Muscat to Salalah
Oman
The classic Oman desert drive on Highway 31, from Muscat south via Nizwa's gateway mountains, then across 360-degree desert skyscapes through eight coastal waypoints to the extraordinary Dhofar Mountains and Salalah's beaches. The monsoonal Khareef (June–September) transforms Dhofar into remarkable greenness.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Muscat
The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Mutrah Souq, and Royal Opera House frame an immaculate capital. Highway 15 south leads to Nizwa.
- Nizwa
Oman's old capital has a 17th-century fort with the largest circular tower in Arabia and a famous date-and-silver souq.
- Hayma
The essential fuel and rest stop on Highway 31's long central desert stretch. The Empty Quarter begins its westward reach from here.
- Shisr (Ubar)
The legendary lost city of Ubar, rediscovered in 1992 near Muqshin. An ancient frankincense trade waystation on the edge of the Empty Quarter.
- Thumrayt
Gateway to Dhofar. The road descends into green mountains during the Khareef monsoon, where wild frankincense trees line the roadside.
- Salalah
Arabia's frankincense heartland, with white-sand beaches below green mountains. The Souq al-Haffa and Job's Tomb are essential stops.
Where to Eat
- Al Mandi Al Dhahabi RestaurantMiddle Eastern
Savor traditional Omani dishes like Mandi in a cozy setting in Nizwa.
- Bin Ateeq RestaurantOmani
Experience authentic Omani cuisine with a variety of local specialties in Nizwa.
- Hayma RestaurantMiddle Eastern
Enjoy a range of Middle Eastern dishes in the heart of Hayma.
- Al Jood RestaurantOmani
Delight in traditional Omani flavors with a modern twist in Salalah.
- Ba'albek RestaurantLebanese
Relish authentic Lebanese cuisine in a vibrant atmosphere in Salalah.
Things to Do
- Nizwa FortHistoric Site
Explore a 17th-century fort with a massive circular tower and rich history.
- Nizwa SouqMarket
Discover traditional Omani crafts, silver jewelry, and local produce in this bustling market.
- Shisr (Ubar)Archaeological Site
Visit the ruins of the ancient city of Ubar, known as the 'Atlantis of the Sands.'
- Al Baleed Archaeological ParkHistoric Site
Explore the ruins of an ancient port city and learn about the frankincense trade in Salalah.
- Wadi DarbatNature
Experience lush greenery, waterfalls, and wildlife in this picturesque valley near Salalah.
Travel advisory
The route covers roughly 1,000 km of largely straight desert highway where distances between fuel and services can be long. Temperatures can exceed 45 degrees Celsius in summer, so carry extra water and check tyre pressure before departure. If visiting during the khareef monsoon season, Salalah's mountain roads may have slippery fog and wet surfaces.