The Unforgettable Culture of Oman: A Legacy of Architecture and Paintings
The Sultanate of Oman, also known as the Kingdom of Oman, lies in the eastern edge of the Arabian Peninsula. Surrounded by Saudi Arabia and Yemen, it’s still one of the less explored Middle Eastern countries. With its diverse landscapes, climate, culture and even cuisine, there’s so much to see and experience in this often overlooked country that it’s easy to see why travelers want to make Oman their next destination. Let’s look at how to explore Oman with its distinct cultural elements that make traveling here truly unforgettable!
An Art Gallery in the Desert – Muscat, Oman

When you think of Oman, what comes to mind? For many, it’s the food. And while the cuisine is undeniably delicious, there’s so much more to this country than just its gastronomy. From the languages spoken to the music played, Oman has a rich and varied culture that is truly unique. One of the best ways to experience this is through its festivals. From the annual Muscat Festival to the annual Salalah Tourism Festival, there are plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in Omani culture. And if you’re looking for something a little more permanent, be sure to check out the country’s many art galleries. From traditional paintings to modern sculptures, there’s something for everyone.
If you’re looking for an authentic local experience, there’s no better way to get it than by immersing yourself in local culture. From their customs to their food, you’ll always be able to find something new about Oman that’s truly worth experiencing. Whether it’s visiting a famous art gallery or tasting some traditional delicacies, one thing is for sure: Oman has some things that are definitely unforgettable.
Naboulas Fort – Muscat, Oman

The Naboulas Fort is a must-see when in Muscat. The fort is made up of three levels, each with its own purpose. The first level was used as a storage area, the second level was used as a living quarters for the soldiers, and the third level was used as a lookout point. The fort is now a museum that houses Omani artefacts and paintings. When visiting the fort, you will also get to experience the traditional music of Oman.
One of the more well-known attractions in Muscat, Oman is the Sultan’s Palace. If you are in Muscat, you have to visit The Sultan’s Palace. The palace is full of beautiful artwork and artefacts that date back to when it was built by Imam Saif bin Sultan in 1903. It is said that there are about 2000 photos throughout its walls. Many notable events have happened in The Sultan’s Palace throughout its existence; which includes members from all over participating in religious talks as well as U.S President Franklin Roosevelt visiting The Sultan during World War II.
Muscat Al Alam Palace – Muscat, Oman This is another one of Oman’s historic buildings that you must see when in Muscat. The palace was built during 1958-1960 by His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said. It was designed to resemble a traditional Arab tent with four distinct parts, each housing different things such as his family, guests and staff. Each part has its own unique architecture from one another. You can visit Al Alam Palace by appointment only; however it is open for visitors on Fridays for prayer times only.
National Museum – Muscat, Oman

The National Museum in Muscat, Oman is a must-see for anyone interested in the country’s culture and history. The museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts, ranging from ancient pottery to traditional weapons. The museum also has a section on the different languages spoken in Oman. This is a great place to learn about the country’s rich cultural heritage.
Ruins – Jebel Akhdar, Oman: From an engineering standpoint, many of these mountains were actually built by humans. Jebel Akhdar is one of several mountains that line up with a row in Yemen to form what is known as the Mountain Gate. This gate is thought to have been a significant landmark for ancient civilizations. The mountain pass’s construction has been dated back more than 3,000 years ago. The ruins that stand on top are equally impressive today as they would have been thousands of years ago. From Jebel Akhdar you can see miles into nearby areas; at night it’s even possible to see lights from other cities!
Al Bustan Palace Hotel & Gardens – Muscat, Oman

The Al Bustan Palace Hotel & Gardens is one of the most luxurious hotels in Oman. It was built in the early 1970s and has since been a popular destination for travelers from all over the world. The hotel features a wide variety of amenities, including an outdoor pool, spa, and fitness center. The rooms are spacious and decorated with traditional Arabian furnishings. The hotel also has a restaurant that serves authentic Omani cuisine.
Al Bustan Palace Hotel & Gardens is a must-see for anyone traveling to Muscat. It’s one of many landmarks in Muscat that exemplify Oman’s rich history, culture, and identity. Take a walk through the streets and visit some other sites while you’re there. You won’t regret it!
The city of Muscat has an array of diverse attractions. On top of seeing all these different historical buildings, monuments, and mosques (that are spread out all over the city), you can even catch sight of sea turtles along Muscat’s coast during certain times of year. There are turtle hatcheries across from Yantoon Beach where tourists can watch female turtles swim up onto shore to lay their eggs in designated areas on land. It’s fun for people young and old alike!
Sur Historic Area – Sur, Oman

The Sur Historic Area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Sur, Oman. The site includes the remains of the medieval city of Julfar, as well as the 18th-century fortifications that were built by the Sultanate of Oman. The area is also home to a number of important religious sites, including the Grand Mosque, which was built in the 16th century. The Sur Historic Area is a testimony to the rich cultural heritage of Oman and its people.
UNESCO granted World Heritage status to Sur Historic Area in July 2007. Today, the site welcomes visitors from all over the world who are eager to discover more about its diverse cultural history. Sur is located approximately 45 minutes by car from Muscat International Airport and is easily accessible by public transportation, taxi or personal vehicle.