Magical scuba diving holidays in Oman

The Independent has rated scuba diving holidays in Oman as "magical", referring to bright and colourful coral reefs, warm waters and an array of beautiful marine species. With over 1,000 miles of coastline, the region offers several Oman diving sites for divers who are just starting out and the more advanced.

The Middle East region boasts breathtaking undeveloped beaches which accommodate turtle-laying sites, from the Musandam Peninsula in the north, down to the pristine beaches of Salalah.

Image by: worldtraveller5, on Flickr

Divers on scuba diving holidays in Oman can experience the wonders of the underwater world including sightings of not one but two species of the seahorse which can be seen darting in and out of bright rainbow-coloured soft corals.

The Arabian Sea offers plenty of unexplored diving sites around the Dimaniyat islands and bays of Bandar al Jissah near Muscat with huge fjords, sheltered bays and wrecks, and rugged coastline.

Image by Images Of Life Photography, on Flickr.

Divers will swim alongside a number of marine species including cuttlefish, lobsters, barracudas, manta rays, huge sting rays, tuna, zebra sharks, black tip reef sharks, giant moray eels, green and hawksbill turtles, nudibranch and the exquisite seahorses.

Sheltered lagoons offer calm turquoise waters for travellers looking to enjoy snorkelling activities where they can catch glimpses of sea turtles and get close to the vibrant soft coral reefs which sway along with the soft ocean current.

Oman is not yet well known as a scuba diving destination but because of this divers are able to explore the waters without the crowds which can usually be found in Red Sea or Australia's Great Barrier Reef resorts.

Image by: worldtraveller5, on Flickr

Depending on the season, travellers could experience sightings of whale sharks and dolphins during their scuba diving holidays and can even take part in conservation projects during the sea turtle-laying season which involve the protection and safety of these valuable incredible creatures as they start their journey into the world.

Situated on the southwest coast of the Arabian Peninsula, the Sultanate of Oman is fast becoming one of the trendiest tourist destinations for travellers in the Middle East, with an increase in flights from the UK to Muscat, the country's capital city.