Located about 500 kilometres south of Muscat, Barr Al Hikman in Al Wusta Governorate is considered one of the most important bird migration stations both in Oman and the region. Many birds congregate here, especially water birds coming from as far as Siberia’s northern shores. In addition to being a sanctuary for birds and fish of all kinds, the existence of coral reefs off its shores make it a favourite destination for divers. More than 1 million shorebirds flock to Barr Al Hikman and Masirah Island every year, according to experts.
No other word describes Barr Al Hikman better than ‘magical’. Crystal clear teal waters, white sandy beaches, and the unadulterated view of infinite beauty provide visitors with the feeling of secluded beauty and a pure proximity to nature, which is invigorating. Barr Al Hikman is also famous for being a flight path for many birds that migrate from across the globe, and is, in fact, one of the few spots to view so many birds. You will not see any buildings here, just pure nature in its most beautiful form.
According to Oman’s Ministry of Tourism, “Oman witnesses huge swarms of migratory birds during their seasonal journey between their nesting habitats and the places where they spend winters, especially those birds migrating from Europe and East Asia.
“Many birds, especially water fowl, migrate from faraway regions like northern Siberia, and travel about five thousand kilometres.Visitors can see many species of birds in each of Oman’s different regions. Al Hikman Peninsula, Masirah Island, Al Wusta Governorate beaches, the Lagoons, the beaches and springs in Dhofar are ideal places for bird observation. Many of these species live in Dimaniyat Islands and in Musandam.”
