Spend a few minutes looking at the various deals for Oman hotels and flights because Oman holidays in 2025 needn't break the bank.
Although Oman has a reputation for luxury accommodation and expensive restaurants, spending time there isn't necessarily costly. Of course, the best hotels in Oman are pricey. Flights to Oman during the high season - the British winter - can also be costly. However, there are ways to stay within budget and enjoy what the country has to offer when you're there. Read on to find out more about how to get the best out of Oman holidays.
Most British visitors to Oman will want to explore the capital city, Muscat. Here, you will find the impressive Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. It is considered to be an architectural masterpiece, with intricate mosaics throughout. It also houses one of the world's grandest chandeliers. Muttrah Corniche and Souq is a must-see place in the city, too. It is a waterfront district with a lively atmosphere. There is a market that specialises in traditional handicrafts. More widely, Muscat is a busy city with popular beaches and some of the best hotels in Oman.
Outside of the city, consider a trip to the historic fort in Nizwa. Excursions run from Muscat, but you can hire a car and get there yourself in under two hours. It rewards you with panoramic views of the nearby Hajar Mountains. There is a bustling souq close by, but both it - and the fort - get busy. Alternatively, consider a day trip to Wadi Shab. A wadi is a type of canyon, and Wadi Shab is a particularly pretty one. With turquoise pools and waterfalls, it's a good place for hiking and swimming.
Hiring 4x4 vehicles to tackle some of the epic Omani sand dunes is a popular thing to do. Wahiba Sands is a good place to do this with reputable guides. You can also book camel rides and spend a night under the stars in a camp from here. Head southeast from Muscat on Route 23 if this spot appeals to you.
Another good thing to try is snorkelling. Although you can do this at almost any beach in Oman, the Daymaniyat Islands are the best place to go. They have protected coral reefs, ideal for swimming and snorkelling. The Al Hajar Mountains are also worth exploring if you are looking for an active holiday. It is a bit cooler in the hills, and you need to be prepared for unexpected eventualities in this part of the country. Protection from the sun and plenty of water is essential.
Turtle spotting at Ras Al Jinz is often a top activity during a family holiday in Oman. Guided tours are organised to help you stand the best chance of seeing these creatures as they nest and hatch. Family-friendly holidays in Oman often also include boat tours. These are available in Muscat and elsewhere. Some focus on dolphin watching, while others promise a more authentic Middle Eastern experience. The latter tend to be organised on dhows, which are traditional sailing boats in this part of the world.
Finally, located in the Qurum district of Muscat is the Oman Children's Museum. It is a good choice of place to go on a particularly hot day when you want to stay out of the sun. The air-conditioned, interactive museum covers a lot of ground with its wide-ranging exhibits. Designed to educate and entertain children of all ages, it focuses on science, technology and space, among other topics.
Oman Air and British Airways offer flights to Oman from London Heathrow (LHR). Booking three or four months in advance is advisable for cheap tickets. Note that seasonal services, from October to April, also run from Manchester Airport (MAN), so you can sometimes get a bargain by flying from there.
Last-minute flights to Oman from the UK tend to be thin on the ground if you want a direct service. However, you may find last-minute deals if you are willing to accept a layover. Consider flying via Doha or Abu Dhabi if you want a low-cost option. Flights to Oman via Schiphol (AMS) in the Netherlands can work out too, with only an hour or two of delay in some cases. Flying via Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) in Paris can also be cheaper, but the layover will usually be longer.
Some of the best hotels in Oman offer true five-star luxury. These establishments typically have private beaches, pools and their own watersports facilities. If you want access to a spa and a fine-dining restaurant, then the extra cost can be worth it rather than heading to individual establishments in Oman.
Nevertheless, three- and four-star accommodation often serves most visitors' purposes, and it is significantly cheaper. Such Oman hotels will have a good pool, strong air-conditioning and well-run amenities. Most, but not all, also offer airport transfers, especially those in Muscat. Do bear in mind that family-run guesthouses are also available in some parts of Oman. Typically, they only provide bed and breakfast accommodation, though.
A: Many visitors consider Oman holidays to be at their best in November. This is when it is warm but not excessively so. Any time from late October to the following April would be a good choice when booking flights to Oman for a break.
A: If you are planning Oman holidays in 2025 and have never visited the country before, then Muscat is probably the best option. Muscat is the capital city, with plenty of culture and entertainment. It is also known for its beaches, marinas and top-quality restaurants.
A: Compared to other parts of the Middle East, Oman isn't that expensive. However, British holidaymakers will notice it can be pricey, especially if anything is marketed as luxury. To keep costs down, book a mid-range hotel and opt for half board. That way, you know your meals are included. Also, taxis are particularly costly in Oman.
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