Jabal Akhdar is a short green mountain range in Oman. You have to take a 2-hour drive from Muscat to come here. To reach the top of the mountains, you have to drive in a 4×4 vehicle as it’s a tricky mountain range. It is a tourist place because of the moderately cool temperature and beautiful landscapes.
The first thing that comes to your mind about the UAE is the desert. The barren desert spreads far across the horizon. However, this place breaks that typical notion. It feels unreal. The word akhdar is green for Arabic, and jabal means mountain. So the name practically translates into the place. A green surprise within yellow dunes…
This place is getting all the right attention for being an off-the-radar travel destination in the Middle East. The natural views, man-made luxury resorts and traditional terraced farms give a refreshing yet raw wilderness to its visitors. No doubt it’s becoming one of the most viral destinations in 2026.
Where Is It Located?
Amongst beaches and deserts, having a mountain range this cool is an attraction in itself. This range is a part of northern Oman. From Muscat, it is a 2-hour drive away. These mountains are up to 3k meters above sea level. This height makes it a cooler region in the Middle East.
With the temperature range in the 20s, people love this place for its green valleys, orchards, and cooler climate. The temperatures here can be 15°C lower than in Muscat. In the Middle East summers, this is heavenly. When coastal regions become hot, this place is a perfect treat for a mountain getaway.
Why Is It Called “The Green Mountain”?
Because it is.
Though it lies in the middle of an arid land. The higher rainfall, natural springs, and an ancient irrigation system known as the falaj are keeping this place green. The slopes are filled with flower and fruit gardens. You will find pomegranate orchards, walnut groves, and terraced farms here.
In spring, the view is worth witnessing. The entire village here burst into color. You can see Damask roses everywhere. The air fills with the scent. Locals brew these flowers for perfumery. This mountain range has a history of civilization, too. There are archaeological findings that prove this. You can see the ancient cave paintings, old fortresses, and ruins of traditional villages throughout the mountains.
In old times, many local tribes also used this place as a safety net during war. Now this place is peaceful and invites tourism.
How to Get Here?
If you are coming by car from Muscat, it is a 2-hour drive. Only 4×4 vehicles are allowed on the mountain roads. Never risk your life by taking another vehicle. There are steep climbs that are not safe for normal drivers. Even on 4×4, drive safely or hire a tour guide company. They offer guided day trips and overnight packages.
Things to Do in Jabal Akhdar
There is a lot to do during the mountain retreat here.
Visit the Rose Gardens
Between March and April, roses are in full bloom here. Locals hand-pick them to distill for perfumery. Copper pots and using centuries-old methods make this whole experience refreshing. It is one of the most authentic cultural experiences in Oman.
Explore Wadis
The Middle East is for thrill seekers. You can go on a hike to Wadi Bani Habib. It is an abandoned village in a dramatic canyon. The old stone houses, fruit trees, and echoing silence feel like stepping into a forgotten world.
Go Trekking and Hiking
There are the best hiking ranges in the Middle East. This mountain range also has hiking tracks with amazing views. Take the famous “Three Villages Walk”. It takes you through farms, villages, and ancient irrigation channels. On every turn, you will be amazed to see the beauty of the place.
Taste Local Delicacies
The place is filled with fruit produce, too. The soil here is rich. There are delicious fruits like pomegranates, apricots, peaches and walnuts. You will also find honey here. Do try their pomegranate juice. It’s extraordinary.
Some hotels use these fresh ingredients in their signature dishes. For an experience, you can also take cooking classes in some resorts.
Discover Traditional Villages
You can visit Saiq, Al Aqr, and Al Ayn. These villages show old Omani architecture. The locals are warm and hospitable. Seems like time is stuck here. Meeting and talking to locals can be a refreshing experience.
Visit Diana’s Point
Princess Diana visited here in 1986. She stayed in the Antara hotel. This place has an amazing panoramic view. You see the beauty of endless mountains. Diana point is one of the most Instagrammable spots in Oman.
Resorts in Jabal Akhdar
This place has become a luxury destination in the past few years. There are multiple luxury resorts. Some famous ones are
- Anantara Resort is famous for its infinity pool. You can enjoy private space and stargazing experiences here.
- Alila Jabal Akhdar is another resort designed with natural stone and wood. This resort is perfect for honeymooners.
- Sahab Resort & Spa has fossil-filled stones and is famous for its panoramic terraces.
- DusitD2 Naseem Resort, Jabal Akhdar, is another beautiful resort.
- Hotel Indigo Jabal Akhdar Resort & Spa by IHG seems like a luxury in itself, standing on hills.
- Sama Hotel has its own grandeur vibe.
The Cool Side of Arabia
This mountain range is gaining attraction because of its cool temperature. While Muscat and Dubai bake in 40–50°C heat during summer. Akhdar mountain stays in the comfortable 20s.
In winter, the weather can be colder and reach below 10°C. There is also occasional snowfall at higher peaks. People come here to see the beauty of Arabia.
Perfect Place for Adventure Travelers
Luxury hotels are not a vibe for simple and raw. For thrill seekers, there is still plenty to offer. Think of it as Oman’s adventure hub.
- You can go rock climbing.
- Go mountain biking on trails.
- Do night camping under the stars.
- Paragliding is the new trend in the region.
Due to adventure travel choices, young fellows are choosing this place over Dubai or Doha. Also, it is highly Instagrammable.
The Best Time to Visit?
There’s no bad time to visit here. This place is good to go whenever you want to visit the mountains. The temperature is perfect, but the vibe changes throughout the year. For different experiences, come accordingly.
- March to May is the rose season. Flower lovers should come to experience that.
- If you are looking for an escape from the hot Dubai summers, come here from June to September.
- For hiking lovers, October to February is the best season to explore the mountains. They can even see snow at higher altitudes.
What’s Making This Place a Global Highlight ?
Well,
- The place is beautiful and worthy of your social media. Instagrammers are posting the rose terraces, infinity pools, and epic sunsets.
- It is a premium destination with several high-end resorts.
- In hot summers, this place is the best option for Middle East visitors.
- This place is less crowded and feels authentic.
Some Useful Travel Tips for You
- The temperature here drops quickly. You need to bring multiple pieces of clothing for this.
- The payment system here is cash. Cards are not widely accepted.
- While touring the place, respect local culture.
- Don’t drive in any other vehicle. It can be dangerous.
- During hiking, keep water bottles with you.
The Arabian Paradise You Didn’t Know Existed
Unlike other UAE places, Jabal Akhdar is unique. It offers experiences that will stay with you forever. From experiencing rose gardens with Cady tours to stargazing with the Teepee camping service, every experience is worth living. This place is traditional and authentic. Enjoy hiking or exploring villages, just put this place in your 2026 list, and you won’t regret it.
