Oman is getting ready to welcome Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) visitors this summer season. With its naturally-blessed terrain, Oman’s Ministry of Tourism is promoting its picturesque mountains, luxury stays, hiking and 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 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, in addition to other hotels and resorts, offer plush luxury with incredible canyon views. The cool climate makes the resort an ideal location for GCC residents looking for short luxury stays or to spend time on the hiking trails in Wadi Ghul.
The hotel facility is one of the latest efforts in Oman to promote itself as a year-round destination with its mountain tourism 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 — offer moderate temperatures,” said Salim Al-Mamari, director general of tourism promotion at the Ministry of Tourism.
Wadi Mastal in Wilayt Nakhal, located 150 km 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.

Source: Arab News