Iftar on traditional dhows: A unique trend emerges in Muscat
MUSCAT: As Ramadan unfolds across Muscat, the city's vibrant culture and traditions come alive in unique ways.
One such emerging trend is Iftar aboard traditional dhows, offering families and corporate groups a distinctive way to break their fast in Shatti.
These Iftar cruises combine the essence of Ramadan with the serenity of the sea, creating unforgettable experiences for those seeking something special during the holy month.
The dhow cruises provide a peaceful and picturesque setting, as guests embark on evening journeys along Muscat's coastline, with stunning views near PDO beach. 'We are charging OMR10 for this,' one of the tour operator said.
These cruises feature an array of traditional Omani and Middle Eastern dishes, served in buffet-style setups, allowing diners to enjoy their meal while experiencing the beauty of the sea and the gentle evening breeze.
The growing popularity of these Iftar cruises highlights a shift towards more experiential ways of celebrating Ramadan.
Tranquil alternative
Many people are opting for these cruises as a tranquil alternative to the usual dining venues, appreciating the opportunity to enjoy their meal in a more intimate, scenic environment.
Some of these cruises also offer customised options for private groups or corporate gatherings, further enhancing the appeal of this trend.
As the demand for Iftar cruises increases, it's advisable for interested guests to make reservations in advance, as these experiences are becoming highly sought-after during the holy month.
Availability and schedules may vary, so it is recommended to confirm with operators for the most up-to-date information.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Muscat Daily
an hour ago
- Muscat Daily
Muscat Municipality launches global design contest
Muscat – Muscat Municipality has launched the Muscat Municipality Design Competition 2025, during a site visit by Ahmed al Humaidi, Chairman of Muscat Municipality. The visit marked the formal start of the international architecture competition, which is now open to leading studios from around the world. The selected site, located next to the Mall of Oman, covers more than 8,000sqm and has been designated for a multi-functional civic building. The project aims to reflect Muscat's evolving urban identity, balancing modernity with the city's architectural heritage. Situated between the Oman Sea and the Hajar Mountains, the location is intended to serve as a symbolic and functional space within the capital. 'Muscat is expecting a growing number of tourists in the near future, and the city is doing everything to welcome them in a sustainable way and to the highest standards of quality and beauty,' said Humaidi. 'This competition represents a commitment to shaping how Muscat is experienced, through architecture that enhances our urban landscape, honours our heritage and reflects the values we hold as a society. We aim to create spaces that foster civic pride, set new benchmarks in sustainability and contribute meaningfully to Muscat's future as a global destination.' The international competition calls on architecture studios to design a sustainable civic structure rooted in Omani identity. Five shortlisted studios will soon be selected to present their concepts to a jury composed of local and international experts. Final jury presentations are scheduled for early July, after which three finalists will be chosen. The winning design will be announced following the final deliberations. The Muscat Municipality Design Competition 2025 is intended not only as a platform for architectural excellence but also as a public initiative to promote transparency and long-term urban planning. It reflects Muscat's ongoing efforts to integrate sustainability, accessibility and cultural authenticity.
Muscat Daily
an hour ago
- Muscat Daily
Dakhliyah records 415,000 tourists visiting in 2024
Nizwa – The Governorate of Dakhliyah welcomed more than 415,000 visitors in 2024, marking a growth of over 32% compared to the previous year, according to data released by the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism. Home to iconic heritage sites such as Nizwa Fort, Jabreen Castle and the Unesco World Heritage site of Bahla Fort, the governorate continues to solidify its position as one of the country's key cultural tourism hubs. Fakhriya bint Khamis al Ghassaniyah, Director of the Department of Tourism Product Development and Experiences at the ministry, confirmed that 2025 will see the rollout of an ambitious tourism development plan focused on diversifying tourism offerings and enriching visitor experiences. The ministry, in coordination with governors' offices across the sultanate, is implementing a series of qualitative projects as part of its wider tourism strategy. 'These projects aim to enhance the quality of the tourism product and broaden the range of experiences available to visitors, positioning Oman as a well-rounded and integrated tourist destination,' said Fakhriya. She added that the ministry remains committed to promoting cultural tourism as a cornerstone of its diversification strategy, with a strong focus on preserving and celebrating national identity. In line with this, the ministry has launched the Omani Food and Culinary Tourism programme, which includes initiatives such as documenting traditional Omani cuisine and developing culinary tourism itineraries. These experiences feature guided visits to traditional kitchens and restaurants serving authentic local dishes. 'The culinary programme not only highlights Omani gastronomy as a unique tourism attraction but also boosts the local economy,' Fakhriya said.
