Musandam Penninsula Reefs & Diving

The Musandam Peninsula is the most northerly region of Oman, covering approximately 3,000 sq. kilometres of land, marking the entrance to the Arabian Gulf, via the Straits of Hormuz. Separated from the rest of Oman by a 70-kilometre stretch of the UAE, the province has developed at it's own pace and is a wild and mountainous terrain.

The dramatic coastline is defined by sheltered fjords - earning the area the title of 'Norway of Arabia' - dotted here and there with small fishing villages, some accessible only by boat. These towering cliffs are reflected below the water, with coral encrusted drop-offs falling to great depths.

The waters provide tropical coral reef diving, with swift currents and plankton rich waters attracting numerous species, ranging from Wrasse through to Whale Sharks, with a diverse range of pelagic visitors, including Manta, and Eagle Rays and numerous shark species. Many species of turtle can be spotted and dolphins can be seen playing in the tranquil waters. The area is closed to commercial fishing, hence the prevalence and quantity of marine life and there are over 25 dive sites within the area ranging from walls to coral gardens and offering experienced divers adventurous diving.

The Golden Tulip hotel in Khasab, Musandam's capital, is a 95-minute drive from Dubai and an ideal base for divers. With a PADI diving centre and 60 beautifully decorated guest rooms and suites, all with the benefit of sea and mountain views. The rooms are fully air-conditioned with en-suite facilities. There is a pool terrace and a range of dining choices, from lobby cafe to main restaurant and an oriental cafe tent, where you can experience authentic cuisine, local music and smoke a shisha.