The Best of Oman in One Week

Sunset at Al Bustan Palace, Ritz Carlton Resort, showcasing the rugged mountainous landscape and beautiful beaches

Overview

When I was a child, my Omani neighbour living in Australia taught me a fun fact: Oman is the only country beginning with the letter ‘O’. Incidentally this was a cheeky omission after she picked the theme for our little game (‘countries beginning with O…’), where myself and her would alternate in turns as to who could recite the longest list. She went first, I lost! However, with this simple fact, I was introduced to one of the most intriguing and unique countries in this great wide world.

I’ve since travelled there twice: 12 years ago and 1 week ago. Both times I’ve been touched by the kindness of its people, awed by its natural beauty and overwhelmed by the attention to detail in its architecture, souq and luxury resorts. I thought it about time I brought you the very best that Oman has to offer! Here is an itinerary for one week which will give you great coverage of this peace keeping country in the Middle East.

For a complete one week itinerary of culture and history in Muscat and a review of its premier luxury resorts, click here. Meanwhile, please stay tuned for my upcoming recommended day trips from Muscat!

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Where is Oman?

Situated on the southeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula, Oman spans the mouth of the Persian Gulf and has two smaller exclaves of Madha and Musandam. These exclaves are surrounded by the United Arab Emirates on their land borders (You can read more about my experiences in the UAE here). Despite being situated in a volatile region, the Sultanate of Oman is one of the Middle East’s safest countries.

Oman’s position in the Arabian Gulf as seen on Google Maps, with its two exclaves outlined in red

What rules or customs must I follow?

Oman is an Islamic country so visitors must be modestly dressed, especially at religious sites. Normal swimwear is acceptable in hotels and tourist beaches. Note that during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, there is no alcohol served (although can be ordered to hotel rooms). This is a month of fasting so most places will be closed during the day, with food only available once the sun has set or in designated closed rooms. Room service in hotels will usually continue. If you plan on sipping a cocktail by the pool, then I’d highly recommend visiting outside of the month of Ramadan. (That being said, if you are desperate, then consider purchasing duty free alcohol at the airport).

What is the landscape like?

Varied! In the beautiful country of Oman, you’ll find fjords along the Musandam peninsula, the spectacular rugged Hajar mountains, the vast dunes of the Rub al Khali and Wahiba deserts, fertile coastline with lush green oases and the modern capital of Muscat.

The city of Muscat is built in and around low hills and mountains, with some impressive roads carved out through the cliffs. Low rise stately buildings with distinct Omani architecture are dotted through the city in smaller residential areas giving the city a spread out feel. It’s hard not to be completely charmed by these homes and buildings which ooze class and can be accessed by clean well built roads.

The Al Husn Shangri-La Resort, built around the natural environment on a cliff with a private beach

What is the currency?

The official currency is the Omani Rial.

What transport is available?

For freedom and flexibility, I’d recommend hiring a car from the airport. The various sites and activities that form the crux and beauty of Oman will require flexibility of transport. We hired a car from Europcar and found the pick up and drop off process incredibly straightforward.

If you plan to spend your time solely within the bounds of a hotel, then taxis to and from the airport are available (for a small fortune). It would also be possible to book a day tour with hotel pick up and drop off to see some of the sites below.

Where should I stay?

Fortunately hotels are in abundance in Oman. However, to truly appreciate its beauty, I’d highly recommend staying along the coast in Muscat or along the peninsula. There are many driving tours of Oman available online but most of these destinations can be reached as day trips, allowing you to stay at the same accommodation in Muscat.

See my review on Muscat which details the two most glamorous resorts in Muscat: The Al Bustan Palace Ritz Carlton and the Al Husn Shangri-La. These resorts are both nestled in the striking mountains along a spectacular stretch of coastline, both with private beaches.

The stunning architecture of the Al Bustan Palace, Ritz Carlton Resort

Highlights of my epic one week itinerary in Oman!

Muscat

Dolphin watching cruise
Sunset dhow boat tour
Walk along the Corniche
Al Alam Palace
Mutrah Old Souq
Qurum Beach
Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
Royal Opera House
Relax in a coastal resort

Cruising down the lazy river on a floating ring at Al Husn Shangri-La Resort

Day Trips From Muscat

Nizwa ancient city and fortress
Wadi Shab adventure
Sifah beach expedition
Wahiba Sands desert trip

On top of the windy dunes of Wahiba Sands Desert

Suggested outline for those wanting to do it all!

Disclaimer

Note that the below itinerary is the ‘adventure lovers’ pace which will see you complete all of the above activities within one week. However, if you choose to stay at a luxury resort such as Al Bustan Ritz Carlton or Al Husn Shangri La, then you will desire time to relax and enjoy the facilities at these incredible places. In this case, please see my one week itinerary for Muscat which will be more suitable for the pace of the luxury-seekers!