Oman

Elect's take

"Oman has a quality of authenticity that is increasingly rare in the Middle East. The landscapes are dramatic, the culture is genuine and the hospitality is among the finest I have encountered anywhere."

What makes Oman so compelling is how different it feels from the region's more developed tourism destinations. Muscat is a beautiful capital with excellent museums, a remarkable old souk and outstanding hotels set along a dramatic coastline. The Hajar Mountains provide dramatic scenery and traditional villages. Wahiba Sands is one of the most accessible desert experiences in the Arabian Peninsula. The southern region of Dhofar, particularly during the khareef monsoon, transforms into a landscape of green mountains and waterfalls. Oman also has an outstanding luxury hotel scene particularly in Muscat and along the coast.