Muscat, the capital city of Oman, is a picturesque and vibrant city located along the Gulf of Oman. Whether you’re looking to relax in the sunshine, to explore stunning mountain and desert landscapes or to savour a rich culture and long heritage, Oman can offer you a holiday to remember. Within easy reach of Muscat, you can enjoy fishing, diving, and dolphin watching experiences, and explore wonderful sinkholes, caves and hot springs.
-
The best time to visit Muscat is from the months of November to Mid-March, which are the winter months.
-
Muscat acts as the starting point to all major destinations in Oman from different parts of the world.
-
Oman is one of the safest and friendliest countries in the world.
Here are some of the best things to do when in Muscat.
Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque : This truly is a grand mosque. Five slender minarets, representing the five pillars of Islam, reach for the sky, and the large dome looks like it’s made from golden mesh. It is a huge mosque, if not quite the size of Abu Dhabi’s Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, and can hold up to 15,000 worshippers at any one time. The sandstone architecture is a photographer’s dream, with symmetry wherever you look, serene arches, shining marble, and quiet colonnades.
Muttrah Corniche : Curved waterside area offering paved paths & artful shelters, plus views of the water & mountains. It is now an interesting combination of old and new with a modern architectural design that plays beautifully with shadow and light while allowing fresh air inside. Built by the Portuguese back in 1580, the Mutrah Fort itself is not that exciting, but I still highly recommend climbing the 250 steps to the top — there are several viewpoints on the way up where you can catch your breath. Not only will you get superb views across the bays and the city, but you’ll also get a sense of the area’s history.
Al Alam Palace : A few bays along, you will find Al Alam, the colorful Sultan’s Palace. Sultan Haitham bin Tariq Al Said, who took the reins after the death of the much-beloved Sultan Qaboos bin Said in early 2020, has several palaces around the country, but this contemporary palace dating only to 1972 is the only one in public view — if, sadly, not open to the public. Flanked by the 16th-century Portuguese forts, it makes for an interesting sight.
The Oman National Museum : This purpose-built museum nestled against the stark Al Hajar Mountains is a thoroughly modern structure with many interactive experiences and hand-on exhibits that showcase Oman’s long history, from prehistoric to current times. Learning about the country’s past is a real eye-opener.
Royal Opera House : Inaugurated in 2011, the Royal Opera House is not only a center for the performing arts in Oman, but it’s also a beautiful building set in an expanse of marble. The gleaming white building is equipped with some state-of-the-art technology, giving it an advantage over older opera houses. Try and catch a ballet or concert if you can. It makes for a very luxurious evening out.
Qurum National Park : One of the most extensive gardens in Muscat, Oman, Qurum Natural Park is a place to be with tons of things you can do and explore. However, we need a relaxing and unwinding excursion at this time, and no other location can provide you with what you will discover at Qurum Natural Park. A tranquil spot, beautiful weather since it is above sea level, and a plethora of exotic flora are some of the benefits of visiting this place.
Suggested Hotels in MUSCAT
Al Bustan Palace, Ritz-Carlton
Al Bustan Palace, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel, features magnificent mountain, sea or garden views from each of its luxurious rooms and suites.
Intercontinental Muscat & Spa
Al Waha is ideal for families, Al Bandar is the heart of the resort, catering to business and leisure travelers alike.
Shangri-la’s Barr Al Jissa Resort
Oman's Best Beach Resort — Nestled against the dramatic backdrop of rugged mountains and pristine waters of the Gulf of Oman.