Cheap Hotels in Al Hawiyah

For a true taste of Oman’s dramatic interior, look beyond the coast to Al Hawiyah. This town in the Al Hajar Mountains is your gateway to Jebel Shams, the country’s highest peak, often called the Grand Canyon of Arabia for its staggering views. The real adventure lies in exploring nearby Wadi Ghul and the abandoned village of Ghul along its rim, or hiking ancient trails used by generations of mountain dwellers. It’s a landscape defined by raw geology and a profound sense of quiet.

Al Hawiyah suits travelers seeking an active, nature-focused base rather than a city break. It’s ideal for hikers, photographers, and couples on a scenic road trip. Most visitors stay in the town itself for its proximity to the mountain roads, using their own rental car to explore the region freely, as public transport is limited. The drive from Muscat takes about two and a half hours, making it a perfect core component of a wider Omani itinerary.

Accommodation here is practical and often charming, dominated by locally-owned guesthouses and small hotels that offer genuine Omani hospitality. You’ll find comfortable lodgings like the Jebel Shams Resort, which provides straightforward access to the mountain’s trails and famous viewpoints. These places are less about luxury and more about delivering an authentic, restful stop after a day spent in the epic landscapes just outside your door.