Oman is a remarkable destination for nature and wildlife enthusiasts, offering a blend of thrilling outdoor activities and breathtaking landscapes. From exhilarating hikes and adventurous sandboarding down towering dunes to tranquil nights spent camping under a star-filled sky, the options are endless for those looking to immerse themselves in the natural world.

Turtle-Watching at the Ras Al Jinz Reserve

The Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve is a fascinating ecosystem that showcases pristine coastlines, expansive golden deserts, verdant oases, and rugged mountain terrains. This reserve serves as a critical nesting ground for four different species of turtles: the endangered Green Turtle, the Olive Ridley Turtle, the Loggerhead Turtle, and the critically endangered Hawksbill Turtle. 

As a premier eco-tourism site in Oman, it provides an extraordinary opportunity for visitors to witness the nesting process of these ancient creatures without causing any disturbance. Additionally, the reserve features an interactive museum and research facilities where guests can learn more about turtle biology and conservation efforts, enhancing their understanding of these remarkable marine reptiles.

The Unique Nature and Wildlife of the Desert

Jebel Samhan, the highest mountain in the Dhofar region, is home to Oman’s Leopard Sanctuary, accessible only with special permission. The journey to this sanctuary is a visual delight, as the road winds through areas populated with majestic baobab, acacia, and frankincense trees, alongside traditional Bedouin settlements that offer a glimpse into the region's rich cultural heritage. 

This nature reserve plays a significant role in protecting some of the last remaining wild Arabian leopards, along with other rare species such as the Arabian wolf and striped hyena. Wildlife enthusiasts will also have the chance to spot gazelles, foxes, and Nubian goats in their natural habitats.

For an unforgettable experience, visitors can set up camp on the mountain plateau, enjoying breathtaking views and the chance to cool off at the Tawi Ateer Sinkhole.

Wadi Bani Khalid

Wadi Bani Khalid is celebrated as Oman’s largest and most beautiful oasis, featuring serene emerald pools surrounded by lush palm trees, all framed by dramatic desert cliffs and boulders. The area has been thoughtfully developed to enhance visitor experiences, boasting several bridges, seating areas, and a restaurant that harmoniously blend with the natural beauty of the oasis. 

Located a three-hour drive from Muscat and two hours from Sur, this scenic canyon is a worthwhile destination for those seeking tranquility and picturesque landscapes.

Sunrise Desert Yoga

Start your day with a refreshing sunrise yoga session on the soft sands of the desert. This unique experience allows participants to reconnect with nature and embrace a fresh beginning, all while enjoying the peace and beauty of the desert landscape as the sun rises.

Visit & Eat in a Bedouin House in the Desert

For those seeking an authentic cultural experience, staying at a traditional desert camp run by a local Bedouin family in Sharqiya Sands, also known as Wahiba Sands, offers a unique opportunity. Guests can enjoy warm Bedouin hospitality, with options to sleep under the stars or in cozy huts.

Meals are served at an on-site restaurant, and various desert activities, including camel treks, are available. The camp is proud of its environmentally friendly practices and was awarded the Oman Green Award in 2013, highlighting its commitment to sustainable tourism.

Dhow Cruise Along the Coast South from Muscat

Setting sail on a traditional dhow along the southern coast from Muscat provides a stunning backdrop of majestic mountains. This area is rich in marine life, and it’s common for playful dolphins to swim alongside the boats, with seasonal sightings of whales adding to the excitement. A variety of excursion options are available, from short trips to overnight adventures, ensuring that both children and adults can enjoy this serene experience away from the urban hustle.

Wadi Al Shab Hike

Wadi Al Shab is one of Oman’s most popular gorges, known for its spectacular waterfall nestled within a cave. A short boat ride across a narrow ravine leads to this lush paradise, surrounded by towering cliffs. Visitors may spot Omani women in traditional dress gathering herbs from the cliffs, adding to the cultural richness of the area. 

The hike to the caves requires about an hour of trekking across varied mountainous terrain, with opportunities for refreshing swims in natural emerald pools along the way. The exploration includes several caves, culminating in the breathtaking waterfall.

