Every encounter in Oman evokes a strong sense of the land. The 17th-century Nizwa Fort, with its round watchtower and high walls, protected the town from invaders over the Sultanates history and is a major tourist sight. Like most of the other countries in the Arab Peninsula, Oman has hot climate. The privacy of a plunge pool suitelets you relax in bliss, without any distractions or disruptions: these are the best. Consider visiting the beach in the morning or evening to avoid the crowds. Dont be surprised if your cup of qahwa continues to be refilled each time you return it to your host. There are many historic sites, including the Hebrew Historical Market, Qanat Al-Iraqi, Qalat al-Khandagh, Heson, Abul, Qala Beriim and al-Khazik in the province. Avoid low-cut tops, short skirts, shorts and dresses, and anything that is transparent or clings to your body. It is a dried lamb dish filled with animal fat that gives it a smoky taste. 35 likes, 17 comments - Nissan Oman (@sbanissanoman) on Instagram: " . 9. Rial (OMR) is its official currency. Of course, some people also use the natural location of the area and have honeybees. In Oman, youre prohibited from photographing and filming some government buildings, military sites and checkpoints, and military vehicles, nor post photos and videos of these on social media. For more stories from some of the worlds most exciting destinations click here. The Sultan Qaboos Mosque, the largest mosque in Dhofar with its two domes and twin minarets, is a great example of Islamic architecture, and its open to non-Muslims from 8am to 11am Saturday to Thursday. From other places of interest in Muscat, you can see the Bloodh al-Sifa, the Muscat Wall, the Atri Houses, Al-Khairan, the Gothab Beach, the Al-Zubiro Museum of Bookbinding and the Omani Coin. Visit the town of Nizwa, the capital of Oman in the 6th and 7th centuries, where the domes and minarets of mosques rise over sand-colored buildings surrounded by the Hajar Mountains. What is Oman famous for? Oil and gas are the major export items of Oman, while copper is also exported in limited quantities. Lonely Planet recommends that travelers always check with local authorities for up-to-date guidance beforetraveling during Covid-19. Henzo is an avid traveler who wanders regularly in between the Asian and African continents. Click the nextARROWto see the next photo! The surrounding region is home to natural springs and wadis (valleys). Get a Britannica Premium subscription and gain access to exclusive content. The term means "fortunate" or "happy.". Its commonly cooked in Omani restaurants, or prepared at home. 24. At Wadi Darbat, a walk past monsoon-fed waterfalls and grazing cattle or a boat ride on Darbat Lake is a great way to see the rain-drenched valley. And you would be amazed to know that Coca-Cola products are not found in abundance in the country. Check out these alternative activities in the same location. The fortified oasis town of Bahla, where local legends and myths abound, is a must-visit for Bahla Fort, a Unesco World Heritage Site. From the 17th . As such, its nice to greet people appropriately. It's known for its spiciness, as well as its use of fresh ingredients like herbs, vegetables, and seafood. You can have your Mashakek skewers covered in either a sweet-sour or spicy tangy mouth-watering special sauce. Heres why. And for many of us, traveling again feels like heading away for the first time, Oman has dropped its tourist visa requirement for visitors from 103 countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, the European Union, Australia. This is a local dish served across the Arabian Gulf region during the fasting month of Ramadan. This makes the South American country the perfect place for a blissful holiday vacation since it promises so much for everyone. One of the contemporary buildings in the country, built in 2001 in Muscat, soon became one of the most popular tourist attractions in the country. Among these cultural highlights are the Budahi and Jumpy Bahini, which can be from the old Muscat's old city. The yearly Muscat Festival, a month-long celebration that takes place around January or February, is the Sultanate of Omans largest cultural event that features its history, culture, arts, and traditional food. Rumor-mongering is punishable by law and can result in both fines and imprisonment. How many days should one spend in Oman? 2023 Chef's Pencil   Privacy Policy & Terms of Service  Contact us. Compared to flashy Emirati neighbours like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, the capital of Oman is a breath of fresh, Persian Gulf sea air. (Do a quick search on the following sites). Omans valleys and multi-layered cultivated plains are signified by their scenic tall-standing palm trees, which cover the landmass far and wide. December 25, 2022 Jonathan The ancient aflaj oases irrigation system, terraced