Beaches in Oman
The coastline of Oman is one of the most important tourist attractions in the Sultanate of Oman. The coastline extends 3,165 kilometers, including the beach overlooking the Sea of Oman, the Arabian Sea, the Arabian Gulf or the Hormuz Strait in the north. Among the beautiful beaches in the Sultanate of Oman:
Al Bustan Beach
Located in the Governorate of Muscat, Al Bustan Palace Hotel sprawls over the beach and overlooks the mountains that intertwine with the hotel’s sands and beaches. These mountains lend the beach an unsurpassed sense of privacy.
Dhofar Beaches
Dhofar Governorate is characterised by attractive and rich beaches. There are plenty of lagoons crowded with flamingos, as well as caves with winding entrances. The Governorate’s most important beaches are Al Maghsayl, Raysut, Al Hafah, and the shores of Wilayat Taqah, Mirbat and Sha, noted for the purity of their sands and the beauty of their surrounding rocks and scenic nature. There are a number of lagoons, such as Sawli, Al Baleed, Ad Dahareez, Atheeb and Salalah, where you can see large numbers of flamingos. As for lovers of diving and water skiing, they can rest assured that the shores of this governorate are among the best in the Sultanate of Oman. You can easily access these shores through well paved roads and other services.
Duqm Beach
This beautiful beach is known for its soft, clean sands, its azure waters and cool breezes, and is only 20 kilometres from the centre of Wilayat AlDuqm in Al Wasta Governorate (the central region).
Matrah Corniche
This is near one of the most important ports in Oman, Port Sultan Qaboos in the heart of the capital Muscat. It overlooks beautiful mountainous rocky formations and is one of the most gorgeous sites in the Governorate of Muscat, ideal for picnics, watching the sea and admiring ancient buildings.
Al Qurm Beach
This beach lies in AlQurm Area in the heart of Muscat and extends over a large area. A number of large hotel chains are built next to it, such as Hotel Muscat InterContinental and Crowne Plaza. This beach is considered one of the busiest in Muscat due to its location near shopping centres and restaurants. Walking enthusiasts can enjoy the boardwalk along the beach and then rest on the numerous chairs and umbrellas that dot the beach.
Ras Al Hadd Beach
The beach is about 60 kilometres from Sur City, the capital of the A'Sharqiyah South Governorate. This beach has been home to human activity since the third millennium BC and serves as a safe haven for ships from storms. Fighter planes took shelter in it in during World War II and the marks of the runways still exist today. This beach has been proclaimed a turtle reserve. Turtles come here, especially to Ras Al Jinz beach in Wilayt Ras AlHadd, to lay an estimated number of from 6,000 to 13,000 eggs. The beach is distinguished by its spectacular bays and rock formations which are havens for large numbers of birds.
Al Jissah Beach
Located in the Wilayat of Muscat in Muscat Governorate, it is characterized by its clean silver sand. The mountains around him follow the wind. Visitors to this beach can enjoy sea tours in small boats scattered on the beach. It is characterized by tranquility, clear water, and sea birds, surrounded by mountains. On the sea side, the beach has three entrances through two small islands in the water, which form a magnificent natural landscape. On the beach, there are small boats for fishing and other marine outing. In the background of the beach, there are palm trees scattered in the soft sand and a garden with basketball and volleyball courts, children's games and places to rent small boats for roaming and marine excursions, as well as tourist facilities and services designed for the service of beach visitors. Diving enthusiasts can enjoy their fun sports. The Omani Diving Association building was built on Al Jissah Beach, which has all the possibilities for diving. Other beaches are located in Muscat such as Ras al-Hamra, Bandar al-Khiran, Witti, Haramil, Darsait and Aynat.
Qantab Beach
Located in the Wilayat of Muscat in the Governorate of Muscat, with its clean silver sand and mountains, it is surrounded by strong winds and turns into a quiet lake. The visitors of this beach can enjoy sea tours in small boats on this beach.
