Luxury Under the Stars in Oman: What This Trend Means for Investors and Business Owners
Oman is embracing a sophisticated new trend in travel: glamping, short for glamorous camping. This innovative approach fuses the unspoiled beauty of nature with luxurious comfort, offering travelers an exceptional blend of space, tranquility, and genuine connection with the environment.
From the eco-luxury tents at Ras Al Jinz, known for its summer turtle nesting season, to the mist-covered highlands of Dhofar during the Khareef monsoon, Oman’s varied landscapes provide an ideal setting for immersive, off-grid luxury experiences.
“Glamping in Oman allows travelers to enjoy the country’s diverse scenery comfortably and sustainably throughout the year,” explains Shabib Al Maamari, Managing Director of Visit Oman. “Locations like Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve benefit from moderate summer temperatures ranging between 25°C and 36°C, perfect for observing turtles, while the Khareef season in Dhofar offers a unique highland experience. We work closely with over 80 percent small and medium enterprises across the nation to deliver authentic, responsibly managed adventures that merge comfort, heritage, and exploration.”
One standout provider is Perfect Journeys, an Omani boutique travel company co-founded by Karen Hardan, a German-Canadian luxury travel specialist, alongside partners Yasir Al Khusaibi, Sherien Sherief, and Aziz Badir. Their focus is on custom mobile glamping experiences set in carefully selected private locations—from remote desert expanses to secluded beaches.
Karen, with 25 years of hospitality expertise, admits she had never envisioned herself as a fan of camping until encountering Oman’s natural allure. “I never realized how beautiful silence could be,” she remarks. “I used to associate luxury with infinity pools and high-end resorts. Here, I found a new definition centered on nature, privacy, and presence.”
Her journey began in Sharqiyah Sands with desert sunrises and starlit nights, followed by a move to Bandar Al Khiran, where their tents overlooked pristine waters and quiet coves. “We essentially had the beach to ourselves,” Karen recalls. “Snorkeling peacefully, sharing traditional Omani meals, and fully embracing the moment was extraordinary.”
While Oman’s summers can be intense, regions such as Ras Al Jinz and Dhofar’s Khareef season remain suitable for glamping due to local climatic conditions. “Even in summer, some areas offer comfortable conditions for glamping,” notes Yasir. “However, we suspend operations from May to September in other locations to guarantee guest safety and comfort.”
Karen highlights a sunrise hot air balloon ride over Sharqiyah Sands as a deeply moving experience. “Rising silently above the dunes gave me goosebumps. It was peaceful and grounding—an unforgettable memory.”
Every aspect of their service—from elegant tent décor to traditional majlis seating and authentic meals—is thoughtfully curated. “Perfect Journeys doesn’t just offer a service; they create a story uniquely yours,” Karen says. “We laughed more, engaged in real conversations, and reconnected with ourselves and each other.”
Yasir emphasizes their commitment to mindful, responsible tourism: “Our mission is to craft meaningful experiences, not just check boxes.”
Karen fondly recalls an evening spent sharing tea with Bedouins under the stars. “Oman doesn’t shout for attention—it whispers—and that subtlety made it unforgettable.”
Aziz adds, “Our glamping is fully mobile. We can set up anywhere in Oman—Sharqiyah Sands, the Rub Al Khali, hidden beaches, islands, or mountains—making us truly unique.”
Sherien describes Perfect Journeys as “a leading bespoke and innovative travel company dedicated to once-in-a-lifetime experiences.”
For those seeking a genuine escape from the fast pace of modern life, Karen leaves this reflection: “It’s luxury without noise—just stillness, warmth, and connection. If you want a travel story that feels exclusively yours, Oman delivers.”
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Oman’s emerging glamping trend presents a فرصة استراتيجية for the travel and hospitality sectors, particularly SMEs, to capitalize on growing demand for sustainable, nature-integrated luxury experiences. Entrepreneurs and investors should prioritize authentic, eco-conscious offerings that leverage Oman’s unique landscapes and cultural heritage, while ensuring operational flexibility to navigate seasonal climate challenges. Embracing this niche can differentiate Oman as a premier destination for immersive, bespoke tourism with high potential for long-term growth.