orchards, adobe fortresses, mosques, wadis, dhows, meteorites, and Al Said, the world's third, are just a few of the things that make Oman famous. It has a gelatinous texture and a red-brown color. Bahla is also famous for pottery crafted using mud kilns, and local potters are believed to be blessed with particularly skilled hands. Oman is famous for being a prehistoric human settlement, and if you are visiting it's important to know a few facts about Oman first. Subscribe to Lonely Planet newsletters and promotions. Cooked noodles sweetened with sugar, they can be added to hot milk and served with boiled eggs for breakfast. It was discovered by Americans in 1983, and they named the chamber as Majlis al-Jinn which means the meeting place of the genies", derived from Omanis and predominant in Omani mythology and the Quran. The channels often run underground and originate in wells near mountain bases. What is Oman known for? However, that doesn't stop the fun here. Here are some of the most important excerpts from his speeches. Omans vibrant cultural heritage is deeply intertwined with the gifts of its terrain, and it permeates every travel experience here. This Southern specialty comes from the Dhofar region. One of the leading nations in seafaring, the 18th and 19th century was a golden age of shipbuilding in Oman. What is Oman famous for? Hikers can head out on an adventure through the canyons of Wadi Ghul and Wadi Nakhr, surrounded by rugged limestone walls. Like many of the trends taking place around the world today, affected by social media followers and viewers, Omans street food is witnessing a noticeable modernization in the variety of foods both offered and being demanded by the younger generations, from American burgers to Turkish kebabs and from Levantine restaurants to smoothies street shacks and Belgian waffles. Muscat is famous for dazzling souks and superb seafood, but its terrain brings the biggest thrills. Nothing beats the rush of the anticipation of whats to come on your first trip. Many are awestruck by the iconic Islamic Architecture of the Mosque that makes it stand out from the rest due to its grandiose nature. If youre inexperienced with harsh environments, do not hike alone. Intermittent streams are a product of seasonal storms and generally abate quickly. 12 Things America Is Famous For - Updated 2023, 14 Things Mumbai Is Famous For - Updated 2023, 12 Things Houston Is Famous For - Updated 2023, 8 Best Airbnb Vacation Rentals In Orford, Australia - Updated 2023, 3 Best Themed Hotels In Edmonton, Canada - Updated 2023, Top 14 Airbnb Vacation Rentals In Gueliz, Marrakech, Morocco - Updated 2023, Heritage Hotels In Ahmedabad, India - Updated 2023, Heritage Hotels In Amritsar, India - Updated 2023. This symbol is also used on the national flag and other government logos. Outside of swimming pools located in international resorts and hotels in Muscat, swimsuits and bikinis are inappropriate. Alcohol should only be consumed in licensed restaurants and bars, most of which are in international hotels. Dhofar province : Long sandy beaches with palm trees and flying birds are really spectacular. Languages. If youve got more time, other villages, wadis and fjord-like inlets such as Khor Najd are ready to be explored. A 10-minute drive away, Falaj Daris Park, a Unesco World Heritage Site, is a great spot to see a falaj channel, an ancient but highly efficient irrigation method. If you want to buy alcohol in Oman, you have to have a license to buy such beverages. The once insular country now actively encourages tourism, and travelers come from afar to enjoy its hospitality and unspoiled landscapes. It is a wealthy country due to its natural oil resources. Typical spices used for flavoring the fish include cumin, ground coriander seeds, cinnamon, ginger, turmeric, and salt. Oman is also home to an abundance of cool culture to discover, from food to music to sports to art. It contains tender and oil obtained from medical usefulness. These zones can be further subdivided into several unofficial regions: Al-Binah; the mountains and associated valleys of the Eastern ajar and Western ajar ranges; the Oman interior area, or Al-Jaww (the central foothills and valleys on the inland side of the ajar Mountains and the historic heartland of Oman); Al-hirah (the semidesert plain west of the interior Oman area, next to the United Arab Emirates, including Al-Buraimi oasis); Al-Sharqiyyah (sandy plains lying east of interior Oman behind the ajar Mountains); and Jaln (fronting the Arabian Sea south of Cape al-add). 7. 