Where to Spend Your Eid-al-Adha Holidays

Muscat: . With Oman's Eid-al-Adha holidays just around the corner, residents and citizens are eagerly preparing to make the most of their well-deserved time off. While some are considering flying abroad to escape the soaring temperatures, many are discovering the allure of spending the holidays within Oman itself.

Oman is a country blessed with unique habitats and landscapes, ranging from pristine beaches and coral reefs to towering mountains and breathtaking desert sands. When it comes to celebrating Eid, there's no better place to be than Oman.

If you're planning a trip to Oman for Eid, here are some exceptional destinations that will make your holiday truly unforgettable.

Salalah

Salalah tops the list of holidaymakers seeking a quick getaway from the scorching heat of the capital city. As the Khareef clouds descend upon the Dhofar mountains, drizzles and mist blanket the region. Currently, Salalah reports a much cooler temperature of 29 degrees Celsius, with chances of rain. The official start of the Khareef season in Dhofar is scheduled for June 20, transforming the mountains into lush greens and filling the wadis with water.

Khaled Moaz from Plaza Hotel, Salalah, anticipates a significant turnout this year for the Eid-al-Adha holiday. "Despite the Khareef season reaching its peak, we are already witnessing an unprecedented demand for Eid holidays. We expect visitors from both within the country and neighboring GCC countries," he says.

Jabal Akhdar

As the mercury soars to the forties in Muscat and other governorates, Jabal Akhdar, also known as the Green Mountain, proves to be an irresistible attraction for holidaymakers. Part of Oman's majestic Al Hajar mountain range, Jabal Akhdar offers temperatures in the 20s and 30s even during summer. Its wadis and terraces are adorned with flourishing gardens and orchards, where a variety of fruits, such as apricots, plums, figs, grapes, apples, pears, almonds, walnuts, and saffron thrive. The pomegranates grown here are considered among the finest in the world.

Jabal Shams

Jebel Shams, aptly named the Mountain of the Sun, stands as Oman's highest peak, towering at approximately 3,000 meters (9,800 feet). Despite scorching temperatures at the base, ascending to the top presents a noticeable temperature drop of about 20 degrees Celsius, and even chilly nights. Just a two-hour drive from Muscat, Jabal Shams offers a blend of diverse elements, making it an ideal destination for tourists seeking recreation and relaxation. Adrenaline junkies can indulge in hiking, climbing, and abseiling, while nature enthusiasts revel in the majestic landscapes.

Jabal Hatt

Jabal Hatt serves as an appealing alternative to the popular Jabal Shams or Jabal Akhdar. Located north of Al Hamra, this mountainous village is nestled among scenic mountains. Sitting at an elevation of about 2,000 meters above sea level, Jabal Hatt provides a perfect getaway from the scorching summer months. From its peak, visitors are treated to sweeping views of the picturesque wilayats below. The road to Hatt, although rocky and dusty, rewards travelers with a rugged charm. It is advisable to opt for a four-wheel drive to ensure a safe journey.

Musandam

Musandam, Oman's northernmost governorate, offers a dramatic landscape that captivates visitors. Separated from the rest of Oman by the UAE, Musandam boasts majestic mountains reaching 2,000 meters in height, meeting the sea with awe-inspiring fjords and crystal-clear waters. This region is renowned as one of the world's best diving and snorkeling spots. Additionally, visitors can experience the thrill of the world's longest zipline over the sea—a must-try adventure for adrenaline seekers.

Oman Across Ages Museum

For those eager to delve into Oman's rich history and culture, the newly established Oman Across Ages Museum in the Wilayat of Manah offers a stunning display of the country's past. Just a one hour and 40-minute drive from Muscat, or 20 minutes from Nizwa, the museum showcases Oman's transition from its glorious past to the present and into a bright future. Engaging interactive displays and audio-visual presentations provide a modern and immersive experience.

Wadi Bani Khalid

If you're yearning for natural pools to beat the summer heat, Wadi Bani Khalid is the ideal destination. As one of Oman's most famous wadis, it entices visitors with large emerald green pools surrounded by tall palm trees. Unlike other wadis that run dry during summer, Wadi Bani Khalid maintains a constant flow of water throughout the year, offering a refreshing oasis in the midst of arid surroundings.

Al Ashkharah

While the rest of the country swelters in rising temperatures, a relatively small area in the Sharqiya region, located 300 kilometers from Muscat, beckons sea and beach lovers with its pristine coast. Al Ashkarah boasts fine golden sands and is home to numerous colonies of birds. During the monsoon season in Dhofar, the temperature in Al Ashkarah also drops, providing a welcome respite from the capital's heat.

Masirah Island

If you're a fan of water sports activities, Masirah Island should be on your itinerary. This island is home to a vibrant community of fishermen, farmers, and craftsmen who rely on the island's natural resources for their livelihoods. The beaches here are renowned for their abundance of lobsters, crabs, and other seafood, which are sold at the bustling fish market. During summer, strong and constant winds create an ideal environment for kiteboarding and windsurfing. The impressive waves formed by the wind attract avid wave surfers as well.

Wadi Mibam

Unlike other wadis that become difficult to navigate during summer, Wadi Mibam presents an enchanting experience for adventure lovers. Lush greenery adorns both sides of the wadi, creating a picturesque setting. Located at the end of Tiwi and less than two hours from Muscat, Wadi Mibam is situated on the Salmah Plateau and connects to Wadi Tiwi. Its verdant surroundings and deep natural pools offer an unforgettable retreat. However, please note that the final pool of Mibam requires good swimming and climbing skills, making it inadvisable for children.

Al Hazm Castle

Al Hazm Castle, though lesser-known, is a hidden gem worth exploring. This architectural masterpiece showcases Islamic design and was built in 1708 during the reign of the Al Yarubi tribe. Located in Rustaq, approximately 160 kilometers from Muscat, this magnificent castle is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Inside the fort, visitors can explore intriguing rooms, secret chambers, prisons, and date store rooms. Exhibitions feature cannons, old rifles, daggers, and other artifacts from the 18th century, offering a glimpse into Oman's fascinating history.

As Oman prepares for Eid-al-Adha, these destinations promise an Eid holiday filled with adventure, tranquillity, and cultural exploration. Whether you seek cooler climates, breathtaking landscapes, historical marvels, or thrilling outdoor activities, Oman has something to captivate every souls.