How about a trip to Oman

It may come as a bit of a shock to people who think Oman is just another Middle Eastern country covered in sand… this isn’t true.  Well, ok, it sort of is, but the northern swathe of the country, from the border with the UAE, all the way to the Arabian Sea, with the exception of the coastal region, is a large and rugged chain of mountains, the Hajar Mountains.  Sandy and stony, but mountains nonetheless.  Why does this matter… well, if you’re in northern Oman (the south of the country has little to offer tourists in truth) and you’re a fan of the outdoor life, with the heat of Muscat getting a bit much, the Hajar Mountains offer not only relief, but historic and cultural sightseeing aplenty, as well as heartier pursuits like climbing, canyoning, hiking, trekking and biking.

Speaking of Muscat and the sandy coastline, the city itself is not what you’d expect to find if you’ve ventured from Dubai, or Riyadh.  It is much more architecturally in keeping with the Arabic form elsewhere, making for a much more uniform-looking city.. one that is albeit a little spread out.  The walled city, royal palaces, large markets, fabulous mosques, and great retail outlets, make for a busy few days here, with of course the obligatory coffee stops en-route.
Western-catering hotels here are generally superb and often come with every amenity you could wish for, as well as numerous ones you’d never have thought of, often positioned on lovely soft-sand beaches.  So perhaps instead of heading straight to Dubai, maybe northern Oman can satisfy your thirst and hunger for a taste of the Middle East?!