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Marhaba a faster and consequently a better and more convenient travel experience. More good news is that we are increasing frequencies to and from Tehran in Iran, in addition to the launch of our new daily service to Mashhad from the 1st of June this year. With more flights, new partnerships and outstanding deals, there has never been a better time to book with Oman Air. Also in Europe, Oman Air’s recent participation in ITB Berlin, the world’s leading travel trade fair, has been a great success. Both the Sultanate of Oman and Oman Air were very well represented, drawing attention to our beautiful country, the growing network of Oman Air, and our award winning services. ITB also offered us the opportunity to unveil an enhanced partnership with mobility specialists Sixt. Oman Air has enjoyed a long and productive relationship with Sixt, but the new agreement enables you to make the most of an even wider range of benefits. These include booking Sixt rental cars directly through www.omanair.com, with Sindbad members receiving significant numbers of bonus miles. Furthermore, customers who rent via Oman Air benefit from a best price guarantee and, depending on their level of Sindbad membership, can receive discounts or a free upgrade to a higher class of vehicle. As from next month, E-visa will be applicable for residents of many countries visiting Oman. On behalf of all my colleagues at Oman Air, I am very pleased to welcome you aboard your flight. I am delighted to say that this month sees the launch of Oman Air’s much-anticipated second daily service between Muscat and London Heathrow. Oman Air remains the only airline to offer daily, non-stop and direct services between Oman and the UK and over recent years demand for our award-winning First, Business and Economy Class seats has often outstripped supply. So the new service will make it easier for you to book seats, as well as offering alternative departure and arrival times. The new service will depart Muscat at 01h25 in the morning and arrive in London at 06h30, returning from London at 08h30 and touching down in Muscat at 18h55. It is an ideal complement to the first service, which departs Muscat in the early afternoon and arrives in London in the early evening, departing for Muscat two hours later and arriving the following morning. As many of our regular customers will know, Oman Air has operated out of Heathrow’s Terminal 3 for many years, and our evening flights from London will continue to do so until further notice. Our new service, however, will operate out of Terminal 4. We are currently working closely with the Heathrow authorities to accommodate all Oman Air’s operations from the same terminal and, until those arrangements are agreed, we will provide clear information about which terminal our customers are due to fly from. With the start of our summer timetable, we will also be able to offer shorter connection times at our hub in Muscat to give our passengers
Please consult our website or go to www.rop.gov.om for more information. Thank you for choosing to fly with us, and we look forward to welcoming you aboard again very soon.
Paul Gregorowitsch Chief Executive Officer
World’s Leading Airline Economy Class 2014 & 2015 World’s Leading Airport Lounge Business Class 2015
Best Airline Staff Service Middle East 2014 & 2015
Navigation
Diary
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Must See: Oman Masirah Island
A wrap up of what festivals, events and sports are happening around the world this month
15 Check Out
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Check In
Wooden Omani Dhows: The Sultanate’s magnificent maritime treasures
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Mount Kilimanjaro: Trekking to the ‘Rooftop of Africa’
Navigation
Taj Mahal
jewel of 26 India’s Islamic architecture
Rock-climbing in Oman The perfect combination of people, mountains, and adventure
30 Oman Air News
42 Oman Air’s news and events Also…
Path to Success Family Traveller Oman View Travel Guide Welcome Aboard
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Editorial
Editing Director Paul Winter paul.winter@npaoman.com Mohammad Abu Al Majd Client Servicing Executive Ruwayda Al Barwani Designers Justin Das Mohammad Asif
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The paper used for Wings of Oman Magazine is duly certified by the PEFC and FSC, and contains FSC mix pulp, FSC recycled pulp, FSC controlled wood pulp, and pre-consumer reclaimed papers. The PEFC is an international nonprofit non-governmental organisation dedicated to promoting good practice in the forest, throughout the entire forest supply chain, to ensure that timber and non-timber forest products are produced with respect for the highest ecological, social and ethical standards. The FSC is an international, nongovernmental organisation dedicated to promoting responsible management of the world’s forests.
Photographic Contributors
Oman Sail (www.omansail.com)
GettyImages/Shutterstock/iStock
Omar Al-Hosini (www.instagram.com/omaristudio)
Dubai Vertical Marathon (www.dubaiholding.com) F1 Bahrain Grand Prix (www.formula1.com) Kings Day in Amsterdam (www.wikipedia.org) Kristaps Liepins (www.facebook.com/liepins.kristaps) Lloyd Images (www.lloydimages.com) Manila FAME Design Show (www.manilafame.com)
Paris Fair ‘Foire du Trone’ (www.foiredutrone.com) Rugby Singapore Sevens (www.worldrugby.org) Songkran Water Festival (www.bangkok.com/www.usatoday.com) World Art Dubai (www.worldartdubai.com) The publisher regrets that they cannot accept liability for errors or omissions contained in this publication, however caused. The opinions and views contained in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher.
Diary Paris Fair ‘Foire du Trone’
Where: Paris, France When: Throughout April (25 March – 23 May) What: Paris’ Foire du Trone is a massive fun fair that dates back hundreds of years ago to the Middle Ages. These days, the Fair consists of several weeks of live entertainment, food stalls, circus shows, acrobatic displays – and a huge variety of fairground rides. Millions of visitors are once again expected this month at the fair, which takes place a few kilometres southeast of the city at the Bois de Vincennes public park. Oman Air flies 6 times a week between Muscat/Paris
Festivals around the world Beirut TransAtlantic Music Festival (8 April, Beirut, Lebanon). Frontiers Rock Festival (23 April – 24 April, Milan, Italy). Spring Bonfire Festival (30 April, Throughout Germany).
