Over spring break in 2024, I had the honor of traveling to Oman, a land with around 100,000 years of human history. As a student studying international affairs and Arabic, I had the opportunity to participate in a short-term study abroad course exploring business and culture in Oman. During this ten-day adventure, my companions and I explored the desert, markets, coastline and more of Oman’s charming attractions.
Despite the ongoing regional conflict, my professor reassured us that Oman tends to stay out of politically tense situations and often acts as a mediator. After all, Oman’s current travel advisory is only at “Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution.” While the need to "exercise increased caution" may sound intimidating, the same travel advisory applies to other places that are generally considered safe for travelers including Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom.
Considering the journey from Washington DC to Muscat took about 17 hours, including a layover in Doha, Qatar, the travel experience was surprisingly pleasant. Qatar Airways' food and drink service, combined with the entertainment, made for a restful and satisfying experience. As I peeked over my neighbor's shoulder to glimpse out the window, the twinkling city lights of Muscat greeted me.
After breezing through customs and meeting our guide, the bus ride introduced me to the breathtaking cityscape. The sprawl of palm trees and beige buildings provided a comforting scene. Our guide, bright and enthusiastic, reviewed the coming week with us while fostering feelings of welcome and warmth.
The Zawawi Mosque in Muscat, Oman. Madison Paulus
Throughout my travels in Oman, I had the pleasure of interacting with many incredible people. As a majority Muslim country, Islam is entrenched in daily life, with the call to prayer ringing through the streets five times a day. I could see Islamic values reflected in many people I met through their selflessness and intellect. While some women wear hijabs, this is not required socially or legally beyond the mosques. Despite this freedom, Omanis still tend to dress modestly with long sleeves and bottoms; traditionally, men wear dishdashas and head coverings called kummas or muzzars while women wear abayas.
The respect and maintenance of the past is a valuable Omani trait, with alluring forts and castles looking nearly the same as they did hundreds of years ago. During our day trip to Nizwa we explored the Nizwa Market and the neighboring Nizwa Fort. The market is sectioned off, with each area filled with distinct sites and smells. At the entrance, the musk of goats and dust accompanied the fervent shouts of people bidding on animals. Within a few paces beyond the chaos, a sweet aroma drew us into the date market, where we splurged on delicacies like ginger-infused dates and Halwa.
A view of the Nizwa Market from atop the Nizwa Fort, Oman. Madison Paulus
After weaving through stalls filled with shimmering silver, colorful spices and delicate handicrafts bargaining along the way, we found ourselves at the foot of a nearly 400-year-old fortress. The Nizwa Fort and the nearby Jibreen Castle offered me a glimpse into the past. At these historical destinations I was confronted by the powerful, indescribable feeling that often accompanies being in spaces saturated with history.
The chandelier in the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Oman. Madison Paulus
Our visit to the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque brought equally positive yet intense emotions. Donning an abaya and the required hijab, I wandered the sun-filled corridors, my bare feet grounding me. I entered the prayer hall and was awestruck as I stood beneath one of the largest chandeliers in the world. Images of the architecture will never leave me, decorated with hints of gold and complex geometric patterns.
Beyond the cultural and historical exploration, the activities were iconic. From seeing the Al Alam palace and Muttrah market from aboard a traditional Dhow boat to dune driving across the Wahiba Sands, there was never a dull moment. The green waters of the Gulf of Oman granted us access to a new perspective from the heart of Muscat Cove. In delightful contrast, the desert trek was a dry, adrenaline-filled experience. After a period cruising through the orange sand and flying down steep dunes, we reached the Arabian Oryx Camp where we were welcomed with camel and ATV rides.
The wake of a Dhow ship in the Gulf of Oman. Madison Paulus
All of these quests required energy, which was graciously provided by the Omani cuisine. Commonly made up of rice alongside well-seasoned proteins like lamb and chicken, each meal left me satisfied and ready for the next destination. The food options span well beyond traditional Omani cuisine too, with restaurants offering food from all regions of the world, from Texas to Egypt.
Parting with Oman’s culture and environment was difficult, yet I find comfort in my determination to return. While the government's Omanization policy has limited access to work and housing for foreigners, travelers are sure to be welcomed with warm smiles and generosity. My journey was truly an experience of a lifetime.
شكراً عمان
Thank you Oman
Madison Paulus
Madison is a student at George Washington University studying international affairs, journalism, mass communication, and Arabic. Born and raised in Seattle, Washington, Madison grew up in a creative, open-minded environment. With passions for human rights and social justice, Madison uses her writing skills to educate and advocate. In the future, Madison hopes to pursue a career in science communication or travel journalism.