Al-Sawadi Beach
This beach is located at Barka in Al Batinah South Governorate. It lies 70 kilometres from the capital Muscat. What distinguishes this beach are the beautiful rock islands scattered close to the coast. These islands lend a touch of the artistic to the location and are an important spot for both migratory and indigenous birds. You will find a number of aquatic sports on this beach, which has a resort equipped with all the necessities for such activities.
Sohar Corniche
This corniche is located in Sohar in Al Batinah North Governorate. A sea route overlooking the coast and passing the Sohar historical Castle has been opened. Along the way, you’ll see restaurants, signboards, umbrellas to lounge under, and every amenity for the visitor. At one corner a small park for visitors has been built.
Shores of Al Wusta Region
AlWasta Governorate (the central region) is characterised by a series of beaches varying in nature and topography. Some are surrounded by rocks that look like carved natural awnings, especially in Ra’s Midrakah and Ash Shuway’ir, in Wilayt A'Duqum, while others are carpeted with soft, clean sands like the shores in AL-Jasir and Mahut. All these beaches enjoy mild weather that often blows cool breezes accompanied by a light water spray which gives them their distinctive atmosphere.
Islands in Oman
A group of islands are adjacent to Oman. Also, a number of smaller islands trail Barr Al Hikman Peninsula and Musandam Peninsula, especially in the Strait of Hrmiz. The most famous islands in Oman are:
Masirah Island
The island is located in south east Oman, and is within the administration of A'Sharqiyah South Governorate. It is surrounded by several other islands, Marsis, Cha’nazi and Kalban. Marsis is the largest island in Oman and is a landmark in the middle of the sea. To the viewer, it looks like a jewel amid the azure waters. The visitor is enchanted by the island’s beautiful and diverse natural environment, clearly seen in its abundant marine life. The island has expansive agricultural fields. Because of the fertility of its soil, plants quickly spring up after rainfall. The island also has a number of mountains on Ras Halif, Rasia, Al Ija and other places, and enjoys temperate weather year round.
As a visitor to Masirah Island, you’ll feel here the harmony of nature, the pervasive calmness of the sea waves, and the cool breeze which envelopes you, giving you a profound sense of serenity as you breathe the pure air. The beaches provide an unparalleled opportunity to see clusters of rare sea turtles lay their eggs. You can reach the island by a large ferry, known locally as Alyasoora. This is a large carrier that carries cars, goods and people to and from the island. The island can also be accessed by air.
Al Hillaniyat Islands
These are five islands. They are ordered from west to east:
AsSawda Island, Bird Island, Al Hasikiyah, Al Qibliyah, and Al Hallaniyah, which is the largest island, 50 kilometres from the coast of Hasik and 220 kilometres from Salalah, the capital of Dhofar Governorate. The island contains some ancient sites. These islands are characterised by an enormous range in elevation, embracing deserts, highlands and islands, springs, bays and headlands. They are home to large groups of turtles and birds.
Al-Dimaniyat Islands Nature Reserve
Dimaniyat Islands Nature Reserve is located in Wilayat AlSeeb in the Governorate of Muscat and Wilayat Barka in Al Batinah, and lies about 18 kilometres off the coast of Barka (70 kilometres west of Muscat, the capital). Its total area is 100 hectares (247 acres) and is composed of nine islands. The reserve features pristine beaches on which the white sands are caressed by the sea’s crystal blue waters. This reserve has a rich natural heritage and is replete with several kinds of coral reefs, including some examples that are quite rare. The island is home to a large number of sea turtles that lay their eggs and nest there, as well as a magnet for migratory and indigenous birds.
In 1984, the reserve was recognised internationally because it is located within the project of the Great Barrier Reef, considered an international nature reserve and one of the most beautiful diving locations in the Sea of Oman. Locally, the islands go by the following names: Kharabah, Huyoot, Al Jabal Al Kabeer (Um As Sakan). The latter is divided into two islands: Um Al Liwahah (Minaret) and Al Jawn that includes three islands. These islands contain more than 22 known diving sites, in addition to being perfect for snorkelling. Also, some people like to camp in the islands, especially in the period from October to February.
