Oman offers a wealth of activities for every type of traveler, from adrenaline junkies to those seeking tranquility in nature. Adventure enthusiasts can embark on thrilling canyoneering expeditions or conquer the sandy dunes with exhilarating dune bashing. For water lovers, flyboarding and surfing provide an exciting way to engage with the ocean. To take in the stunning landscapes, a helicopter tour reveals breathtaking vistas from above. No visit is complete without experiencing the magical ambiance of a sunset cruise, making Oman a truly captivating destination.

Helicopter Tours

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Oman from the sky with a helicopter tour aboard the Airbus H125. This aerial adventure allows you to witness the country's diverse landscapes, including rugged mountains, vast deserts, and pristine coastlines, all from a unique vantage point.

Details

• Duration: The city tour lasts approximately 15 minutes, offering a quick yet comprehensive view of key attractions.
• Location: Tours typically depart from Muscat.
• Price: Approximately $150 per person for a 15-minute tour.
• Highlights: Fly over iconic landmarks such as the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, the Al Jalali and Al Mirani forts, and the stunning coastline of Muscat. This is the perfect way to capture unforgettable photographs and gain a new appreciation for Oman’s natural beauty.

Special Tips

• Book in Advance: Helicopter tours can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons (October to April).
• Early Mornings or Late Afternoons: Schedule your tour during these times for softer lighting and stunning views.

Flyboarding and Wakeboarding

Oman has made a name for itself in the world of water sports, with activities like flyboarding and wakeboarding attracting thrill-seekers from around the globe. These motorized sports offer an exhilarating experience on the water, combining the thrill of speed with the beauty of the ocean.

Details

• Location: Popular spots include Muscat and Salalah.
• Price: Around $100 for a 30-minute session.
• Safety: All activities are conducted by certified operators who prioritize safety, ensuring that participants have a secure and enjoyable experience.
• Experience: Flyboarding allows you to soar above the water, while wakeboarding combines surfing and snowboarding techniques, providing a unique blend of excitement and challenge.
• Variety: Operators offer a range of options, from short introductory sessions for beginners to more extensive courses designed for those looking to refine their skills.

Special Tips

• Wear Sunscreen: The sun can be intense, so make sure to apply sunscreen before heading out.
• Stay Hydrated: Bring water to stay hydrated during your activity.

Desert Adventures

The Wahiba Sands, stretching over 200 kilometers, is a striking desert landscape that offers unforgettable adventures. Visitors can explore this iconic environment through dune bashing, camel rides, and sandboarding, immersing themselves in the unique beauty of Oman’s desert ecosystem.

Details

• Location: About 3 hours from Muscat, near Bidiyah.
• Price: Desert safari packages range from $75 to $150 per person, depending on the inclusions (lunch, camel rides, etc.).
• Activities: Experience the thrill of dune bashing in a 4x4 vehicle, or opt for a more traditional sunset camel ride, which allows you to take in the stunning desert scenery at a leisurely pace. For the adventurous, sandboarding or quad biking provides an adrenaline rush as you glide over the dunes.
• Wildlife: The desert is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, including over 180 plant species and 200 animal species, making it a fascinating ecosystem to explore.
• Tour Details: Small-group excursions typically depart from Muscat or Bidiyah. Tours often include a traditional picnic lunch at a desert camp and a refreshing swim at Wadi Bani Khalid, a beautiful oasis with crystal-clear waters.

Special Tips

• Best Time to Visit: October to April offers cooler temperatures, making outdoor activities more comfortable.
• Pack Snacks: While many tours include meals, having some snacks on hand can be helpful during the day.

Sunrise Desert Yoga

Begin your day with a refreshing sunrise yoga session in the serene desert. This experience allows participants to connect with nature and find inner peace as they practice yoga amidst the tranquil desert landscape.

Details

• Location: Various desert locations, often arranged by local yoga studios or tour operators.
• Price: Approximately $40 to $60 per session.
• Duration: Sessions typically last 1 to 1.5 hours.
• Setting: Conducted in the serene environment of the desert, participants can enjoy the peaceful sounds of nature as the sun rises, creating a perfect backdrop for meditation and yoga practice.
• Classes: Various styles of yoga are offered, catering to all skill levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners. This allows everyone to connect with their inner selves and the natural world around them.
• Experience: The sessions emphasize relaxation and mindfulness, encouraging participants to embrace the beauty of the moment as they breathe in the fresh desert air.

Special Tips

• Dress Comfortably: Wear loose, breathable clothing suitable for yoga.
• Arrive Early: Get to the location a bit early to enjoy the serene atmosphere and set up your space.