752. This festival attracts people from all over the world to come and witness the amazing cultural and traditional exhibition of the people of Oman. On the edge of this mountain, there are plenty of agricultural lands that people in the villages of this area often do farming. From the Saiq Plateau, enjoy breathtaking views of the villages, and terraced farms. Top 10 Most Common and Traditional Food of Oman Watch on Contents [ show] Dates, known locally as seh, also get squeezed and sold in syrup form, called dips, and is used as a sweetener for baked goods and local bread types like Luqaymat, Quroos, and Khubz. Quiz, Capital Cities of the Countries of the Northern Hemisphere Quiz, Central Intelligence Agency - The World Factbook - Oman, Oman - Children's Encyclopedia (Ages 8-11), Oman - Student Encyclopedia (Ages 11 and up). Whether you find yourself captivated by the scene of a vendor selling handmade silver jewelry at the Mutrah Souq or a group of Omani men wearing beautiful kumma (traditional patterned or embroidered caps) sipping coffee by the sea or are invited into a traditional village home, resist the urge to point your lens without asking for permission first. A boat trip on a traditional dhow (wooden boat) is the best way to experience the Musandam Peninsula, visiting islands and spotting a dolphin or whale in these waters. 2023 Lonely Planet, a Red Ventures company. Wahiba Sands Tour. updated 1/27/2021. Other than Arabic, you might hear other languages such as Kumzari, Baluchi, Swahili, and thanks to a large immigrant population, also Hindi, Malayalam and Urdu. The peaceful and mountainous villages and magnificent castles in UNESCO, palm farms and beautiful beaches are examples of the wonders of this amazing country. In a way, the food we consume reflects the differences between our cultures, modes of thinking, and aspirations as individuals and societies, so as we get continuously exposed to a cosmopolitan globalized view of our world, it will naturally dictate the way we prepare our meals, the mix of spices we use and the art we apply to serve our dishes. Its also one of the coolest, with the temperature being about 15C (59F) cooler than Muscat throughout the year. Both dishes are widely eaten among locals to break the fast during the Islamic month of Ramadan. . Machboos, which translates to 'cooked' in Arabic, is the national dish of Oman. Some of the attractions are castles, forts, and mosques dating back to six centuries. No trip to Oman is complete without a visit to the desert. As an important mosque in Muscat (and Oman, obviously), this beautiful building is impeccably designed and stands proudly iconic overlooking the city. In the peak of summer, the heat can get intense in the Hajar Mountains causing dehydration and fatigue very quickly this isnt a good time to go hiking. There are hotels, shopping areas, and caf restaurants. Made from boiled wheat that is crushed until its thick in texture, the wheat is mixed with the meat of beef or chicken, and topped with ghee or butter. Sur holds strong the countrys south eastern fort, historically known for building fishing boats. You can enjoy your time at some popular restaurants and beachfront cafs. Hence, market sellers are always trading different kinds of dates in the cities weekly and daily local markets. Also known as: Muscat and Oman, Salanat Umn, Sultanate of Oman, Associate Professor of Political Science, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama. During the month of Ramadan, its even more important to dress modestly. Oman is also a member of the United Nations and the Arab league. This country has a good relationship with our country and its officials have a strong desire to have good relations with us. Updates? The southern region of Dhofar (ufr) is separated from the rest of Oman by several hundred miles of open desert. Legend has it the tribe asked jinn, powerful spirits in pre-Islamic Arabian mythology, to build the fort in a single night when the tribe was under threat of attack. Walkers will find a few marked trails of varying difficulty, and some involve descending steep steps. It has a total area of 309,500 square km. Oman's official currency is the Oman Rial (OMR). Omanis are also among the finest breeders of Arabian horses. Heres why. Proportional to the height of the mosque, the worlds second-largest chandelier hangs from the ceiling, and it is the focus of attraction in the main prayer hall. Oman ison our 2022 Best in Travel list. Oman is known for its restored forts and castles. A warm Qabuli dish mixed with Saloona can be served as a nice after-work meal at any local restaurant in Oman. Famous landmarks highlighting the rich Islamic Architecture, as well as the modern buildings, dominate the beautiful skyline. The Saint Sophia Cathedral dates back to the 11th century and is one of the most famous sights in Kiev. The . Located in the Arabian Peninsula, Oman is now becoming a famous holiday spot for travelers coming from all around the world who love discovering history and traditions. Go to Jebel Shams, the countrys highest peak at 3009m (9872ft) in the Hajar Mountains, for a picnic on the plateau with dramatic canyon views. Here you can find exhibitions and artifacts showcasing over 1,400 years of Islamic history. Fountains of fresh water are another attraction of this province. And, indeed, it is hidden. Among the most important features of the Sultanate is its strategic location as a link between the countries of the East and Morocco, surrounded by Are you looking for a distinctive and exciting Arab tourist destination for a unique tourist holiday? 