Everyone knows the iconic Dubai with its glittering skyscrapers and glamour, or Abu Dhabi with its majestic mosques and luxurious resorts, but of course these are only two of the total seven emirates.
TravMagazine speaks with the tourist offices of the lesser-known Ras al Khaimah and Sharjah, and two product managers explain the offer in Oman. Ras al Khaimah
‘During the Jais Flight, you fly over the ravines like a bird’
“Ras Al Khaimah is a resort destination, very different from the other Emirates,” says Danielle Goedkoop (spokesperson for the Ras Al Khaimah Tourist Board).
“There is a 64-kilometre-long coastline with mangroves and beautiful beaches, combined with the desert, which is only a 20-minute drive from the coast, and the highest mountains in the UAE make it a unique destination. Tip: let your customers experience the glitz and glamour of Dubai for a few days and then book them for a day or four or five in a wonderful resort in Ras Al Khaimah to rest and discover the local culture and nature. Pearl Farm
What activities should you recommend to the client, and what is a good length of stay? ‘In Ras Al Khaimah you will find various activities in the mountains, the desert and along the coast. One of the most important must-do’s is the longest zipline in the world, the Jais Flight, which allows you to fly like a bird through the mountains and over ravines. Another excursion not to be missed is the Suwaidi Pearl Farm. Here you sail with an authentic dhow, past the mangroves and flamingos and once you arrive at the ‘floating farm’ you will learn everything about the centuries-old history of the pearl fishers. My personal favorite is a desert drive, to spot the Arabian oryx and gazelles. Also very interesting: a date tasting at one of the date plantations!’ “I would recommend at least 4 nights to see the highlights and to enjoy the wonderful beaches at the beautiful world-class resorts that the destination offers. The emirate is very accessible: it’s a 45-minute drive from Dubai International Airport to your hotel.’
Goedkoop: ‘Ras Al Khaimah has the ambition to grow to 3.5 million by the end of 2030 and that growth is on track this year, with us already receiving 1.22 million international visitors in 2023. At the moment, Russia is the largest market, followed by Kazakhstan and the UK. The Benelux is a growth market and, in collaboration with various travel organizations, in addition to further product development, we are working brand awareness and growth in the number of visitors. More than 8000 rooms are scheduled to be added to the accommodation offer in Ras Al Khaimah. In recent months, the Anantara and Sofitel have opened and in the coming years the Westin, Nobu and W Hotel, among others, will open. A major game-changer for the destination will be the Wynn Resort: in 2027, the doors of this 1500-room hotel and the UAE’s first casino will open. Finally, Goedkoop indicates that she would like to put the travel professional in touch with the hoteliers of Ras al Khaimah, and that one has a chance to win a free stay by following the Online Travel Training about the Emirate. Sharjah
‘Our heritage has earned us prestigious awards’
With the largest number of museums in the country and international events such as one of the world’s largest book fairs, Sharjah is also considered the cultural capital of the UAE, we hear from Maysoun Al Hosany of Sharjah Tourist Board.
‘Combined with beautiful natural and historical sites such as the UNESCO-nominated archaeological site of Mleiha and the historic district of Heart of Sharjah, we offer a varied experience. Our rich cultural heritage has earned us prestigious awards, such as the UNESCO Capital of Culture of the Arab World, and World Book Capital 2019.’ In the past decade, Sharjah has been the only UAE emirate to be awarded these titles.
‘With many of our tourist spots, we cater to this niche audience.’ 
Sharjah is striving to carve out a place for itself among its bigger brothers Abu Dhabi and Dubai, with Russia, the UAE, India, Oman and Saudi Arabia currently the largest source of tourism.
Accessibility
Al Hosany: ‘Sharjah is the only UAE emirate that shares a border with all six other emirates, and has seaports on both the Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. It has a well-connected international airport and is actively working to improve infrastructure, with multimillion-dollar road expansion projects to improve connectivity between different regions within the emirate itself. Guests enjoy modern hospitality, for example in the famous hotels such as Chedi Al Bait or Serai Wing, Bait Khalid Bin Ibrahim.’
