Glamping is emerging as a growing tourism segment in Oman, with operators combining the country’s varied landscapes with high-end, mobile accommodation.
The approach offers travelers the comforts of a hotel while remaining immersed in natural settings such as deserts, mountains, and coastal areas.
Industry stakeholders believe this hybrid model can extend the tourism season, create opportunities for small businesses, and cater to the global demand for sustainable, experiential travel.
“Glamping in Oman offers travelers a comfortable and sustainable way to experience the country’s diverse landscapes all year round,” said Shabib Al Maamari, managing director of Visit Oman.
“From the eco-luxury tents at Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve — where summer temperatures between 25°C and 36°C still allow for turtle watching — to the misty highlands during the Khareef Dhofar season, Oman delivers truly unique outdoor stays.”
”At Visit Oman, we collaborate with providers across the country — over 80 per cent of whom are SMEs — to offer authentic and responsibly managed experiences blending comfort, adventure, and heritage.”
One example is Perfect Journeys, a boutique travel company co-founded by Karen Hardan, Yasir Al Khusaibi, Sherien Sherief, and Aziz Badir.
The company specializes in mobile glamping setups in locations ranging from Sharqiyah Sands to Bandar Al Khiran, offering flexibility to operate in deserts, on secluded beaches, or in mountain settings.
The mobile format allows the team to adapt to seasonal weather, with glamping in some regions remaining viable during Oman’s summer.
“Even during summer, glamping is possible in select areas with comfortable weather,” Al Khusaibi told the Oman Observer, noting that operations elsewhere are paused from May to September for guest comfort and safety.
Hardan, a hospitality veteran, said she initially did not consider herself a camping enthusiast but was convinced after her experiences in Oman.
“I never imagined silence could sound so beautiful,” she said. “I used to think luxury was about infinity pools and high-end resorts. But here, I discovered a completely different definition — one rooted in nature, privacy, and presence.”
Perfect Journeys focuses on creating experiences that include traditional Omani meals, culturally inspired tent décor, and opportunities for direct interaction with local communities, including Bedouin hosts.
Activities can range from snorkeling in isolated bays to hot air balloon rides over desert dunes. “We’re committed to thoughtful, responsible tourism. Our goal is to create meaningful experiences, not just tick off checklists,” said Al Khusaibi.
For business owners in the outdoor hospitality sector, Oman’s glamping model highlights a potential path for growth by integrating cultural authenticity, environmental stewardship, and mobility.
The country’s approach also underscores how collaborations with local SMEs can distribute tourism income more broadly while offering differentiated products in a competitive travel market.