Songkran Water Festival
Where: Bangkok, Thailand When: 13 April – 15 April What: During April in Bangkok – which is often the hottest month of the year here – the entire city turns into a giant parade of friendly water fights and street parties as part of the annual Songkran Water Festival. (Of course, the real meaning behind the Songkran is to symbolically wash off all misfortunes in the past year, and begin the New Year with a fresh new start). Songkran in Thailand is officially observed between the 13th and 15th of April with three days of national holiday, but in reality, the celebrations and the water fights often last the entire week! Oman Air flies 17 times a week between Muscat/Bangkok (14 Oman Air) (3 code share with Thai Airways)
Kings Day in Amsterdam
Where: Amsterdam, Netherlands When: 27 April What: King’s Day (formerly known as ‘Queen’s Day’) is an annual festival day in Amsterdam set aside to celebrate the Dutch royal family. In the streets, parks and everywhere in between, the city bursts with orange as Amsterdammers dress up in their national colour to enjoy the biggest street party of the year – and set up hundreds of open air food and flea markets around the city. Amsterdam’s canals and waterways also become packed with thousands of brightly decorated party boats. Oman Air flies 7 times a week between Muscat/Amsterdam (via code share flights with KLM)
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Diary World Art Dubai,
Where: Dubai, UAE When: 6 April – 9 April What: World Art Dubai is a unique fusion of art, education and entertainment, which reflects the Dubai and the UAE’s growing prominence as a leading cultural and artistic hub. The event will return for an inspirational second edition, and is set to feature around 140 local, regional and international galleries and artists – from young and emerging artists to established names – that will be showcasing a diverse selection of artworks (across 4 000m² of indoor exhibition space). The four-day art extravaganza will also boast an expanded program of educational sessions, cultural activities and world-class entertainment. Oman Air flies 70 times a week between Muscat/Dubai (49 Oman Air) (21 code share flights with Emirates)
Thrissur Pooram Elephant Festival
Where: Thrissur/North of Kochi, India When: 17 April What: With a combination of religion and colour, the 200 year-old Thrissur Pooram Elephant Festival consists of fireworks, folk dancing, and drumming – and around thirty elephants that are dressed up in decorative and colourful costumes, and paraded through the festival area by their mahouts (riders) on the way to the ancient Hindu Vadakkunnathan Temple. This is a visual feast, and one of the most photogenic festivals in the world, so bring your camera! Oman Air flies 14 times a week between Muscat/Kochi
Events around the world Middle East Film and Comic Convention (7 April – 9 April, Dubai, UAE).
Manila FAME Design Show
Where: Manila, Philippines When: 21 April – 24 April What: Considered as the country’s premier design and lifestyle event, Manila FAME is a bi-annual showcase of Philippine design innovation and craftsmanship. For four days, the event showcases the best in furniture and home furnishings, holiday gifts and décor, and fashion accessories designed and crafted in the Philippines for the global market. Oman Air flies 7 times a week between Muscat/Manila
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Beirut Fashion Week (19 April – 23 April, Beirut, Lebanon). Munich’s May Fair (25 April – 3 May, Munich, Germany).
Diary
Dubai Vertical Marathon
Where: Dubai, UAE When: 1 April What: This month, a bunch of extreme endurance athletes will once again be running up the 1 334 stairs that make up the vertical ascent of Dubai’s famous Jumeirah Towers building complex. The event is held to help raise funds for medical research on obesity, and the 1 334 stairs make for a total of 265 meters in vertical height gained – and a total of 52 floors! Oman Air flies 70 times a week between Muscat/Dubai (49 Oman Air) (21 code share flights with Emirates)
Sport around the world World Cricket Twenty20 Finals (3 April, Throughout India). Paris-Roubaix Cycling Race (10 April, Paris and Roubaix, France). Superbike World Championship (15 April – 17 April, Assen Circuit/Amsterdam, Netherlands). London Marathon (24 April, London, England). Extreme Sailing Series ACT 2 (29 April – 2 May, Qingdao, China).
Formula 1 Bahrain Grand Prix
Where: Sakhir, Bahrain When: 1 April – 3 April What: The 5 412 metre Bahrain International Circuit will once again welcome an estimated 100 000plus F1 fans this month for what should be a spectacular Formula 1 Bahrain Grand Prix – made even more electrifying by the fact that the racing takes place at night. Last year’s winner was Britain’s Lewis Hamilton. This month also sees two other F1 Grand Prix races taking place in Shanghai, China (15 April – 17 April) and Sochi, Russia (29 April – 1 May). Oman Air flies 26 times a week between Muscat/ Bahrain
World Rugby Singapore Sevens Tournament
Where: National Stadium, Sinagpore When: 16 April – 17 April What: This month, the World Rugby Sevens top 16 teams travel to Singapore’s state-of-the-art National Stadium to showcase their dazzling speed and strength, spectacular footwork, and expert ball handling skills. Besides the brilliant rugby action, there will also be live entertainment, music, pyrotechnic displays, and other activities on the go for the whole family. (Singapore will host the event just a few months before the sport of Rugby Sevens makes history and debuts at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games). Oman Air flies 7 times a week between Muscat/Singapore
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Must See Oman
Latitude: 20° 38’ 56” N Longitude: 58° 52’ 58” E
Masirah Island
Located just off the central, eastern coastline of Oman, the ‘desert island’ of Masirah is an ideal escape and adventure away from the built-up city centres around the Sultanate. 1 For travellers, Masirah’s biggest attractions are its deserted beaches, fascinating array of marine and bird life species, exotic shells washed up on the shore, the Arabian Sea sunsets, and the island’s rugged, mountainous terrain.
7 The northern part of the island is home to a Royal Air Force of Oman air base, which is off-limits to the public. (In fact, the British also established a military presence on Masirah in the 1930s). But the rest of the island and its shoreline can be explored in detail.
2 The rugged terrain of the island and surrounding rough coastline has led to the appearance of many wrecked dhows on the beaches of the island, most of them well preserved by the salt water and heat.
8 Masirah is also an important hatching ground for loggerhead sea turtles (similar in importance to the beaches at Ras Al Hadd and Ras Al Jinz near Sur), and as a hatching ground for green sea turtles.
3 If you’re up for ‘roughing it’ out in the wilderness for a night or two, Masirah provides some spectacular terrain for a camping trip (provided you take the necessary gear and provisions).
9 For kitesurfers, Masirah is an attractive spot in the summer due to the prevailing monsoon, which provides consistent and powerful winds, as well as options of flat water conditions or waves on either side of the island. There is now also a kitesurfing camp on the island.
4 For those who need a comfortable bed, warm shower, and roof over their heads, there are a handful of small hotels that have recently opened up on the island.
10 The ferry from the mainland will drop you off at Masirah’s small town of Hilf, on the northern tip of the island. This is the only built-up urban area on Masirah, and where you can fill your car with fuel, and have access to a handful of ATMs, shops and eateries.