Nature reserves
Must-do’s according to the tourist board?
‘Certainly a selection of the art galleries, museums, mosques and historical sites. In addition, we have a vibrant cuisine, from traditional Emirati to international dishes. For adventure seekers, Sharjah’s vast deserts, picturesque mountains, and pristine coastlines offer opportunities for dune adventures, nature walks and cycling, water sports, and beach activities. Nature lovers can also explore Sharjah’s fifteen nature reserves and the well-known Sharjah Safari, the largest safari park outside of Africa, as well as numerous ecologically responsible luxury retreats, including the ‘Sharjah Collection.’
Ecotourism
‘Our ecotourism is also a major draw, with a wide range of sustainable travel experiences. Our east coast destinations, such as Kalba and Khorfakkan, are perfect for this. We’re excited about the response to the new additions, such as the Hanging Gardens, a sprawling 1.6-million-square-foot park with more than 100,000 trees, as well as Al Hefaiyah Lake, which features 11.7 kilometers of mountain trails and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.” 
Oman
‘The Middle East’s best-kept secret’
Oman and the United Arab Emirates are popular destinations with Silverjet Holidays.
Product managers Lydia Kortekaas (Oman) and Jeannette Guilbert (UAE) explain the offer, including tips.
Here are a few things you should definitely see when you’re in Oman.
The Grand Mosque in Muscat is a must-see.
The architecture is impressive, both inside and out.
Muscat itself is fun to explore, especially the Muttrah Souk, one of the oldest markets in the Arab world.
Wadi Bani Khalid and Wadi Shab are paradisiacal oases with crystal clear waters, ideal for swimming.
The fort of Nizwa, the largest fort in Oman, offers a magnificent view of the city and the mountains.
In the coastal area of Ras Al Hadd, you can spot green sea turtles laying their eggs on the beach.
In the Hajar Mountains lies Jabel Shams, the highest mountain in Oman, also known as the Grand Canyon of the Middle East.
Wahiba Sands is the most beautiful desert in the north of Oman with desert camps such as Magic Camp.For an introduction to the rich history and original atmosphere of these sights, Kortekaas and Guilbert recommend the private tours Enchanting Oman and Magical Oman.
‘Oman is also worth a visit for a luxury beach holiday.’
When asked about Silverjet’s distinctiveness, the answer is: ‘With more than 25 years of experience, we are experts in luxury holidays and tailor-made tours in Oman. We work with the best agents and guides to ensure an optimally organised holiday.’Emerging destinations in the Middle East include Ras Al Khaimah and Ajman, with luxury resorts and unique attractions,’ says Guilbert. ‘Ras Al Khaimah is developing rapidly, with plans for a Wynn Resort with the first casino in the UAE. Ajman has the beautiful The Oberoi Beach Resort Al Zorah.’The emirates are suitable for couples, families, active customers and culture lovers. “The luxury resorts offer a relaxing holiday with a sunny climate just a 6.5-hour flight away. The UAE are booked in both summer and winter. Oman is best visited from October to April because of the heat in the summer. Silverjet is already looking at new offerings for next season. ‘We have attractive combined trips and special excursions that can be combined with a beach holiday.’
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Discover Oman: A Mystical Land Full of Color and Tradition
Oman is one of the most beautiful, versatile and safest Arab countries – the perfect destination for an unforgettable holiday.
This authentic and welcoming sultanate offers a wealth of experiences: from hundreds of majestic fortresses and castles, colorful souks and ancient cities to pristine white sand beaches.
Explore the rugged mountains, vast deserts, and lush tropical wadis.
Be inspired by the magical 1001-night fairy tale that Oman has to offer.
