A minaret with a dome in a city surrounded by mountains under a partly cloudy sky.

Modern Times

Modern Times

Written by: Luca Krohn Last updated at: May 21, 2025

In 1970, Sultan Qaboos ibn Said deposed his father and became the new ruler of the Sultanate of Oman. After his death in January 2020, his cousin Haitham ibn Tariq succeeded him. With oil revenues as the basis, the Sultan managed to nearly revolutionize the country in just a few decades through infrastructure, education and health. To this day, citizens honor their head of state for his remarkable efforts.

Discover Oman with experts who have called it their home

Your dream holiday, tailor-made by experts.

We don't just know Oman from books, we visit the country several times a year to experience the culture, landscape and people first-hand.

From your first enquiry to your return home, we are there for you personally - by phone, email or WhatsApp, whenever you need us. Our trips are as unique as you are: individually planned and provided with exclusive privileges and high-quality arrangements that will make your trip unforgettable.

You might also like this

Terraced fields on the slope of a mountain in a dry, rugged landscape in Oman.

Oman's Mountain World

7 min read

Oman's mountain ranges captivate with a breathtaking variety that appeals to both nature lovers and adventurers alike. The rugged peaks and deep gorges of Jebel Shams, the lush terraces of Jebel Akhdar, and the pristine wilderness of Jebel Samhan offer unforgettable experiences. Whether hiking along secluded trails, enjoying spectacular views, or encountering rare wildlife – Oman’s mountains are a paradise for travelers seeking to experience nature and culture in their purest form. In the following sections, we’ll explore four of the most fascinating mountain regions in the country....

Sunset over the Wahiba Sands desert with rolling sand dunes and a colorful sky.

The Deserts of Oman

7 min read

Oman's desert landscapes are true natural wonders, captivating with their vast dunes, serene beauty, and rich Bedouin culture. Whether it’s desert safaris, nights under the starry sky, or encounters with centuries-old Bedouin traditions, each desert offers unforgettable experiences. These landscapes are not just adventure playgrounds but also a testament to a deeply rooted culture. Below, we introduce the five most impressive deserts of Oman, each with its own unique features and adventures....

Two men in traditional clothing stand near two leafless trees on a rocky, arid hillside in Salalah, Oman.

Frankincense Road

2 min read

“Tears of the Gods,” as frankincense is also called, were responsible for worldwide trade relations, power, and wealth. The resin, weighed against gold, was transported by camels on the frankincense road, the oldest trade route in the world. The first recorded transport of frankincense took place in the tenth century BC when the Queen of Sheba visited King Solomon. Trade within Arabia likely developed at this time due to the domestication of the camel since camels could carry heavy loads and go for several days without water, allowing trade routes to traverse barren desert areas as well. The r...