What is the most beautiful island in Oman? If you haven’t heard of Dimaniyat islands Oman yet, you are in for a treat! Sometimes called the Maldives of Oman by locals it is no surprise to see why. Stunning beaches, clear blue sea and incredible sea life make for the perfect Muscat boat trip.
You will sometimes see Dimaniyat islands spelt as Daymaniyat islands, Ad Dimaniyat islands or even Demaniyat islands. All are the same wonderful place, just with slightly different spellings to confuse us!
How do I get to Dimaniyat island?
Dimaniyat islands are around 40minutes from Muscat by boat. To get to Dimaniyat island you need to go by organised boat trip. Most Muscat day trips to the Daymaniyat islands depart from Al Mouj Marina, there is plenty of parking available.
Who shall I book with to go to Dimaniyat islands?
We went with Demaniyat Adventures and were really happy with everything about our tour. They have a small boat so there will only be a few other people with you. The beauty of a small boat is that it can get closer to some of the best snorkeling in Oman. As well as being able to take us close to the beautiful beaches. Their enthusiasm, knowledge and awareness and protection of the area was second to none. They engaged with our boys, spotting sea creatures, snorkeled in the water with them and made sure they had plenty of drinks and snacks.
Get in touch with Demaniyat Adventures either by email, Instagram or clicking the WhatsApp icon on their website for all the best prices and packages. Snorkeling in Muscat trips with Dimaniyat Adventures start from 29OMR up to 200OMR for a private tour.
Check out our Instagram Reel here and Highlights on our Instagram page for lots of pictures and videos.
When can I go to Dimaniyat Islands?
You can snorkel and dive at Dimaniyat islands year round. You can even camp on Dimaniyat islands overnight between November and April. You will need a permit to camp on the island so make sure to book with an organised, reputable company.
However, be aware that during the summer months, May to October, landing on Daymaniyat islands is not allowed. This is to protect the wildlife like the turtles and birds.
Will I see turtles at Dimaniyat Islands?
Yes! It would be highly unlikely to not spot hawksbill sea turtles when snorkeling in Daymaniyat islands. They are a hugely popular are for nesting turtles. On our trip we saw at least 30 turtles and were able to get pretty close.
*Please do not go too close to the turtles, touch them or interrupt their natural habitat. It is special enough to observe these natural scenes from a distance without having to touch them.*
Similarly, other areas in Oman like the turtle reserve at Ras Al Jinz will nearly guarantee you a turtle sighting. However, we much preferred seeing the turtles here than at Ras Al Jinz turtle reserve which felt a bit like a tourist conveyor belt during our trip.
What else will I see when snorkeling on Daymaniyat Islands?
Dimaniyat islands have been protected since 1996 so the waters are teaming with coral and marine life. When travelling to Dimaniyat islands we spotted stingrays and black tip sharks as well as a few jellyfish. Countless turtles were popping their heads up as we approached the islands too. Sadly we saw some trying to eat plastic but our amazing tour guide managed to get it away from them safely.
When snorkelling we saw an array of colourful fish, sea eels and even a sea snake. Angel fish, clown fish, parrot fish and butterflyfish are amongst some of the sea creatures to look out for.
When can you see Whale Sharks in Oman?
The most common time to see whale sharks in Oman is during the hot summer months unfortunately, between August and October. The whale sharks are drawn to the Oman coastline to feed whilst migrating during this time and can be spotted with their calves. However, when we visited in December our guide said that some had been spotted the day before in the area. Unfortunately, we didn’t get to glimpse any whale sharks in Dimaniyat Islands but you could be lucky to spot one of these endangered species.
What to bring to Daymaniyat Islands?
The main things to remember when going on this Muscat boat trip to Dimaniyat islands are:
- Sunscreen and hats – it’s hot in Oman whatever time of year you visit so make sure you have sun cream
- Towel – we forgot ours! You will dry off in the sun quickly, but if visiting in winter months it can get a bit chilly when you get out of the water.
- Go Pro / Underwater Camera – Don’t miss getting pictures of the marine life!
- T-Shirt – bikinis and swimming costumes are not always acceptable in Omani culture. It might be fine depending on the passengers on the boat but bring a t-shirt to put on over your swim suit just in case.
- Waterproof Bag – when you land on the beach and climb on over to the sand you might want some kind of waterproof bag to make sure that your electronics are protected during the transition.
- Water shoes – although not essential, I managed perfectly well with carrying flip flops, the beach is rocky in parts. Water shoes might be beneficial to save carrying.
Where to stay for a trip to Dimaniyat Islands
Muscat is a city full of hotels ranging from basic to ultra luxurious. Muscat hotels are much more affordable than Dubai, get there quick as Oman travel is becoming increasingly popular. We have been lucky enough to sample a few on our recent trips to Muscat and these are our tried and tested, favourites:
InterContinental Muscat
The InterContinental Muscat is a sprawling, luxurious 5* beach resort in Qurum, Muscat. Highlights here are the direct beach access, family sea view rooms and a range of restaurants and bars to choose from. This is a licensed hotel which serves alcohol. Perfect for a luxury, family stay in Muscat.
Check out our InterContinental Muscat Instagram Reel roundup here.
Grand Millennium Hotel Muscat
The Grand Millennium Muscat is an opulent, 5* hotel in the city centre of Muscat. Highlights here are the beach club transfer, range of rooms; magnificent interconnecting family rooms, villas and apartments, direct mall access and city centre location. Perfect for 5* affordable luxury for the family.
Check out our Grand Millennium Hotel Muscat Instagram Reel roundup here.
Ramada Encore Muscat
The Ramada Encore Muscat is a 4* hotel in the city centre of Muscat. Highlights here are budget prices, Italian restaurant, city centre location, rooftop pool. Perfect for budget friendly family rooms without compromising on comfort.
Check out our Ramada Encore Muscat Instagram Reel roundup here.
The highlight of our recent 4-day trip to Muscat from Dubai was our morning spent on Dimaniyat Islands with Demaniyat Adventures. A truly breathtaking, pinch-me-moment snorkelling surrounded by so many huge turtles in the crystal-clear ocean. Make sure to include a visit to Daymaniyat islands when in Oman.
For other Muscat inspiration check out our post How to Spend a Weekend in Muscat. Or check out our Dubai to Oman road trip post. For a trip to the wadis check out the 3 Best Wadis in Oman. Or head to our Oman Page for lots of other detailed information on this wonderful country.
Disclaimer: This post Why you MUST visit Dimaniyat Islands Oman, has affiliate links and any sales made through such links will reward me a small commission – at no extra cost for you.