25. In case of emergencies and the need for rescue, evacuation or urgent medical assistance, contact the Royal Oman Police on 9999. Q1. Together, these sites, some dating to the 4th century BCE, constitute the Unesco World Heritage Site known as the Land of Frankincense. The drying process means it lasts for longer, and it can be eaten at any time. No part of this site may be reproduced without our written permission. Oman has enjoyed a number of unforgettable attractions over the years, which remained unknown for decades. In the sixth and seventh centuries, the city of Nizwa served as the capital for Oman. These festivals reflect the magical beauty of the Sultanate, the depth of its history and heritage. #3 Piri Piri chicken. Dhofar is dominated by the summer monsoon, making allahs climate more temperate than that of northern Oman. It is also heavily used with other mixes of fragrances and incense as a home freshener and clothes perfume. 17. As a regional commercial power in the 19th century, Oman held the island of Zanzibar on the Swahili Coast, the Zanj region of the East African coast, including Mombasa and Dar es Salaam, and (until 1958) Gwadar on the Arabian Sea coast of present-day Pakistan . Have the best time. The Balcony Walk is a five-hour hike on an old donkey trail, now marked, with remarkable views along the rim, that ends in the abandoned village of As Sab. Wooded mountain ranges, rising to about 5,000 feet (1,500 metres), form a crescent there behind a long, narrow coastal plain, on which the provincial capital of allah is located. Similar to Bagla, but the main ingredient is nicely spiced red kidney beans. Cultural Sites "Golden domes" are often what come to mind when someone thinks of Kiev and. In addition to the aforementioned list of local Omani foods, Omans table has been heavily influenced by renowned dishes from neighboring countries and long-standing trade partners such as the widely eaten rice-with-meat dishes of Yemeni Mandi and the Hyderabadi Biryani that you can find while traveling anywhere in Oman. Corrections? The private museum is housed in beautifully restore building and displays the Zubair family's collection of Omani. Quroos dipped in honey followed by some Qahwa is a sweet bite to remember. Chef's Pencil is part of the Amazon Associate Program and earns from qualifying purchases. Dhow Factory of Sur. ENCHANTING GREECE BY CULTURE TRIP A quick, simple greeting in Arabic helps break the ice, and local men will generally oblige. Woven into the story of Dhofar is its rich heritage of frankincense, an aromatic resin harvested from the Boswellia sacra tree, which has been used to make perfume and medicine, and in religious rituals, for thousands of years. Trade of fish, dates and some agricultural products along with tourism form a significant portion of the economy of Oman. The town in the interior of Oman, Al Hamra, has its irrigation system improved by the new built large falaj . Oman produces a whopping 900,000 barrels of oil per day. Oman is also one of the oldest human-inhabited places on the planet. They can be filled with savory items like vegetables, cheese or chicken, or ordered sweet with dates, dips or honey. Henzo loves to write fictional novels or cover adventure travel and cuisine for various magazines. Tourist Places in Oman. Rice is cooked in the same pot as the vegetables it is mixed with, such as potatoes, onions, and tomatoes. Its land bordering countries are United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Yemen. It was called so since Yemen was more fertile than most of the Arabian Peninsula. The magnificent valleys of this mountain make you delightful. At 2980m (9777ft) up in the Hajar Mountains, Jebel Akhdar whose name translates to Green Mountain is one of the most beautiful places in Oman. This carpet has an area of about 5000 square meters. Dhofars coastal plain is fertile alluvial soil, well watered by the southwest monsoon. Beaches. Read our Privacy Policy. The shooting reportedly killed one Yemeni Coast . You are likely to spend a significant amount of time on road trips to get to historic medieval forts, charming fishing towns, picturesque tidal lagoons and freshwater pools hidden away in the valleys. If youve had enough, tilt your cup gently from side to side before you hand it to them to indicate this. Its commonly cooked at home, or you might encounter Harees and Aursya sellers standing along main roads. Until 1940, the Maria Theresa thaler, also known as the rial, and the Indian rupee were the