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Discover the Enchanting Allure of Muscat, Oman

Unlock the wonders of Muscat in Oman with our comprehensive travel guide. Explore the top attractions, immerse yourself in local experiences, and find practical information to plan your perfect trip.

The Muscat Travel Guide

Practical tips and advice for travelers visiting Muscat, covering topics such as visa requirements, local customs, transportation options, safety tips, and more.

Dive into the rich history, cultural heritage, and modern charm of Muscat, offering an overview of the city's landmarks, attractions, and unique features that make it a must-visit destination.

Comprehensive information on how to reach Muscat, offering insights into flight options, airport transfers, public transportation, and practical tips for getting around the city.

Explore a detailed accommodation guide, featuring a range of hotels, resorts, and guesthouses in Muscat, catering to different budgets, preferences, and locations within the city.

Discover an array of exciting activities, attractions, and experiences in Muscat, providing recommendations for cultural sites, outdoor adventures, shopping destinations, and more.

Delve into the culinary scene of Muscat, offering recommendations for top restaurants, local eateries, and must-try dishes, allowing visitors to indulge in the vibrant flavors of Omani cuisine.

Embark on unforgettable day trips from Muscat, highlighting nearby attractions, natural wonders, historical sites, and cultural experiences that can be easily accessed from the city.

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Where to stay, how to get there, about muscat, practical tips.

Find everything you need when traveling to Muscat, Oman with our comprehensive Travel Guide.

Welcome to our travel blog, your ultimate guide to Muscat, Oman and beyond! We cover everything from practical tips, insider information about Muscat's attractions, accommodation options, local customs, transportation, dining recommendations, and even exciting day trips, providing you with a wealth of knowledge to plan your perfect adventure in Oman's captivating capital.

What others have said about Muscat, Oman

” This coastal city on the Persian Gulf seemed to harness the beauty of ancient traditions that might be amiss in other more modernized Gulf countries ”

"Cultural treasures, unspoilt landscapes, pristine beaches, and natural wadis, Oman is the ultimate uncrowded destination. ”

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Plan unforgettable road trips!

21 best things to do in Muscat (Oman) + Map

Last updated on November 1, 2023 by Claire Robinson - this article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I get a small commission ( more )

Discover the 21+ best things to do in Muscat,  Oman to help you plan your itinerary!  All the amazing  places to visit in Muscat to choose from, depending on what you like: architecture, history, water, nature… A complete guide to plan your visit to Muscat with map, tips, photos and day trips. 

Before my tips + photos, here are my favorites for Oman:

My favorite platform to rent a car in Oman: DiscoverCars

My favorite adventure from Muscat: Dolphin and Snorkeling

My favorite excursion from Muscat: Wadi Shab and Bimmah Sinkhole

My favorite places to stay:

• Muscat , the capital – see the best rated hotels or my favorite hotel: The Chedi
• Sur , for the turtles – see the best rated hotels
• Khasab , Musandam peninsula – see the best rated hotels
• Wahiba Sands , in the desert – see the best rated hotels or my favorite camp: Desert Nights Resort

Best things to do in Muscat – Short answer

In the article below, I am describing all my favorite things to do in Muscat in terms of Architecture, Nature, culture…

But if you want a short answer, I think the top 3 Must-do in Muscat Oman are:

• Touring the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
• Exploring the old town in the Muttrah area with the Souq and fish market
• Hiking in the hills to see the unique city from a higher viewpoint

VIDEO: one day in Muscat

And before I develop, you can watch this short video to give you a feel of what you could see in Muscat in just one day:

Some of those places to see in Muscat even made my list of top things to do in Oman !

More ideas and photos after the planning tips.

Where to stay in Muscat & Where to go – Map & Tips

Tourism map of muscat, oman.

It is not so easy to get oriented in the Capital City and find all the places to see in Muscat. The city is spread and separated by hills. To help you, I have drawn a map and collected information about transport options.

Below is a map I draw with the various touristic areas of Muscat and the main things to do in each.

Find all my favorite places (with GPS coordinates, tips and maps) in my travel guide eBook that helps you easily plan your Oman road trip :

Plan your dream trip in Oman thanks to my guide

• 8 maps to easily plan your itinerary
• 190+ pre-selected locations
• Tips to make the most of your time
• GPS coordinates direct to the carparks
• 100+ original photos to help you choose

How long to visit Muscat

Here are a few points to keep in mind when planning your trip to Muscat Oman.

