Wednesday 30 / April / 2025
There’s something about a sunrise that makes it simultaneously pleasant and inspiring. As the sun appears from under the clouds, piercing them with its dazzling early-morning rays, the start of a new day fills all of us with a slowly building joy and quiet confidence that gives us the enthusiasm to start the day with fresh vigour.
Among the best places to see the sunrise in Oman is Jabal Shams, which when translated into English means the Mountain of the Sun.
The highest point in Oman, Jabal Shams overlooks a majestic grand canyon - where early morning sunshine seems to steadily cross the floor before determinedly climbing up its steep, rocky sides.
“Jabal Shams provides beautiful views of the surrounding landscape as well as Wadi Ghul – Oman’s very own Grand Canyon,” said Oman’s Ministry of Tourism. “Jabal Shams has a number of marked hiking routes, the most famous (and easiest!) being the Rim Walk to the abandoned village of As Sab, which was once home to about 15 families that built their homes into the side of the cliff.
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“Jabal Shams is the highest mountain in Oman, right in the heart of the Western Hajar Mountain chain in the Dakhiliyah region, which also hosts Jabal Akhdar. Jabal Shams is one of the must-see attractions for any visitor in Oman, with views of Al Nakhr Canyon that are so spectacular that it is labelled the Grand Canyon of Arabia, as well as its mild climate, exciting trekking paths and off-road adventures it offers.
The temperature up in the mountain are mild and are usually 10 to 15 degrees cooler than that at sea level in Oman, making it pleasant in the summer and cold in the winter with bouts of snowfall, the ministry says.
“Jabal Shams offers various activities for all people, whether you are interested in night photography, a demanding hike to the peak, exploring abandoned villages, camping under the stars or just a bit of off-roading.”
