Long known as the hermit of the Middle East, the Sultanate of Oman is slowly emerging from its shell, revealing a land of friendly people, dramatic landscapes and many forts. The capital, Muscat, lacks the nouveau-riche feel that typifies much of the rest of the Gulf. Discover its surprising scenic variety: dramatic sand-dunes and wadis, fertile highland villages and an incredible coastline. Famous as a frankincense centre of antiquity, its past is linked with ancient Mesopotamia, Egypt and India.