If you’re craving a winter escape that blends golden sunshine, breathtaking landscapes and authentic Arabian culture, Oman should be at the top of your travel list. Tucked away on the southeastern edge of the Arabian Peninsula, this hidden gem offers travellers a rare combination: serene relaxation and heart-pounding adventure, all wrapped in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Here’s why Oman is the perfect destination for your next getaway.
Oman boasts superb sunshine throughout the year, making it ideal for those looking for somewhere new to leave the winter chill behind. Even in December and January, coastal temperatures hover around 24–26°C, providing endless hours of golden light. Muscat, the capital, averages over 8 hours of sun daily during winter, making early morning walks along the Corniche or late afternoons on Qurum Beach particularly delightful. What's more, Oman’s clear skies and low humidity make it a paradise for stargazers, especially in desert regions where the Milky Way stretches across the horizon in stunning clarity.
Muttrah district of Muscat
The winter months are perfect for sightseeing in Oman
Oman is a truly land of contrasts. Its pristine beaches stretch along the Arabian Sea, perfect for sunbathing, snorkelling, or simply listening to the rhythmic lap of waves. Yet just a short drive inland, the landscape transforms dramatically. The rugged Hajar Mountains rise sharply, inviting hikers, climbers and photographers to explore their dramatic peaks and the ancient villages hidden between them. Don’t miss Jebel Shams, Oman’s “Grand Canyon,” where panoramic views at sunrise or sunset are unforgettable. For a cultural twist, visit the ancient mountain village of Misfat Al Abriyeen, known for its centuries-old mudbrick houses and falaj irrigation system, recognised as UNESCO heritage.
Further south, Al Sharqiyah Sands (Wahiba Sands) presents a completely different adventure. Here, endless dunes stretch to the horizon. Thrill-seekers can try dune bashing or quad biking, while those seeking calmer adventure can enjoy camel treks and overnight camping beneath a canopy of stars. Unlike other desert destinations in the Gulf, Al Sharqiyah Sands retains a sense of untouched wilderness, offering a genuine connection to nature.
Hiking Jebel Shams
Canvas Club luxury tents in Al Sharqiyah Sands
Beach east of Muscat
Oman’s charm isn’t just in its landscapes, it’s in its people. Visitors often remark on the warm, unhurried hospitality and the sense of stepping back in time. From the bustling Muttrah Souq in Muscat, where the scent of frankincense mingles with vibrant spices, to centuries-old forts and castles that dot the countryside, Oman offers an authentic Arabian experience without the crowds. You can wander through traditional villages, witness artisans at work, and savour Omani cuisine – rich with saffron, cardamom, and fresh seafood – without feeling rushed, overwhelmed or hassled.
Handmade pottery outside Nizwa souk
Traditional Omani tea in the desert
Nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts will find Oman irresistible. Its deserts are home to Arabian oryx, gazelles, and even elusive leopards, while the rugged coastline attracts hawksbill turtles, dolphins and a dazzling array of coral reef species. For an unforgettable experience, head to Ras Al Jinz, the world’s most important nesting site for green turtles, where you can watch these magnificent creatures come ashore under the moonlight. Elsewhere, just a short boat ride from Muscat, the Daymaniyat Islands offer some of the best snorkelling and diving in the Gulf, with crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life.
Turtle reserve in Ras Al Jinz
Coral reefs in the Gulf of Oman
Dolphins off the coast
From sun-soaked beaches to dramatic mountains and endless deserts, Oman is home to a variety of natural wonders. Its culture is alive, welcoming, and remarkably untouched by mass tourism. Here, you can experience Arabia as it once was, whether that means sipping coffee with locals in a mountain village, watching turtles under the stars or trekking through rugged landscapes that feel like they belong to another era.