The Wadis (Valleys)
Wadis(Valleys) form a unique environmental system characterised by variety, diversity, and a wealth of natural attractions. Within this fertile environment, people have lived in the wadis (valleys) of Oman for thousands of years:
Wadi Bani Khalid
Located 203 kilometres (126 miles) from Muscat. Take the Bidbid – Sur Road in Al Sharqiyah South Governorate, which forks into a side road leading to wilayat Bani Khalid , then weaves up across the eastern AlHajar Mountains to Bida village deep in the mountains. There you can enjoy the spectacular views of the fertile valley with its spreading trees and abundant water that tumbles down as waterfalls in some areas to form natural pools of water. The road then cuts through the valley to reach Muqal town, well known for its cave. To explore this cave, you’ll have to exercise great caution as you may need to crawl or even scramble in some places. Here the gushing waters creates a loud rushing sound and collects in pools, only to dissipate and gather - once again – in small lakes which the villagers have used to fill three irrigation canals.
Wadi AlShab
This wadi is located in Tiwi, part of Sur in Al Sharqiyah South Governorate . It lies 140 kilometres (87 miles) from Muscat on the Qurayat – Sur Coastal Road.Fresh water cascading from tops of the mountains meet the briny sea water on its banks, creating an environmental diversity unique to this wadi, and making it stand on a pedestal of its own when compared with the other wadis (valleys) in the Sultanate. You’ll doubtless enjoy the adventurous journey through Wadi Shab, as you can only meander through certain areas by boat, or take pleasure in a refreshing hike through this mountainous region.
Wadi Tiwi
Located in Tiwi, Sur Al Sharqiyah South Governorate, it is 2 kilometres (1.24 miles) from Wadi Shab and spreads over an area of 36 kilometres (22.37 miles) at the foot of the mountain village of Mibam. It is a fertile wadi that meanders through a number of agricultural villages which grow dates and bananas overlooking the majestic mountains. You can also see the valley below, and the azure waters of the sea from some elevated locations.
Wadi Al Abyadh (White Valley)
This wadi is about 30 km (18.5 miles) away from the main Muscat – Sohar road, where it extends west of Wilayat Nakhl, Al Batinah South Governorate . It is 25 kilometres (15.5 miles) away from Wilayat centre.This wadi is characterised by its abundant fresh water springs and year-round streams. It is a haven for many animals and birds, and supports numerous plants.
Wadi Al Huwqain
Distances of about 40 and 150 kilometres separates it from Willayat Al Rustaq and Muscat Governorate respectively. This valley is characterised by its year-round flowing streams, as well as beautiful waterfalls and ever-flowing water springs.
Wadi Diyqah
Wadi Diyqah is a tourist attraction, being one of the easy-to-reach wadis, located near Muscat Governorate about 90 kilometres from Wadi Aday. To cross this wadi is to explore the Omani mountains and their natural diversity. The wadi is an extension of similar wadis in Ash Sharqiyah Region. About 120 wadis converge into its path, which stretches from Wilayat Dimma Wa Ta’iyeen in Al Sharqiyah North Governorate to its estuary in Wilayat Qurayat, Muscat Governorate. It is one of the year-round flowing wadis.
A dam has been built in this wadi and is considered the biggest in the Sultanate of Oman. It consists of two dams: the main one is 75 metres (246 feet) high, and thesecondary one is an earthen dam 48.5 metres (149 feet) high. The main dam includes a tower for water drainage. The dam lake is 8 kilometres (5 miles) long, and the dam can hold about 100 million cubic metres (more than 8,000 acre feet) of rain water.
Wadi Danak (Fida)
This wadi originates in Fida town in Dhank Province, specifically in Al Khili, an area so steep it is considered a water reservoir for Yanqul and Shuab wadis, whose waters cascade down the face of the mountains. Wadi Danak’s water runs all year round and is home to a multitude of birds. Flanking this wadi on both banks are picturesque villages, which prompted Dhank Province to take Al Dhahirah Governorate as its emblem.
