Oman’s territory stretches across 309,500 square kilometers along the southeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula. The country’s landscape tells a story of remarkable diversity, from Mount Shams’s soaring peaks at 9,777 feet to the ancient UNESCO-recognized aflāj irrigation systems. Oman Map reveals that 89% of its 5.3 million residents live in urban areas. The terrain changes dramatically throughout the region. You’ll discover every corner of this nation, from the rugged Hajar Mountains to the coastal areas where temperatures soar to 110°F (43°C). This guide will show Oman’s unique geographical features, major cities, and hidden gems that make this Arabian nation special. Understanding Oman’s Geographic Layout Oman is located at the southeastern edge of the Arabian Peninsula. It serves as a strategic gateway between the Persian Gulf and the Arabian Sea. Location and borders You’ll find Oman between 16°N and 28°N latitude. The country shares its borders with three neighbors. The United Arab Emirates sits to the northwest, Saudi Arabia to the west, and Yemen to the southwest. The country also shares sea borders with Iran and Pakistan across the Gulf of Oman. Key regions overview The sultanate breaks down into eleven governorates (muhafazah):

• Ad Dakhiliyah (Nizwa)
• Ad Dhahirah (Ibri)
• Al Batinah North (Sohar)
• Al Batinah South (Rustaq)
• Al Buraimi (Al-Buraimi)
• Al Wusta (Haima)
• Ash Sharqiyah North (Ibra)
• Ash Sharqiyah South (Sur)
• Dhofar (Salalah)
• Muscat (Capital)
• Musandam (Khasab)

Major geographical features The country’s landscape shows three distinct zones. The first zone has two fertile coastal strips. One strip runs from Muscat along the northern coast, while another wraps around Salalah in the south. The second zone features the mountainous regions, with the Hajar Mountains dominating the north. These impressive peaks rise above 4,800 feet. Mount Shams stands as the country’s highest point at 9,777 feet. The central desert plain makes up the third zone, where the massive Rub Al Khali (Empty Quarter) spreads across the landscape. This desert covers 82% of Oman’s total land. Mountain ranges take up 15%, and the coastal plain makes up just 3%. The Musandam Peninsula, an exclave cut off from mainland Oman by the UAE, watches over the strategic Strait of Hormuz. Oman’s territory also extends to offshore areas, including Masirah Island to the east and the Al-Hallāniyyah Island group along the southern coast. Exploring Oman’s Coastal Regions A magnificent coastline stretches 3,165 kilometers across Oman’s eastern edge, showcasing the country’s maritime heritage and natural splendor. Muscat and surroundings The capital region creates a stunning contrast between jagged-peaked mountains and the royal blue sea. Muscat’s architecture seamlessly combines traditional sophistication with modern elements. White-washed buildings, intricate domes, and ancient forts rest peacefully in rocky hills. Qurum Beach stands out among the city’s coastal attractions with its 4-kilometer stretch along the waterfront. Shallow waters and extended high tides make this family-friendly destination perfect for relaxed activities. Nature enthusiasts will find Bandar al Khiran appealing with its turquoise inlets just 45 minutes from the city center. These spots provide excellent conditions for snorkeling and kayaking. Visitors can experience the harmonious blend of traditional dhows and modern vessels at the Mutrah Corniche, a vibrant 3-kilometer promenade along the harbor. The area buzzes with activity during late afternoons as locals and tourists explore the maze-like streets around the historic Mutrah Souq. Al Batinah coastline A fertile strip known as Al Batinah Coast lies between the sparkling Gulf of Oman and towering Hajar mountains. This densely populated region runs from Khatmat Malahah in the north to Ras al-Hamra in the south. The region boasts several distinctive features:

• Fine fortresses and semi-tropical oases
• Traditional fishing communities and vibrant fish markets
• Lush date plantations stretching between mountains and sea
• Natural hot springs near coastal settlements

The coastal town of Barka reveals traditional Omani life through its colorful early morning fish auctions, where locals bring their daily catch up the beach by hand. The historic port of Sohar stands as the north’s largest town and claims fame as legendary Sinbad the Sailor’s birthplace, though its illustrious past leaves few physical traces today. Discovering the Mountain Regions Oman’s mountain regions create a dramatic backdrop that defines the country’s varied terrain. These peaks give visitors amazing experiences and stunning views all year round. Hajar Mountains The Al Hajar Mountains run from the Musandam Peninsula to Sur, a town famous for dhow-making. This mighty range acts as Oman’s geological spine and stretches along the entire east coast. We explored its rugged landscapes and deep wadis that give outdoor enthusiasts plenty to do. Jebel Akhdar The “Green Mountain” sits at 2,000 meters above sea level with its huge Saiq Plateau. It stands out against the dry landscape around it. This mountain mass stretches 80 kilometers long and 32 kilometers wide. A network of wadis and terraces keeps this region fertile and green. The area has several unique features:

• Traditional mountain villages with terraced gardens
• Prized pomegranate orchards and apricot groves
• Ancient falaj irrigation systems
• Damask rose gardens bloom in March

