and legends of fine art that the house hosts throughout the time of year. If you are an admirer of the works of creative painters and sculptors, you can visit one of the art galleries in the morning, such as Bait Muzna Gallery, or Sarah Gallery in Bait Al Zubair, where the latest works of Omani and international artists are placed on display in special exhibitions. You can also attend some artistic performances of popular traditional music with ancient history.

Heritage and Crafts

Heritage and Crafts

Heritage and Crafts

The Sultanate of Oman places significant importance on preserving its heritage and traditional crafts. Omani artisans continue to practice traditional crafts that have been passed down through generations, while also adding modern touches to them. Artisans continue to create unique and diverse products, such as intricately designed silver jewelry, pottery, ceramics, and the famous Omani Khanjar (traditional dagger). They showcase their creativity in their crafts and products, offering them in the best possible way. These products can be purchased from lively markets spread across the country. Building traditional Omani ships, known as “dhows” or sailboats, in the city of Sur is one of the crafts that is still practiced to this day. Visitors often marvel at the exceptional skill displayed by these shipbuilders. They are impressed by the tremendous effort put into constructing every part of these ships.

Forts and Historical Sites

Forts and Historical Sites

Forts and Historical Sites

In the past, Omani forts were constructed to safeguard the surrounding regions and deter invaders and aggressors. Today, these historical structures warmly welcome visitors with their grand facades, standing as enduring testaments to Omani craftsmanship and ingenuity across the ages. These impressive forts are scattered across the country, with some of the most renowned including Nizwa Fort in the Interior Governorate, Al Jalali and Al Mirani Forts in Old Muscat, Nakhal and Al Rustaq Forts in the South Al Batinah Governorate, and Bahla Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Oman is also home to several ancient mud-brick villages, like those found in Manah in the Interior Governorate or Samharam in Dhofar Governorate.

Visiting Archaeological Sites

Visiting Archaeological Sites

The Sultanate of Oman is a country that is unique in its nature and its rich history, with events and stories written down in books and monuments that tell of heroism and the depth of communication with other civilisations. As one of the oldest independent countries in the Arab world, Oman has succeeded in blending modernity and ancient heritage while preserving the essential aspects of its culture and history.  This makes it the perfect tourist destination for those wishing to visit a country that combine originality and modernity at the same time.The strategic location of Oman in the south of the Arabian Peninsula played a prominent role in gaining its position and its communication with ancient civilisations, which created human settlements dating back to different periods of history.On south Oman, ancient civilisations appeared that flourished on the paths of the Frankincense Road, including the civilisation of Wabar, whose archaeological discoveries date back to the Neolithic period, that is, between 5000 and 4000 years BC. As well as the Sumhuram site, which dates back to the period of the third century BC.The Salut archaeological site in the state of Bahla is one of the largest sites discovered in Oman and dates back to the third millennium BC. It witnessed, in a later period of history, the famous battle in which Malik bin Fahm al-Azdi defeated the Persians in the first century AD. This led to them being expelled from the areas where they controlled trade routes and copper mining sites.With the entry and spread of Islam throughout Oman around the seventh century AD, Mazen bin Ghaduba built the first mosque in Oman, which is Al-Midhamar Mosque in the Wilayat of Samail, which still exists to this day. In addition, it has been rebuilt several times over the years.Furthermore, with Sultan Qaboos bin Said – may God rest his soul in peace – assuming the reins of power in Oman during the period from 1970-2020 AD, Oman witnessed the building of a modern, prosperous country, drawing its foreign policy according to solid foundations and principles that enabled it to be one of the safest countries in the world. After him, Sultan Haitham bin Tariq – May God protect and preserve him – anticipated the reins of power in the year 2020 AD, with a renewed focus on building the land and the nurturing its inhabitants at the same time, to complete the blessed renaissance journey.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Visiting Archaeological Sites

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Oman currently has five UNESCO World Heritage Sites, all of which deserve to be visited first-hand.

Bahla Fort

This immense mud brick fortress was the first in Oman to be listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in 1987. Since then, it has been beautifully restored and opened to the public, allowing visitors to learn more closely about the long history of the fort, which dates back to the third millennium BC. The site includes the archaeological Bahla Oasis, including the traditional souq, corridors, ancient mosques, and the old houses, as well as the surrounding wall that extends for about 12 km.

Archaeological sites of Bat, Al-Khutm and Al-Ain

The archaeological sites of Bat, Al-Khutm, and Wadi Al-Ain in the A’Dhahirah Governorate are not only recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site, but also boast the title of the most complete collection of necropolises and settlements in the world, dating back to the Bronze Age (3rd Millennium BC). This site was listed at the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1988.

Land of Frankincense

In Dhofar, the Land of Frankincense encompasses the frankincense trees of Wadi Dawkah Reserve and the remains of caravan and trading settlements such as Ubar, Khawr Ruri and Al Baleed – highlighting the importance of frankincense for the flourishing trade in the region during ancient times. This site was listed at the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2000.

