The Middle East has become one of the most popular golf hotspots on the planet and when you think of those destinations your mind will rapidly move to the likes of Dubai and Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates. You probably haven’t, however, considered Oman for a golf holiday. Until now, that is.
Gradually emerging from the shadow of the nearby UAE, Oman has a growing reputation in the hearts of travelling golfers, who are drawn to the country for its immaculate climate, superb standard of hospitality, and a wonderfully spectacularly environment alongside the Gulf of Oman and Arabian Sea.
There are a small number of courses located in Oman, and they are rather good too. Direct flights from London to the capital city of Muscat make this an accessible place for UK-based golfers to discover, but what should you know to ensure that you have a memorable experience there?
Our travel partners Golfbreaks now sell packages to Oman – and they have recommended it strongly to us.
Let’s see what you can expect from playing golf in Oman!
What Are The Best Golf Courses You Can Play in Oman?
Part of the stunning St Regis Al Mouj Resort in Muscat, the incredible Al Mouj Golf was designed by two-time Open champion Greg Norman and it is considered to be among the finest creations in the region.
It’s a championship layout that lends inspiration from those classic links of the UK & Ireland and it boasts an enviable position along two kilometres of coastline, while you can take in the breathtaking views of the distant Hajar Mountains that make this both a visual treat and brilliant test of golf.
When you play here, you will have the opportunity to take on the dunes and water hazards that combine both a stiff challenge with exceptional scenery. There is a lot of intelligence to the design here and it demands a strategic approach, while the coastal breezes only enhance the examination of this course. Highlights include the par-3 8th hole that rests alongside the edge of the sea and requires a carefully struck tee shot, while the closing 18th is a par-4 that features water running down the entire left side.
Away from the coast, Ghala Valley is a different prospect altogether as it was built into a valley, meaning that its distinctive holes run through the rocky slopes and hillsides of this desert-style environment that is contrasted with the lush nature of the fairways and greens.
Scenery is a major appeal to this layout as you can behold panoramic views from several vantage points on the course, with its numerous elevation changes offering an extra challenge that should invigorate all levels of golfers.
Finally, we have to bring the exceptional La Vie Club to your attention, as it benefits from the incredible backdrop of the Al Hajar Mountains and Sea of Oman, which provide an attractive frame to a course that presents a wide variety of challenges that include water hazards, changes of elevation, undulating fairways, tiered greens that will test your putting stroke, and carefully placed bunkers that must be avoided if you are to score well.
This trio of courses – all located within Muscat – present a delectable golfing menu that should satisfy anyone.
How Good Are The Resorts And Hotels in Oman?
You’ve already seen that the golf courses are rather good, but what about the accommodation? Well, the quality here is simply outstanding.
Let’s begin with the aforementioned St Regis Al Mouj. Delivering the utmost luxury, it’s located across the beachfront, featuring a selection of 250 rooms and suites that look out across the Gulf of Oman and beautiful Al Mouj Golf Course. When you stay here, you can benefit from the landscaped gardens, outdoor pool, a state-of-the-art fitness centre, and take advantage of exclusive access to a secluded beach. Beyond that, there are nine signature dining venues and bars that offer a range of menus from Omani to Italian, while there is an expansive spa for you to unwind after your round.
Nearby, Kempinski Hotel Muscat is a five-star alternative that blends together both modern architecture with traditional Omani culture.
Part of the Al Mouj waterfront community, like St Regis, you can explore the marina that boasts a vast range of boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants, all of which combine to offer an appealing atmosphere that is both relaxed and bustling. If you’re someone who relishes water sports, then you can partake in sailing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and diving adventures here. Avenues Mall and Muscat Grand Mall aren’t far away, while the Royal Opera House, Muttrah Souq, and Old Muscat’s historic forts are waiting for you to discover them too.
Located a distance away from the coast, the Crowne Plaza Muscat OCEC is a five-star hotel that is positioned within Oman’s Convention and Exhibition Centre district, with the nearby hills and wadis (dry valleys) ideal for walking and hiking should you fancy some activities away from the golf.
Is Oman a Good Place to Visit?
You might be wondering just how highly Oman rates as a holiday destination – and there is much to love about it. You can check out the deserts, beaches, mountains, and historic forts, and it has a low crime rate and is safe for visitors to explore. The people are famously hospitable and friendly, while you can sample the local culture and cuisine that are enhanced by all the modern amenities and attractions that you could wish for.
It’s not an inexpensive place to visit, for sure, but when you get there, we’re confident that it will be money well spent.
Golfers looking to experience somewhere different, with a touch of luxury and stunning courses in a perfect climate, simply must have Oman on their list to visit.
Kieran Clark is the Digital Editor of Golfshake. He oversees editorial content, community engagement, forums, and social media channels. A lifelong golfer from the Isle of Bute in Scotland who has now lived in St Andrews for a decade, he began playing at the age of five and maintains a passion for exploring courses, with a particular affection for historic layouts. Kieran regularly contributes in-depth opinion pieces and features, drawing on his enthusiasm for the game and its culture.