5 Masirah is around 95 km long, measured from north to south; around 14 km wide; and has an area of about 649 km2.
While there is an airport at Masirah, it is only used by military personnel, and largely remains off-limits to tourists. Most visitors to Masirah drive to Muhut and then Shannah, and then ferry their cars (along with themselves) to the island via either the new National Ferry service, or older, privately owned ferries.
6 The main road that runs around the circumference of Masirah is generally in excellent condition, and a quick trip around the island in your car (which you will have shipped over on the ferry), is a must-do. You can do a round-trip in a couple hours, and get a good glimpse and feel for what the island looks like.
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Check Out
Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain on the African continent and one of the official Seven Summits (one of the seven highest mountains on each of the world’s seven continents)
Mount Kilimanjaro: Trekking to the ‘Rooftop of Africa’ At 5 895 metres above sea level, and around 4 900 metres from its base to its summit, Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa – and the highest free-standing mountain in the world. It’s the ‘Rooftop of Africa’, and trekking to its snowy summit is a defining African adventure experience. In fact, the entire region of Tanzania’s Kilimanjaro National Park represents some of the best in African adventure travel. It is here that you will experience evergreen forests that surround the lower slopes of the mountain; a large variety of birdlife and wildlife in the park, including elephants, buffalo, leopards, and monkeys; a range of coffee, banana, cassava, and maize plantations cultivated by the local villagers; and of course breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks of Mount Kilimanjaro itself. Once you are on top, there are views of the nearby Amboseli National Park in Kenya (Kilimanjaro is located next to the Tanzanian-Kenyan border), the Great Rift Valley of Africa, and the Masaai Steppe, which is home to a gigantic mass of wildlife and ecology.
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Trekking to the top The good news is that trekking to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro is something that, while it might not be considered ‘easy’, is nevertheless very achievable. In fact, the most popular route up the mountain is the six-day Marangu Route, which is easy enough to have become known as the ‘Coca Cola Route’ due to a handful of local villagers selling refreshments from mountain huts along the way.
‘Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain on the African continent and one of the official Seven Summits – one of the seven highest mountains on each of the world’s seven continents’
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There are two main factors that have led to Kilimanjaro’s popularity with thousands of tourists and trekkers every year. The first is that it requires no technical climbing skills to reach the summit – so you don’t need any ropes or mountaineering gear. In fact, if you and your group pace yourself well, and give your bodies enough time to acclimatise to the higher altitudes on the way up, and are in reasonably good condition, then a summit is very possible for everyone from seasoned trekkers to first-time enthusiasts.
‘Trekking to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro is something that, while not ‘easy’, is nevertheless very achievable’
The second factor that makes Kilimanjaro popular is that it is the highest mountain on the African continent and one of the official Seven Summits (one of the seven highest mountains on each of the world’s seven continents). So, climbing it is a very significant and noteworthy endeavor. Another factor that makes a journey to the top of Kilimanjaro special is the five different climate zones that trekkers pass through – including rainforest, heather, moorlands, alpine desert, and polar conditions near the top. And they all form part of Kilimanjaro’s several official routes to the highest point of the mountain – the Uhuru Peak (‘Uhuru’ is a Swahili term that means ‘Freedom’).
Tanzania’s Kilimanjaro National Park contains some of the best in African adventure and cultural travel
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Check Out Trekking to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro is something that, while not considered ‘easy’, is very achievable
Marangu Route: Marangu is a very popular (sometimes even crowded) ascent that provides trekkers with long, but very gentle gradients up to the summit, combined with beautiful forest scenery. There are also basic, but comfortable huts along the way for overnighting in. The entire route is 64 kilometres long, and is done over six days.
along with local guides, up the mountain. The rates and quality of the services tends to vary, but each operator should be able to give detailed advice on the routes best suited to your ability and your time constraints, and what you want to see and experience. Trekking to the top of Kilimanjaro remains one of the most significant adventures you can have on the African continent. The mountain has been called the ‘Mount Everest for everyone’ – meaning that just about anyone who puts their mind to it can reach the top, and achieve a classic mountaineering feat. Enjoy it if you go!
Rongai Route: With a long access drive to the remote starting point, Rongai is a less-frequented trail and gives a more wild and raw experience of the mountain. It is 65 kilometres long, and typically takes 5 to 6 days to complete.
Umbwe Route: At only 53 kilometres, this is the shortest, but steepest route up the mountain, and is physically very taxing on your endurance. But for your efforts, you will be rewarded with spectacular mountain scenery along the way.
Northern Circuit: This is one of the newer routes on Kilimanjaro, and traverses nearly the entire mountain. At 98 kilometres, done over nine days, it is a longer than normal route, but the views are breathtaking.
Lemosho Route: Lemosho is a more remote and less-frequented route with beautiful forests and a very scenic crossing of an area known as the Barafu traverse. At just under 70 kilometres, done over the period of eight days, it is safe and easy – but a magnificent trek. Travel Token: Kanga Printed Textiles The kanga is a brightly coloured piece of printed cotton fabric worn by women and men throughout the African Great Lakes region. The prints typically feature geodesic patterns, combined with local iconography, as well as a written message or poem in Swahili or Arabic. Don’t return home from Tanzania without one!
Machame Route: This is the second most popular route up Kilimanjaro due to its shorter distance (62 kilometres) and easygoing, seven-day schedule. Machame also takes trekkers through beautiful regions of evergreen forest, and the scenic Barafu traverse. Almost all treks up the mountain these days are done via one of the many Kilimanjaro adventure operators that offer guided treks,
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Check Out Zanzibar: Tanzania’s unforgettable East African island experience
Tanzania: Country Facts
A trip to Tanzania’s beautiful Zanzibar Island – which was once ruled by the Sultanate of Oman – is an unforgettable East African experience. The highlights of Zanzibar are the classic old buildings and streets of Stone Town, white sand beaches, dive trips to the island’s coral reefs, sunset cruises on traditional wooden dhows, colourful ‘Tinga Tinga’ style art, sweet black coffee, and splendid grilled seafood dishes.
Oman Air flies 6 times a week between Muscat/Zanzibar and 7 times a week between Muscat/Dar es Salaam.
