Oman
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The Jewel of the Arabian peninsula and a source of gold, frankincense and delicious fresh dates, this wonderful country is a blissful oasis of calm in this fascinating part of the world. The Sultanate of Oman is a traditional yet modern state, discreetly unfolding a myriad of unique facets, surrounded by mountains, deserts and the Arabian Sea. Oman is known as the land of the Arabian knights and the alleged home of Sinbad the Sailor – and has now evolved into an exciting and vibrant Middle Eastern destination, with luxury hotels, beautiful beaches and cultural sightseeing opportunities.
Oman is one of the best-kept secrets in the diving world – with over 1700 km of coastline it offers endless opportunities to dive the amazing offshore coral reefs.
Visit the ancient fjords of Musandam, take a trip to the waterfalls of Dhofar or explore the desert in a 4WD.
New for 2008 !
Evason Hideaway & Six Senses Spa at Zighy Bay Located in a secluded fishing village on the Sultanate’s northern Musandam Peninsula, with dramatic mountains to one side and heavenly sands to the other, this a true Hideaway. This wonderful resort offers uncompromising standards of luxury, high levels of individual service, sumptuous pool villas with private infinity pools and exotic dining experiences. The award-winning Six Senses Spa with nine treatment rooms focusing on holistic wellness and rejuvenation includes two Arabian Hammams.
You can even choose how you arrive - on a speed boat into the private marina, driving down the hill into the bay or whisked in on a tandem paraglider !
Recommended Hotels in Oman
The Chedi, Muscat is a stylish, chic, modern boutique hotel designed with an Omani twist, which offers outstanding service and facilities. This beautiful hotel lies in a spacious estate with its own stunning beach, indulge yourself in the Spa at the Chedi or experience fine dining in the restaurants. 151 airconditioned rooms with private rainforest shower, minibar satellite TV. Superior Serai rooms have wonderful views of either the Indian Ocean or the Mountains of Muscat. Club suites are luxuriously furnished with their own sun terrace, sitting area and spacious bathroom, daily breakfast and evening cocktails are served in the Library/Club lounge.
The Al Bustan Palace Intercontinental Muscat five star hotel was originally designed to hosts Heads of Gulf and international States and was converted in the 80's for guests to indulge in its palatial surroundings. Walk through the majestic Islamic arches to the awe inspiring atrium and marvel at the stunning three-tiered waterfall. Enjoy lunches, brunches and theme nights on the Al Khiran Terrace and fine dining at the Al Marjan.
Grand Hyatt Muscat is an elegant hotel with superb facilities and genuine Omani hospitality occupying a wonderful beach location overlooking the Gulf of Oman, in the Embassy district of Muscat. Four restaurants, two bars, tea lounge and an African themed fun pub await you, as well as excellent sport facilities, a spa and nightclub. View rooms offer views of the Gulf of Oman, and can sleep 2 adults and 2 children.
Shangre-La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa comprises three unique hotels . Al Waha, Al Bandar and Al Husn. This resort set in 124 acres on the beachfront in Muscat with a backdrop of mountain peaks offers a whole host of leisure facilities, heritage village and a lazy river that connects Al Waha and Al Bandar. Al Husn offers some of the best accommodation in the region with an interior reminiscent of a Sultan’s palace.
For the more adventurous guest, take a trip to the desert for a four wheel drive excursion in the dunes or visit the former capital of Nizwa – Oman is ideal for a short break, and relatively unspoilt, with friendly people and miles and miles of beautiful coastline.
Fact File
Time difference : GMT +4 hours
Flight duration : 7 hours direct
Currency : The Omani Rial
Capital : Muscat
Ideal for : Beaches and Historical sites
Ramadan : Ramadan is the Holy Month when Muslims commemorate the revelation of the Holy Quran. As Ramadan involves fasting during daylight hours, visitors are asked to refrain from eating, drinking and smoking during daylight as a sign of respect. Alcohol restrictions may apply at hotels.
Ramadan takes place from 1 – 29 September.
Weather
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temp (°C) | 24 | 25 | 28 | 32 | 37 | 39 | 41 | 40 | 39 | 35 | 31 | 26 |
| Rainfall (inches) | 0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 |


