January is within Oman's cool-season tourist window; inland and mountain areas are pleasantly warm and coastal humidity is moderate. It's a good month for outdoor activities and desert excursions.
Average daily low and high (°C) and monthly rainfall. The badge shows how it feels, allowing for humidity.
Average temperature across Oman in January.
Muscat, Sohar, Barka
Clear, cool mornings in January make Muscat pleasant for walking the corniche and exploring Muttrah souq; daytime highs sit around the low to mid 20s°C with occasional winter showers that can be heavy enough to puddle the old town streets. Nights are noticeably cooler so bring a light jacket for harbor cafes. Flights and ferries rarely close, but some desert wadis upstream of the coast can flood after a storm.
Khasab, Dibba, fjords & dhow cruises
Clear, cool mornings characterize January in Musandam, with winter rain possible and daytime highs generally in the high teens to low 20s°C. The sheltered fjords around Khasab are dramatic and calmer for dolphin-watching on good days, though squalls can occasionally whip up rough seas. Pack a warm layer for pre-dawn boat departures and expect less humidity than Muscat.
Jebel Akhdar, Jebel Shams, Nizwa
Clear, cold nights in January make the Hajar high villages feel alpine: temperatures on Jebel Akhdar often drop near freezing after dark while daytime sun can lift terraces into the teens°C. Rain and sleet are possible at the highest elevations; roads to remote wadis may be slippery. Bring warm insulated layers, a heavy jacket for evenings, and crampons are never a bad idea for winter treks above 2,000 m.
Sharqiyah Sands, desert wadis, Ras al Hadd approaches
Brisk January days in the desert feel mild and ideal for dune walks and overnight camps: daytime temperatures are comfortable in the low to mid 20s°C while nights are cold, often dropping into the low teens or single digits. Clear skies offer excellent stargazing but bring warm sleeping layers. Road transfers can be chilly; carry a heavy jacket for camp fires and early morning camel rides.
Salalah, Mirbat, khareef monsoon coast
Dry, pleasantly warm conditions in January make Salalah a peaceful winter escape: daytime highs commonly reach the mid to upper 20s°C with low humidity and clear seas ideal for diving in the southern gulf. Inland wadis are dry but coastal pools and lagoons host migrating birds. Pack light layers for cool mornings and a swimsuit for calm water excursions.
There are no major festivals or events in Oman during January to be aware of.
See how January compares with the rest of the year, then read the full guide.