Trek Wisely: What are the dangers involved in a summit of Kilimanjaro? It’s been said that making your way from the gate of the Kilimanjaro National Park to the summit in a few days, is like trekking from the equator to the arctic pole in the same amount of time. This is due to the extreme temperature changes that occur as you make your way from the hot, grassy plains of the park, up to the freezing conditions on the summit. And this of course, can have an adverse effect on your health. Another potential danger is the altitude. At just under 6 000 metres above sea level, Mount Kilimanjaro’s altitude is categorised in climbing terms as ‘extreme’ and this, combined with many of Kilimanjaro’s summit routes tending to be done over a short period of time, means that altitude sickness can and does become a risk for many trekkers. So, keep in mind that the more days you take to ascend the mountain, the higher the probability that you will reach the top successfully, as your body has more time to adapt and acclimatise.
Visa Requirements: Most visitors to Tanzania require visas for tourism or business purposes. (Various African and Asian nationalities are permitted to enter Tanzania visa-free for up to three months). Languages: Swahili is the official language of Tanzanians. English is also widely spoken in the major towns and city centres. Currency: The Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) is the official currency, with one Tanzanian Shilling sub-divided into 100 cents. Coins are available in denominations of 50, 100, 200, and 500 Shilling. Banknotes come in denominations of 500, 1 000, 2 000, 5 000, and 10 000 Shilling. 1 Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) = 0.00018 Omani Rial (OMR) 1 Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) = 0.00046 United States Dollar (USD) (March 2016)
To find out more about Mount Kilimanjaro, and Tanzania’s National Parks in general, visit www.tanzaniaparks.com or Tanzania’s official tourism site www.tanzaniatouristboard.com Just like Kilimanjaro National Park, Tanzania’s Zanzibar Island is a dream destination for adventure travellers
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Wooden Omani Dhows: The Sultanate’s magnificent maritime treasures The Sultanate of Oman’s passion and expertise in maritime navigation and exploration has been in existence since ancient times. And at the heart of it all were its magnificent wooden Omani dhows – which can still be seen sailing gracefully around the Sea of Oman and Arabian Sea waters. For centuries, Oman was a vitally important trading link between India, Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. As a result of this, Oman began to develop ports and harbours along the entire length of its 3 000 kilometre-plus coastline. These included Khasab Port, on Oman’s Musandam Peninsula, as well as Sohar, Muttrah, Muscat, Qalhat, and Dhofar’s Sumharam port. Ras Al Hadd just south of Sur, and Bandar Khayran, near Muscat, also provided natural protection from rough seas and bad weather. As this maritime infrastructure developed, Oman began developing its own seafaring culture to a point where they become masters in shipbuilding, as well as experts in open ocean navigation – and their prowess and skill at sea became legendary. But what Oman perhaps became most widely recognised for, were its hand-built wooden dhows.
Oman has a rich maritime history, and the traditional Omani dhow has played a central role in much of it
There are some eighty names for dhows in the Arabian Gulf and Oman – with each one describing their design and what they are used for
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For centuries, Oman was an important trading link between India, Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. As a result of this, it began developing ports and harbours along its entire coastline from an early age
The magnificent Omani dhow ‘It is a spectacular sight, seeing a large, oceangoing wooden dhow, made in the traditional style, steadily making its way across the sea’
Oman has the most well-preserved traditional wooden fishing craft of all of the Arabian Gulf, explains Professor Dionisius Agius in his work Seafaring in the Arabian Gulf and Oman. It is a truly spectacular sight, seeing a large, ocean-going wooden dhow, made in the traditional style, making its way steadily across the sea, or swaying with the ocean swells while anchored just offshore in a sheltered cove or natural harbour. In fact, the word ‘dhow’ is a generic term used by the west, and is not really part of the true Arabian seafaring language. As Professor Agius points out, there are some eighty names for dhows in the Arabian Gulf and Oman – with each one describing their design, and what they were used for.
Ship building in Oman At the peak of Oman’s seafaring empire in the 18th and 19th centuries, the Sultanate had a highly advanced ship building culture, and the dhows made here were considered to be of the highest quality. Interestingly, they were all built entirely by hand and eye, without any planned drawings or written specifications (as they still are today).
Omani dhows are built entirely by hand and eye, without planned drawings or written specifications
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Check In Dhow building in Sur
They had raised wooden decks and attractive rows of small cabin windows along each side, as well as rear ‘stern’ windows looking out behind the dhow. Many of the dhows were also decorated in various places with intricate, carved wooden patterns, and the curved bows of the vessels ‘Swept upwards from the sea as gracefully as the breast of a swan,’ as one writer at the time described them.
With Oman’s expanding empire into East Africa in the late 18th century, the coastal town of Sur became an important trade centre, as well as a centre for highly skilled dhow builders. Today, the sea continues to play an important part in the lives of the people here, and the Sur boat-building yard is where you can see master craftsmen building magnificent ocean-going ‘ghanja’ dhows the traditional way.
In more ancient times, Oman’s traditional dhows were put together with a so-called stitched construction – with the wooden planks of the hull literally being sewn together using rope made from coconut fibres. Only at a very later stage were nails used in the dhows construction. This construction method gave the dhows several advantages – one of them being that they were not easily destroyed after coming into contact with submerged rocks or reef, and could easily be repaired afterwards.
A short stroll through the Sur boatyard (it’s a popular tourist spot) offers a fascinating glimpse into an ancient artisanal tradition. The Sur Maritime Museum (a few hundred metres down the road from the boatyard) has been created to celebrate Sur and Oman’s rich maritime heritage. Much of the museum is an open-air exhibit, with several types of small craft on display, as well as a beautiful, big, ocean-going wooden dhow, which was retired after spending 43 years at sea in the Gulf and Arabian Sea.
The dhows of old were powered by large triangular ‘lateen’ sails – but these have now mostly been replaced by conventional in-board engines.
Dhow cruise! A highlight of any trip to Oman is a cruise on a traditional-style, wooden Omani dhow. Don’t miss out on a single-day or multiple day dhow cruise at places like the Musandam Peninsula, in Sur, or at Muscat – these trips can be organised through one of several tourism operators based at each place.
