A powerful winter system is gripping Oman, bringing an unusually cold air mass, fierce northwesterly winds and widespread dust that are affecting travel, outdoor activities and visibility across much of the country.

With temperatures plunging below freezing in the mountains and strong gusts sweeping desert and coastal areas, authorities are urging both residents and visitors to stay alert to fast-changing conditions in the days ahead.

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A Rare Cold Wave Grips the Sultanate

Since Thursday, January 22, 2026, Oman has been under the influence of a pronounced cold air mass that meteorologists describe as one of the sharpest drops of this winter. The Civil Aviation Authority’s meteorological data shows a broad decline in temperatures across most governorates, especially in interior and high-altitude regions.

On Jebel Shams, the country’s highest peak and a popular trekking and camping destination, temperatures have fallen to around minus 2.1 degrees Celsius, among the lowest readings recorded this season. Other upland locations such as Saiq have also registered unusually low single-digit temperatures, while many interior towns have dipped into the low teens overnight.

Weather specialists attribute the cold spell to persistent northerly and northwesterly airflows linked to shifts in regional pressure systems. Clear skies in many areas have further intensified nighttime cooling, allowing heat to escape rapidly and driving temperatures down more sharply than on a typical January night in Oman.

For tourists arriving from warmer climates or expecting mild desert winter conditions, the current pattern can come as a surprise. Nighttime and early-morning conditions in exposed areas, especially on mountain plateaus and in open desert, may feel far colder than forecast daytime highs suggest.

Dust, Sand and High Winds Reshape Travel Conditions

The cold air mass has been accompanied by active to strong winds that have swept through much of the country, triggering dust and sandstorms in open and desert areas. Official observations on Thursday recorded gusts in excess of 25 knots in several locations, including Muscat, Fahud and Ibri, with similarly brisk winds reported along parts of the coast.

These northwesterly winds are expected to persist for several days, raising dust and sand over interior governorates and parts of Al Wusta and Dhofar. In affected areas, horizontal visibility can drop rapidly, especially along exposed highways and in low-lying desert corridors. Authorities are warning motorists to anticipate sudden reductions in visibility and to adjust speed and following distances accordingly.

Satellite imagery assessed by regional meteorological centers shows dust plumes spreading from southern Iran across the Arabian Sea toward the Sea of Oman coastline, with northern governorates likely to see periods of hazy to dusty skies. The combination of long-range dust transport and locally generated sand is already reshaping air quality and visibility, particularly during peak wind hours in the afternoon.

For travelers, this means that clear blue skies can quickly give way to hazy or amber-toned horizons, with fine particles permeating the air. Outdoor sightseeing, coastal drives and desert excursions may all be affected, and tour operators are having to adjust departure times and routes to avoid the worst of the conditions.

Impact on Key Tourist Regions and Activities

Several of Oman’s flagship destinations are directly feeling the impact of the cold wave and dust-laden winds. In the northern mountains around Jebel Shams and the Al Hajar range, sub-zero or near-freezing temperatures at night are altering the experience for hikers, campers and those staying in mountain resorts. Frost and icy patches may form in shaded areas, adding another layer of risk on rugged trails and exposed viewpoints.

In the capital area of Muscat, gusty conditions have led to bouts of blowing dust and sand, especially along open stretches of highway and in developing suburban districts. Coastal promenades, forts and outdoor markets remain accessible, but visitors are advised to anticipate blustery conditions and occasional drops in air quality as dust concentrations rise.

Desert regions such as the Sharqiyah Sands are particularly vulnerable. High winds across dunes can generate intense local sandstorms, temporarily obscuring tracks and making navigation difficult for inexperienced drivers. Tour camps may face short-notice itinerary changes, delaying dune drives or sunset excursions until conditions improve.

Sea conditions are also deteriorating along parts of the coastline. Forecasts indicate that wave heights could reach up to 2.5 meters on some coasts, especially along the Arabian Sea. This affects small boats, dhow cruises and coastal excursions, and maritime authorities are advising operators to monitor advisories closely and avoid departures during peak wave events.

What Tourists Should Expect in the Coming Days

Meteorological outlooks suggest that the pattern of cold air, strong winds and intermittent dust will likely persist over the short term. Temperatures are expected to remain suppressed, particularly at night, with early mornings remaining especially chilly in interior and elevated regions. Daytime values may moderate in coastal zones, but brisk winds will keep conditions feeling cooler than the thermometer alone would suggest.

The strongest winds are likely to continue in bursts, varying by governorate and local terrain. These episodes are typically most pronounced in the late morning and afternoon, coinciding with enhanced dust lifting over deserts and open plains. Tourists planning long drives during this window should be prepared for changing visibility and crosswinds, especially on north–south routes cutting through open desert.

Dust concentrations near the Sea of Oman coast, including parts of Muscat and Batinah, could fluctuate as offshore dust clouds move inland. Hazy skies and a muted sun are possible on some days, and air quality may temporarily degrade. Travelers with respiratory sensitivities should be ready to limit outdoor exposure during these dusty intervals.

Maritime forecasts continue to highlight heightened wave conditions and choppy seas for at least the next several days. While large commercial traffic is generally well equipped to handle such conditions, smaller leisure vessels, including dhow cruises popular with tourists, may see cancellations or modified schedules.

