A summer destination

MUSCAT, MAY 21

As temperatures soar across much of the world during the summer, seasoned travellers are rethinking their go-to destinations. What if the next unforgettable escape was a place where cool monsoon breezes blanket misty mountains, where age-old souqs meet serene coastlines and where adventure lives around every corner? That place is the Sultanate of Oman.

Nestled on the southeastern edge of the Arabian Peninsula, Oman remains one of the region’s best-kept secrets — an oasis of natural beauty, cultural authenticity and warm hospitality. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls in the south or diving in turquoise waters in the north, this is the summer you should spend in Oman.

Oman’s growing popularity is backed by numbers. According to the National Centre for Statistics and Information, the country welcomed more than 2.3 million tourists by the end of June 2024 — a 2.4 per cent increase compared to the same period the previous year. Notably, European visitors rose by nearly 20 per cent, signalling the country’s expanding appeal beyond the region.

Hotel revenues also reflect the boom, rising by 10.2 per cent to over RO 108.3 million ($281.5 million) in the first half of 2024. These figures are not just economic indicators — they’re proof that Oman is increasingly being recognised as a go-to travel destination.

“We were looking for something different — less commercial, more real,” says Emma Thompson, a visitor from the UK. “Oman delivered. From the people to the mountains, everything felt authentic.”

Forget the desert stereotypes. In Oman’s southern city of Salalah, the summer ushers in khareef — a seasonal monsoon that transforms the arid Dhofar Governorate into a lush, green paradise. Temperatures drop, clouds drift over the hills and waterfalls cascade through mountain passes.

“I thought I was in Southeast Asia,” says Raj Patel from India, who travelled to Salalah in July. “The mist, the greenery — it was unlike anything I expected from the Middle East.”

The annual Khareef Dhofar Season, held from late June to early September, brings together culture, cuisine and nature in a celebration that captivates locals and foreigners alike.

The capital, Muscat, offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity. Here, the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque stands as a marvel of Islamic architecture, while the Royal Opera House Muscat hosts world-class performances in a distinctly Omani setting. Stroll through the atmospheric Muttrah Souq, then unwind at one of the capital’s scenic beachfront cafes.

“It’s the Middle East’s most laid-back capital,” notes a recent Times travel article. “There are no skyscraper skylines — just mountains, mosques and an irresistible sense of calm.”

Oman is a haven for the outdoorsy traveller. Head north to explore the Al Hajar Mountains, home to Jabal Shams, the country’s highest peak and a hiker’s dream. Venture into the Rimal Al Sharqiya for a true desert experience — complete with sandboarding, camel treks and Bedouin hospitality.

If water is more your element, the Daymaniyat Islands and the Musandam Peninsula offer world-class diving and snorkeling. Here, coral reefs teem with life and dolphins often dance alongside boats.

“Oman’s coastline is spectacular,” says Lena Krause, a diver from Germany. “It felt like discovering a whole new underwater world — uncrowded and untouched.”

Oman’s appeal lies not only in its landscapes but also in its values. The government’s Oman Vision 2040 initiative places sustainable tourism at the heart of its development strategy. From eco-resorts in the mountains to protected marine zones, Oman is committed to growing its tourism sector without compromising its natural heritage.

“Travelling here doesn’t feel intrusive — it feels welcomed,” says Carlos Mendes, a sustainable travel blogger from Portugal. “The people care about their land and you can see that in how tourism is managed.”

The world is rediscovering the beauty of meaningful travel — and Oman fits the bill. It offers soulful landscapes, untold stories and unmatched warmth. In a time when many destinations feel overcrowded or overexposed, Oman remains refreshingly real.

“This country surprised me in the best way,” says Emma Thompson. “I came for a new experience — and I left with memories I’ll never forget.”

So this summer, skip the ordinary. Follow the monsoon mists, climb the sunlit cliffs, wander through ancient forts and float in Oman’s hidden wadis. Whether you’re an adventurer, a cultural explorer, or a traveller seeking serenity, Oman is not just a destination — it’s an experience.