A Day in Paradise (Full Day Beach Pass)

The Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa offers an exquisite retreat along a stunning bay, where deep turquoise waters meet majestic mountains. The ‘Day in Paradise’ escape promises a luxurious experience for all guests.

Details

• Location: Barr Al Jissah, Muscat.
• Price: Approximately $100 per person for a full-day pass, including lunch.
• Facilities: Enjoy access to six stunning swimming pools, two private golden-sand beaches, and a meandering lazy river perfect for relaxation. Water sports activities are also available for those looking to add a bit of adventure to their beach day.
• Amenities: Towels and bottled water are provided for your convenience, ensuring a comfortable visit. Guests can indulge in a lavish buffet lunch featuring a variety of dishes, including fresh seafood, international cuisines, and local specialties.
• Relaxation: The resort’s serene environment, combined with high-quality service, allows visitors to unwind and rejuvenate, making it a true day in paradise.

Special Tips

• Reservations: It’s advisable to book your day pass in advance, especially during weekends and holidays.
• Bring a Book: The tranquil environment is perfect for relaxation, so consider bringing a book for leisure time by the pool.

Additional Recommendations

Cultural Experiences

• Visit Nizwa Fort: Located about 1.5 hours from Muscat, this historical site offers insight into Oman's heritage. Entry is around $5.

Local Cuisine

• Try Shuwa: A traditional Omani dish made of marinated lamb, slow-cooked in an underground sand oven. Look for local restaurants offering this delicacy.

Souqs

• Explore Mutrah Souq: A vibrant market in Muscat where you can shop for spices, textiles, and handicrafts. Bargaining is common, so don’t hesitate to negotiate prices.

With so much to explore, Oman is a destination that promises a wealth of unforgettable experiences, whether you are seeking adventure, relaxation, or a deeper connection with nature.

Four Wildlife Trusts in England—the London Wildlife Trust, Birmingham and Black Country Wildlife Trust, Wildlife Trust for Lancashire, Manchester and North Merseyside, and Northumberland Wildlife Trust—have received a major multi-million-pound investment through the "Championing Nature" programme, a six-year initiative funded by The All England Lawn Tennis Club and Emirates.

This partnership is specifically designed to bridge the gap between urban communities and the natural world, with a strong emphasis on reaching disadvantaged children, young people aged 16-24, and families who often have limited access to green spaces.

Research underpinning the programme revealed that about one in eight children from low socio-economic backgrounds under the age of 12 has never experienced nature firsthand. Key barriers include a lack of nearby green space facilities (21%) and the cost of transport to such areas (17%). Parents have reported that when their children do spend time in nature, they see notable improvements in mood, happiness, physical activity, and overall health.

Each Wildlife Trust will use the funding to deliver tailored projects in their local urban areas. For example, the Birmingham and Black Country Wildlife Trust plans to provide interactive nature-based education sessions for schools—focusing on those with the least access to green space—and launch year-round outreach events for young people and the wider community. The Trust will also upgrade its Centre of the Earth environmental education site.

The Wildlife Trust for Lancashire, Manchester and North Merseyside will focus on community-driven initiatives in Wythenshawe, Greater Manchester, including workshops, school partnerships, habitat restoration, and the creation of a nature corridor. Northumberland Wildlife Trust aims to enhance nature connection in urban and suburban areas through school partnerships, educator training, youth activism, and potentially managing a section of a country park in North Tyneside for the next 40 years, co-designed with the local community.

The programme was launched at the AELTC’s Community Tennis Centre at Raynes Park, with naturalist Steve Backshall MBE as its ambassador. Backshall emphasized the transformative benefits of nature connection for young people and expressed excitement about the positive changes the initiative will bring to urban communities.

Overall, "Championing Nature" is set to create a lasting legacy by improving urban green spaces, providing environmental education, and ensuring that future generations—regardless of background—can benefit from meaningful experiences with nature.

Qatar Airways Group has unveiled its most impressive financial performance to date, reporting a record net profit of QAR 7.85 billion (US$2.15 billion) for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2025. This figure marks a 28% rise over the previous year, highlighting the airline’s strong recovery and growth. The Group’s total revenues climbed to QAR 86 billion (US$23.4 billion), up from QAR 80.9 billion (US$22.1 billion), as passenger numbers surged to 43.1 million-an increase of more than 3 million compared to last year.

The airline’s cargo operations also saw remarkable growth, with revenues jumping by 17%, representing the division’s best performance since the pandemic. This success is credited to Qatar Airways’ swift response to market changes, ongoing investments in digital technology, and a focus on data-driven strategies that improved operational efficiency.

