The epic Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Muscat

Are you planning on going to Dubai soon and looking to build your itinerary? Something you may want to consider is taking some time out to visit Oman. “Why” you ask? Well Oman is what we like to call a “hidden gem”. There are some spectacular sights to see that most people don’t know about.

One of those sights is the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. This is truly a wonder of modern architecture and design. The massive complex occupies over 100 acres on which the structure and a beautiful garden is located. The building, with it’s main dome standing over 150ft high and the primary minaret standing nearly 300ft high, masterfully combines subtlety with the ornate. The sandstone exterior uses smooth archways, the single color of natural stone, and reflective marble floors to create a very tranquil and heavenly feeling. The dichotomy becomes apparent when you step inside and marvel at the extremely elaborate tiles and carvings that adorn the walls and ceiling. You will also notice that the monotone exterior is highly contrasted with the vibrant use of color inside. The Persian carpeting is currently the second largest hand woven rug in the world and took 600 workers 4 years to complete. The main prayer hall is also ornamented with the world’s second largest chandelier made of Swarovski crystal which is 45 feet tall. The detail and the shear grandeur of Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is breathtaking, and many people usually find themselves spending a few hours at least to really take in all of its beauty. .

So if you are thinking of going to Dubai, it could be well worth your time to visit Oman as well. If you are interested in touring either Dubai or Oman or even better, both, we have tours available that we will tailor to your needs and can easily include a guided visit to the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. Just email us at info@latitudeworldtours.com or call our Dubai and Oman desk, at 866.949.9940 x 701. - Derek H.

Cultural Local Day Tour in Beautiful Salalah Oman

Looking for a special way to enhance your Oman experience? Visit Salalah, a short flight (you can consider Oman Air, at http://www.omanair.aero/wy/index.htm ) from Muscat and near the Yemen border. This is an area of profound natural beauty and culture, with history and an interesting city, Salalah, to serve as your base. Safe with some of most hospitable people in the world, Salalah presents one more fascinating choice for your time in the region.

While you are there, you have a broad choice of off-road adventures. One excursion features a close look at local culture as well as sweeping views of the unforgetable countryside:

Full Day Qara Mountains & Wadi Sahanwoot, with visit to a local family (4WD)

Enjoy a day out into the desert mountains, providing valuable insights into the local culture, flora and fauna. Drive via the rugged Qara Mountains and Wadi Sahanwoot to visit a local family in the mountains. Continue via the Haloof (rocky) mountains to Wadi Ayoun for great views the profuse foliage and natural beauty. Our last stop is the Job’s (Hiob’s) Tomb, visited by Islamic and Christian pilgrims alike. We'll enjoy lunch en route.

Contact one of the travel professionals at Latitude World Tours with help in creating the perfect Oman tour for you!