Wadi Tiwi

Wadi Tiwi, named after the nearby village, is a serene oasis boasting lush plantations and farms, alongside a stunning natural pool bordered by date and banana trees, complemented by a picturesque waterfall. This deep, narrow gorge, carved through the mountains, runs between towering cliffs and descends to the sea.

Located in the Al Sharqiyah region, adjacent to the more famous Wadi Shab, Wadi Tiwi offers a more secluded experience, with a narrow road winding through traditional villages leading to its entrance.

Balcony Walk

Perched on Jebel Shams, Oman’s highest mountain often referred to as the Grand Canyon, the Balcony Walk is a well-marked trail that follows the canyon's rim. This four-hour hike showcases some of the most breathtaking views in Oman, passing through abandoned villages and hidden waterfalls that provide fantastic photo opportunities.

The trail is moderately challenging but can be easily navigated in trainers, as it doesn’t require significant climbing.

Misfat Al Abriyeen

Nestled in the foothills, the village of Misfat Al Abriyeen is renowned for its beautiful agricultural terraces, charming alleys, and ancient mud houses topped with palm frond roofs, all built on solid rock foundations. Often called a "mountain oasis," the village features stunning local gardens nourished by an intricate falaj irrigation system carved into the mountain.

Many villagers rely on these terraces for their livelihood, cultivating a variety of fruits, including bananas, pomegranates, papayas, mangoes, citrus fruits, and dates, making it a vibrant hub of agricultural activity.

Oman is a remarkable destination for nature and wildlife lovers, offering diverse experiences from turtle-watching at Ras Al Jinz Reserve to the serene beauty of Wadi Bani Khalid.

With opportunities for adventure, such as hiking and desert yoga, alongside authentic Bedouin hospitality, visitors can fully immerse themselves in the country's unique landscapes and rich culture. Oman invites all to explore its natural wonders and create lasting memories.

In 2025, museums have transcended their traditional roles as passive vessels of knowledge. Around the globe, these cultural landmarks are undergoing a stunning transformation — not only housing masterpieces but becoming masterpieces themselves. In an era when visual storytelling and immersive environments dominate the cultural landscape, museum architecture has emerged as an art form, blurring the lines between structure and sculpture, between containment and creativity. This new generation of museums doesn't just protect history; it writes its own narrative in concrete, glass, wood, and steel.

As travelers seek out destinations that offer both cultural depth and visual grandeur, these architectural marvels are rising to the occasion. They're designed not only to inform but to evoke emotion, spark conversation, and deepen human connection to both place and purpose. From reimagined grain silos in Norway to subterranean digital sanctuaries in Saudi Arabia, these awe-inspiring museums are pushing the boundaries of design, sustainability, and spatial storytelling.

In many cases, the buildings themselves rival — or even surpass — the art they house. They challenge the conventional museum experience, inviting visitors to interact with the space as much as with the exhibits. They use light, shadow, texture, and scent to create multisensory journeys. Whether it’s a heritage structure reinterpreted for the modern age or a futuristic concept rooted in local culture, these museums remind us that architecture is not just a backdrop — it's a bold, dynamic protagonist.

1. Grand Palais – Paris, France

The Grand Palais is a masterpiece of architectural grandeur, originally built for the 1900 Paris Exposition by architect Charles Girault. This iconic structure features a vast 17,500-square-meter glass roof that allows natural light to flood the space, enhancing its ornate sculptures and frescoes.

After an extensive restoration by Chatillon Architectes, the Grand Palais now serves as a cultural hub, hosting art exhibitions, fashion shows, and public events. Its preserved upper gallery offers visitors a unique promenade, connecting them with Parisian history and providing panoramic views of the city.

2. Saka Museum – Bali, Indonesia

Opened in July 2024, the Saka Museum is a cultural gem within the Ayana Bali hotel complex, overlooking the breathtaking Jimbaran Bay. This museum reflects the Balinese philosophy of Giri Segara, symbolizing the harmony between mountain and sea. Its design includes a sloping roof that mimics the natural landscape, while a reflective pool enhances the serene atmosphere.

The Saka Museum showcases Bali’s living traditions, including an in-depth exploration of the Nyepi Day of Silence, offering visitors a deep dive into the island’s rich cultural heritage.