A key factor in these results was the expansion of Hamad International Airport, which now accommodates over 65 million travelers annually thanks to the addition of new concourses and state-of-the-art boarding systems. These upgrades have not only increased capacity but also enhanced passenger experience with advanced automation and sustainability initiatives, further establishing Doha as a major global transit hub.

Looking to the future, Qatar Airways has made substantial investments, including a historic $200 billion deal with Boeing for 160 new widebody aircraft-the largest order of its kind. This move is set to modernize the airline’s fleet and support its ongoing network expansion.

CEO Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer attributed the company’s record-breaking year to its renewed focus on talent development, operational excellence, and strategic partnerships. With a workforce of over 55,000 employees worldwide, Qatar Airways continues to set benchmarks in the aviation industry, demonstrating resilience and adaptability amid a dynamic global market.

Chairman HE Saad Sherida al-Kaabi praised the airline’s achievements, noting that they stem from careful planning and the dedication of its staff. These historic results not only reinforce Qatar Airways’ leadership in the sector but also signal its growing influence in the global economy.

The Emirates Group has announced its strongest financial results ever for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2025, posting a record pre-tax profit of AED 22.7 billion (US$ 6.2 billion), marking an 18% increase compared to the previous year. The Group’s total revenue climbed 6% to AED 145.4 billion (US$ 39.6 billion), while cash reserves rose by 13% to reach AED 53.4 billion (US$ 14.6 billion).

Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) also hit a new high of AED 42.2 billion (US$ 11.5 billion), reflecting strong operational efficiency.

At the forefront, Emirates airline delivered a pre-tax profit of AED 21.2 billion (US$ 5.8 billion), up 20%, alongside record revenues of AED 127.9 billion (US$ 34.9 billion). The airline’s cash holdings increased by 16% to AED 49.7 billion (US$ 13.5 billion). Emirates expanded its route network to 148 cities across 80 countries, introducing new destinations such as Bogotá and Madagascar, while resuming flights to major cities including Phnom Penh, Lagos, Adelaide, and Edinburgh.

The carrier enhanced services to 21 destinations and strengthened its global connectivity through 33 codeshare and 118 interline agreements, providing access to over 1,750 cities worldwide. Passenger and cargo capacity grew by 4% to 60.0 billion Available Ton Kilometers (ATKMs), nearing pre-pandemic levels. The fleet expanded with the addition of Airbus A350 aircraft, bringing the total to 260 planes, with an average fleet age of 10.7 years and a substantial order backlog to support future growth.

Dnata, the Group’s aviation services division, also posted solid gains, recording a pre-tax profit of AED 1.6 billion (US$ 430 million), a 2% increase, and revenues up 10% to AED 21.1 billion (US$ 5.8 billion). The division’s cash reserves stood at AED 3.7 billion (US$ 1 billion).

This fiscal year was the first affected by the UAE’s newly implemented corporate tax, resulting in a 9% tax charge and a net profit after tax of AED 20.5 billion (US$ 5.6 billion). The Emirates Group declared a dividend payout of AED 6.0 billion (US$ 1.6 billion) to its sole shareholder, the Investment Corporation of Dubai. Additionally, employees will benefit from a record bonus equivalent to 22 weeks’ salary.

Chairman Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum attributed the Group’s exceptional performance to strong leadership, a resilient business model, and Dubai’s dynamic economic environment. He highlighted plans to reinvest profits into enhancing customer experience, employee welfare, and technological advancements to maintain the Group’s competitive edge.

Emirates’ ongoing network expansion, operational excellence, and premium service focus have solidified its status as the world’s most profitable airline and positioned the Emirates Group as the leading global aviation group for the 2024-25 financial year.

Saudi Arabia’s aviation industry is soaring to new heights, now contributing a staggering SAR340 billion ($90.6 billion) to the national economy—8.5% of the Kingdom’s GDP—according to the latest report by the International Air Transport Association (IATA). This powerful growth underscores the nation’s ambitious vision to transform into a global aviation powerhouse and top-tier tourist destination.

The IATA’s findings reflect the Kingdom’s strategic investments in infrastructure, talent development, and digital innovation—elements poised to push the aviation sector’s economic contribution even higher in the years ahead. These developments are part of a broader national effort to diversify the economy and reduce reliance on oil, positioning aviation as a key pillar of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.

