Musandams

Musandams refers to the Musandam region of Oman and its inhabitants. The Musandam Peninsula, at the mouth of the Strait of Hormuz, forms the northernmost part of Oman and is separated from the rest of the country by the United Arab Emirates. The regional capital is Khasab. The governorate covers a rugged landscape where mountains run to the coast, and the shoreline is indented by numerous fjord-like inlets known locally as khors. The climate is arid, with hot, dry summers and mild winters.

Historically, Musandam has long been a maritime crossroads given its position near Hormuz. It enjoyed periods of influence under successive sultanates and saw fortifications constructed during the Portuguese era, including the Fort of Khasab. Today, tourism is a major economic activity, drawing visitors for dhow cruises, dolphin watching, snorkeling, and the dramatic coastal scenery. Fishing remains important for local communities.

The population is predominantly Omani, including Shihuh and other communities. The region is administered as a governorate and is connected to the rest of Oman primarily by road through the United Arab Emirates, with Khasab serving as the administrative and service center. Transport within the region relies on coastal boats and local roads, and tourism facilities have expanded in recent years to support visitors to the khors and fort heritage sites.