DUNECREST | OMAN

Join Dunecrest American School as they explore everything Omani culture and the beauty its landscape has to offer

February 10^th, 2026

Day 1 – Touchdown in Muscat

Our cultural journey in Oman officially began today as we landed in Muscat, full of excitement after a long day of travel.

After settling in, we headed out for our first authentic experience – a traditional Omani meal at a local restaurant. This was a great introduction to Omani hospitality and cuisine, with students sampling local flavours and learning more about dining customs in the region.

In the afternoon, we explored some of Muscat’s most iconic landmarks. We visited Al Alam Palace, the ceremonial palace of His Majesty the Sultan of Oman, located between the historic Portuguese forts of Al Jalali and Al Mirani. The palace’s striking blue and gold façade offered students a first glimpse into Oman’s rich history and royal heritage.

We then made our way to the Royal Opera House Muscat, a symbol of Oman’s commitment to arts, culture, and education. Students were impressed by the architecture, craftsmanship, and the blend of traditional Omani design with modern influences.

After a full first day of travel and sightseeing, it was time to call it an evening and enjoy a well-earned rest, ready for an early start and an action-packed Day 2.

Day 2 – Culture, Community & the Natural Beauty of Oman

An early start this morning saw us head to one of Oman’s most important cultural and religious landmarks – the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. Completed in 2001, the mosque is one of the largest in the Middle East and can accommodate over 20,000 worshippers.

From there, we made our way to Al Mouj Marina for lunch, enjoying the waterfront setting and relaxed atmosphere. A standout moment of the day came when students chose to gather their leftover food to give to people who might need it more than themselves.

In the afternoon, adventure awaited as we boarded a speedboat to the Daymaniyat Islands, a protected marine nature reserve off the coast of Muscat. While snorkeling, students experienced the famous “Turtle City”, spotting turtles, octopus, and schools of colourful fish in crystal-clear waters – an unforgettable encounter with Oman’s marine life.

We finished the day by visiting a local beach, exploring the island, and taking in the natural beauty that makes Oman so unique.

Another incredible day of learning, exploration, and shared experiences – with memories that will last long after the tour ends.

White tour boat floats on clear, turquoise water under a cloudless blue sky. Snorkelers swim in the distance. The water is shallow enough to see the seabed.

Two girls stand smiling on a rocky shore overlooking turquoise water. The younger girl wears a blue rash guard and pink bottoms; the older wears a turquoise shirt and black shorts.

Four boys stand on a rocky shore overlooking a bright turquoise sea. One boy wears a wetsuit, another is shirtless in swim trunks, and the other two wear t-shirts and shorts. In the background, other people explore the rocky landscape.

Three boys pose on a rocky cliff overlooking the ocean. One wears a life vest and snorkeling mask, the others wear patterned swim trunks. Turquoise water and rocky islands fill the background.

Person sits on rocky outcrop overlooking a beach with turquoise water. A white boat rests on the shore, and another person walks along the sand. The sky is clear and blue.

Five boys stand with their arms around each other on a rocky beach overlooking the ocean. They wear swim trunks and casual shirts. The sky is clear and the lighting is bright.

Group of teenage boys poses behind a table of lunches outside a modern building. The boys stand shoulder-to-shoulder with varying expressions. Lunch boxes, water bottles, and containers of food are on the table. Tall grass grows between the table and the boys.

A group of young people poses in front of a large, light-colored mosque with a golden dome and tall minaret under a clear blue sky. The group stands on a paved area, with palm trees and other people visible in the background.

Day 3 – Adventure, Courage & Natural Wonder at Wadi Shab

Day 3 was all about adventure.

We set off early by bus, heading toward one of Oman’s most breathtaking natural landmarks – Wadi Shab. After a quick safety briefing and life jacket fitting, students took a short boat ride across the river before beginning a 45-minute hike through the dramatic canyon landscape. Surrounded by towering cliffs and turquoise pools, the excitement was building with every step.

Once inside the wadi, the real adventure began.

Students navigated through the water, swimming between rock formations and making their way toward the famous hidden cave. Along the way there was rock climbing, cliff jumping, and plenty of moments that pushed comfort zones. For many, this was about more than just physical challenge – it was about overcoming fears, trusting themselves, and supporting one another.

There were cheers echoing through the canyon as students encouraged their friends before jumps and celebrated each small victory. The teamwork, resilience, and positivity on display made it an unforgettable experience.

After a morning packed with adventure, we enjoyed a well-earned lunch at a nearby traditional Omani restaurant, giving everyone a chance to refuel, reflect, and relive the highlights of the day.

On the journey back to Muscat, we stopped at the famous Bimmah Sinkhole – a spectacular limestone crater filled with striking blue-green water. Students learned about its geological formation while taking in one final natural wonder before returning to the hotel.

An amazing day of challenge, courage, and connection – and a true highlight of the tour so far.

Large sinkhole filled with turquoise water in Oman. Eroded tan cliffs surround the pool, with stairs and people visible at the water's edge. A park with trees and a gazebo is at the top of the cliff.

People swim in a clear, turquoise river within a rocky canyon in Oman. High canyon walls rise on either side under a clear, blue sky.

Hikers ascend a rocky riverbed in Oman's Dunecrest, surrounded by steep canyon walls. Palm trees grow along the base of the canyon. The clear blue sky is visible above.

A group of young hikers climbs through a rocky desert canyon in Oman. The lead hiker wears a vest labeled

Hikers walk on a rocky path through a canyon in Oman. Tall cliffs and mountains surround a dry riverbed with sparse vegetation under a bright, clear sky.

Hikers walk along a rocky riverbed through a steep canyon in Oman. Tall, layered cliffs rise on either side, with sparse green trees dotting the landscape. The sky is bright blue with a slight haze.

Hikers walk along a rocky path through a narrow canyon in Oman. Tall, light brown cliffs rise on either side, with palm trees and other greenery visible. The sky is clear and blue.

Day 4 – Dolphin Spotting, More Snorkeling & Beach Volleyball

Our final full day in Muscat started in the best possible way – out on the water at Marina Bandar Al Rowdha for an early morning dolphin-spotting trip.

We were incredibly fortunate. Within a short time, we encountered several schools of dolphins, swimming alongside the boat and putting on an unforgettable display. Seeing them in their natural habitat was a special moment for everyone – calm seas, clear skies, and plenty of smiles all around.

From there, we headed out for more snorkeling, making the most of Oman’s crystal-clear waters. Students explored beneath the surface once again, growing more confident and comfortable in the water after a week packed with adventure.

The afternoon brought a change of pace as we stopped at a nearby beach. What followed was a perfect mix of activity and relaxation – volleyball matches, kayaking sessions, and enjoying local food and fresh fruit together by the sea. The atmosphere was brilliant: laughter, friendly competition, and students fully embracing every moment of the experience.

In true Duncrest fashion, the day didn’t end there.

By popular request, we wrapped things up with a collective gym session, showing the group’s energy and commitment right to the end of the trip. It was a fantastic way to finish – training together, supporting one another, and reflecting on a week that has challenged and united the group in so many ways.

Dinner followed, marking the end of an incredible week of culture, adventure, learning, and connection.

Tomorrow morning we look forward to visiting Souq Muttrah, where students will explore one of Oman’s oldest marketplaces and discover the significance of frankincense – a treasured part of Omani history and trade – before heading back to Dubai.