Khasab Fort (map)
Let XTERRA Musandam take you on the adventure of a lifetime. Also known as the ‘Norway of Arabia’ due to its sheltered fjords and uninhabited mountains capes, Musandam provides the perfect backdrop to the Middle East's most unique off-road sports event.
Khasab Fort (map)
Khasab Fort (map)
Khasab Fort (map)
Khasab Fort (map)
Khasab Fort (map)
Khasab Fort (map)
Khasab Fort (map)
Khasab Fort (map)
Khasab Fort (map)
Khasab Fort (map)
Khasab Port
Khasab Fort (map)
Khasab Fort (map)
Khasab Fort (map)
Khasab Fort (map)
Khasab Fort (map)
Musandam’s rocky desert terrain, mixed with spectacular views of the Sea of Oman’s blue expanse will definitely appeal to many XTERRA athletes. This is a region in the Middle East that remains largely “undiscovered” by international tourism; it represents the ultimate escape away from city-life into true Arabian wilderness.
In terms of parts of the course that deserve special mention, this would be the regular ascents and descents on the mountainbike and run route. These will of course add some elevation challenge for the athletes, but they will provide exhilarating views of the mountains, sea-cliffs and ocean. The Khasab fort will also present a charming start/finish for the race.
Musandam can be easily accessed by road from the UAE’s major city centres, through a number of UAE/Oman border crossings. Khasab Airport also receives regional flights. Travelling from Oman, Musandam can also be accessed by road (via the UAE), and by sea ferry from Oman’s capital Muscat.
Musandam avails visa-free entry for UAE and other GCC nationals, while there is a an easy-to-process visa on arrival system for UAE residents or expats from non-GCC Member States, and foreign nationalities.
For those traveling by air, Muscat International Airport will bring you closest to Musandam.
In Oman, the National ferry from Port Shinas is a good way to travel to Khasab.
Sunny skies or light cloud cover. Summertime in much of Oman is very warm, but in March – when the event will take place – outdoor temperatures are usually a pleasant 20°C – 30°C (slightly cooler in the mornings).
Located on the northern tip of the Arabian Peninsula, Oman’s Musandam Peninsula is home to spectacular sections of Sea of Oman shoreline (which is part of the Arabian Sea), magnificent mountain and desert terrain, as well as dozens of fjord-like khors – which have resulted in Musandam being referred to as the “Norway of Arabia”. (Gigantic sea-cliffs drop down directly into Musandam’s sheltered waters – very much like the Fjords of Norway, or like in a fantasy/sci-fi film).
Khasab has a number of shopping malls/supermarkets, high quality medical facilities, restaurants and eateries, a burgeoning tourism industry, and the full spectrum of hospitality/accommodation options for travelers – from budget options through to premium 5 Star Resorts and Hotels. However, it is Musandam’s rugged wilderness, cultural charm and ancient history that attracts many travelers to its shores.
Musandam is also home to magnificent marine life to explore while diving or snorkeling, many secluded beaches that form the perfect backdrop for a barbeque or picnic (or a night spent camping under the stars), premium luxury hotels, and picturesque fishing villages that have continued their traditional, minimalistic way of life and culture for hundreds of years.
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES | CULTURAL HIGHLIGHTS |
· Dhow cruise/Sundowner cruise · Dolphin watching trips · Scuba Diving/Snorkeling (whale sharks and turtles are common in-season) · Trekking/Hiking · Mountainbiking · Sea-kayaking · Zip Line · Boat ride to Telegraph Island (a telegraph-cable transmission station was built on this small island in 1864) · Rock-climbing In fact, the world-famous climber Alex Honnold, who many Xterra athletes will be familiar with, did a rock-climbing trip here a while back. | · Khasab Fort: The beautiful local fort made in the traditional adobe style, with traditional Omani design. · Traditional Culture: The local Musandam people, who have a rich heritage and culture, provide a warm Omani welcome to all guests · Musandam handicrafts, traditional dress, local cuisine. · Women will enjoy having some traditional Henna artwork done on their hands and feet. There are many local tour operators and charters based in Khasab offering outdoor activities and cultural experiences for visitors.
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The Sultanate of Oman has a well-established international reputation and track-record for being a very peaceful and geopolitically stable nation in the Middle East. Especially since the 1970s up to the present day, Oman has welcomed people from all cultures and backgrounds into their country with warmth, friendliness, and an open heart.
It should also be mentioned here that compared to many countries around the world, participants – both guys and girls – can feel extremely safe in Musandam and Oman. No need to lock away expensive bikes; no need to be hassled by tour guides trying to make a quick buck, etc).
Once registered, athletes will be able to access refund options through the registration platform.
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