Whether you’re traveling with family or friends there are tons of fun things to do in Oman. The beautiful gardens and pristine beaches make Seeb, Oman a picture perfect place for a honeymoon or romantic getaway, while the architecture lover will be in heaven. With the beach and family friendly atmosphere, Seeb is a great place to relax. From exploring the markets to chomping down on local fare at the beach, you’ll never want to go back to your hotel room. Read on to learn more about the best things to do in Seeb!
1. Eat Mushtaq
Mushtaq (sometimes mishkak), grilled lamb skewers marinated overnight, is a traditional Omani street food. This is a great way to try the spices and flavors popular in Oman. You can sample this delicacy at beachside stalls, the Seeb Souq (market), or corner stands around the city. If you love grilled meat and local eats be sure to sample Mushtaq when you inevitably find yourself at the beach in Seeb.
2. Shop at the Souq
Visit the Souq, Arabic for market, to sample local produce, handmade crafts, grilled meat, and traditional Omani dried fish. For a true culinary experience try your hand at the local specialities. Pick up some spices, produce, and creativity at the Souq and make a gourmet feast at your apartment rental. If you’re too tired after the beach to cook, the Souq is filled with delicious restaurants to try. Grab a few jars of Omani honey or olive oil as gifts for friends who weren’t lucky enough to come with you.
Seeb Souq
Address: Souq St, Seeb, Oman
3. Visit Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
Built in the 1990s, the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is an architectural wonder. The stark white stone and sharp lines of the outside of the mosque perfectly contrast with the bright mosaics, calligraphy, and geometric shapes that dominate the interior. The prayer rug that covers the main prayer hall is comprised of 1,700,000,000 knots and weighs 21 tonnes, while a chandelier hangs above. Spend your day strolling in the mosque gardens or trying to capture the explosion of color and shapes that is the inside of the dome.
Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
Address: Wilayat (district) Bawshar, Muscat 113, Oman
4. Explore the Naseem Garden
The Naseem Garden is a fun option for a romantic evening or a day out with the kids. The garden is part of a huge park complex that features an aquarium, lake, waterfall, play area for children, and traditional Arabic and Japanese gardens. This is a great place to let the kids cut loose or enjoy a romantic picnic. It’s also a popular spot for local weddings, so you might just get lucky enough to catch sight of a traditional Omani wedding. Relax after a busy day sightseeing by taking a walk through their gardens.
Naseem Garden
Address: Al Naseem Park, Oman
5. Soak in the sun at AsSeeb Beach
Oman is overlooked as a beach lover’s paradise. The pristine blue waters of the Gulf of Oman are practically unrivaled. Absorb the desert sun while cooling off in crystal blue waters. At the beach in Oman you’ll be treated to views of the mountains and a lunch of local delicacies or fresh seafood. The beach is open 24 hours, so come by for a late night romantic stroll or to greet the sunrise in the morning. If you’re more of an adventure traveler, sign up for a deep sea fishing excursion and grill your own fish or rent a sail boat.
AsSeeb Beach
Address: AsSeeb Beach, Seeb, Oman
Website: AsSeeb Beach
6. Shop like a local at Muscat City Centre Mall
Shop like a local at the new Muscat City Centre mall. You can choose from a wide selection of international brands or local fashion designers. If you’re traveling with your kids be sure to check out Magic Planet, a huge arcade in the mall featuring virtual reality games. If you looking to catch international movies then stop by Vox cinema.
Muscat City Centre
Address: Al Illam Street, Muscat 113, Oman
Website: Muscat City Centre
7. Oman Botanic Gardens
The Oman Botanic Gardens are not just a collection of beautiful flowers, it is also a cutting edge research institution, conservation facility, and art space. Come to the Botanic Gardens to learn about the plants native to Oman. These botanic gardens are a unique project because they aim to represent all of the plants native to Oman, from the desert to the monsoon season. You can also learn about the traditional agriculture production in Oman or catch an exhibition of a local artist.
Oman Botanic Garden
Address: Oman Botanic Garden, Muscat, 122 Oman
Website: Oman Botanic Garden
8. Indulge your senses at Amouage Perfumery
Oman is home to Amouage Perfumery, a world renowned luxury perfume brand. The factory, located in Muscat, offers free tours; no need to make a reservation ahead of time. Stop by to see how the perfume is made and smell some glamorous fragrances inspired by the Middle East. Stick around after the tour for free coffee and dates while you shop. A sample pack of perfumes can be broken up and turned into nice gifts for friends and family back home. For a really decadent experience, indulge in a full bottle of perfume; prices can reach up to 1200 USD for a bottle. Taking the scents of the desert home with you is the perfect way to remember the time you spent in Oman.
Amouage Perfumery
Address: Al Mawaleh, Muscat 111, Oman
Website: Amouage Perfumery
Something for everyone
Oman is a seriously underrated country. With outstanding nature, perfect beaches, and thriving urban areas, a visit to Seeb, Oman is a cultural adventure.