Oman is rapidly gaining a reputation among UAE residents as a premier food destination, where authentic Arabian flavours are proving as much of a draw as its famous wadis and mountains. New analysis from travel intelligence firm Mabrian confirms that culinary and nature-based activities are now the primary drivers of the Sultanate’s tourism growth, encouraging a new wave of weekend trips focused on taste and tradition.
Regional Culinary Highlights
Different regions of Oman offer distinct gastronomic experiences, from simple coastal fare to complex, spice-infused dishes that reflect a rich history of maritime trade. This variety allows visitors to tailor their trips to specific culinary interests.
Musandam’s Coastal Charm
Located just a few hours’ drive from the UAE, the Musandam peninsula provides a relaxed coastal getaway. Local fishermen supply a daily catch of fresh seafood, which is promptly grilled or seasoned with regional spices at small eateries along the Khasab waterfront. Visitors can combine outdoor activities like kayaking through the area’s dramatic fjords with evenings spent enjoying simple, traditional seafood.
Salalah’s Khareef Flavours
During the Khareef monsoon season from June to September, Salalah transforms into a lush, green landscape. The cooler, mist-covered climate attracts visitors to its vibrant markets, which are filled with tropical fruits like bananas and papayas, along with frankincense and spices that tell the story of centuries of trade with East Africa and India. Coastal restaurants are increasingly offering fusion dishes, such as grilled lobster with coconut curry or seafood wrapped in banana leaves, blending Omani ingredients with international influences.
Modern Cuisine and Traditional Skills
Beyond its regional specialities, Oman is developing a sophisticated food scene that combines heritage with contemporary culinary arts. In the capital, Muscat, chefs are reinterpreting traditional dishes using modern techniques. Much like the celebrated events where Taste of Abu Dhabi returns with star chefs, Muscat’s restaurants are creating menus that incorporate classic ingredients like rosewater, dates, and lime into globally inspired presentations.
For those seeking a more hands-on experience, guesthouses in Dhofar and Jebel Akhdar now host cooking classes where visitors can learn to prepare traditional Omani recipes. Across the country, cafés and heritage venues are also curating cultural experiences, from formal kahwa (coffee) tastings to frankincense-scented dining, showcasing the depth of the nation’s culinary identity.
A New Focus for Omani Tourism
The shift towards experiential travel is backed by data. According to Mabrian’s analysis, nature and active tourism now account for 45% of Oman’s offerings, while cultural activities represent 37%. Gastronomy serves as a bridge between these two pillars, blending food with history and outdoor discovery. This strategic pivot offers a different kind of cultural immersion than the sprawling attractions many UAE residents are used to, such as when Global Village opens 30th season in Dubai with spectacular fireworks.
In response, Omani tourism authorities are actively investing in developing culinary routes, supporting chef training programmes, and promoting eco-friendly dining. These initiatives aim to ensure that every meal tells a story about the land, the sea, and the local communities. For UAE travellers, this means more opportunities for farm-to-table tours in Dhofar or guided food photography walks through Nizwa’s historic spice markets.
For residents of the UAE seeking a short break that feels both distant and familiar, Oman’s food trails offer an ideal mix of authenticity and accessibility. The country’s evolving culinary landscape provides an affordable and memorable escape just an hour’s flight away.