3. Audeum – Seoul, Republic of Korea

Audeum, designed by renowned architect Kengo Kuma, is an innovative museum that engages all five senses. Its façade, adorned with vertical aluminum pipes, reflects the beauty of nature and the play of light. The interior features a fragrant cypress wood entrance, inviting visitors to experience a multisensory journey.

Audeum not only showcases art but also serves as a space for performance and community engagement, creating an immersive environment where art and nature coexist harmoniously.

4. Kunstsilo – Kristiansand, Norway

Kunstsilo, a remarkable transformation of a former grain silo, is now Southern Norway’s largest museum, housing the world’s most extensive private Nordic art collection. Completed in May 2024, this three-story structure offers expansive views of the coastline and features a grand staircase that encourages meditation and reflection.

The museum hosts temporary exhibitions, workshops, and cultural events, making it a vibrant center for art and community engagement while celebrating the region’s industrial heritage.

5. Diriyah Art Futures – Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Diriyah Art Futures stands as the first museum in the Arabian Peninsula dedicated to digital art. This ambitious project integrates exhibition spaces, research labs, and artist residencies into a cohesive structure that connects with the surrounding landscape of Wadi Hanifah. The design incorporates traditional architectural elements while embracing modern technology, creating an inviting atmosphere for exploration and interaction.

The museum aims to foster a dialogue between contemporary art and cultural heritage, appealing to both local and international audiences.

6. Cleveland Museum of Natural History – Cleveland, United States

The Cleveland Museum of Natural History recently underwent a transformative renovation by DLR Group, reflecting the region's geological history. The redesign features flowing, alluvial forms reminiscent of glacial landscapes, unifying the museum's diverse exhibits.

Set on beautifully landscaped grounds, the museum offers educational programs, interactive exhibits, and a planetarium, making it a vital resource for families, students, and researchers alike. Its commitment to conservation and education underscores the importance of natural history in understanding our world.

7. Joslyn Art Museum – Omaha, United States

The Joslyn Art Museum is an architectural wonder that combines historical and contemporary designs. Founded in 1931, the museum features three distinct buildings, including the original Art Deco structure and two modern additions by renowned architects.

The museum's collection spans 5,000 years of art, with a focus on American and European works. It offers educational programs, workshops, and community events, making art accessible to all. The campus also boasts beautiful gardens and outdoor spaces for visitors to enjoy.

8. Louvre Museum – Paris, France

The Louvre, one of the world’s most famous museums, features a glass pyramid entrance designed by I.M. Pei, which revolutionized the visitor experience. The museum houses an extensive collection of art, including the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo, spanning thousands of years and cultures.

The Louvre regularly hosts temporary exhibitions, educational workshops, and cultural events, making it a dynamic space that connects history with contemporary artistic expressions. Its rich history as a royal palace adds to the allure of this iconic institution.

9. Guggenheim Museum Bilbao – Spain

Frank Gehry’s Guggenheim Museum Bilbao is a landmark of contemporary architecture, known for its flowing, sculptural forms clad in titanium. Since its opening in 1997, the museum has revitalized the city’s industrial landscape and become a cultural beacon.

The museum hosts a diverse range of exhibitions, from modern and contemporary art to immersive installations. Its innovative design enhances the visitor experience, making it a must-see destination for art lovers and architecture enthusiasts alike.

10. Museum of Islamic Art – Doha, Qatar

I.M. Pei’s Museum of Islamic Art is a stunning example of modern architecture inspired by ancient Islamic design. Rising from an artificial island, the museum features a limestone façade and geometric forms that create breathtaking views of Doha Bay. Inside, it houses one of the world’s finest collections of Islamic art, spanning over 1,400 years.

The museum also offers educational programs, workshops, and cultural events, fostering a deeper understanding of Islamic heritage and its influence on global art.

These architectural wonders demonstrate that museums have evolved into destinations that celebrate both art and the human experience. Whether admiring the grandeur of the Grand Palais in Paris or exploring the innovative design of Diriyah Art Futures, visitors are invited to engage with culture in new and exciting ways. In a world where the journey through these stunning structures can be as enlightening as the art they contain, these museums are redefining the experience of cultural exploration.