Observer
3 hours ago
- Observer
Hot summer makes Jabal Hatt the perfect mountain retreat
Last weekend in Oman was a lively mix of tradition, family and adventure, all wrapped up in the celebration of Eid Al Adha. It's one of the most important religious festivals in the country and Omani families took it as an opportunity to reconnect with their roots and loved ones. Most headed off to their villages, where the entire week was mapped out with prayers, family gatherings and the preparation of shuwa — a slow-cooked, aromatic meat dish that's a highlight of Eid festivities. The days are filled with sharing meals, catching up and celebrating together — a true reflection of the close-knit community spirit Oman is proud of. Hot summer makes Jabal Hatt the perfect mountain retreat Once those family and religious obligations are fulfilled, many turn to leisure activities and one of the most popular spots lately is Jabal Hatt. Tucked away in the rugged mountains outside the capital, Muscat, Jabal Hatt has become a favourite for weekend getaways. It's a stunning mountain area, known for its dramatic landscape — rugged cliffs, lush greenery and sweeping views. The mountain itself rises about 1,300 metres above sea level and offers a cooler escape from the heat of the city. Visitors describe it as a place where the air is fresher and the scenery is truly breath-taking. Hot summer makes Jabal Hatt the perfect mountain retreat Jabal Hatt is located around 220 kilometres from Muscat, in the Al Dakhiliyah Governorate. It's an area gaining reputation for its natural beauty, attracting not just locals but tourists from outside Oman as well. What makes it appealing is its accessibility; unlike some other mountain areas in Oman, going to Jabal Hatt doesn't require a four-wheel-drive. A regular car or even a sedan can make the drive to the viewpoints, which is a big draw for families and casual explorers alike. Near the top, there are spots perfect for pitching a tent, enjoying the cool mountain breeze and just relaxing away from the city's hustle. Hot summer makes Jabal Hatt the perfect mountain retreat Throughout the long Eid weekend, thousands of Omanis headed to Jabal Hatt. It was quite the sight — as if the entire city of Muscat had decided to escape to the mountains. Tents and cars filled nearly every available viewpoint, creating a lively, vibrant scene. A visitor told us that the mountain was packed with families, all celebrating Eid in their own way — some camping under the open sky, others just enjoying the panoramic views. It's become a yearly tradition for many, especially during summer when the weather is just right — warm enough during the day but pleasantly cool at night. Stories from locals say that families often plan their summer trips months in advance, eager to escape the city's heat and enjoy the mountain's fresh air. Hot summer makes Jabal Hatt the perfect mountain retreat What's especially popular about Jabal Hatt is that it's more accessible than other mountain destinations in Oman like Al Jabal Al Akhdhar or Jabal Shams. Al Jabal Al Akhdhar, famous for its terraced farms and luxury resorts, often requires a four-wheel-drive, while Jabal Shams — which is about two hours away — demands a bit more planning and preparation. Jabal Hatt doesn't have that strict requirement, making it a favourite among many families who just want a quick, easy getaway. People bring along everything they need — tents, food and drinks — and settle in for a few days amidst nature. Hot summer makes Jabal Hatt the perfect mountain retreat In recent years, Oman has become more popular for wild camping, especially among the younger crowd. Unlike Europe, where permits and strict regulations often restrict outdoor camping, Oman offers a freer experience. The landscape is open for those seeking adventure, with plenty of spots for wild camping — just pitch your tent and enjoy the serenity of the mountains. However, Jabal Hatt itself is starting to develop more facilities. There are a couple of small hotels like Shorfet Al Ameen, which offers private rooms with pools overlooking the canyons, as well as some camping grounds equipped with dome tents, toilets and basic kitchens. It's a step in the right direction, but there's still room for improvement. Hot summer makes Jabal Hatt the perfect mountain retreat The main challenge facing Jabal Hatt is infrastructure. With thousands of visitors every year, the lack of sufficient toilets and bathroom facilities becomes obvious. Many campers have to drive 10 to 20 minutes down the mountain to find proper amenities. Food options are limited too — there are very few shops or restaurants on-site, so visitors usually bring everything they need or drive to nearby towns for supplies. This, along with the area's seasonal status, means that further development and investment are needed to make it truly popular year-round. But what made this weekend truly memorable was the weather. The last couple of months in Oman has been humid and hot. During the Eid holiday, Jabal Hatt experienced some unexpected rainfall and the rolling fog that settled over the mountain was something campers loved. Hot summer makes Jabal Hatt the perfect mountain retreat That unexpected rain and fog turned Jabal Hatt into a magical playground for families. The mist rolling over the peaks created an almost surreal atmosphere — a perfect backdrop for photos and memorable moments. Jabal Hatt continues to be a top pick for summer holidays. It offers a genuine outdoor experience without the extensive planning or equipment needed for more remote destinations. Families can arrive with minimal fuss, set up a tent, enjoy the scenery and spend quality time together, all within a short drive from Muscat. The combination of easy access, scenic views and pleasant weather has cemented its status as a beloved spot for both locals and visitors seeking a quick escape from the city's pace. If you're planning to camp over this weekend and eye Jabal Hatt as your destination, you might need to go early so you can pick the right spot.