currencies that were circulating in Muscat and Oman. 18 things Portugal is known for. The distilled rose water is used in cooking and as a fragrance. From coastal drives past fishing villages and white sand beaches to journeys to see historic forts, these are the best road trips in Oman. Oman's birdlife is extraordinarily diverse and. In the 16th century Muscat was seized by Portugal, which held the city until 1650. What Is Oman Famous For? To make your trip a truly memorable exercise in cultural exchange and mutual respect, here are some things to know before you go to Oman. Another Suwahili-influenced side dish, Ldunqo is prepared by using boiled chickpeas that are simply spiced using lime, salt, and black pepper. However, a small amount from workers earnings are paid towards social security. Omanis use it to make doors and windows but the most famous wooden creation in Oman is the mandoo, a wooden chest that is made in different sizes and is usually decorated or engraved. 4. Unsubscribe in one click. Interestingly, Oman is literally aterrorism free country. Northern Oman is dominated by three physiographic zones. Let us know if you have suggestions to improve this article (requires login). Most of the early settlers lived by the sea in the eastern region of Sharqiyah and the southern region of Dhofar and fished using Indian-designed and -built dhows and grew simple crops by utilizing the rainwater gathered in the river-like canyons that Omanis call Wadis. The hotel offers an exceptional palace experience, showcasing the art of Omanis hospitality. "Oman is known to have the best quality of frankincense, Boswellia sacra, and within that you have several grades and the best grade, Royal Green Hojari, represents probably 5 per cent of production and grows in a very specific area in the south of Oman," Salmon explains. It is the center of Omans social, cultural, political, economic, and tourist activities. Dont attempt to do this with your left hand in local culture that is your toileting hand. Sit back and relax as you slowly enjoy Omans charming side. Depending on the Luqaymat shop, you can choose from a variety of options for fillings and toppings, including melted cheese, salted caramel, local date syrup, and chocolate sauce. Oman, located on the south-eastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula - may pique your interest. Heres the lowdown on the latest visa rules to get you into this desert sultanate with the minimum of fuss. Salalah has plenty of sights to visit. #6 Ronaldo and football in general. In 2010, Oman was ranked as the most improved nation in the world over the preceding 40 years. The mosque of Sultan Qaboos Mosque in Muscat is ordered by Sultan Qaboos from Iranian artists from Neyshabur. #5 Oranges. Born on November 18, 1940, he was the person behind the modernization of Oman. This middle east port city is a great place to trek deserts at dawn, spot dolphins at sundown, and . Today we suggest day trips from muscat Learn in this article everything related to travel and tourism in Muscat, which is the capital of Oman, an Arab country located Muscat is the capital of the Sultanate of Oman, as it is located on the coast of the Gulf of Oman. Today, you can find Shuwa added as a menu item in some of the touristic restaurants that serve Omani specialties. Also called as the adventure playground of Oman, the Wahiba Sands is one of the top things to do in Oman, it holds the middle-eastern desert sand views as far as the eye can see. The Sultan of Oman is thechief of staff of the armed forces,chairman of the Central Bank,Minister of Defence andMinister of Foreign Affairs. It has a total area of 309,500 square km. Mehraj can also be eaten as a lunch entree. Even the smallest of gifts, such as a box of dates, nuts or sweets from the souq (market) will be highly appreciated. Found in the mountain valleys, Sidaf is a herbal plant that Omani highlanders use to prepare a dish complemented with dried Qashaa fish, lemons, onions, and bread pieces, eaten after a long day working in the valleys' fields. It has unbeatable autumn that will become an unforgettable holiday from the second half of June to late September. Do swim till the end of the last pool . These shipbuilders added rows of . You might also like:Traveling to Oman on a budget: how to get the best out of your trip6 unforgettable beaches in Oman for every type of travelerThe best times to visit Oman for blooming roses, racing camels and nesting sea turtles. Since ancient times, Oman has been called the monarchy of Muscat and Oman. Wondering if you need a visa to go to Oman? Author of, Historian, Office of the Deputy Prime Minister for Security and Defence, Muscat, Oman. The most famous castles of the city are fortress and glory. Omanis have a tradition of digging one deep pit in the middle of each village; this hole is then used during special seasons to slow-roast a