‘Oman began developing its own seafaring culture to a point where they become masters in ship building, as well as experts in open ocean navigation’
It is a truly spectacular sight, seeing a large, ocean-going wooden dhow, made in the traditional style, making its way across the sea
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Landmark Travels
Taj Mahal: India’s jewel of Islamic architecture The Taj Mahal is lovingly referred to as the ‘Jewel of Islamic architecture in India’. Without a doubt, it is one of the most architecturally beautiful tombs in the world. It is also an icon of world travel. Hopefully 2016 will be the year that you finally make a visit. Remember, no trip to India is complete without it. What sets the Taj apart from many other famous monuments is the fact that it was very literally ‘built on love’. Or more precisely, it was created as a result of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan’s devotion to his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal who died while giving birth to their 14th child in the early 1600s. The Taj is constructed in white marble and in fact, legend has it that Shah Jahan wanted a replica of the Taj constructed in black marble that would become his final resting place, too. However, it is well known that he was eventually buried in the white Taj as we know it. These days, the purity of the white marble, the building’s exquisite ornamentation, the precious gemstones used and its picturesque location, all make a visit to the Taj Mahal, which is located on the banks of Agra’s Yamuna River in a vast Mughal garden that encompasses nearly 17 hectares, is one of the most sought-after tours in the world.
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Landmark Travels As an icon of travel, it is as spectacular as they come and has a reported 50 000-plus people visiting on a daily basis. Although it is instantly recognisable and impressive in photographs, actually seeing it face-to-face is something truly awe-inspiring.
As a visitor, the best time to visit and see the Taj Mahal is just before sunrise or sunset. At these times, the tomb seems to come alive with soft yellow, grey, and pink glows as it gets exposed to the daylight and then night sky in the evening. Night viewing is also allowed on full moon nights, when the Taj gets lit up in spectacular silver hues.
A great architectural achievement
But whatever you do, make sure you do visit. You won’t be disappointed!
The Taj Mahal was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983, due to it being the greatest architectural achievement in the whole range of Indo-Islamic architecture, as the official UNESCO report explains.
‘Although the Taj Mahal is instantly recognisable and impressive in photographs, seeing it face-to-face is truly awe-inspiring’
Its recognised architectural beauty has a rhythmic combination of solids and voids, concave and convex elements; and features like its arches and domes further increase its aesthetic aspect. The colour combination of the lush green-reddish pathway and blue sky over it showcases the monument in ever changing tints and moods. The relief work in marble and inlay with precious and semi-precious stones make it a monument apart, the report adds.
India’s Golden Triangle: A great introduction to modern and ancient India A tour around Northern India’s famous Golden Triangle route is an excellent way to explore India for the first time. It is a wellestablished and well-travelled tourist path and the three cities that make up the triangle – Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur – are where you can get a memorable experience of the most magnificent of ancient and modern India – including the Taj Mahal at Agra.
Construction of the tomb started in 1631 and was completed over seventeen years later in 1648, with the mosque, the guest house and the main gateway on the south, and the outer courtyard subsequently being added in 1653. For its construction, masons, stone-cutters, inlayers, carvers, painters, calligraphers, dome builders and other artisans were brought in from throughout the entire empire at the time and also from Central Asia and Iran.
For more information about the Taj Mahal, and details about visiting times (the site is closed to tourists on Fridays) go to www.tajmahal.org.uk. You can also find out more at www.incredibleindia.org.
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Oman Adventure
Rock-climbing in Oman: The perfect combination of people, mountains, and adventure
There is a steadily increasing number of rock-climbers that are heading out to explore and climb Oman’s mountains, rock faces, and boulders every weekend. Maybe you should join them? Anyone travelling to the Sultanate of Oman will notice that it has two things in complete abundance. The first is the mountains – of which Oman has many. The second is the Omani people who are passionate about their land and natural heritage. When you combine the two – Oman’s mountains, and its people – and throw in a good dose of adventure, you get the sport of rockclimbing, which is currently very alive and well in the Sultanate. In fact, Oman is now widely considered to be one of the best areas for rock-climbing on the Arabian Peninsula, and Middle East. What makes it such a unique and special place to do it, is the sheer variety of ‘good quality rock’ on offer for climbers. You’ll find everything from easy climbing routes suited to complete beginners, to almost impossible-to-climb routes that only climbers with years of experience are able to ascend.
Deep Water Soloing: Deep water soloing entails climbing on sea-cliffs, over deep water, without ropes, so if you fall off, you do so harmlessly into the water. Bandar Khayran, as well as Qantab, which are both a short drive south of Muscat, are popular venues, as are areas on Oman’s magnificent Musandam Peninsula. Via Ferrata: These are pre-protected climbing routes with steel safety cables to connect to as you move across the rock face. Via Ferrata routes have been set up at places like Jebel Shams, Wadi Bani Awf and Bandar Khayran. There are currently a handful of adventure tourism guides, as well as qualified rock-climbing instructors, that offer rock-climbing lessons in the Sultanate (as well as via ferrata, abseiling, and trekking adventures etc). For more information, visit www.omantourism.gov.om.
Rock-climbing in the Sultanate: What’s on offer? Sport Climbing: Sport climbing entails climbing vertical or overhanging rock ‘routes’ of varying difficulty, which have steel bolts pre-placed into the rock to clip your rope into for safety. There are well-established sport climbing routes in areas like Wadi Dhaiqah, Ghabrah Canyon, and Wadi Bani Awf. Traditional Climbing: This entails climbing vertical or overhanging rock ‘routes’, while placing special safety gear into cracks in the rock along the way, to attach your rope to. There are traditional climbing routes at places like Wadi Tiwi and Khubrah Canyon, as well as dozens of other areas around Oman. Jebel Misht, which is one of the largest mountains on the Arabian Peninsula at 2 090 metres high, and with a south face that rises vertically for almost 900 metres, is also famous for its long, ‘multi-pitch’ climbs.
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Path to Success
Mohsin Al Busaidi: One of Oman’s sailing super-heroes In early January 2009, Mohsin Al Busaidi left Muscat in an oceangoing multi-hull yacht named ‘Musandam’ to attempt to become the first Omani national to sail non-stop around the world. Just over three months later, he returned to Oman and was welcomed as one the Sultanate’s new sailing super-heroes – having successfully completed the historical journey. Since then, Al Busaidi has established himself as a full-time international sailor, and the man currently in charge of the youth development program of Oman Sail. The story of Al Busaidi’s round the world trip goes as follows: In 2007, Oman’s Ministry of Defence set up a selection process that would enable them to pick out an Omani sailor that would be given the chance to go on, and complete, an around-the-world sailing expedition. A few dozen potential candidates from the Sultanate of Oman’s military and police force were selected and then screened for the role, and after some rigorous training processes, a bunch of appropriately skilled and talented – and willing – individuals were set aside as potential candidates.
experience. After this, a small number of individuals sailed from London to Muscat, as part of the final selection process. Of course, it all ended perfectly for Al Busaidi, who was chosen as the man perfectly suited for the round the world adventure ahead.
