Musandam Information

The Musandam peninsula covers an area of approximately 3,000km and is situated in the northernmost area of Oman. Musandam’s headland juts out into the Straits of Hormuz and is actually separated from the rest of Oman by land belonging to the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

The population of Musandam is around 31,010 people, most of who live in the capital city, Khasab.

The region is extremely rocky with the Hajar Mountains extending from Khasab down to Ras Al Haad in the south of Oman. There is one graded road from Daba to Khasab, which twists and turns through narrow gorges, dips into wadis and clings on to the mountain side. Not a journey for the faint hearted, but there is an alternative route from Daba to Khasab via Ras Al Khaimah which is a black top road. In addition, Oman Air flies direct to Khasab three times a week from Muscat.

Musandam is famous for its fjords (khawrs), creating a coastline quite different to the southern regions of Oman. Although considered a remote destination, Musandam has a lot to offer its visitors.

The diving and snorkelling in the crystal clear waters are unrivalled in terms of marine life sightings. Khasab Castle overlooks the harbour and there is also an exhibition in the castle courtyard featuring local boats, houses and other items relating to heritage and culture of the area. The busy work of fishermen and boat builders can be seen in and near the harbour.

The traditional souq sells locally made pottery and the Musandam axe (jerz) along with more modern-day essential goods.

You can enjoy a trek up the Hajar Mountains, explore ancient tombs and relics of early settlements and view prehistoric drawings on rocks