With more than 18 million international visitors arriving in Dubai in 2025, the UAE city has cemented its place as one of the world’s most popular luxury holiday destinations. However, tourists looking to escape to the Gulf may not need to venture to the expensive, sometimes overcrowded city.
The experts at Islamic lifestyle store, Amsons, say that Muscat, capital of Oman, is one of the most charming cities in the Gulf, and has many of the same qualities as Dubai. One of the Middle East’s oldest and picturesque cities, Muscat combines historic stone architecture, mountains, and beautiful beaches.
“Many people automatically think of Dubai when planning a luxury escape, but Muscat offers a very similar experience” says the team at Amsons. Muscat gives visitors everything they expect from a Gulf escape, stunning hotels, incredible scenery and warm hospitality, but without the feeling of being surrounded by mass tourism. It’s luxury, but at a much calmer pace.
“Unlike Dubai, where the skyline continues to expand upwards, Muscat has carefully protected its identity. Strict building regulations mean the city remains filled with elegant whitewashed buildings, traditional architecture and dramatic mountain backdrops rather than towering skyscrapers. The result is a destination where luxury and heritage sit side by side.”
The city sits between the Gulf of Oman and the Hajar Mountains, meaning travellers can move from beach to mountain within hours.
Similarly, the Daymaniyat Islands, located just off the coast, are known for crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, sea turtles, and dolphins. Further inland, Wadi Shab offers one of Oman’s most famous natural sites, with pools hidden between dramatic rocky cliffs.
There is also the Mutrah Souq, one of the oldest marketplaces in the Arab world, which offers a completely different experience from the luxury malls Dubai is famous for.
Visitors can wander through narrow streets filled with the scent of frankincense, browse handmade silver jewellery and discover traditional Omani crafts.
The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, with its intricate architecture and peaceful gardens, is another highlight, showcasing the country’s deep cultural heritage.