Wadi Andam
Its remoteness from the sea endows this wadi with a mellow climate, magical nature and tiered trees. Here you’ll find a seamless amalgamation of trees androcky formations that will steep your senses in total serenity, calmness, rejuvenation and relaxation. This is the beautiful Wadi Andam in the Al Sharqiyah Governorate. Wadi Andam extends from Willayat Samail to Willayat AL Mudaybi, and ends in Willayat Mahut in Al Wusta Governorate.
Wadi Darbat
Wadi Darbat is located in Dhofar Governorate. This wadi carves its way through hills and highlands until it reaches Khawr Ruri, where it empties into the Arabian Gulf. During autumn, the wadi’s water descending from the mountains forms magnificent waterfalls cascading from a height of up to 30 metres (100 feet). The wadi is distinguished by its virgin nature and thick botanical cover, in addition to a natural spring and a number of caves. The wadi’s water is the source of the water filling Teeq Cave’s cells .
Wadi Dimma
This valley is located in Dama Wataeen Wilayat Al Sharqiyah North Governorate and is known as the Wadi AlHajir, location of the natural AlHajir Park.
Wadi Al Arbiyeen
This is one of the most beautiful wadis in Muscat Governorate. It is situated 3 kilometres away from Wilayat Qurayat on the road leading to the villages of Fins and Bamah. The wadi cleaves a deep furrow in the flank of the A'Sharqiyah AlHajar Mountains. An abundance of water characterises the area, where deep pools are found in the wadi. Four villages on both banks form Wadi Al Arbiyeen. These villages are famous for the cultivation of palm trees, bananas, lemon and mango trees.
Wadi Damm
Wadi Damm is located near Al Ayn village, Wilayat Ibri, Al Dhahirah Governorate, and is about 45 km (28 miles) from Ibri city. It is a seasonal wadi, dry much of the year. It relies on the rain which gathers in its water ponds. This wadi is remarkable for its characteristic rocky formations sculpted by erosion. Despite the small amount of water stored in its stream during the dry season, the stream is distinguished by a variety of smooth rocks, out of which nature has formed beautiful water ponds, and this smooth rocky nature is a feature of the water ponds. One of the rocky formations sculpted by erosion is a small cave near the water pool, and it makes a fine camping site for tourists. Also, the wide expanse of spaces of its dry riverbed a short distance from water sources, constitute the best location to take a break, camp and savour the virgin beauty of nature. All you need to get there is a four-wheel drive.
Wadi Hibbi
This valley is located in the state of Suhar, about 25 km from the city center, where the valley meets with the Valley of Aahn in one stream, and then ends on the seashore after passing in a winding path on many tourist attractions, which is to see some old buildings and historical nature of different villages. The picturesque nature of Wadi Hibbi varies from the distribution of mountain ranges located on both sides of the canyon, as well as the distribution of water ponds and terraces in different parts of it.
Wadi Doka
This valley is located in Najd area after the northern slopes of Dhofar mountain range, 35 km north of Salalah. It is a model area for growing frankincense trees which are spread in Dhofar governorate. Among the most important production and export sites of frankincense along with Wadi Doka are Wadi Anzour, Wadi Hanoun, Wadi Wobar and Wadi Hogar.
Wadi Al Ta'iyeen
Wadi Al Ta’iyeen is located in Al Sharqiyah South Governorate. It extends over 80 kilometres (49.71 miles) across AlHajar Mountains on Bidbid – Sur Road 92 kilometres (57.17 miles) from Muscat. An expansive valley dotted with rocks acacia trees and small hills overlooked by the mountains on both sides. There are some ruins at the foot of the mountain visible on the left side of the road as you make your way through the farming villages towards AlSubul Village, which is at the junction of Wadi AlTayyin and Wadi Ad Dayqah, a narrow valley that is difficult to manoeuvre by car.
