The Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Heritage of Oman, in cooperation with its representative office in Russia, organized a press tour that took place from December 10 to 14, 2024.
The primary goal of the tour was to showcase Oman as a world-class travel destination. The participants were invited to experience the country’s finest luxury accommodations, immerse themselves in its rich history and cultural legacy, and explore an array of curated excursions that reveal the breathtaking allure of Oman.
The program commenced with a visit to the picturesque Musandam Peninsula, set along the shores of the Strait of Hormuz. This Omani semi-exclave has long held a position of strategic significance-serving as a vital maritime link connecting the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman, and thus forging essential ties between the Arabian world and the wider globe.
Often referred to as the “Norway of Arabia,” the Musandam Peninsula captivates visitors with a coastline dramatically etched into fjords. Its rugged mountains, rising sharply from the shore, were formed millions of years ago, creating a truly unique natural landscape in this part of Oman.
The press tour group was accommodated at the magnificent Six Senses Zighy Bay, which earned a coveted spot on “The World’s 50 Best Hotels” list in 2024. This secluded retreat immerses guests in an authentic Omani ambiance. The participants were invited to savor a distinctive harmony where majestic mountains give way to emerald waters, set against a backdrop of golden desert valleys, all while enjoying exceptional service and refined culinary masterpieces.
The next highlight of this captivating journey was picturesque Muscat, the capital of Oman, gracefully nestled at the base of rugged, rocky mountains. The city warmly welcomes travellers with a rare fusion of tradition and modernity, where Portuguese forts, blue- domed mosques, royal palaces, and vibrant souks steeped in the spirit of ancient Arabia lie between its shoreline and contemporary districts.
The press delegation settled into the elegant new Mandarin Oriental Muscat, and a refined luncheon awaited them at the luxurious St. Regis Al Mouj Muscat. Throughout their stay, the guests were introduced to Oman’s most iconic sights, including the majestic Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, the Al Alam Palace, the Royal Opera House, the atmospheric Muttrah Souq, and the historic Al-Mirani Fort, commanding breathtaking views over the open sea.
In addition, the press tour featured an enthralling journey to the unique Jabal Al Akhdar. Along the route to this remarkable mountainous region, the group passed through local villages, where they were warmly received by hospitable Omanis.
For their stay in Jabal Al Akhdar, the participants were hosted at the ultra-luxurious Alila Jabal Akhdar resort, perched at an impressive altitude of 2,000 meters above sea level. From this exclusive retreat, the group enjoyed mesmerising mountain vistas and savoured the incredibly flavourful traditional cuisine of Oman at the resort’s restaurant.
We hope this press tour will serve as a significant step towards firmly establishing Oman as the most welcoming, warm, and sought-after destination for Russians for years to come.
