South-East Arabia, Oman
Oman
Muscat's eastern loop through the dramatic landscapes of south-east Oman, the golden dunes of the Wahiba Sands, the dhow-building port of Sur, the world's most important nesting beach for green turtles at Ras al Jinz, and the luminous blue pools of Wadi Bani Khalid hidden in the Hajar Mountains. Oman's quietest and most rewarding road trip.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Muscat
The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Mutrah Souq, and Al Alam Palace frame an immaculate capital. Head south on Highway 23 into the Hajar Mountains.
- Wadi Bani Khalid
Permanently flowing blue-green pools hidden in the Eastern Hajar Mountains. Date palms overhang warm, swimmable water in a canyon of natural arches.
- Wahiba Sands
A compact erg of 100m dunes 200 km from Muscat. Bedouin families still live here; dawn camel treks and starlit desert camps are unforgettable.
- Sur
The last working dhow-building yard in Arabia. The Al Ayjah lighthouse and lagoon flamingo roost add to a proud seafaring city.
- Ras al Jinz
The Arabian Peninsula's eastern tip hosts up to 20,000 green sea turtles nesting annually. Guided midnight watches reveal hatchlings from August onward.
- Muscat
Return to the capital through the Hajar foothills. The Mutrah Corniche at dusk, with dhows on the harbour, closes a perfect Arabian loop.
Where to Eat
- Bait Al LubanOmani
Traditional Omani dishes served in a restored historic building overlooking the sea.
- Rozna RestaurantOmani
Authentic Omani cuisine in a castle-like setting with traditional decor.
- Sahari RestaurantSeafood
Fresh seafood with ocean views, offering a variety of local and international dishes.
- Zaki RestaurantIndian
Popular spot for Indian cuisine, known for its flavorful curries and biryanis.
Things to Do
- Sultan Qaboos Grand MosqueLandmark
Majestic mosque featuring a massive chandelier and one of the world's largest hand-woven carpets.
- Mutrah SouqMarket
Bustling traditional market offering a variety of goods from spices to jewelry.
- Turtle Watching at Ras al JinzWildlife Experience
Observe endangered green turtles nesting on the beach at night.
- Desert Safari in Wahiba SandsAdventure
Experience dune bashing, camel rides, and traditional Bedouin camps in the desert.
Travel advisory
Driving into the Wahiba Sands requires a high-clearance AWD vehicle and basic sand-driving skills including tyre deflation. The route to Ras al Jinz turtle reserve and some coastal tracks are unpaved and sandy. Carry extra water, a tow rope, and a shovel, and avoid driving in dunes alone.