full animal for over twenty-four hours, marinated and spiced with a mix of spices found in the surrounding region, and covered in local herbs, such as palm or banana leaves. The tower stands tall at 50 meters (164 ft) and it features four massive columns and archways that cover all the way to the top. Please refer to the appropriate style manual or other sources if you have any questions. The language of the United States of America is English. Oil Source: Photo by Flickr user Jonathan Cutrer used under CC BY 2.0 Photo is only for illustrative purposes FAQs. Some effort has been made in recent years to construct dams in an effort to preserve runoff and control flooding. Al Bustan Palace also features three restaurants thatserve a variety of international cuisines. The magnificent chandelier is also hung in the chapel of this mosque, which is very beautiful and spectacular. It is characterized by its picturesque nature that gives visitors during muscat tours comfort and relaxation. This is true for natural pools located in the wadis (valleys) that you might come across while hiking in places like Wadi Tiwi and on public beaches around fishing villages. Moreover, Omanis are allowed to spend no more than 10% of their monthly income on alcohol. The clock tower is considered a landmark in Muscat City, Seeb, and highway at Nizwa, for you will pass it upon entering or leaving the city. One of the most famous structures is Bahl Fort, a stone and mud-brick structure built in the medieval Islamic period and designated a World . Here are the best places to visit in Oman. But also other country's cuisines have had a major influence on the typical types of food eaten in Oman including Pakistani, Iranian, Indian, Eastern Mediterranean and African. Pack comfortable clothing suitable for the outdoors, a tent and a sleeping bag. All rights reserved. From other places of interest in Muscat, you can see the Bloodh al-Sifa, the Muscat Wall, the Atri Houses, Al-Khairan, the Gothab Beach, the Al-Zubiro Museum of Bookbinding and the Omani Coin. 10. Up until 1970, there were no hotels in the country. Majlis al-Jin is notable for its pretty remote and inaccessible location and the only way to get inside is through small openings formed by rainwater erosion above the isolated Selma Plateau. Saudi Arabia is also known for its many oil reserves, but there are lots of other interesting things about the country. The second edition of Lonely Planets bestseller presents an all-new ranking of the greatest places to visit on Earth. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. Al Mughsail Beach. The most exciting part of the world : If you are interested in traveling, we will offer you the country of Oman. The Omanis are rich in oil and gas standing at 25th largest oil producers in the world. Oman in comparison to other countries by population, economy, energy, religions, etc. Birds from three continentsAsia, Europe and Africacan be seen in Oman. Places to visit in Oman 20 Tourist attractions Home to the Sultan of Oman, Salalah is a beautiful city with rich culture, history and magnificent beaches! Guided hikes are also available. It is also consumed during Ramadan and Eid feasts. Majboos Also called Kabsa and Makboos, Majboos is a traditional mixed rice dish that originated in Saudi Arabia. Its safer to camp on high ground and to check the weather forecast and warnings before you go. This mosque is located in the capital city of Muscat and it is the main Mosque in the Sultanate of Oman. While Bedouin (known in Arabic as Bedu, meaning desert dweller) still live and work here (many as guides), the Wahiba Sands are also popular with local families and tourists who come for a day trip or an overnight stay in one of many camps offering varying levels of luxury and amenities such as Thousand Nights Camp and Magic Camps. Between its arches, decorated walls, unique glass drawings, lanterns, domes, chandeliers and interior design, the mosque is an absolute architectural beauty. Omans lush northern coast lies between the sea and inland mountains. There is no physical contact between members of the opposite sex unless they are related or deeply familiar. Omanis are friendly, hospitable and courteous, and these qualities are likely to permeate every interaction that you'll have as a visitor. Swearing loudly and making offensive hand gestures are illegal and can result in legal action should the recipient register a complaint. 12. A layer of bread is soaked in a tomato stew and topped with a braised chunk of lamb, beef, or chicken. This dish is similar to Harees, except for the base of rice instead of wheat and chicken being traditionally chosen as the type of meat. Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree. There are no permanent bodies of fresh water in the country. Mosque of Sultan Qaboos : Mosque of Sultan Qaboos is one of the major mosques of the Oman monarchy.