By ASHOK SOMAN

The Sultanate of Oman is stepping out of the shadows of its U.A.E neighbors with ambitious plans to draw well-heeled travelers to what Vogue magazine has already named destination of the year 2008.

With planned redevelopment of the international airport, extensive infrastructure upgrades, a US$2 billion resort and a slew of tax incentives, the Sultanate is hoping to propel itself into the upper echelons of luxury destinations.

As for things to look out for in Oman, we leave you with a statement from the Director General of Ministry of Tourism of the Sultanate of Oman, Salim Al-Mamari: "The Sultanate of Oman is a country blessed with 2,000km of coastline with pristine turquoise waters, powdery beaches where giant turtles come to nest, massive cliffs (3,000m high) and undulating dunes that stretch for days.

"Its cultural heritage is 5,000 years old: this is the land where once the fabled Queen of Sheeba reigned and the legends of Sinbad originated. Today, Oman is one of the best undiscovered marine sanctuaries in the world. Most of all, Oman is where visitors can sleep under a canopy of twinkling Arabian stars at a Bedouin-style desert camp or luxuriate at a five star, beachside resort.”