With the National Day holiday coinciding with the weekend, both citizens and residents are eagerly anticipating a rare and extended break starting Wednesday.

Wahiba Sands has emerged as the focal point for this four-day break, drawing attention as the ideal destination. The governorate of North Sharqiyah, a highly sought-after tourist spot, is gearing up to welcome visitors not only during the National Day holiday but throughout the winter season.

The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MHT) announced that the Department of Heritage and Tourism in North Sharqiyah has completed preparations for the winter tourist season, attracting numerous tourists, both domestic and international, from October to April each year.

The governorate boasts numerous tourist attractions, including Wahiba Sands, wadis, oases, sulphur water springs, castles, forts, popular markets, and ancient archaeological lanes. Additionally, it offers various recreational activities with a touch of challenge, fun, and adventure.

Camp owners in North Sharqiyah, interviewed by Muscat Daily, express their readiness to welcome guests. According to Ali al Hajari, owner of Safari Desert Camp, tourists have begun booking for the weekend, recognizing the winter season as the ideal time for outdoor activities in North Sharqiyah.

He highlights the pleasant weather during winters in Oman, making it suitable for activities such as watching the sunset, sandboarding, riding quad bikes, and visiting heritage villages showcasing traditional crafts. Anticipating a significant increase in tourists in the coming days, Hajari emphasizes the appeal of camping in North Sharqiyah.

Badr Amer al Hajri, owner of the Bidiyah Camp, notes a substantial turnout of foreign tourists, residents, and citizens. With 35 fully occupied air-conditioned rooms, especially on weekends, he suggests offering a special economical fare structure for tourists during the winter season to attract more visitors.

Hajri emphasizes the camps' commitment to presenting artistic programs, folk art, Omani handicrafts, traditional Omani food, beverages, clothing, and handcrafted ornaments. Activities in the sands of Sharqiyah include walking in the sand dunes, riding sand bikes, paragliding, sand skiing, and sand sports car races (locally known as 'runs').

Tour operators also arrange camel and hot air balloon rides, along with trips to water ponds in the wilayat of Wadi Bani Khalid, a popular destination for tourists seeking rest and relaxation.

Winter in Oman provides an opportunity for visitors to explore the diverse terrain and topography of the country, offering a unique experience not fully accessible during other seasons. The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism encourages people to embrace adventure and reconnect with loved ones in scenic locales during the upcoming holiday. Positive indicators from the last tourist season in North Sharqiyah include profits, revenues, and hotel room occupancies reaching levels between 60-90%.