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CULTINARI

Oman – Land of Contrasts

  • Brigitte Klefisch
  • Oct 5
  • 4 min read

Between sea and mountains

Between the sea and the mountains, the Sultanate of Oman offers surprising moments and fragrant experiences. Visitors have barely escaped the bustling hustle and bustle of Dubai airport before they realize one thing upon crossing the border into Oman: Since Sultan Qaboos bin Said opened the country to the world, the Omanis have become economically strong, while maintaining their traditions and genuine friendliness.

The journey begins in Musandam. Accessible only for a few years, this scenic region is still separated from the rest of Oman by the United Arab Emirates. The best way to get there from Germany is via Dubai.


Discover Khasab

After a two-hour drive, visitors reach Khasab, a tranquil fishing village and capital to this day. Guests are traditionally welcomed with a coffee. Khawa is an Omani coffee flavored with cardamom and sometimes cloves. It is served with sweet dates. Dates are one of the country's most important agricultural products. It is estimated that there are around 120 different types of date palms in Oman. At the center lies Khasab Fort. This historic fortress is a reminder of Musandam's strategic importance. The Musandam Peninsula lies on the Strait of Hormuz. Approximately 20 percent of global oil trade is transported via this shipping route. To this day, its location offers excellent visibility and control over shipping. The fortress was built by the Portuguese in the 17th century. It now houses a museum, with enchanting exhibits of traditional Omani handicrafts.

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Above all, Musandam is known for its spectacular fjord landscapes. These are best explored on a traditional dhow cruise. These ships were once used for trading spices and dates. Today, they mostly carry tourists.

The imposing rock faces and cliffs of the Hajar Mountains rise to a height of 2,000 meters. At their feet, turquoise, clear waters reveal an incomparable underwater world. Along with dolphins, turtles, and the rare sunfish, agile schools of fish frequently frolic in the waters. A true paradise for snorkelers and divers.


Musandam's Magic: Experience Nomadic Life

Small villages appear here and there between the jagged cliffs. Many of Musandam's approximately 43,000 inhabitants still lead a nomadic life. In the summer, they live off fishing in the remote fjords, while they spend the winter in Khasab.

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A stop in the fishing village of Kumzar provides a poignant glimpse into the simple life of the 3,000 people who live here. The village is accessible only by boat. The village is known above all for its unique language, Kumzari – a mixture of Arabic, Persian, Portuguese, and other influences.

The visit of strangers is accompanied by the joyful laughter of a group of children. Nestled between the enormous fjord formations, the small stone houses nestle into the natural surroundings. A wonderful moment of tranquility that demonstrates that Oman still lives by the motto "quality over quantity." Tourists experience the magic of the Orient, far away from any hustle and bustle.

Back in Khasab, it's a much-too-soon flight to Muscat, the vibrant and colorful capital of Oman. Even if time is limited, a visit to the souks with their spices, incense, and traditional handicrafts should be planned.

Frankincense plays a particularly important role. Oman is considered one of the countries of origin of this fragrant fragrance. The resin is extracted from the Boswellia tree. Traders are happy to proudly explain the differences between white, brown, and golden frankincense.


Muscat: Capital full of colors

A visit to the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is also a lasting experience. The monumental prayer hall can accommodate up to 6,000 worshippers. Non-believers have the opportunity, at certain times, to marvel at, among other things, the world's second-largest single-piece carpet. Tourists are permitted to visit the monumental building from Saturday to Thursday (8 a.m. to 11 a.m.). Strict dress code is enforced at the entrance.

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Those unable to pass security can wear long robes, abayas, and headscarves at the entrance. Consisting of over 300,000 tons of Indian sandstone, the mosque was built over six years. Inside, the eight-ton chandelier is a magical eye-catcher. Crafted from 24-carat gold and Swarovski crystals, the chandelier is said to be a symbol of light, knowledge, and divine guidance for worshippers.









Fragrant experiences in Jabal Akhdar

The journey continues through the Omani Empire. After an exciting off-road tour by car through the "Snake Canyon," travelers arrive in Jabal Akhdar after a good two hours. The "Green Mountain" offers pure nature and a bit of cooling. Also known as the "Grand Canyon of Oman," this part of the country is surprisingly green due to the cool climate and increased rainfall.

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Pomegranates, apricots, grapes, and, above all, damask roses grow in the terraced gardens. Oman's people love fragrances. The frankincense around Salalah, for example, is considered among the finest in the world. The famous rose water is also a significant economic factor in the country.

April is harvest time. The rose petals are harvested very early in the morning. Their fragrance is said to be particularly intense then. They are then distilled in a complex process. According to the traditional method, the rose petals are distilled in a copper kettle, usually over a wood fire.

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Several kilos of rose petals are needed to make one liter of rose water. A artisanal process passed down from generation to generation. Surrounded by the delicate scent of roses, it's time to say goodbye to a country where people maintain a delicate balance between closeness to nature, tradition, and kindness.

Oman creates lasting experiences – whether high above the clouds or between cliffs by the sea.





Good to know: Overnight stays

Musandam

Atana Musandam Resort – In a typical village style, 110 rooms and suites with balconies or terraces overlooking the Gulf of Oman. Restaurants: Arjan and Al Mawra. Activities: Diving, snorkeling, boat trips, fishing. Rates start at approximately €190 per night for two people.


Muscat

The Chedi Muscat – A luxury resort with 162 rooms and villas, just two kilometers from the city center. Oman's first modern beach resort (opened in 2003). Prices start at approximately €300 per night for two people.


Jabal Akhdar / Green Mountain

Anantara Jabal Akhdar – The highest resort on the "Green Mountain." Spa, hammam, Diana's Point stargazing platform, and rose harvest excursions in April. Rates start from approximately €446 per night for two people.


Good to know: Excursions

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