This group was then further reduced down to seven sailors before they were sent to the United Kingdom for further training and
To find out more about sailing in Oman, and the Oman Sail organisation, visit www.omansail.com
In early January 2009, the ocean-going multi-hull yacht ‘Musandam’ carrying aboard Al Busaidi and the rest of his crew, then launched into a journey of over 24 000 nautical miles to complete the round the world trip, which took them deep into the harsh weather and
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Path to Success sea conditions of the Southern Ocean, and past iconic and infamous sailing landmarks like Cape Leeuwin, Cape Horn and the Cape of Good Hope. The crew endured storms, freezing conditions, and a diet of freeze-dried food, and cramped sleeping and living conditions. (And the only time they could have a shower, was when it rained). But the journey was a complete success, and when Al Busaidi eventually arrived back at Port Sultan Qaboos (the date was 25 March 2009), around 2 000 family, fans and supporters were there to receive him. The next highlight for Al Busaidi was receiving a medal for his achievement from His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said. Later on, he also was chosen as Oman’s Tourism Ambassador for the 2012 year. The journey was also significant in that it was yet another highlight in Oman’s very rich and proud, and thousands-of-years-old maritime history. Sailing into the future These days, Al Busaidi is currently in charge of Oman Sail’s Omantel Youth Programme. Oman Sail was established in 2008 with His Majesty’s blessing to rekindle Oman’s maritime heritage, promote the Sultanate of Oman around the world through sailing, and to provide long-term learning opportunities for the youth of Oman. Since launching, it has introduced over 16 500 Omanis to the sport.
‘I am confident of grooming young talents and making them winners in the global arena,’ says Al Busaidi. ‘I teach them the lessons I learned from participating in more than 65 international competitions. I believe in the adage, where there is a will, there is a way. So I tell them to work hard and bring glory to our country.’
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Family Traveller
Jakarta: Short escapes out of the city For travellers, the city of Jakarta is a high-energy urban adventure in fashion, nightlife, shopping malls, delicious South East Asian cuisine, a thriving art scene, and remarkably good natured and positive people – as well as crazy auto rickshaw rides through the streets! But as much as you cannot help falling in love with it, there will come a time when you and your kids and family need to escape back to nature, and Indonesia’s rural way of life. Here are some ideas… Trek Mount Krakatau: Mount Krakatau is the famous volcanic island situated in the Sunda Strait, just east of Jakarta, where a gigantic volcanic eruption took place in 1883. These days, it is possible to do a day trip with local tour operators to Krakatau from Jakarta – first by road to the coastal town of Carita, and then by ferry to the island itself. Along the way, you’ll be able to land on one of the island’s beaches for sightseeing, snorkelling, and lunch, before returning home. Multiple-day trekking adventures can also be arranged around Krakatau. Visit a tea plantation: Located less than 90 kilometers south of Jakarta, the Gunung Mas tea plantation is made up of row after row of lush, green tea crops, growing in what is a cool climate, due to the elevated altitude. This is where you can breathe deliciously fresh air, and also take a walking tour of the plantation itself. If your kids are up for it, they can do a thrilling tandem paragliding flight with the local flight school, which is launched from the side of one of the hills in the area. Escape to the Thousand Islands: The Thousand Islands are about 45 km north of Jakarta in the Java Sea, and accessible via a short 1 to 2 hour boat trip. It is here where your family will
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Family Traveller
Sometimes referred to as the ‘Bali of Java’, the small fishing region of Batu Karas is basically a beautiful combination of rich vegetation, hills and canyons, friendly villagers, and some spectacular dark-sand beaches’
experience the opposite of what Jakarta and it’s fast paced, high energy lifestyle is about – and enjoy lazing around the islands’ breathtaking beaches, exploring the coral reefs and marine life just offshore with mask and snorkel, and feasting on locally prepared seafood cuisine. And generally living the laid back, island lifestyle for a day.
Go surfing at Batu Karas: Sometimes referred to as the ‘Bali of Java’, the small fishing region of Batu Karas is basically a beautiful combination of rich vegetation, hills and canyons, friendly villagers, and some spectacular dark-sand beaches. It is also known to be one of best spots in Indonesia to learn how to surf, due to the smaller and less powerful waves here that are ideal for beginners. You’ll probably want to spend a few days once you arrive as travelling to Batu Karas requires a connecting flight from Jakarta to Pangandaran, followed by a bus or local taxi ride to the village itself. (A longer option is to travel by road, directly from Jakarta, with a minibus taxi, or by renting a car with a driver). Explore Bogor: While Bogor is considered part of Jakarta (it is around a 60 km drive south of Jakarta), a visit to this small city presents travellers with something completely different. Bogor is at a higher altitude than Jakarta, so it is cooler and less humidified. It also has a world-renowned botanical garden, orchid garden, and presidential palace with large herds of tame deer. Today, the gardens stretch out over 87 hectares, with some parts carefully manicured, and other parts seeming like wild jungle. There are
also several lakes, rivers and hiking trails spread out around the gardens. If you and your family are up for it, you can also arrange a whitewater rafting trip on the nearby Citarik River with one of the several adventure tourism operators in Bogor.
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Oman View
Omar Al-Hosni
The Omani photographer Omar Al-Hosni considers photography a hobby that can be enjoyed by everyone, but an art that is mastered only by a few. Omar’s official start in photography was in 2009. Initially, he took it up as a hobby, but then soon made it into a profession. Now, he carries his camera around with him wherever he goes, and is constantly hunting for the right scene to photograph. He says he adores capturing unique moments, while paying meticulous attention to detail, and making every simple scene into something that is bursting with life. Omar has participated in many photography workshops and has worked closely with the Bahraini professional photographer Jaan Al Balushi – and earned numerous photography certificates via Jaan’s Click Media Studio and Photo Lounge Store. Being part of Oman Air’s Cabin Crew, Omar has also had the opportunity to visit and create photos in many countries around the world. And this, he says, has played a big role in sharpening his talents, and it has made him the artist he is today. More of Omar Al-Hosini’s work can be viewed at: www.Instagram.com/omaristudio
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Travel Guide
Savvy Traveller The Sultanate of Oman is on the eastern end of the Arabian Peninsula. It borders the United Arab Emirates in the northwest, Saudi Arabia in the west and Yemen in the southwest. It also has two enclaves – the Musandam Peninsula and Madha – which are separated by the UAE. Oman’s 3 165 kilometre coastline spans the Gulf of Oman in the north and the Sea of Oman (which forms part of the Arabian Sea) in the east.