Afalaj in Oman
A falaj in Oman refers to water that runs through a channel dug in the earth. The source of falaj water is groundwater found in the subsoil or valleys. The plural of the word ‘falaj’ used in Oman is ‘aflaj’, which is a comprehensive term used to denote a system of irrigation. The falaj is an original Omani irrigation system, deep-rooted in the country’s land and history. The Falaj Irrigation System relies on water stored underground. It is extracted in a simple manner without the use of machines, and is then used in agriculture and all other essential uses. The aflaj are divided into three main types:
Dawoodi Falaj
These are long channels dug underground that run for several kilometres. Their depth usually reaches up to tens of metres, so water is present in these channels all year round. The most important of these falaj are: Falaj Al Khatmayn and Falaj Daris in A'Dakhiliyah Governorate. These two appear on the World Heritage List.
Ghaili Falaj
These falaj receive their water from ponds or running water. Their depths do not exceed 3-4 metres. Water quantities increase in these falaj directly after rainfall and usually dry up quickly during extended dry periods.
Ayni Falaj
These falaj draw their water directly from the springs (wells), including hot springs. The importance of these falaj depends on their water quality, which varies between hot and cold, and between fresh drinking water, saline water, and between alkaline water mixed with valley water, considered suitable for agriculture. There is another kind of spring that contains varying proportions of mineral salts suitable for water treatments and therapies. The most important of these falaj are: Falaj Ayn Al Kasfah in Wilayt Ar Rustaq, Falaj Al Hamam in Wilayt Bawshar and Falaj AlJaylah in Wilayt Sur in A'Sharqiyah South Governorate (Eastern Region). This last falaj appears on the World Heritage List.
Water Springs in Oman
The importance of the natural water springs varies according to the quality of their water, ranging from warm and cold water, fresh drinking water, saline and alkaline water, mixed with valley water which is suitable for agriculture. There is another kind of spring that contains varying proportions of mineral salts, making them ideal for curative and relaxation purposes. Springs of different kinds are widespread in various parts of Oman. Most of these springs stem from the mountainous areas, and vary in their abundance of water, temperature and quality ... including:
Al-Kasfah Spring
AlKasfah Spring is located in Wilayt ArRustaq in Al Batinah South Governorate. It is a collection of natural water springs whose temperatures reach up to 45 degrees Celsius. Hot water pours out of it in several streams to irrigate orchards. AlKasfah Spring is famous for its sulphate therapeutic waters. What distinguishes AlKasfah Spring from the rest of the springs in the Sultanate is the presence of sulphur and swimming pools for bathing. The pools are open all year round. Also, this spring waters the district’s farms through AlHammam Falaj.
Al-Thawarah Spring
These are a collection of hot springs that gush forth all year round from Silud Mountain and flow from the valley for a distance of 300 metres before branching out into two tributaries: Falaj “Kabbah” and Falaj “As Sarooj”. Wilayt Nakhal depends on this spring and its tributaries to irrigate its cultivated lands. The spring is one of the most popular tourist sites in Al Batinah South Governorate.
Springs in Dhofar
Dhofar is famous for the presence of more than 360 springs distributed on the mountain brows and the edges of mountains adjacent to the coastal plain, while a small number of springs are present in An Najd area. Most of these springs have water all year round. Seasonal rains, known locally as AL Khareef, are the primary source of the underground reservoirs in the mountain and plain areas. Rain falls regularly on the plains region and the mountains adjacent to it from the end of June to September every year. Among the best-known springs in Dhofar are:
Arzat Spring
is one of the most beautiful and abundant springs in the Governorate of Dhofar. Visitors should be sure to visit this natural tourist site in autumn to enjoy the flow of pure water through its rivulets and relax in the vicinity of its gorgeous surroundings. The most distinctive feature of this spring is the presence of Arzat Cave, which attracts many visitors.
