Oman holidays

Oman travel information

At the south-eastern tip of the Arabian Peninsula, the Sultanate of Oman has a coastline extending for more than a thousand miles, with numerous beaches offering excellent sailing and diving facilities. Sumerian clay tablets from the 3rd century BC mention Oman as one of the outstanding Mesopotamian trade centres, a position that is reflected in the blend of Arabic, Iranian, Indian and African cultures, traditions and cuisine to be experienced in the major towns.

Archaeological treasures include the site of Souks Bausharios and fabulous collections in the National Museum at Qurum, while modern craftsmanship is evident in the traditional souks such as that at Nizwa, famous for its gold and silver handicrafts, and Bahla, known for its pottery. Stark deserts with their fascinating flora and fauna, including the reintroduced Arabian oryx, provide colourful contrasts to the turquoise waters of the Arabian Sea, in which several species of whale and dolphin can be seen.

The Sultanate of Oman, celebrating 42 years of Renaissance, has so much to offer that it is hard to know where to begin. There are literally hundreds of attractions in this country – and the diversity of choice will make almost any length of holiday seem too short to take everything in. Here are just 10 of the most popular things visitors see, do and experience to get the most from their visit.

Oman calendar of events

The Sultanate of Oman is a land of festivals and celebrations, most of them with a traditional flavor such as camel racing, dancing or poetry, or major international events such as the Muscat Festival, end of January – February 2013, including the annual International Tour of Oman Cycling Race, or the Salalah Festival (mid September). Whatever the size, they provide an exciting opportunity for visitors to gain an insight into Oman’s culture and heritage.

JANUARY - Muscat Festival end of January – February 2013. Located at Qurum National Park and Naseem Park the festival highlights include a showcase of both Omani and international culture and heritage. Dedicated to the “Year of the child”, this year’s Festival is particularly focused on creating educational, fun, entertainment for children: www.muscat-festival.com FEBRUARY - Traditional Boat Races February 2013. With a display of Dhow boats and Old Houri, New Houri and Al Shash boat races, the event will pay tribute to Oman’s rich maritime traditions. - Oman Food Festival February 2013. Held at the Qurum Natural Park, the Oman Food festival is run in association with expert chefs and students from the Oman Tourism College and it will give visitors the opportunity to experience the very best of Omani cuisine. - Tour of Oman February 2013. 128 of the world’s greatest cyclists will be competing in the Tour of Oman including Cavendish, Schelck and Canncellara. MARCH - Oman International Salsa & Dance Festival March 2013. Learn from the best in the Latin dance industry. From the absolute beginner to the advanced dancer, there is something for everyone. You can choose from Salsa, Bachata, Spins, Cha Cha, Mens and Ladies Styling, Cuban Salsa, Zaire, Reggaeton, Belly Dance, Hip Hop, Samba, Zouk and more. JUNE - Salalah Festival (from June to September). This festival is held annually in Dhofar Province between June and September, when a tropical climate dominates Dhofar. In July, Festival activities include various artistic and cultural shows, in addition to parades. Visit: www.salalahfestival.gov.om JULY - Dolphin and Whale Spotting. July is the ideal time to spot dolphins and whales along Oman’s 3165km coastline. Join escorted tours from the local marina or organize a private dhow excursion. - Ramadan, the Muslim holy month starts 20 July - 1 August 2012 AUGUST - Eid Al-Fitr (End of Ramadan) 19 August 2012 SEPTEMBER - Turtle season. The beaches of Ras Al Hadd and Ras Al Jinz provide nesting grounds for an estimated 20,000 turtles each year that migrate from the Red Sea and the East African coast. Turtles can be seen year round, but September is the best time to see large numbers. OCTOBER - Eid al-Adha (Feast of the Sacrifice) 25 October 2012 NOVEMBER - Islamic New Year 15 November 2012. 42nd National Day 18 November 2012: A celebration of HM Sultan Qaboos bin Said followed by a week long national holiday of festivities.

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Throughout the year
Nizwa Goat Market - Every Friday, held in Nizwa, next to the main souk, two hours drive from Muscat. Starts at 7am followed by the castle market, 9.30am.

For more information about Oman please contact:
Oman Ministry of Tourism Representative Office in the UK and Ireland
Sangita Makwana/Alicia Iglesias Cortes
Tel: + 44 208 877 4524
Email: oman@representationplus.co.uk
Visit: www.omantourism.gov.om