Gulf of Oman, the Joint Body of Water Among 4 Countries

 

The Geographical Location of the Gulf of Oman

The Gulf of Oman is one of the important bodies of water in the southwest of Asia. This gulf lies in the southwest of the Arabian Sea and east of Hormuz Strait. It is in the shape of a triangle two sides of which border Iran, Pakistan, the United Arab Emirates and Oman. The other side leads to the Arabian Sea and Indian ocean. The Gulf of Oman is 340 Km wide and covers an area of 181000 Km2.

The Gulf has the longest joint coastline with Iran, which reaches 850 Km. It also shares a 750-kilometer coastline with Oman and 50-kilometer coastline with the United Arab Emirates and Pakistan.

This sea is located in a warm area because the Tropic of Cancer passes through its north. So, the maximum water temperature reaches 33 degrees Celsius in July and August. In December, the water temperature of this bay is 19 degrees.

This body of water was formed due to the extension of Indian Ocean to the land. Compared to the Persian Gulf, Oman gulf is narrower but deeper. However, as we move to the western part of it, near the Strait of Hormuz, its depth gradually decreases.

Gulf Oman

The Transit Importance of the Gulf of Oman in International Trade

Leading to the Arabian Gulf and Indian Ocean, the Gulf of Oman plays an important role in the international trade of the surrounding nations. As a result, significant ports have been established in this gulf.

This gulf has 4 strategic ports, which belong to 3 important countries of the region including Oman, Iran and the UAE. Among these countries United Arab Emirates possesses 2 ports. Chabahar Port, located in Iran, is the only communitive way which connects central Asian countries with high seas. Moreover, Soltan Qabus Port is the most important port of Oman in international trade.

Being close to Hormuz Strait, this gulf is a strategic way for transiting the natural resources of the Persian Gulf to other countries. So, one third of the world’s liquefied natural gas and 20% of the world’s oil resources pass through this region.

This water extension is also important in terms of military and politics. Because the Gulf of Oman is the only Intermediary path from the Persian Gulf to the Arab Sea and Indian Ocean. Above all, this gulf is considered as a portal to the Middle East.

What Names Has the Gulf of Oman been Known with?

The Gulf of Oman has been known with different names in the history. In the long past, this gulf and the Arab sea were named Makran or Akhdar Sea without any separation. It has also been recorded as Eritra and Hendus Sea in some European resources. The part near the coast of Iran and Pakistan was sometimes called the Makran Sea and the other part near the coast of Oman was called the Sea of Oman.

In the late 19th and early 20th, the Gulf of Oman was announced as a formal name for this bay. At the time, England had an active presence in the region. Following this presence, the land of Oman came under their influence and the name of Oman remained on the sea forever.

The Touristic Islands of the Gulf of Oman

The Experience of a Delightful Snorkeling in Daymaniyat Islands

The Gulf of Oman embodies several beautiful islands. Daymaniyat Islands are among the closest one to the capital of Oman. These coral islands offer clear water that you can see up to the depth of 15 to 20 meters. They also feature white sand which has created a beautiful scenery.

Daymaniyat Islands are also good places for snorkeling. In fact, the colorful fishes besides coral rocks make an ideal experience for snorkeling. It is noteworthy that there are no living creatures in these peaceful islands except marine animals and various bird species. They are also known as protected areas due to their stunning nature and various animal species.

Gulf of Oman

Masirah Island, an Appropriate Destination for Surfing

Masirah Island, lying on the northeastern coast, is the largest island of Oman. This island covers an area of 649 Km2 and includes 12 villages. The strong winds blowing on the beaches of this island also make it an ideal destination for surfing.

Musandam Peninsula

Musandam Peninsula lies on the northern side of Oman. The remoted parts of the island are uninhabited and most of the inhabitants live in its mountainous and coastal regions.

At present, many exploration tours are run on this peninsula. So, tourists can travel to this area by boat and watch dolphins up close. They can also ride traditional boats of Oman and dive in its infinite sea.

Gulf of Oman

A Journey to the Gulf of Oman and Its Unique Beauties

On your trip to Oman, make sure to visit the Gulf of Oman and experience memorable moments on the coasts. This water extension includes several touristic islands whose unique beauties attract many tourists. Furthermore, the marine creatures living in the region have promoted its ecological value.

1001 Nights Tours has designed various tours for this beautiful gulf. Approximately, we have considered visiting the coasts of Oman in all the itineraries. So, you can click here to choose your favorite tour. You can also click here to read more the other attractions of Oman. If you have any suggestions regarding special tours, feel free to contact us via email.