The temperature in Jebel Akhdar can drop to -5°C from December to March. This makes it a perfect escape from the coastal heat. The cool mountain air and extra rainfall create ideal conditions to grow the region’s famous rosewater. Jebel Shams Jebel Shams stands as Oman’s highest peak at 3,018 meters. It gives amazing views into Wadi an Nakhur and Wadi Ghul. The Balcony Walk is a popular 4-kilometer trail with about 200 meters of elevation change. The mountain stays 10-15°C cooler than Muscat throughout the year. You’ll need a 4WD vehicle for the last 13 kilometers of unpaved road to reach the summit. The higher northern peak has an Oman Royal Air Force facility and remains restricted. The slightly lower southern peak welcomes hikers looking for adventure. Watch out for the road conditions, especially after heavy rains, when some parts become impossible to cross without a proper vehicle. The cool mountain air makes it a favorite spot even in summer months. Many people come here to escape the intense heat of the Arabian Peninsula. Exploring the desert and the Interior Oman’s interior reveals a captivating stretch of desert landscapes that shape the country’s terrain. Raw beauty and ancient geological formations have molded the nation’s character across these arid regions. Empty Quarter (Rub Al Khali) The legendary Rub Al Khali is the world’s largest continuous sand desert that covers 650,000 square kilometers. This massive expanse runs 1,000 kilometers long and 500 kilometers wide. It includes parts of Oman, Saudi Arabia, Yemen, and the United Arab Emirates. The Empty Quarter’s unique features include:

• Dunes that reach heights of 250 meters
• Reddish-orange terrain from feldspar deposits
• Brackish salt flats, like the Umm al Samim area
• Ancient lake beds that formed 6,000 to 2,000 years ago

Yes, it is a hyper-arid region that gets less than 50 millimeters of rain each year. All the same, this harsh environment supports remarkable biodiversity. You’ll find arachnids, rodents, and tough plant species that have adapted to extreme conditions. Central desert regions Oman’s central desert lies between 18° and 22°30′ N latitude and takes up about half of the country’s surface area. The ground beneath consists of horizontal, mid-Tertiary limestone remnants of ancient sea-bed levels. The central plains showcase scattered Acacia tortilis trees, various shrubs, and perennial grasses. The western edge next to the Rub al-Khali supports psammophilic vegetation that thrives in sandy conditions. The Arabian Oryx Sanctuary stands as one of the region’s most important sites and gives shelter to wildlife of all types. Beyond the Arabian oryx, the sanctuary protects the houbara bustard, two species of gazelle, and ibex. Sandy wadi channels throughout the central desert support open woodlands of Prosopis cineraria. Coastal fog has boosted species diversity in the eastern desert regions, especially in drainage channels and shallow depressions. The central desert stretches out as a big featureless plain with low gravel outcrops and wind-swept sandy plains. Several wadis flow from the Hajar mountains and southern escarpments into these central plains, which creates unique microhabitats. Southern Region of Dhofar The Dhofar region reveals nature’s incredible diversity at Oman’s southern border. This special area runs from Ras ash-Sharbatat all the way to Yemen’s border, standing out from the rest of the Arabian Peninsula. Salalah and surroundings Salalah, Dhofar’s capital and Oman’s second-largest city, sits at 17°01′ N 54°05′ E. The city boasts a spectacular location between the curved Dhofar Mountains and the Arabian Sea. This creates a breathtaking view where the coast meets the mountains. The area around Salalah features some amazing natural wonders:

• Wadi Darbat: A beautiful valley with 100-meter-high waterfalls
• Marneef Cave: A unique rocky spot where water shoots up to 30 meters through blowholes
• Fazayah Beach: Beautiful shores with crystal-clear waters and impressive rock formations

The landscape ranges from massive Rub al Khali desert dunes in the north to the arc-shaped Dhofar Mountains in the middle. Beautiful beaches line the Arabian Sea, where humpback dolphins often play in the waters. The monsoon region features The Khareef, a special monsoon season from June to September, makes Dhofar unique in Arabia. Temperatures drop below 30°C during this time, and humidity soars above 90%. The Khareef brings several amazing changes: Salalah’s plain gets constant mist and drizzle, with about 25mm of rain in July and August. The surrounding escarpment catches clouds and doubles this rainfall. These weather conditions create perfect growing conditions for:

• Tropical fruits like coconuts, pineapples, and papayas
• Green meadows and seasonal waterfalls
• Frankincense trees in the UNESCO-listed Wadi Dawkah

Numerous wadis, springs, and gorges keep the region’s agriculture thriving. The Dhofar Mountains, which peak at about 2,000 meters at Jabal Samhan, trap moisture from monsoon winds. This creates a unique ecosystem found nowhere else on the Arabian Peninsula. Dhofar’s coastline ranks among Oman’s most spectacular views. Green mountains drop straight down into turquoise-blue waters. Visitors from Saudi Arabia and the UAE flock here to escape their summer heat. Conclusion Oman Map is a mixture of natural wonders that stretches from Jebel Shams’s peaks to the Empty Quarter’s endless dunes. We found the sultanate blends dramatic mountain ranges, pristine coastlines, and big desert expanses into one seamless landscape. The sultanate’s location makes it unique. The majestic Hajar Mountains and historic coastal settlements dominate the northern regions. The southern Dhofar region becomes a green paradise during the Khareef season. This natural diversity and the nation’s rich cultural heritage create an environment you won’t find anywhere else in the Arabian Peninsula. The country’s geography reveals its strategic importance and natural treasures. You’ll find everything from the world’s largest continuous sand desert to monsoon-affected mountains here. Ancient aflāj irrigation systems and pristine beaches line its 3,165-kilometer coastline. A single nation holds all these natural wonders. Oman lets you choose between mountain adventures in Jebel Akhdar, cultural experiences in Muscat, or peaceful moments along the Dhofar coast. The diverse landscape creates unforgettable experiences for every traveler. Book Now!