Well on its way to becoming the region’s leading travel destination with new projects, Oman is home to some of the most awe-inspiring vistas one may ever come across. Soft, golden beaches with cool aquamarine waters lashing the shore, contrast with an abundance of date palm orchards and hot springs located on the outskirts of the capital city of Muscat. That’s not all; there are caves to explore and ancient villages to feast one’s eyes on.
The natural beauty of Oman is a jewel in its crown, and the local governing bodies of the country strive to ensure that its best kept secret is revealed the world over, and revelled in by people from far and wide.
The last few years have seen a strong initiative by the Ministry of Tourism, in collaboration with various public and private sector firms, to expand a thriving tourism sector that will attract travellers in droves. New projects to restore historic sites, open hotels and restaurants in interior locations, better roadways and facilities to ease access and to combine the novel and the indigenous have helped cause the boom in the tourism industry, as we know it today.
Here are some of the new projects currently in progress, and on their way to becoming some of the leading tourist hotspots in Oman’s repertoire…
Al Ashkhara
The little fishing village of Al Ashkhara is home to breathtaking beaches and pleasant weather. Situated in the South Al Sharqiyah region, it has been a fairly low-key destination frequented by Oman’s residents during Eid holidays and vacations. However, the Ministry of Tourism has great plans for it. The governing body has implemented several plans and projects to provide better facilities in Al Ashkhara, so that more and more visitors may be attracted to the area.
Following the setting up of hotels and restaurants that serve local cuisine and fresh seafood – Omran recently revealed plans to launch a new hotel, Atana Stay Al Ashkhara – tourists can unwind on spectacular beaches while viewing local residents fishing, and can even experience craftsmen at work – from traditional textile making to boat building.
A charming spot not too far away from the capital, Al Ashkhara is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway!
Wadi Bani Khalid
A tour of the Sultanate of Oman is incomplete without a visit to Wadi Bani Khalid. Situated in the Governorate of North Al Sharqiyah, the picturesque oasis attracts hordes of tourists every year to enjoy its emerald-green wadi waters and picnics among boulders and palm trees.
Along with building a tourist facility at the top of the water ponds so that people may make the best out of the naturally beautiful surroundings, the authorities are putting in place a rescue team to help swimmers and visitors stay safe. There will also be a team of officials to better manage traffic at the tourist site.
Complete with waterfalls, ponds, caves and old villages, not to forget amazing weather throughout the year, Wadi Bani Khalid is a one-stop weekend/holiday destination for the whole family!
Al Ansab Wetland
All nature lovers…queue up, for Al Ansab Wetland is the place to be! Bang in the middle of Muscat city lies the gorgeous green patch of Al Ansab Wetland. A true wonderland, the reserve is home to about 300 species of migratory birds that can be viewed during different parts of the year.
The reserve, located in the Wilayat of Bausher, sees scores of birders, wildlife researchers and school and college students visiting. Managed by Haya Water, it houses five large ponds that were dug to collect filtered water. The wetlands are also home to several local trees and plant species.
The management provides facilities like watching tools and tourist guides with immense knowledge about birds and plant species to help educate visitors. There is also a special nursery for Omani trees and plants.
A verdant haven for flora and fauna, the Al Ansab wetland is a lovely green-scape tucked in between Muscat’s mountains and dunes.
Suhoor Cave
Salalah is at its best right now, during the Khareef season. The Dhofar region itself is known for its many tourist spots such as beaches, blow-holes, monuments of historical importance and caves that attract tourists every year. A stunning destination in the vicinity is the Suhoor Cave. It is located in Wadi Naheez, about 12kms from Salalah.
The cave features a limestone cave formation that is rich in fossils and is home to bat and insect colonies. The tourism authorities are in the process of developing recreational facilities that will help travellers have a more comfortable visit to the cave.