The poorly studied state located on the Arabian Peninsula is one of the most exotic corners of the world.
In an ancient country with a distinctive culture that carefully treats historical monuments of past centuries, the natural wealth and architectural sights of Oman, with their local flavor , are harmoniously combined . An interesting state for tourists, washed by the waters of the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea, is fascinating at first sight with its unique beauty.
Some facts about the state
A country with an absolute monarchy is home to about three million people. The official language of Oman is Arabic, and the state religion is ibadism (the direction of Islam). The country's economy is developing through oil exports, gas production and the tourism business.
Capital of the Sultanate of Oman
Muscat is the capital of a modern state with a developed infrastructure. The main administrative and shopping center is considered a tourist mecca of the Arab world, but recently Europeans have been actively exploring the country and are first of all getting acquainted with its beautiful heart, embodying the spirit of the region.
A blooming oasis with a cosmopolitan atmosphere is located in a cozy valley hiding behind the mountains.
The capital of Oman is buried in verdure, despite rare rainfall, and the locals collect water after short-term rains and take it underground. The city stretching along the seashore is amazing with its gardens, which have no analogues. Each resident considers it his duty to plant greenery and palm trees.
Arabic identity
Bearing the well-deserved title of the most beautiful city of the Arabian Peninsula, Muscat retained its Arab identity, and new buildings being built emphasize traditional oriental architecture. European tourists are surprised by the complete absence of skyscrapers, because, at the behest of Sultan Qaboos, who came to power in the 70s of the last century, building up is strictly forbidden.
Such an order is associated with seismic danger and the desire to maintain its authenticity, because all modern skyscrapers have little resemblance to familiar Arabic housing.
Sultan's Palace
The sights of Muscat (Oman) are so diverse that I want to talk about them separately. The main symbol of the city is the wonderful Al-Alam Palace, which is one of several residences of Sultan Qaboos. Traditional Arabic features in the guise of a magnificent masterpiece are combined with Indian ones.
Tourists are only allowed to admire the palace from afar. The royal chambers used to receive foreign guests are closed to the public, and the building itself is under guard.
Elegant architectural sights of Oman cause European tourists to think about an oriental fairytale that has come to life. Local architects have created a real pearl, distinguished by laconicism and modesty and at the same time striking with special sophistication.
Two twin forts
The most beautiful residence of the Sultan on both sides is surrounded by ancient fortresses erected by the Portuguese in the 16th century to protect against pirates. The restored twin forts of Al Jalali and Al Mirani are closed to ordinary tourists of the state of Oman, whose sights will not leave anyone indifferent.
In one fortress there is now a military base of the country, and in another, which has become a historical museum on the orders of the Sultan, magnificent receptions are held for the most honored guests.
Popular promenade
Speaking about the main attractions of Oman, one cannot but mention the Muscat embankment - Cornish, located on the coast of the bay. The historical center of the city is decorated with openwork arbors, various sculptures and magnificent fountains. At night, the embankment blooms with bright multi-colored lights and is filled with tourists resting.
This is the most popular walking place not only for foreign travelers, but also for local residents, idly spending time in open restaurants.
Matrah Market
And opposite the most interesting in terms of street entertainment is the famous Matrah market. Numerous shops offer clothing, shoes, groceries, perfumes, jewelry and souvenirs.
The oriental flavor of the Arab bazaar and the peculiar smell of incense will delight anyone. Here you can buy everything that the soul desires. And true fans of shopping will be satisfied with a visit to this picturesque place where it is customary to bargain with sellers.
Original Oman Attractions: Amouage Factory
All fans of selective perfumes will be attracted by the Amouage factory, located near Muscat Airport. Founded in 1983, the brand, which created well-known oriental-style fragrances, has gained worldwide recognition. A fascinating tour will introduce you to the traditional materials that are used to create rich perfumes.
Visitors will be happy to try new perfumes and watch the process of pouring into strict bottles of precious essence.
Wahib Desert
The state of Oman, whose sights are created not only by human hands, will amaze with amazing natural beauties. The Wahiba desert, consisting of golden sand dunes up to a hundred meters high, can only be reached by SUVs.
The vast expanses of moving sand dunes, changing color depending on the age of small grains of sand, will be remembered as one of the most unusual spectacles in the world. The desert is equipped with special camps for tourists, where you can relax after an exciting journey through the hot sands.
Picturesque valleys
The most beautiful sights of Oman are called a real paradise on earth. Surrounded by mountains, the valleys of Wadi Shaab and Wadi Tiwi are wonderful oases in the middle of a hot desert. A few hours away from the capital of Oman, the picturesque corners have become a place of family relaxation for all residents of the country.
In the valleys surrounded by fruit groves, there are springs with clear spring water that are used by farmers. The magnificent landscapes of mountain lakes that promote relaxation will amaze even the most demanding tourists.
Bimma failure
The forty-meter karst failure, formed after the groundwater eroded the rocks, has become a unique creation of the nature of the state of Oman. Sights, photos of which have flown around the world, are very popular among tourists. Sometimes such funnels, over which roads and residential buildings are located, cause terrible destruction.
Here, a karst pit formed far from all settlements and became a picturesque well filled with clear water. Tourists go down the stairs leading down to not only see the natural failure in person, but also to swim.
An Arab country, proud of its originality, recently opened the door for foreign citizens who want to take a closer look at the fabulous sights of Oman, photos and descriptions of which are presented in this article. A rich excursion program will give unforgettable minutes and leave an indelible impression. Tourists admit that a friendly state has become the very place where you want to return.