China is significantly expanding its 30-day visa-free entry policy in 2025 by adding 14 new countries, aiming to facilitate tourism, business, cultural exchanges, and transit travel. This expansion is divided into two main groups of countries with different effective periods.

South American Countries (Effective June 1, 2025 – May 31, 2026):

Citizens holding ordinary passports from the following five South American nations will be able to enter Mainland China visa-free for up to 30 days:

• Brazil
• Argentina
• Chile
• Peru
• Uruguay

This visa exemption applies to travel for tourism, business, family visits, cultural exchange programs, and transit, but excludes paid work or study activities.

European and Asian Countries (Effective November 30, 2024 – December 31, 2025):

Nine countries from Europe and Asia, including Japan, are also granted 30-day visa-free access:

• Bulgaria
• Croatia
• Estonia
• Japan
• Latvia
• Malta
• North Macedonia
• Montenegro
• Romania

Travelers from these countries can stay visa-free for up to 30 days for similar purposes as above, including cultural exchange.

Full Updated List of 43 Countries with 30-Day Visa-Free Access:

In addition to the 14 new countries, China’s 30-day visa waiver policy already covers 29 other countries primarily from Europe, Asia-Pacific, and South America, making a total of 43 countries eligible. The full list includes:

Region	Countries
Europe	Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Montenegro, Netherlands, North Macedonia, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Switzerland
Asia-Pacific	Australia, Brunei, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, South Korea
South America	Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Peru, Uruguay

This policy allows stays up to 30 days without a visa for tourism, business, family or friend visits, transit, and cultural exchange activities. Travelers must hold valid passports from eligible countries and may need to show proof of accommodation and return or onward tickets. Paid employment and study remain outside the scope of this visa exemption and require separate visas.

Additional Measures:

China has also signed a reciprocal visa exemption agreement with Uzbekistan, effective June 1, 2025, allowing ordinary passport holders from both countries to stay visa-free for up to 30 days per visit, with a cumulative maximum of 90 days within any 180-day period.

This comprehensive visa-free expansion reflects China’s strategic efforts to revive international tourism and business exchanges in the post-pandemic era by simplifying entry procedures and encouraging more global visitors to explore its culture and economy.

The United States, long celebrated as the world’s largest and most influential travel and tourism market, is facing an unprecedented decline in international tourism revenue in 2025, with losses projected at $12.5 billion. This sharp drop will see foreign visitor spending fall to just under $169 billion, compared to $181 billion in 2024, marking a 7% year-over-year decrease and a staggering 22.5% decline from the sector’s previous peak.

Unlike other major economies, the U.S. stands alone among 184 countries analyzed by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and Oxford Economics as the only nation expected to see a drop in international tourism spending this year.

This downturn is not merely a statistical anomaly but a direct blow to the broader U.S. economy, which relies heavily on tourism for jobs, tax revenue, and community vitality. The travel and tourism sector is valued at nearly $2.6 trillion and supports about 20 million jobs nationwide, while generating $585 billion in tax revenue—about 7% of total U.S. tax income. The effects of this decline are being felt unevenly, with gateway cities and regions near the Canadian border hit hardest.

For example, New York City has revised its 2025 forecasts, now expecting 400,000 fewer international tourists and a $4 billion drop in tourism spending compared to 2024. Upstate New York and northern border businesses are also reporting significant decreases in Canadian bookings, with 66% noting a "significant decrease" and 26% already reducing staff.

Several factors are driving this negative trend. The strong U.S. dollar has made travel to the U.S. more expensive for foreign visitors, while recent political rhetoric, new tariffs, and stricter border enforcement have contributed to a perception of the U.S. as less welcoming. The imposition of tariffs and controversial statements—such as suggestions that Canada should become the "51st state"—have provoked backlash, particularly from Canada, which was previously the largest source of visitors to the U.S..

Canadian leisure bookings to the U.S. dropped 40% in March 2025 compared to the previous year, and European inbound travel fell by 17% in the same period. Overall, international arrivals are predicted to decline by 9.4% in 2025, with air visitors from Mexico down 23% and a 3.3% decrease in overseas visitors during the first quarter of the year.

