Beginner Diving in Oman

It takes far fewer than one thousand and one nights to fall in love with the delights of Oman. This Middle Eastern nation straddles the Tropic of Cancer and boasts a hot and dry climate throughout the year. Its capital, Muscat, is home to vibrant souqs, numerous mosques and an ancient port, while the Omani coast is diverse and varied. The fjords of the Musandam Peninsula, the coral gardens and seasonal kelp forests of Salalah, and the turtle-filled waters of the Daymaniyat Islands all offer the opportunity to savour spectacular beginner diving. In Oman, you can enjoy warm Arabian hospitality, learn about its rich history and culture, and dive its coral reefs in relative solitude.

We love the combination of peaceful diving and on-land adventure in Oman. When not diving, you can enjoy hiking and cycling in the Hajar Mountains, camp under the stars in a Bedouin-style tent after a day of dune surfing, and treasure hunt for bargains in the labyrinthine souqs of Muscat. Factor in the great beginner diving in Oman, and you have the opportunity for a fantastic adventure-filled holiday.

Salalah

In the south of the country, below the Rub' al Khali (The Empty Quarter), the clear turquoise waters off the coast of Salalah are particularly inviting. Leatherback turtles, dolphins and eagle rays patrol the shoreline and cruise through the coral gardens and summer kelp forests, while the 150-year-old China Wreck sits at a depth of eight metres. The wreck's shallow depth makes it ideal for longer bottom times to see the well-preserved china inside and also makes it perfect for the less-experienced diver.

Musandam Peninsula

The Musandam Peninsula separates the Persian Gulf from the Gulf of Oman, and its distinctive topography has led it to be dubbed the 'Norway of Arabia'. Its coastline is characterised by pink-hued cliffs dropping vertically into the ocean, forming fjords below. While there can be strong currents at times, there are also plenty of sites offering ideal conditions for beginner diving. In Oman, the Musandam Peninsula and the Damaniyat Islands, closer to Muscat, offer the best chances of spotting whale sharks.

Damaniyat Islands

In addition to the seasonal whale sharks, the Damaniyat Islands offer the chance to dive alongside turtles and dolphins. The uninhabited islands are surrounded by clear waters, colourful coral reefs and seagrass patches, and are also a great spot for snorkelling. The ride out to the islands takes around 30 to 40 minutes from Muscat, making it the ideal spot to dive at the beginning or end of your dream Omani itinerary.