PELAKITA.ID – This week marks Oman National Day, a moment of pride for the Sultanate and its people. For me, the celebration feels personal. Yesterday, my friend Ali from the Aquaculture Center in Bandar Ar Rowdha, Muscat, reminded me of this special occasion.
His message instantly brought back a flood of memories—travels, friendships, and moments of genuine kindness that have shaped my admiration for Oman.
Oman is not only a country rich in history and natural beauty but also a land defined by humility, warmth, and hospitality. Every visit has given me deeper appreciation for its people and the values they embody. It is one of the safest and most welcoming places I have ever known.
A Country of Hospitality and Grace
What strikes me most about Oman is not only the stunning landscapes or the impressive architecture, but the people. Omanis are incredibly humble, gracious, and respectful. They welcome visitors with sincerity, treat strangers with kindness, and carry themselves with quiet dignity that reflects centuries of cultural depth. In every corner of the country—from Muscat to Salalah, from fishing villages to bustling souqs—I always felt at home.
Hospitality here is not an expectation; it is a natural expression of who they are. Whether offering guidance, sharing stories, or simply greeting you with a smile, Omanis make visitors feel safe, valued, and respected. That, more than anything, is what keeps drawing me back to this country.
Exploring the Beauty of Salalah
Among the most memorable experiences I have had in Oman is exploring Salalah, a gem in the southern region known for its lush greenery during the Khareef season, its ancient sites, and its serene coastline.
Ain Nasar, with its fresh spring water and peaceful surroundings, offers the kind of tranquility that captures the spirit of Dhofar’s natural landscape—simple, calm, and deeply refreshing. Not far from it is the Dome of Prophet Ayyub (Job), a site of immense spiritual significance. Standing there, surrounded by the gentle wind and panoramic highlands, one can feel the history and faith that have shaped this region for centuries.
Salalah’s coastline is equally captivating. The Marina offers beautiful views of the sea, perfect for relaxing evenings. Another unforgettable site is the location of the sunken ship, a haunting yet fascinating reminder of the ocean’s power and mystery. And then there is the Geopark, a place where geology, landscape, and heritage meet, allowing visitors to understand the natural history that crafted Dhofar’s rugged beauty.
The fruit market in Salalah is vibrant with seasonal produce—bananas, coconuts, papayas, and the famous local frankincense—reflecting Dhofar’s agricultural richness and the everyday life of its communities.
From Salalah, my journey extended to the surrounding towns—Sada, Mirbat. Back to the surroundings Muscat such as Mina Al Fahal, Al Qurayat, Fins, Sifah, Al Burqa—each offering unique cultural experiences, historical backgrounds, and coastlines untouched by mass tourism.
Discovering Muscat and Beyond
In Muscat, the capital, my admiration for Oman only deepened. The city balances modern development with deep cultural identity. My visit to Al Mouj, a vibrant waterfront community, showed me the cosmopolitan side of Muscat—marinas, cafes, residences, and leisure spaces that blend comfort and elegance.
Oman’s architectural splendor is best expressed through its mosques. The Al Qaboos Grand Mosque stands as one of the most magnificent religious structures in the region, breathtaking in scale, detail, and serenity. Likewise, the Mohammed Al Ameen Mosque radiates a sense of peace, with its striking white domes and graceful minarets overlooking the city.
One of the most fascinating natural escapes in Muscat is Bandar Al Khairan, known for its blue waters, hidden coves, and dramatic cliffs. It is a paradise for kayaking, boating, and appreciating Oman’s coastal beauty.
A trip through Mutrah, one of Muscat’s iconic districts, completes the experience. Walking through Mutrah Souq, exploring the Corniche, and seeing traditional dhows anchored in the harbor make you feel the continuity of Omani maritime heritage.
Safety, Peace, and Pride
Oman is one of the safest countries in the world—not just statistically, but experientially. I have always felt secure whether traveling alone, exploring remote areas, or walking through city streets at night. This sense of safety comes from the culture itself: a society built on respect, community, and moderation.
As Oman celebrates its National Day, I join my friends—like Ali in Bandar Ar Rowdha—and all the kind people I have met along the way, in honoring this nation. Oman is a country of peace, dignity, and quiet strength. It is a land of history and natural wonders, but more importantly, a home to people whose humility and hospitality make every visitor feel like family.
Happy Oman National Day. May the Sultanate continue to prosper and shine as a beacon of harmony
and human warmth.
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Kamaruddin Azis, Sorowako-Indonesia