Building a World-Class Air Network

Saudi Arabia is making massive strides to upgrade and expand its aviation infrastructure. Major projects like the expansion of Jeddah’s King Abdulaziz International Airport and the construction of a new state-of-the-art airport in Riyadh are designed to significantly boost passenger capacity and enhance the travel experience. These developments aim to draw more international airlines and travelers, cementing the Kingdom’s status as a central hub connecting Europe, Asia, and Africa.

In tandem, the government is embracing advanced digital technologies to improve efficiency and customer satisfaction at its airports. Smart systems for baggage handling, automated check-ins, and cutting-edge security measures are streamlining operations and setting new standards for passenger convenience.

Investing in People, Powering the Future

Recognizing that no industry can thrive without skilled human capital, Saudi Arabia is heavily investing in aviation-focused education and training. IATA’s report emphasizes the importance of developing a workforce that can meet the demands of this rapidly evolving sector. Programs offering scholarships, internships, and specialized training are being rolled out in collaboration with industry and academic partners to prepare the next generation of aviation professionals.

Currently, the aviation industry directly employs 141,000 people and supports 1.4 million jobs across the Kingdom, encompassing everything from air transport to tourism and supply chain services.

Beyond the Runway: Aviation’s Broader Economic Reach

The aviation sector’s economic impact extends far beyond airports and airliners. It plays a catalytic role in fueling related industries such as hospitality, retail, and logistics. As air connectivity improves, tourism flourishes—bringing with it increased demand for hotels, restaurants, and transportation services, and creating a ripple effect of job creation and investment.

Saudi Arabia’s strategic location further enhances its appeal as a global transit hub. Positioned at the intersection of major international travel and trade routes, the Kingdom is uniquely placed to capitalize on rising demand for both passenger and cargo services.

Jazeera Airways has hit cruising altitude on its transformation journey, posting a record-breaking first-quarter net profit of KD4.7 million ($15.33 million) — a staggering 274.8% jump compared to the same period last year.

The Kuwaiti low-cost carrier attributes this milestone to a potent mix of digital transformation, cost optimization, and a laser-sharp focus on revenue diversification. Group operating revenue climbed 15.5% year-on-year to KD53.6 million, as passenger demand soared and the airline continued to expand its footprint.

“This performance demonstrates that our five-year growth plan and focused investments in digital transformation as well as the expansion of our ancillary revenue streams are delivering tangible outcomes,” said Marwan Boodai, Chairman of Jazeera Airways. “Our focus on delivering the lowest unit cost, particularly in aircraft and operational areas, has further reinforced Jazeera’s foundation for sustained profitability.”

Passenger traffic rose 7.7% to 1.2 million in Q1 2025, pushing Jazeera’s market share to 32.3% — securing its position as Kuwait’s largest carrier for the quarter. Ancillary revenues surged by 29.1% to KD5.1 million, reflecting the growing success of the airline’s add-on services.

Q1 2025 Highlights at a Glance:

• Operating Revenue: KD53.6 million (+15.5% YoY)

• Operating Profit: KD6.8 million (+430.7% YoY)

• Net Profit: KD4.7 million (+274.8% YoY)

• Passengers: 1.2 million (+7.7% YoY)

• Ancillary Revenue: KD5.1 million (+29.1% YoY)

• Load Factor: 78.7% (slightly down 0.6%)

Strategic Expansion & Innovation

During the quarter, Jazeera resumed flights to Sarajevo and unveiled its most ambitious summer network to date — launching new routes to Budapest, Sochi, Yerevan, and Hurghada. It also introduced innovative ancillary bundles under the “Hayakom” brand at its dedicated Terminal 5, and flexible travel products like Cancel for Any Reason (CAFR) and Disruption for Any Reason (DAFR).

Digital Transformation and Future-Ready Fleet

Jazeera’s digital strategy is gaining altitude, marked by the rollout of a new Passenger Service System and the first phase of a next-gen Customer Experience and Feedback Intelligence platform. These advancements are set to enhance traveler engagement and operational efficiency.

As part of its fleet modernization, the airline is on course to reconfigure its aircraft to a 180-seat layout by Q4 2025 and is preparing to welcome 26 new aircraft starting in 2026. This includes 18 A320neo and 8 A321neo jets, aimed at fueling its market expansion and boosting e-commerce capabilities.

Leadership and Outlook

Supporting its high-flying ambitions, Jazeera has appointed new leadership, including Captain Ayman Alshammari as Chief Operating Officer, Ginny Sethi as Chief People Officer, and Paul Carroll as Chief Commercial Officer.

With over 700,000 seats slated for the busy summer travel period and major upgrades underway at Terminal 5, Jazeera is poised for continued ascent — solidifying its status as a regional aviation powerhouse.