Aflaj Irrigation System of Oman 

This ancient watering method is deeply rooted in Oman’s heritage, with over 3000 aflaj – or irrigation systems – still in use today. Using gravity to transport water from springs, the fair management of these waterways plays an important role in communities around the country. Five of the Omani falaj were listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2006 under the name “Aflaj Irrigation System of Oman.” The five falaj are: Falaj Daris and Falaj Al-Khatmeen in Nizwa, Falaj Al-Maysar in A’Rustaq, Falaj Al-Malki in Izki, and Falaj Al-Jillah in Sur.

Ancient city of Qalhat

The site of the Ancient city of Qalhat in Sur has an exceptional international value as a trading exchange between Oman and the ancient world civilizations.  It was one of the important commercial ports in the Indian Ocean, especially the trade of Arabian horses with India. It considered as a distinctive example of the architecture and planning of active port cities in the Middle Ages. This site was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2018.

Markets and Shopping

Markets and Shopping

Markets and Shopping

Traditional markets in Oman offer a distinct shopping experience with an authentic Omani touch. These markets showcase a diverse range of Omani products, including frankincense, traditional clothing, and handmade crafts. These markets are scattered throughout various cities. For instance, Muttrah Souq is located on the waterfront in Muttrah Governorate and displays a wide array of products such as clothing, silverware, spices, frankincense, and other Omani goods. Nizwa Souq is situated near the famous Nizwa Fort, and visiting the souq on Friday mornings provides an opportunity to witness the traditional method of selling livestock known as “Al-Mnadha” or auction. A special livestock market is held every Friday morning for the sale of sheep and cows. In the North Al Sharqiyah Governorate, Ibra Souq for women is held every Wednesday, allowing women to come to the city and trade textiles, jewelry, and other products. Men are not allowed to enter or sell products on this specific day. Oman also hosts several modern shopping complexes across the country. These include Muscat City Centre, Oman Avenues Mall, Al Araimi Boulevard in the capital city Muscat, as well as Nizwa Grand Mall, Sohar City Centre, and Salalah Gardens Mall. These modern shopping complexes offer the latest products and international goods, catering to various shopping preferences.

Dining

Dining

Dining

Visitors can choose from a wide range of options when it comes to the food and beverage menu, catering to all tastes. For example, there is the option to choose from a variety of upscale restaurants within 5-star hotels and resorts as well as exploring restaurants and cafes that offer local and international dishes in various types and flavours. In addition to famous international dishes, traditional Omani cuisine is readily available in a number of renowned hotels and restaurants. Omani cuisine is known for its blend of Arabian, Indian, and African flavors, making it distinctive and unique. Restaurants like “Rozna” in the airport heights and “Beit Al Luban” in Muttrah are examples of places that serve authentic Omani cuisine in a modern setting.

Water Sports

Water Sports Oman2

A special connection with the sea

Oman looks back on a proud maritime history, renowned for Dhow building and trading across the seas. As such, Omanis are known to have a special connection with the sea, settling where there are natural harbours and great fishing grounds.

It comes as no surprise that the Sultanate with it’s rich marine life, has become one of the world’s fastest-growing diving spots. Areas such as Al Khayran, Al Fahil Island, Daymaniyat Islands and Al Makbara Bay are incredibly popular with the discerning diver.

Several tour operators specialise in water sports, such as snorkelling, sailing, jet skiing, and kayaking. For those visitors seeking their own water adventures, yachts and boats are also available for hire.

Mountain Biking & Cycling

Mountain Biking & Cycling Oman2

Popular in the Sultanate

Cycling and mountain biking has risen in popularity in the Sultanate, with both amateur and professional cyclists appreciating the country for its stunning diverse landscapes and the new challenge that riding in Oman presents.

The Tour of Oman, a professional road race, has become an annual event since its inaugural race in 2010, drawing many spectators from the region and generally instilling an interest in cycling into the local population. The Haute Route is coming to Oman for the first time in 2019 and is sure to capture the imagination of cyclists from around the world.

Visitors can experience Oman on two wheels by booking any of the road or mountain biking excursions offered by a local tour operator. Alternatively, adventurers can find their own path in areas such as Al Hamra, Al Jebel Al Akhdar, Jebel Shams, Musandam and Yiti.

Camel Riding

Gamal Riding Oman2

Comprehensive camel safaris

Historically, camels were used by local Bedouins for transporting goods and people through the desert and around the country. Today, owning camels has become more a sign of prestige, with many Omanis breeding them for racing and beauty contests.

Visitors can still enjoy a taste of the traditional Bedouin lifestyle by setting off on a desert safari in the A’Sharqiyah Sands and Rub Al Khali. Nothing quite beats seeing the sun set while on a camel’s back. Several local tour operators offer comprehensive camel safaris.