Sahalnawt Spring
This is one of the springs frequented by many tourists due to its proximity to and ease of accessibility from the city of Salalah. In Hamran Spring: shady trees of different types abound, such as doum and coconut palms, popular with visitors throughout the year, especially on autumn weekends. It is about 14 kilometres to the city of Salalah, and about 7 kilometres from the main road leading to Taqah. Jarzeez Spring is the most attractive water spring for many tourists because of its proximity to Iteen Plain. From the intersection of Iteen Plain, the distance between Jarzeez Spring and the city of Salalah is about 7 kilometres. What distinguishes this spring is the forest of shady trees that sits at the foot of the surrounding mountains.
Darbat Spring
is located in the eastern part of Wilayt Taqah on the main road leading to Mirbat, on a beautiful mountain slope facing the north. Tourists can see the cascading Darbat Falls from the main road when water levels in Darbat Valley rise after heavy rainfall and the spring gushes and froths. Sometimes it is difficult to reach the valley to see the flow from the spring because of the rugged terrain. You’ll need a four wheel drive because less rugged vehicles will find it difficult to access this area. What distinguishes this spring is its beautiful landscape, virgin nature and forests of large cactus and canard trees. At the foot of the mountain, the first thing you’ll see is a beautiful plantation of coconut trees overlooking the valley.
Gala Village Springs
Situated in the Wilayat of Bousher in the Governorate of Muscat, the village of Gala is located 10 kilometers from the Sultan Qaboos Street, where is famous for its natural water, which attracts many visitors from outside and inside the Sultanate who come for a hiking and recreation.
Dams
Several new dams have been built in recent years including groundwater recharge dams, surface storage dams and flood protection dams. They are of growing importance as a means of utilising rainwater, whether for the purpose of replenishing the water table or for direct consumption. They also have a third function of helping to protect residential and commercial areas from the dangers of flooding. At the end of 2011 there were around 145 dams in various governorates across the country. Flood protection dams are designed to protect lives and property from the danger of floods, while the water they hold can be used to boost water stocks. Currently there are twelve flood protection dams – eleven in the governorate of Muscat and one in the city of Salalah in Dhofar.
Construction of an additional flood protection dam in Wadi al Khoudh in the governorate of Muscat has been approved under the Eighth Five-Year Plan (2011-2015). In April 2012 a RO29.3 million flood protection dam was inaugurated on al Amerat Heights. The first of a series of seven such dams designed to protect al Amerat and Qurm from the dangers of flooding from Wadi Adai, with a storage capacity of 22 million cubic metres, it will also retain any floodwater which might result from extreme weather events such as Cyclone Gonu in June 2007.
The Salalah flood protection dam was built to protect Salalah from floods and violent storms while feeding the groundwater reserves used by the city and the surrounding areas. Situated on the Salalah Plain, it is 6.1 Kilometres long with a storage capacity of 77 million cubic metres. Surface storage dams are built to boost the water resources available for the inhabitants of wadi banks and in mountainous areas that are hard to reach. Pipelines are laid to carry water from the dams to the populated areas, where it can be stored in nearby tanks for immediate use. Up to the end of 2010 a total of 72 surface storage dams had been built. A further seventeen were installed in 2011 – sixteen on the Jabal al Akdhar and one in the wilayat of Dima wa’l Ta’een. The Wadi Dhaiqah dam was officially inaugurated in March 2012.
One of the main surface storage dam projects in the country, it is situated in the wilayat of Quriyat in the governorate of Muscat and will supply around 35 million cubic metres of water a year after the completion of Phase Two of the project. It has a maximum height of 75.4 metres and an estimated storage capacity of around 100 million cubic metres. Groundwater recharge dams are important because they feed rainwater into the water table and reduce seawater intrusion, as well as providing a degree of protection against floods. Some 32 groundwater recharge dams were built between 1985 and the end of 2010. Several other dams were built in the wilayats of Sohar, al Amerat, Buraymi, Mahdhah and al Qabil in 2011. Approval has been given for the construction of groundwater recharge dams in the wilayats of Izki, Nizwa, Ibra, al Mudhaibi and Ibri .