Enrich your knowledge and discover for yourself the unparalleled beauty of this special sultanate by taking the courses on TravEcademy… Beauty has an address!
Did you know that the Sultanate of Oman officially belongs to Asia?
This enchanting travel destination is about a ten-hour flight from the Netherlands and in the eastern tip of the Arabian Peninsula.
A country full of nature, authentic culture, hospitality, emerald green wadis, bright red deserts, cozy souks and ancient fortresses.
You won’t find mass tourism and skyscrapers here.
Oman exudes tranquility and has many highlights within a short distance of each other.
Versatile Oman
The Indian Ocean country once played a key role in the development of seaborne trade routes between Asia, East Africa, and Europe.
Today, the rich cultural heritage has been complemented by modern, sustainable developments.
Travelers will find more than 5,000 years of history, five UNESCO World Heritage Sites and many cultural attractions such as the impressive Royal Opera House and the Sultan Grand Qaboos Mosque in the capital Muscat.
Enjoy the spectacle at the goat market in Nizwa and unwind in a luxury resort on the beach around Muscat or the snow-white beaches around Salalah.
Oman has a coastline of more than 3,000 kilometres with white sandy beaches, steep cliffs and beautiful viewpoints from where you can spot dolphins, whales and sea turtles. 
Pearl of the Arabian Peninsula
Steep mountains and a rugged desert are interspersed with the beautiful coastline with white beaches.
Excellent for sun or diving trips or even an overnight stay under the stars, in one of the unforgettable desert camps.
The vast Hajar Mountains cut through the interior – at 3,075 meters, Jabal Shams is the highest mountain and enchants Jabal Akhdar with its hanging gardens.
Lush oases, hidden wadis and meter-high sand dunes invite outdoor enthusiasts to activities such as climbing and hiking.
In addition, various spices and flavors characterize the country’s versatile cuisine.
For the real adrenaline junkie, you have the longest zipline over the water in Musandam and you can tear through the Asharqiyah desert in a 4×4.
Real daredevils can even follow a Via Ferrata route on the Jebel Shams.
Further south, you can try sandboarding or dune bashing in the sand dunes of the Wahiba desert.
You can stay overnight for every budget.
From luxury 5* hotels to cozy heritage guesthouses, but you can also camp everywhere for free.
Above all, get to know the proud Omani.
Their hospitality will make you want to come back to this pearl of the Middle East.
Hospitable Oman
In Oman, travelers are welcomed with open arms, hospitality is a matter of course here.
It is no exception if you are invited for a cup of coffee and dates or are allowed to join dinner at an Omani’s home.
Oman is the holiday destination that welcomes the traveller.
The Sultanate of Oman has a rich past with famous heroes such as Sinbad the Sailor, the Queen of Sheba and Marco Polo.
The people of Oman have combined modern life with authentic traditions.
Hospitality and friendliness are a fixed value in this. 
Practical information
The sultanate has 4.7 million inhabitants and is eight times the size of the Netherlands.
The best time to visit Oman is from October to April.
In these months, the temperature is on average between 25 and 35 degrees and the humidity is not too high.
Oman is easy to reach from the Netherlands with various airlines that fly to Muscat, and possibly also fly on with a domestic flight to the southern city of Salalah.
There are several ways to discover Oman.
Options range from cruises to individual tours with a 4×4 jeep.
Become an Oman expert!
Curious about what else Oman has to hide?
Then take the TravEcademy courses about Oman and you will learn why Oman is the most varied country in the Middle East.
You get to know the different regions, sights and know exactly what is interesting for your travelers.
And maybe you will also be inspired to make a tour through the Sultanate.
Authentic, inspiring, hospitable and with unparalleled natural beauty; that’s Oman!
Safe and hospitable, Oman enchants your customers with its ancient and colorful souks, surprises with breathtakingly beautiful landscapes and takes you away with stories that could have come straight out of 1001 Nights.
Header photo © Jithesh Sundar / Shutterstock.com