Safety Guidance for Road, Air and Sea Travelers

Omani authorities, including the Civil Aviation Authority and Royal Oman Police, are emphasizing road safety as a priority during this weather event. On long desert routes, such as the segment of Sultan Said bin Taimur Road between Haima and Adam, strong winds have already led to accumulations of sand on the carriageway and significantly reduced visibility at times. Drivers are being urged to slow down, keep headlights on low beam during dusty conditions and avoid sudden lane changes.

Tourists renting cars should familiarize themselves with local emergency numbers and carry extra water, warm clothing and a fully charged phone on longer journeys. In areas prone to drifting sand, it is advisable to keep to main highways and avoid unmarked desert tracks without a guide. When a dust storm develops, the safest option is often to pull over at a safe location away from traffic, keep lights on, and wait for visibility to improve rather than attempting to drive through the worst of the storm.

At airports, strong crosswinds and dust can occasionally affect takeoff and landing operations, though major disruptions are not guaranteed. Travelers should allow extra time for check-in and security in case of congestion from delayed flights and remain in close contact with airlines and tour operators regarding any schedule changes that might arise from deteriorating conditions.

At sea, marinas and coastal authorities are advising small craft, fishing boats and excursion operators to exercise caution. Choppy waters and higher waves increase the risk for smaller vessels, particularly near harbor entrances and along exposed coastal stretches. Visitors considering dolphin-watching trips, coastal cruises or diving excursions should confirm conditions on the morning of departure and be prepared for last-minute cancellations in the interest of safety.

Health, Comfort and Practical Precautions for Visitors

The combination of unseasonably cold air and airborne dust has implications not only for logistics but also for personal comfort and health. Many visitors associate the Gulf with warmth and may arrive in Oman without sufficient layers for winter conditions in the mountains or interior. With sub-zero readings on peaks and wind chill in exposed areas, proper winter clothing, including insulated jackets, hats, gloves and warm socks, is essential for early-morning or nighttime activities.

Dust and sand can aggravate respiratory issues, particularly for travelers with asthma, allergies or chronic lung conditions. Simple measures such as carrying well-fitted masks or scarves, using saline nasal sprays, and staying indoors during the dustiest periods can help mitigate symptoms. Sunglasses with good side coverage are useful not only for glare but also as a basic barrier against blowing sand.

Hydration remains important even in colder weather. Dry, dusty air and wind can contribute to dehydration and skin irritation. Visitors are advised to drink water regularly, use lip balm and moisturizer, and consider protective eyewear and head coverings when outdoors for extended periods in windy conditions.

In hotels and camps, heating systems may be running at higher levels than usual for January. Travelers should check that their accommodation provides adequate blankets or space heaters, especially in mountain lodges and desert camps. When staying in tented or semi-permanent camps, it is worth confirming wind protocols and how operators secure structures during stronger gusts.

How the Tourism Industry Is Responding

Tour operators, hotels and activity providers across Oman have moved quickly to adapt to the current weather pattern. Many mountain and desert tour companies are revising itineraries to favor late-morning and early-afternoon activities, when temperatures are higher and the cold is less intense, while remaining flexible to avoid peak dust conditions when visibility deteriorates.

Some operators are providing additional cold-weather gear, such as extra blankets and hot beverages on night excursions, and are advising clients in advance about the need for layered clothing. Camps in Jebel Shams and other elevated areas are reinforcing safety messaging around trail use, discouraging unguided night walks, and reminding guests that temperatures can plunge quickly once the sun sets.

In urban centers like Muscat and Salalah, hotels are coordinating with transport providers to monitor road reports and, when necessary, adjust airport transfers or intercity journeys to bypass sections affected by drifting sand or low visibility. Concierge teams are increasingly steering guests toward indoor cultural attractions, museums and shopping venues during the windiest parts of the day, reserving outdoor sightseeing for calmer windows.

Dhow cruise and diving operators along the Sea of Oman and Arabian Sea coasts are maintaining close contact with maritime authorities over sea-state forecasts and port advisories. Some have temporarily limited operations to more sheltered routes or rescheduled trips to days with more favorable marine conditions, placing safety ahead of volume.

Staying Informed While Traveling in Oman

For visitors navigating Oman during this unusual confluence of cold air and dust, access to timely, accurate information is crucial. The Civil Aviation Authority and national meteorology services issue regular bulletins on temperature trends, wind forecasts, dust activity and sea conditions. Local media outlets provide frequent updates, translating technical advisories into practical guidance on affected routes and regions.

Most hotels, major tour operators and transport companies now monitor these updates in real time and pass on relevant information to guests via briefings, printed notices or messages through booking platforms. Travelers are encouraged to consult reception desks or tour coordinators each morning before setting out, especially if their plans involve mountain roads, desert tracks or sea excursions.

Given the speed with which conditions can change, particularly during the afternoon wind peaks, flexibility remains one of the most valuable assets for tourists. Building contingency time into itineraries, allowing for potential detours or delays, and maintaining a willingness to switch activities in response to safety advice will help ensure that trips remain both enjoyable and secure despite the current spell of harsh weather.

While the cold air mass and dust storms now unfolding across Oman present genuine challenges, they also reveal another, more dramatic face of the country’s winter climate. For well-prepared travelers who heed official guidance and adapt their plans, it remains possible to explore the sultanate’s mountains, deserts and coasts, even as the weather temporarily takes center stage.