Tourism Breaking News
A land where golden desert dunes meet the turquoise embrace of the ocean, where ancient forts stand over vibrant souks, and where nature unfolds in a breathtaking tapestry of canyons, beaches, and wildlife sanctuaries. That land is Al Sharqiya Governorate in Oman, a gem waiting to be discovered. It is a place where adventure and tranquillity coexist.
Al Sharqiya Governorate has a bit of everything. The vast desert of Sharqiya Sands, the magnificent cliffs and unspoiled beaches stretching east from Tiwi to Sur and south to the island of Masirah, the dramatic gorges and fertile wadis of the eastern end of the Hajar mountains and the historic towns of Sur, Ibra and Sinaw. There are coral reefs, mudflats and lagoons frequented by large bird populations and multiple turtle nesting sites along the coastline; indeed, a natural paradise unfolds in Al Sharqiya. Tourists can discover:
Wadi Shab: A hidden gem between towering cliffs, a stunning turquoise pool—dare to swim under a vast rock and discover a secret, shimmering mountain cavern.
Ras Al Jinz: The best place to see nesting Green Turtles is at Ras Al Jinz. Oman is home to nesting sites for four different species of turtle, the endangered Green Turtle, the Olive Ridley Turtle, the Loggerhead Turtle and the critically endangered Hawksbill Turtle.
Wadi Bani Khalid: A great place to spend a leisurely day hiking, swimming, picnicking and caving (for those who have the proper equipment and experience). The wadi has been dammed to form artificial pools that are used to irrigate the oasis downstream. The pools are surrounded by palm trees and immense orangey-red rocky outcrops, providing an attractive backdrop to your picnic.
Sharqiya Sands: Entering Sharqiya Sands from Al Mintarib, the landscape transforms into towering dunes shifting from pale gold to deep red with the changing light. Stay in a Bedouin camp or a luxe desert hut, enjoying dune bashing, camel rides, and starlit feasts. Most camps will arrange a tailormade package for you including sand surfing, dune bashing, camel rides, desert trekking, romantic dining and more. End the day around a campfire accompanied by traditional music and dance.
Al Saleel Wildlife Reserve: The wilayat of Al Kamil Wa Al Wafi is home to the Al Saleel Wildlife Reserve. Located in the north-east of the administrative region, it is home to acacia trees. Some of the plants that grow there are used as medicinal herbs. The reserve provides a protected area and is a good source of food for many wild animals, such as the Arab gazelle, Omani wild cat and Egyptian eagle.
Masirah Island: Masirah Island’s untouched southern shores offer a true escape. Birdwatchers flock here from September to February, while the island’s namesake town boasts a scenic two kilometres waterfront. Snorkellers and swimmers find calm waters in the west, while wind and kite surfers chase the best thrills down south. Adventure or tranquillity—your choice!