For the traveller, the Sultanate of Oman has a large variety of experiences: • • • • • • • • • • • • •
There are currently four UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Sultanate of Oman
A wide variety of pristine beaches and islands Spectacular mountains, canyons and wadis World class diving, snorkelling, and other water sports Turtle, dolphin and whale watching Wildlife tours in the Sultanate’s nature reserves and biodiversity spots Cultural sites including forts, ancient tombs and prehistoric cities Desert safaris and adventures A large variety of markets and souqs Museums and art galleries Trekking, rock climbing and caving adventures Horse and camel racing events Golf courses Various festivals, including the popular Muscat Festival and Salalah Festival.
• Aflaj Irrigation Systems • Archaeological Sites of Bat
• Frankincense Trail • Bahla Fort
Sultanate of Oman: Fact Sheet Area Population (2014) Language Capital Local Time Currency 38
: 3 09 500 km2 : 4 000 345 (1 767 396 expatriates) : Arabic (official) English (widely spoken) : Muscat : GMT +4 : Omani Rial, which equates to US$ 2.58
Travel Guide
Currency
The local currency is the Omani Rial (referred to as RO or OR or OMR). It is further divided into 1000 Baizas. Currency denominations are available in 50, 20, 10, 5 and 1 Rial and 500 and 100 Baiza notes. Coins are available in 50, 25, 10 and 5 Baizas.
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Welcome Aboard
Experience Oman Air’s Award Winning Services Welcome aboard! Oman Air is committed to providing you with a safe, reliable and seamless flying experience – enhanced by warm and friendly customer service.
Book and Check-In Online
Oman Air offers an interactive online booking check-In facility for convenient, stressfree airport checkins. The check-in facility is available for departures from Muscat International Airport, as well as a selection of airports on the worldwide Oman Air network. Online Check-in is available between 24 hours and 90 minutes before your departure time.
Exclusive First Class and Business Class Check-In
With its own entrance and sumptuous lounge area, dedicated staff, and fast-track security clearance and baggage drop, the First Class and Business Class Check-In service provides an ideal introduction to Oman Air’s extremely high standards of service. These facilities set the tone of refined elegance and luxury which stays with the traveller throughout their journey.
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Welcome Aboard
In-flight Connectivity Whichever cabin you are travelling in, you can send SMS or make calls to your friends, family or colleagues with our OnAir mobile services. Log-on and check emails, surf the web and update your social media with Oman Air’s WY-Fi internet services. And our great-value, flexible pricing means that you can choose the level of connectivity you want, whenever you fly on our Airbus A330 Fully Connected flights.
Chauffeur Services
Oman Air offers premium travellers a host of distinctive services that will enhance their travel experience. First and Business Class passengers can now take advantage of our complimentary Chauffeur Drive airport transfer service at select destinations across our network. With an attentive service that comes with a personal chauffeur, luxury vehicles and speedy door-todoor transfers, you can now travel in comfort and style with Oman Air.
In-flight Entertainment
Sit back and enjoy your journey in comfort, with a great range of the latest Arabic and international movies, up-to-the-minute TV shows, including satellite TV news, as well as music and games – all at your fingertips, and all on demand.
Oman Air Lounges
If you want to catch up on work before you travel, enjoy a snack, or simply unwind, our lounges ensure a relaxing start to your journey that reflects the outstanding hospitality you will enjoy aboard our aircraft, all whilst preserving key elements of Omani culture and heritage. Relax in our First and Business Class Lounges’ elegant environment and enjoy the very best in hospitality and service as you prepare for your flight. Our Bangkok lounge is for customers travelling in First or Business Class, and for those holding Gold and Silver Sindbad cards, and can be used and enjoyed at a minor cost. The Majan Lounge is open to Premium customers travelling on airlines operating from Muscat International Airport and for Oman Air passengers holding Gold and Silver Sindbad membership who are travelling in Economy Class, and can be used and enjoyed at a minor cost. Each lounge also has an experienced team of customer service staff on hand to look after your every need.
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Oman Air News
4th Oman Air Media Awards at ITB Berlin 2016 Oman Air has announced the winners of the Oman Air Media Awards 2016. The awards celebrate the best of German and Swiss travel and aviation writing and recognise writers‘ contibutions over the past five years to the success of Oman Air and the destination of Oman. Each of the winning pieces provided readers and viewers with a wealth of information about Oman and how to get there. Ina Volkmer, writing in Laura magazine, brought the desert to life in a colourful article which also featured the food offered at Nizwa souk and the warm hospitality of the Omani people. Tina Bremer’s feature, published in Swiss magazine Bolero, described the balance that the Sultanate of Oman successfully walks between tradition and progress. It follows a road trip which takes in the capital city of Muscat and the modernity of the Royal Opera House, the rose gardens of Jabal Al Akhdar and a romantic desert camp. Hospitality was again the focus of Harald Schmidt’s online feature for the reisestories.de travel website. Dr Schmidt was invited to stay with an Omani oil worker and to experience life in the Sultanate. His article is rich in information about Oman and its history and culture, whilst stressing the friendliness and hospitality offered by Omanis to their guests.
The winners of each of four categories of the awards were announced at ITB Berlin, the world’s leading travel trade show, on the 9th March. They were each presented with a framed reproduction of their reports, a certificate and a presentation case of traditional Omani silverware.
Marko Roth’s winning entry in the Bloggers category of the awards was an outstanding film about Oman, which was posted at easywriters.de.
In addition, an overall winner was chosen and was presented with two business class flights and five-star accommodation in Muscat. The winners of the two magazine categories were Ina Volkmer and Tina Bremer, whilst Marko Roth won the blogger category and Harald Schmidt won the online media award. Harald Schmidt was also named as the overall winner.
The awards were organized by Oman Air’s Marketing Department along with the Corporate Communications and Media department with support from the Oman Air office in Germany.