The situation is exacerbated by travel advisories issued by countries like Canada, the U.K., and Germany, warning their citizens about heightened risks when traveling to the U.S. due to incidents of detentions and refusals at the border. If such advisories spread to more countries, experts warn that the cumulative impact could reach as high as $120 billion in lost tourism revenue, should inbound travel decline by 10%.

Despite robust domestic travel—Americans are expected to spend $1.35 trillion on travel in 2025—the heavy reliance on homegrown tourism cannot compensate for the loss of international visitors, who tend to stay longer and spend more. Industry leaders, including WTTC President Julia Simpson, have called for urgent action from the U.S. government to restore international traveler confidence and reverse the perception of the country as unwelcoming.

Without decisive intervention, the U.S. risks not only prolonged economic damage but also a diminished status in the global tourism landscape, with recovery to pre-pandemic levels potentially taking several more years.

Spain, the world’s second most popular tourist destination after France, has set a new record by welcoming 17.1 million international visitors in the first quarter of 2025, marking a 5.7% increase from the previous year. This robust influx is primarily driven by tourists from the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and the United States, with the UK alone contributing over 3.1 million visitors, a 4.6% rise year-on-year.

Key regions such as Catalonia, the Balearic Islands, the Canary Islands, Andalusia, and Málaga have seen significant growth, with Catalonia attracting about 3.5 million foreign tourists in just three months. The Balearic Islands recorded a 3.6% increase in arrivals, surpassing 810,000 visitors.

Tourism revenue surged alongside visitor numbers, with international tourists spending €23.5 billion in the first quarter, a 7.2% increase compared to the same period last year. The average spending per trip reached €1,382, highlighting Spain’s growing economic benefit from tourism. Experts forecast that Spain will welcome nearly 98 million foreign tourists in 2025, surpassing the 94 million recorded in 2024.

This surge is expected to generate tourism revenues of approximately €135.8 billion, a 7.5% increase over 2024, reinforcing tourism as a vital pillar of Spain’s economy, contributing up to 15% of GDP and generating around 20% of employment directly and indirectly.

The tourism sector’s rapid growth is supported by recovering European household purchasing power amid falling inflation, economic recovery in key source markets, and Spain’s perceived safety relative to other destinations facing geopolitical instability. Domestic tourism remains historically high but grows more modestly as Spaniards increasingly travel abroad.

The Balearic and Canary Islands, Catalonia, and Madrid are among the most dynamic regions benefiting from tourism-driven growth, contributing significantly to Spain’s solid 2.8% GDP growth forecast for 2025.

However, challenges remain, including the need to diversify tourist offerings, manage tourist flows sustainably, and address local concerns about overcrowding and rising living costs. Authorities aim to balance continued growth with sustainable development to maintain Spain’s competitiveness without compromising its cultural and environmental assets.

Overall, Spain’s tourism sector is on track for another exceptional year, potentially exceeding 100 million international visitors by year-end and solidifying its position as a global tourism powerhouse rivaling France and other leading destinations.

Landing in the UAE comes with more than just a warm welcome and sunny skies. Whether you’re a solo explorer, a family on vacation, or a business traveler extending your trip, your journey begins with instant perks. Tourists flying into Dubai or Abu Dhabi can access a wide array of exclusive benefits—free SIM cards, discount cards, transport upgrades, and hundreds of offers at top attractions—all for simply arriving in the Emirates.

Welcome to Dubai: Start with a Free SIM Card

One of the first surprises awaiting tourists at Dubai International Airport (DXB) is a complimentary Tourism SIM card courtesy of du, one of the UAE’s major telecom providers. This SIM, available upon clearing immigration, offers 1GB of data valid for 24 hours, helping new arrivals navigate maps, make bookings, or connect with loved ones back home immediately.

Eligibility includes those arriving on visit visas, transit visas, or with visa-on-arrival, as well as GCC nationals. Tourists can upgrade their plan at du kiosks located at the airport or through Dubai Duty Free counters. Alternatives are also available from other major telecom providers, Etisalat and Virgin Mobile, which offer prepaid SIMs with competitive packages designed specifically for tourists, often bundled with international minutes and longer data validity.

