Cool escapes draw Eid crowds as Oman temperatures soar above 44°C

MUSCAT: With temperatures hovering around 14°C in the hills, Jabal Shams and Jabal Akhdar have emerged as top choices for people seeking relief from the summer heat during the Eid holidays.

According to the latest data released by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), Jabal Shams recorded the country’s lowest temperature on Sunday at 14°C, while Saiq in Al Dakhiliyah Governorate registered a pleasant 19°C.

In stark contrast, several other parts of the Sultanate continued to experience intense summer heat, with temperatures crossing 44°C.

Dima Wattayeen recorded the highest temperature in the country at 45.2°C, followed by Samail at 44.7°C and Sur at 44.6°C.

Other areas witnessing extreme heat included Al Amerat at 44.4°C, Al Rustaq and Bidbid at 44.3°C, and Hamra Al Drooa at 44.1°C.

To escape the sweltering conditions during the Eid break, travel agents are strongly recommending high-altitude destinations such as Jabal Shams and Jabal Akhdar, along with Oman’s scenic wadis.

Jagdeip Thakral, General Manager of dusitD2 Naseem Resort, Jabal Akhdar, said: “This Eid break, we are seeing growing interest in staycations, particularly in destinations that offer cooler weather, nature and convenience for families travelling within the region.”

With temperatures soaring, Oman’s freshwater wadis are also attracting large crowds. Known for their lush palm groves, dramatic cliffs and cool flowing water, these natural retreats have become a preferred escape for both residents and tourists.

Among the most popular is Wadi Al Shab near Tiwi, known for its turquoise pools, hiking trails and hidden cave waterfall.

“After a short boat ride and scenic hike through dramatic gorges, visitors are rewarded with emerald pools and a secret cave waterfall,” a travel agent said.

Another favourite is Wadi Bani Khalid, which combines accessibility with natural beauty. Its year-round flowing water and shaded picnic spots beneath date palms make it ideal for family outings.

Wadi Al Arbeieen in Quriyat is also drawing visitors with its dramatic scenery and deep freshwater pools. Travel agents said domestic tourism has received a major boost this Eid as outbound travel options remain limited.

 “This is simply because flight tickets to most destinations in Asia are either sold out or very expensive if travellers plan to leave Muscat after work on Monday and return by Saturday evening,” a travel agent said.

 “Almost all the flights are going full,” he added.