Oman, the jewel of the Arabian Gulf – is getting ready to welcome GCC visitors this summer season. With its naturally-blessed terrain, the Ministry of Tourism, Oman is looking to promote the picturesque mountains of Oman – including luxury stays, hiking and exploring rural villages in the mountains.
Located a few hours drive from Muscat, Jebel Shams and Jebel Akhdar make up the most striking mountains of the Al Hajar Mountains range. Jebel Shams is the highest peak in the Arabian Peninsula and is often referred to as the ‘Grand Canyon’ of Oman. It is a very popular sightseeing and hiking area with a number of villages in the vicinity.
For luxury stays in the mountains, the Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort and Alila Jabal Akhdar and other hotels and resorts offer plush luxury with incredible canyon views. The cool climate makes the resort has the ideal location for GCC residents looking for special luxury short stays or to spend time on the hiking trails in Wadi Ghul.
The hotel facility is one of the newest efforts in Oman to promote the mountain tourism and promote itself as a year around destination by offering special tariffs for Omanis and GCC residents.
“Oman is the preferred destination for people who wish to escape the desert heat and skip the beaches in the summer months. The country’s mountains – Jebel Akhdar and Jebel Shams offers moderate temperatures in the mountains,” said Salim Al Mamari, Director General of Tourism Promotion at the Ministry of Tourism.
Wadi Mastal in Wilayt Nakh allocated 150km from Muscat is another option for visitors looking to explore the traditional Omani way of life. A viewing platform offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. In addition to the moderate hiking trails and the viewing platform, visitors can experience rural Oman as the area is farmed by locals growing vegetables and exotic fruit trees. Visitors also have the unique opportunity to walk among organically grown fruit trees such as pomegranates, apricots, and cranberries. ■