This small but essential service ensures that visitors stay connected, which is especially useful for ride-hailing apps, translation tools, and ticketing platforms widely used across the UAE.

ALSAADA Card: Dubai’s Digital Welcome Kit for Tourists

With the SIM card in hand, visitors gain access to another benefit—a digital ALSAADA Tourist Card, Dubai’s official tourist discount programme run by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFAD).

To activate this card, tourists simply scan the QR code printed on the SIM card envelope, which directs them to download the ALSAADA mobile app, available on both Android and iOS. After a quick registration process, users can start exploring discounts and promotions available across restaurants, retail stores, wellness centers, leisure attractions, and shopping malls.

Unlike traditional paper coupons, the ALSAADA card is digital and updates in real-time, making it a handy tool for tourists wanting to make the most of their budget without carrying around brochures or discount books.

Chauffeur On Demand: Hire a Driver by the Hour

Exploring Dubai in comfort and style is easier than ever with the Hourly Rental limousine service offered by the Dubai Taxi Corporation (DTC). This service allows tourists to book a professional chauffeur to drive them around the city in a private vehicle—ideal for sightseeing, business meetings, or shopping tours.

Surprisingly cost-effective, this service starts at AED 400 for two hours and goes up to AED 1,100 for ten hours, with packages tailored to fit a variety of travel needs. Unlike regular taxis, the limousine option does not include waiting time charges, and you only pay extra if you exceed the allotted hours or distance.

Booking is simple via the “DTC” app, which offers real-time scheduling and payment options. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Two hours: AED 400

• Four hours: AED 650

• Six hours: AED 800

• Eight hours: AED 900

• Ten hours: AED 1,100

• After package expiry: AED 3/km and AED 1/minute

This service is perfect for tourists planning to visit multiple locations in a single day, offering flexibility, comfort, and the prestige of private transport.

Show Your Boarding Pass, Get a World of Discounts

Perhaps the most surprising benefit of visiting the UAE is how your boarding pass becomes a ticket to savings. Two of the UAE’s flagship airlines, Emirates and Etihad Airways, offer special promotions for passengers who retain their boarding passes.

Emirates: “My Emirates Pass”

Emirates passengers can benefit from the My Emirates Pass, a seasonal discount programme that turns your boarding pass into an access card for offers at over 500 locations. Deals span across:

• Attractions like At The Top – Burj Khalifa, Dubai Frame, and Museum of the Future

• Amusement parks such as IMG Worlds of Adventure and Aquaventure at Atlantis

• Retail outlets and luxury brands at malls like Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates

• Fine dining restaurants, cafés, and spas

Offers are available to those who present a valid physical or digital boarding pass, along with ID, and are usually valid for up to a month from the date of arrival (subject to seasonal dates—check Emirates’ official site for the latest validity periods).

Etihad Airways: “Abu Dhabi Pass”

Etihad passengers arriving in Abu Dhabi can access the Abu Dhabi Pass, offering similar benefits across the capital’s top destinations. Exclusive discounts are available at:

• Yas Island attractions, including Ferrari World, Warner Bros. World, and Yas Waterworld

• Luxury hotels and spas, especially in Saadiyat Island and Corniche areas

• Dining establishments, from gourmet to family-friendly

These perks not only save tourists money but also encourage them to explore both Dubai and Abu Dhabi, enriching their travel experience.

The Bigger Picture: UAE’s Tourism-First Strategy

These offers are part of the UAE’s larger initiative to position itself as one of the most tourist-friendly destinations globally. With streamlined airport experiences, high-speed public transit, visa-on-arrival for over 80 nationalities, and now, digital discount programmes, the UAE is creating an ecosystem that values accessibility, affordability, and convenience for its international visitors.

For tourists, the message is clear: don’t throw away your boarding pass, and be sure to scan everything you receive at the airport. From that moment, the UAE starts paying you back for visiting.

Tip: Before arriving, check the official websites of Visit Dubai, Etihad, or Emirates, as offers and promotions may be seasonal or time-limited.