Oman’s artists invited to design national carrier’s amenity kits Oman’s artists and designers are being invited to create a brand-new business class amenity kit for Oman Air. The winning design will offer Oman Air’s premium customers an ideal collection of amenities – including toiletries and grooming products – within a bag or box which expresses the very best of Omani culture, creativity and innovation. The invitation was extended to Omani craftsmen registered with the Public Authority for Handicrafts, members of Sidab Women’s Group and members of the Omani Society for Fine Arts, which is affiliated with Diwan of Royal Court.
Oman Air’s amenity kits have an illustrious history. Both First Class and Business Class kits have won numerous awards, including Gold and Silver accolades at the prestigious TravelPlus Airline Amenity Bag Awards in 2011, 2012, 2013 and 2014. For many years, a key element of the kits has been their range of Amouage toiletries. Amouage is an Omani perfumier which has attracted an international reputation for its exclusive luxury products. As Oman’s national airline, Oman Air’s partnership with Amouage has been a natural fit, and this design competition continues the carrier’s commitment to celebrating Omani achievements.
The design competition was formally launched at a press conference held at Grand Hyatt Muscat late March. The event was attended by Oman Air’s Chief Executive Officer, Paul Gregorowitsch, the airline’s Executive Vice President – Products and Brand Development, Abdulaziz Al Raisi, and a number of other senior officials. They described the nature of the challenge, the timescale for the competition and the important part that Oman Air’s amenity kits play in the premium passenger experience. The competition will be judged by an expert panel drawn from a range Oman Air’s departments. According to Oman Air, this initiative comes in the work frame of working with local Omani businesses, supporting Oman’s heritage and investing in Omani creative talent. The competition underlines that commitment, as well as illustrating the importance the national carrier places on every detail of their passenger experience. Winners will receive appropriate recognition and see their design go into production before it becomes an integral part of Oman Air’s Business Class service.
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Oman Air News
Oman Air’s Cabin Crew recruitment shows unwavering commitment to Omanisation Oman Air, the Sultanate of Oman’s national carrier, has affirmed its commitment to the Omanisation march adopted in the country, through its continuous pursuit to recruit Omani youth to its cadres as cabin crew. This is evident in its periodic open days held across the Sultanate to give young Omani men and women the chance to join this award winning airline and play a pivotal role in its development and success. The latest recruitment campaign was held recently in January this year, at various locations including Muscat, Sohar and Nizwa, and saw great interest among school and college graduates who flocked to the venues to register for interviews and assessments. According to Oman Air, as the airline continues its growth in manpower and fleet, it always seeks to solidify its human resources with capable and promising Omani youth. They form the backbone of its operations and the airline is committed to choosing the best talents to join its teams. Since inception, Oman Air has been known for its relentless belief in national powers, especially cabin crew, who are at the forefront of their operations in the Air. They are the ambassadors of Oman in the sky, and therefore the company strives to groom them in a manner that reflects Oman Air’s unmatched traditions of hospitality and comfort. The company has taken a further step to improve the rate of Omanisation by aiming for a team that comprises 50% male staff and 50% female staff.
women it employs as cabin crew. The company stresses that the right male and female candidates have to be between 18 to 35 years old for Omanis, and hold at the minimum, a Higher National Diploma. Their weight must be in proportion to their height and they must successfully complete assessments and interviews conducted during the selection process. All applicants have to provide a Curriculum Vitae, a valid Omani National ID or passport, a copy of Ministry of Manpower registration card and provide Oman Air with their latest profile photos, along with relevant educational certificates.
However, Oman Air also recognizes the challenge in recruiting Omani women, due to social and cultural factors. Despite these challenges, Oman Air still aims to increase the number of Omani
Second daily service to London Heathrow launched by Oman Air Oman Air is set to launch a second service between Muscat and London Heathrow from Sunday 12th April 2016. The new service will complement Oman Air’s existing daily, non-stop and direct service between the two capitals. Bookings for the new service are now available online at www.omanair.com, or through local travel agents. The existing service departs Muscat at 14h00 and arrives at Heathrow Terminal 3 at 18h20. Return flights depart Heathrow Terminal 3 at 20h15 and arrive in Muscat the following morning at 07h35. The new service will fly through the night, departing Muscat at 01h25 and arriving in London Heathrow Terminal 4 at 06h30. Return flights will depart Heathrow Terminal 4 at 08h30 and arrive in Muscat at 18h55. All timings quoted are local.
The service is being launched in response to overwhelming demand from air travellers for flights between Muscat and London, and from London to onward destinations in the Middle East and Asia.
Oman Air’s first service to London was launched in 2007 and was, alongside Bangkok, one of the airline’s first two intercontinental destinations. Regarded as a flagship route, the Muscat to London service has experienced rapid growth and is regularly sold out in each of its three classes. The second frequency will enable many thousands more customers a year to experience Oman Air’s awardwinning products and services, and its warm Omani hospitality.
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Sindbad Program Hello and welcome to Sindbad, the frequent flyer program of Oman Air. Whether you’re travelling on business or going on a holiday, join Sindbad today and make your journey with Oman Air even more rewarding.
Earn & Spend Sindbad Miles Sindbad membership earns you Sindbad miles both in the air and on the ground. Fly with Oman Air, our partner airlines or transact with any of our global network Partners and earn Sindbad miles. You can choose to spend your Sindbad miles for free flights, flight upgrades, exciting raffles, promotions and more.
Exclusive Privileges & Benefits Sindbad has three tiers to offer- Blue, Silver and Gold. The more you fly with Oman Air, the higher your Tier. As a Silver and Gold member, you earn additional privileges designed exclusively for you.
Sindbad Partners As a Sindbad member, you have the added benefit of earning extra miles as well as special offers from our global network of partners which include Hotel, Leisure and Lifestyle, Car rental, Telecommunication and Retail Partners.
Benefits and Privileges • • • • • • • •
Complimentary Airport Lounge Access Extra baggage allowance of up to 20 Kg Duty Free discounts of up to 10% discount on Oman Air In-flight Duty Free Check-in at Priority Counter Priority baggage handling Double miles on your first flight Bonus miles, discounts and special offers from Partners Buy, Gift and Share Miles
Pick a destination Let your Sindbad Miles take you there Earn miles for flights made up to 3 months prior to your enrolment. Join today by visiting Sindbad.omanair. com or ask your hostess for an enrolment form.
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