Magnificent Destinations of Oman: An Extravagant Escape
If you love extravagance and want to explore magnificent destinations, your best bet may be Oman. This sultanate in the Middle East offers everything from pristine beaches and ancient historical sites to outdoor adventures like hiking, camping, and fishing. Additionally, Oman’s capital city of Muscat features some of the country’s most extravagant hotels and restaurants. If you are planning to visit this fascinating country soon, make sure you check out these five magnificent destinations first!
Nabq Protected Area

Nabq is one of the most serene and scenic places in all of Oman. It’s an amazing place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The mesmerizing landscapes and wildlife are a sight to behold. You’ll find so many different species of animals here, including the Arabian Oryx and gazelles, who call this area home.
While you won’t find any big cities or museums here, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy during your stay. Bring a pair of binoculars and explore on foot or by car with a local guide. During your trip, take in all that Nabq has to offer—whether it’s desert landscapes that look like something straight out of National Geographic or animals you’d typically find on an African safari. Make sure to schedule in a picnic while you’re there so you can take in nature’s beauty while feasting on delicious Omani dishes—the perfect way to fully experience everything Nabq has to offer!
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Al Alam Palace Museum

The Al Alam Palace Museum is one of the most serene and scenic destinations in all of Oman. The museum is located in a beautifully restored 19th-century building, and it houses an extensive collection of artifacts that date back to the days of the Sultanate. The museum’s grounds are also home to a stunningly landscaped garden, which is perfect for a leisurely stroll. Visitors to the Al Alam Palace Museum will be mesmerized by its history and beauty.
Qasr Al Alam, sometimes known as the palace of peace, has a rich history. Built in 1885 by Sultan Seyyid Said ibn Taimur, it served as a royal residence and grand palace complex until 1950. The British ambassador to Oman at that time lived in it with his family after its original inhabitants moved out. In 1965, Qasr Al Alam was turned into a museum. For four decades, it underwent extensive renovations to return it to its former glory. In 2009, Qatar’s government donated more than half a million dollars for an overhaul that took about three years to complete.
Muttrah Corniche

One of the top attractions for tourists in Oman is the Muttrah Corniche. This man-made harbor is located in the heart of the city and offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea. Visitors can stroll along the promenade, relax in one of the many cafes, or take a boat ride to explore the area. The Muttrah Corniche is a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Oman.
Al Amerat Beach is another popular destination for tourists. This beach is located just outside of Muttrah and offers beautiful views from its white sand shores. The water here is especially clear, making it a great place to go snorkeling or swimming. There are also plenty of nearby restaurants, bars, and hotels where you can unwind after a long day exploring Muttrah.
Stand-up paddle boarding: Stand-up paddle boarding is a popular pastime in Muscat, with many local companies offering SUP tours on both freshwater lakes and the Indian Ocean. Surfing is also quite popular, as evidenced by the large numbers of surfers near Jabal Qara in Nizwa. If you’re looking for more outdoor adventures, try hiking through Wadi Tiwi on Ras al Hadd Island which features several walking trails winding through valleys and palm trees. For those interested in shopping, visit Muttrah Souq to find everything from spices to gold jewelry at bargain prices!
Muscat Gate

As the capital of Oman, Muscat is unsurprisingly one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. The city is home to a number of impressive historical sites, including the imposing Muscat Gate. The gate was built in the early 18th century and was once part of the city’s defensive walls. Today, it stands as a symbol of the city’s rich history and is a popular spot for tourists to take photos.
The massive structure was designed with both aesthetic and practical purposes in mind. The outer walls are impressive from a distance, with decorative patterns cut into them to make them stand out. As visitors approach, they’ll notice a deep moat surrounding a high wall that’s filled with water and dotted with lanterns. This makes it look imposing when viewed from afar, but in fact it isn’t quite as formidable as it appears. In fact, walking through any of the gates is relatively easy—even at night! As you pass through its double doors, you’ll enter a small courtyard framed by archways covered by wooden window shutters where people can gather for protection during an attack or for celebration after a victory.
Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is one of the largest mosques in the world, covering an area of 416,000 square meters. The mosque can accommodate up to 20,000 worshippers at any one time and is open to non-Muslims during specific times. The exterior of the mosque is covered in white marble, while the interior is adorned with intricate mosaics, Islamic calligraphy, and massive chandeliers. The main prayer hall is flanked by two 107-meter minarets, making it an impressive sight from any angle. If you’re looking for a truly grand mosque experience, the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is a must-visit destination.
As one of several UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Oman, visitors are strongly encouraged to wear appropriate clothing when visiting. Modest dress is required to fully experience your surroundings, so be sure to cover shoulders and knees at all times. Men should also avoid wearing shorts in any area of worship and remove their shoes before entering mosques. For more information about appropriate attire, you can visit your country’s embassy or consular office before departing on your trip.