Explore Oman – Quick Travel Guide For A Good Trip

Geographical position and Climate of Oman

Oman is located in the Middle East, on the southeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula. It shares borders with the United Arab Emirates to the northwest, Saudi Arabia to the west, and Yemen to the southwest. To the north and east, it has a coastline along the Gulf of Oman, and to the southeast, it faces the Arabian Sea.

Oman’s climate varies from one region to another:

Coastal Areas (Muscat, Salalah)

• Muscat: Hot, arid climate with high humidity in coastal areas. Summers are very hot, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C. Winters are warm with temperatures around 20°C.
• Salalah: Unique tropical-like climate due to the Khareef monsoon season from June to September, bringing cooler weather and greenery.

Desert Interior (Wahiba Sands)

• Desert Climate: Extreme heat during the day and cool nights. Rainfall is scarce, and temperatures can reach up to 50°C in the summer.

Mountainous Regions (Jebel Shams, Jebel Akhdar)

• Mountain Climate: Cooler temperatures throughout the year. In winter, temperatures can drop below freezing at higher altitudes, sometimes with snowfall.

Northern Oman

• Subtropical Climate: Moderately hot summers and mild winters. This region receives more rainfall than the rest of the country, especially during the winter months.

Overall, the best time to visit Oman for comfortable weather conditions is between October and April when the temperatures are moderate across most of the country.

Brief history of Oman

Oman’s history is marked by its strategic maritime position, which has influenced its development for over 5,000 years. The earliest known human settlements in Oman date back to the Stone Age. By the 3rd century AD, Oman had become an important center for trade and commerce, particularly in frankincense.

In the 7th century, Omanis were among the first people to embrace Islam, and the country played a significant role in spreading the religion through maritime enterprise. The influence of Portuguese control was felt in the 16th century when they occupied several coastal cities, including Muscat, to control trade routes. However, by the mid-17th century, the Omani empire expanded its reach, driving out the Portuguese and establishing trade links with East Africa, the Persian Gulf, and the Indian subcontinent.

The 18th and 19th centuries saw the rise of the Al Said dynasty, which continues to rule Oman today. During this period, Oman became a powerful empire, with territories across the Indian Ocean and Persian Gulf. In the 20th century, the discovery of oil transformed Oman’s economy and infrastructure under the reign of Sultan Qaboos bin Said, who ruled from 1970 until his death in 2020. His modernization policies and diplomatic neutrality have shaped contemporary Oman into a stable and relatively prosperous nation.

Today, Oman maintains its heritage while embracing modernity, balancing its rich history with economic development and regional diplomacy.

Religion of Oman

The predominant religion in Oman is Islam, and it plays a central role in Omani culture and traditions. The majority of Omanis are Muslims, with the Ibadi sect being the most widely followed, which is distinct from the Sunni and Shia branches that are more common in other Muslim-majority countries. The Ibadi school of Islam is known for its moderate views and is considered to be one of the oldest Islamic schools of thought.

Language of Oman

The official language of Oman is Arabic, which is used in government, legal matters, and as the medium of instruction in schools. Omani Arabic has its own distinct dialect but Modern Standard Arabic is used for official purposes and in formal settings.

In addition to Arabic, English is widely spoken and understood, particularly in business, commerce, and education, as well as among the expatriate community. English is often used as a second language and many Omanis are bilingual.

Places to visit in Oman

• Muscat
• Nizwa 
• Salalah 
• Sohar
• Jebel Akhdar
• Wahiba Sands
• Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve
• Musandam Fjords
• Jebel Shams

Before you visit Oman

Travel to Oman