Temperatures fall below freezing in Oman as Jebel Shams records minus 0.1°C

Temperatures across parts of Oman dropped sharply over the past 24 hours, with the country’s highest peak, Jebel Shams, recording a low of minus 0.1 degrees Celsius, according to data from the Civil Aviation Authority’s meteorological stations.

The reading, recorded during the monitoring period ending January 20, 2026, marked the coldest temperature registered anywhere in the sultanate during that time. Jebel Shams, which rises to approximately 3,000 meters above sea level, is located in the Al Hajar mountain range in northern Oman and is popularly known as the ‘Mountain of the Sun.’

The dramatic temperature drop highlights the stark contrast between Oman’s mountainous regions and its lower-lying areas during the winter season. Jebel Shams remains a popular destination for tourists and nature enthusiasts, particularly in winter, when cooler conditions offer respite from the country’s typically hot climate.

Other mountainous areas also experienced notably cold weather. Saiq, a high-altitude settlement in the Al Hajar Mountains known for its terraced farms and rose gardens, recorded a low of 4.8°C. Yanqul, located in the foothills, saw temperatures fall to 9.5°C, while Dhank registered 12.4°C.

In contrast, lower-elevation areas remained relatively mild overnight. The historic city of Nizwa, a former capital of Oman located about 164 kilometers from Muscat, recorded 11.5°C. Sunainah registered 11.6°C, while the UNESCO-listed town of Bahla saw temperatures dip to 12.3°C. Um Al Zamaim experienced similar conditions at 12.4°C.

Central desert regions also felt the winter chill, though temperatures remained well above freezing. Haima recorded 11.0°C, Muqshin saw 11.3°C, and Fahud registered 11.5°C, cooler conditions typical for Oman’s inland desert areas during winter nights.

Such seasonal cold snaps are common during Oman’s winter months, particularly in mountainous regions where freezing or near-freezing temperatures are regularly observed, while coastal areas continue to enjoy mild and pleasant weather.