Last weekend in Oman was a lively mix of tradition, family and adventure, all wrapped up in the celebration of Eid Al Adha. It’s one of the most important religious festivals in the country and Omani families took it as an opportunity to reconnect with their roots and loved ones. Most headed off to their villages, where the entire week was mapped out with prayers, family gatherings and the preparation of shuwa — a slow-cooked, aromatic meat dish that’s a highlight of Eid festivities. The days are filled with sharing meals, catching up and celebrating together — a true reflection of the close-knit community spirit Oman is proud of.
Once those family and religious obligations are fulfilled, many turn to leisure activities and one of the most popular spots lately is Jabal Hatt. Tucked away in the rugged mountains outside the capital, Muscat, Jabal Hatt has become a favourite for weekend getaways. It’s a stunning mountain area, known for its dramatic landscape — rugged cliffs, lush greenery and sweeping views. The mountain itself rises about 1,300 metres above sea level and offers a cooler escape from the heat of the city. Visitors describe it as a place where the air is fresher and the scenery is truly breath-taking.
Jabal Hatt is located around 220 kilometres from Muscat, in the Al Dakhiliyah Governorate. It’s an area gaining reputation for its natural beauty, attracting not just locals but tourists from outside Oman as well. What makes it appealing is its accessibility; unlike some other mountain areas in Oman, going to Jabal Hatt doesn’t require a four-wheel-drive. A regular car or even a sedan can make the drive to the viewpoints, which is a big draw for families and casual explorers alike. Near the top, there are spots perfect for pitching a tent, enjoying the cool mountain breeze and just relaxing away from the city’s hustle.
Throughout the long Eid weekend, thousands of Omanis headed to Jabal Hatt. It was quite the sight — as if the entire city of Muscat had decided to escape to the mountains. Tents and cars filled nearly every available viewpoint, creating a lively, vibrant scene. A visitor told us that the mountain was packed with families, all celebrating Eid in their own way — some camping under the open sky, others just enjoying the panoramic views. It’s become a yearly tradition for many, especially during summer when the weather is just right — warm enough during the day but pleasantly cool at night. Stories from locals say that families often plan their summer trips months in advance, eager to escape the city’s heat and enjoy the mountain’s fresh air.
What’s especially popular about Jabal Hatt is that it’s more accessible than other mountain destinations in Oman like Al Jabal Al Akhdhar or Jabal Shams. Al Jabal Al Akhdhar, famous for its terraced farms and luxury resorts, often requires a four-wheel-drive, while Jabal Shams — which is about two hours away — demands a bit more planning and preparation. Jabal Hatt doesn’t have that strict requirement, making it a favourite among many families who just want a quick, easy getaway. People bring along everything they need — tents, food and drinks — and settle in for a few days amidst nature.
In recent years, Oman has become more popular for wild camping, especially among the younger crowd. Unlike Europe, where permits and strict regulations often restrict outdoor camping, Oman offers a freer experience. The landscape is open for those seeking adventure, with plenty of spots for wild camping — just pitch your tent and enjoy the serenity of the mountains. However, Jabal Hatt itself is starting to develop more facilities. There are a couple of small hotels like Shorfet Al Ameen, which offers private rooms with pools overlooking the canyons, as well as some camping grounds equipped with dome tents, toilets and basic kitchens. It’s a step in the right direction, but there’s still room for improvement.
The main challenge facing Jabal Hatt is infrastructure. With thousands of visitors every year, the lack of sufficient toilets and bathroom facilities becomes obvious. Many campers have to drive 10 to 20 minutes down the mountain to find proper amenities. Food options are limited too — there are very few shops or restaurants on-site, so visitors usually bring everything they need or drive to nearby towns for supplies. This, along with the area’s seasonal status, means that further development and investment are needed to make it truly popular year-round.
But what made this weekend truly memorable was the weather. The last couple of months in Oman has been humid and hot. During the Eid holiday, Jabal Hatt experienced some unexpected rainfall and the rolling fog that settled over the mountain was something campers loved.
That unexpected rain and fog turned Jabal Hatt into a magical playground for families. The mist rolling over the peaks created an almost surreal atmosphere — a perfect backdrop for photos and memorable moments.
Jabal Hatt continues to be a top pick for summer holidays. It offers a genuine outdoor experience without the extensive planning or equipment needed for more remote destinations. Families can arrive with minimal fuss, set up a tent, enjoy the scenery and spend quality time together, all within a short drive from Muscat. The combination of easy access, scenic views and pleasant weather has cemented its status as a beloved spot for both locals and visitors seeking a quick escape from the city’s pace.
If you’re planning to camp over this weekend and eye Jabal Hatt as your destination, you might need to go early so you can pick the right spot.
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