The Sultanate of Oman is the second largest country on the Arabian Peninsula, lying along its southeast corner. It has a total land area of 300,000 square kilometres and a population of over two million.
The Musandam, separated from the rest of Oman by the United Arab Emirates, is the northernmost part of the Sultanate. Due to its geographical position and mountainous terrain it was isolated from the rest of Oman and the region developed at its own pace. Graded roads cut across the mountains have now made it more accessible. The grandeur of Musandam can best be explored by sea. Musandam Peninsula has an abundance of sheltered fjords, some only connected to the mainland by narrow cliffs. Fjords, or khors, created by fragmented rock stretching claw-like into the sea and massive overshadowing cliffs towering above are magnificently reflected in the water below. The coast juts into the Strait of Hormuz and extends some 600 kilometres. These spectacular fjords have given the area a second name “The Norway of Arabia” The Strait of Hormuz is only 60km wide and does not exceed 60m in depth and is of strategic importance to Oman as 90% of all the Gulf's oil trade passes through this area. The total population of Musandam is approximately 27,000 and the capital Khasab has 18,000 inhabitants. Dibba on the East coast of Musandam has a population of approximately 5,500. The Peninsula begins with Tibat, on the west coast in the Arabian Gulf to Daba (Dibba), on the east coast in the Gulf of Oman, this coastal zone, along with many offshore islands, offers a unique contact with nature. Small villages nestle along the tortuous shoreline, most of them only accessible by sea, like Lima and Kumzar. Its rugged mountains rise up over 2,000 meters above sea level. In Arabic it is known as Ra's Musandam. The Ru'us al-Jibal (the Mountaintops), the northernmost extremity of the al-Gharbi al-Hajar (Western Hajar mountains), occupy the northern tip of the Musandam Peninsula. The peninsula is generally about 35 km wide. The peninsula is mainly inhabited by the Shihuh, who are fishermen and herdsmen and are probably descended from the original inhabitants of northern Oman. Fishing is the peninsula's main industry with packing plants at al-Khasab and Bay'ah. Transportation is mostly by sea, since no roads cross the forbidding terrain. Musandam is divided into four wilayats: Khasab, Bhuka, Dibba and Mudha.
Things one can experience in Khasab
Dhow Cruises
Enjoy an unforgettable day cruising along the “Fjords of Musandam” on board a traditionally decorated Omani Dhow, where you can sit comfortably on cushions and carpets while feasting your eyes on the striking scenery. A Dhow trip to the fjords offers an insight into its fantastic landscape. During the Dhow cruise you can cruise into the Straits of Hormuz and discover different villages. The Dhow is anchored at the famous Telegraph Island, where you can swim and snorkel in the clear waters, there is also the possibility to see dolphins during on the way.
4 WD Mountain Safari to Jebel Harim
Using 4 Wheel Drive vehicles, join on a panoramic journey into the barren interior; we drive to Jebel Harim, translated as the Mountain of Women (2087 metres), the highest mountain in Musandam. This tour will give you an opportunity to enjoy the dramatic scenery of Musandam’s mountains, speckled with fossils dating back several million years. On the way we pass the Bedouin village of Sayh situated at 1100 metres above sea level. This is a calm and peaceful village where one can cherish the beauty of Musandam in the plateau of the village. Drive to Rowdah village where one can see the pre-Islamic graveyard. Drive to Khawr Najid, a stunning view overlooking to Indian Ocean side, you will be surprised at the scenery here. Then we will drive to see the natural park of Acacia trees at Khalidiya and return back to Khasab.
City Tour of Khasab
This tour takes us on an adventurous and exciting tour to the capital of Musandam, Khasab, a calm, fishing village and oasis, which overlooks the Gulf of Arabia and the Straits of Hormuz. Watch the traditional lifestyle of the fisherman and the Bedouins. Visit to the restored Portuguese Fort of Khasab, this fort has a Museum where many Omani handicrafts items are displayed. We will also pass by the prehistoric rock carvings depicting camels, ships and warriors in the neighbouring village of Qadah.
Trekking
The most peaceful way to visit the Mountains of Musandam, without the sound of engines, deafened by the sound of nature. Our favourite route, crossing from Sham Fjord to Kumzar, will take you past abandoned village, with old pottery and derelict houses. The trek includes a night in the mountains where the air is so pure and the flora and fauna are to be marvelled at, along with the abundance of birds, butterflies and of course, mountain goats. Views over the Gulf of Arabia and Gulf of Oman are amazing, to be experienced first hand and in some areas you will be the first human being to step foot, sharing the route only with goats. As you come close to Kumzar the valley opens up and you arrive at the edge of the world. Maybe you will encounter villagers gathering wood or herding, you will definitely surprise them with your arrival. | | | Diving
Diving in this area is described as ‘an experienced divers dive,’ due to strong currents and large fish. With the diving in the UAE and surrounding areas being limited, it is a welcome addition to any diver’s log book. There are many sites, more sheltered and less deep, that also welcome beginners. The spectacular scenery, impressive fjords created by the majestic Hajar Mountains, is both inviting and exhilarating. Visibility is usually good, with over 10 metres common, and there is a rich sea life to enjoy. An abundance of plankton results in a wealth of fish, especially the larger species of rays, sharks, barracuda, tuna and the occasional sighting of Whale Sharks. |
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