• Several attractions in Muscat are only open in the morning
• The city is scattered
• I recommend staying at least 2 days to explore the city (hotel recommendation later in the article)

Best areas to stay in Muscat

You can stay near:

• Al Qurum beach to enjoy evening walks on the sands,
• or in Muttrah for more traditional restaurant and experience 
• The cheaper options are in the Ruwi area.

Muscat Hotel suggestions

• PRACTICAL  – The  Coral Muscat Hotel and Apartments  is a great location for a base with spacious facilities and with an apartment you can have more freedom –  Check out photos and book
• MODERN & GOOD VALUE  – The  Centara MuscatHotel is not near the beach so has good value deals with really good accommodations –  Check out photos and prices
• LUXURY  and CHARM – Located by the beach,  The Chedi Muscat  is displays Sumptuous decor and a unique atmosphere – it brings the local architecture styles with modern concept –  Check out photos and prices
• The WELL KNOWN BRAND  – The  Grand Hyatt Muscat  has a great location by the beach and all the facilities you could need –  Check out photos and prices
• CHEAPER OPTION BY THE BEACH  – The  Al Ferdous apartments  offer a great price alternative for those you still want to stay very close to the beach –  Check out photos and prices
• or  Check out the best rated accommodations in Muscat

Where to stay in Oman?

My favorites on a road trip:

• Muscat –  capital city –   see best rated accommodations
• Nizwa  – to explore the forts and hinterlands –  see best rated accommodations
• Sur –  for the turtles, beaches, wadis… –  see best rated accommodations
• Wahiba Sands  – for the experience of sleeping in the desert –  see best rated accommodations
• Salalah  – to explore the Southern lands –  see best rated accommodations
• Khasab  – to explore the Musandam Peninsula –  see best rated accommodations

ARCHITECTURAL TOP 3 – What to see in Muscat

#1 – sultan qaboos grand mosque.

If there is one place to visit in Muscat, it is the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. It is an architectural masterpiece both from the outside and from the inside. It is the absolute top thing to do in Muscat.

Discover many more photos and Information to plan your visit in the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque  article.

#2 – Royal Opera House Muscat

Another recent building in Muscat is the Royal Opera House. With handcrafted decors all around, you might not even notice how technical the building is, but is it also a masterpiece in that sense. This is why the Opera is one of the main places to visit in Muscat either as a tourist or for a performance.

Discover many more photos and Information to plan your visit in the Royal Opera House article .

#3 – Forts and Palace

The heart of Muscat is around the Sultan’s Qasr Al Alam palace and the two 16th century Portuguese forts of Al Jilali and Al Mirani. They are not open to the public, but you can admire them from outside.

Discover many more photos and information to plan your visit in the Forts and Palace article.

Other Mosques

There are many more mosques in Muscat. Most of them are not opened to the non-muslims. However, you can go to Mohammed Al Ameen Mosque, well rated in trip advisor. 

BEACHES – 3 Muscat Beaches and water attractions

#4 – qurum beach.

Qurum beach (or by its full name Shatti al-Qurum) is the main beach in Muscat. It is a long stretch of Golden sand where locals come relax during the weekend. 

Inside Muscat, you can also find a small beach at Kalbuh, East of the old town corniche.

To find other Muscat beaches, you have to go a little out of town. You can enjoy: Qantab beach, Sifah beach, Bandar Jissah, Yiti beach…

#5 – Boat excursion to the Bandar Khayran Reserve or the coast

Another great thing to do in Muscat is to discover the shores of the South by boat. From the Al Rowdha Marina, you can take 2 or 3-hour tours including dolphin watch, snorkeling, or just enjoying the work of erosion during daytime or at sunset.

Discover many more photos and information to plan your visit in the Muscat Boat tours  article.

Or you can already book – see all boat tour options

#6 – Boat excursion to the Daymaniyat islands

And if you love snorkeling or diving, book a boat tour to the Daymaniyat islands. The rocky islets have turquoise waters and white sand beaches. Learn more in my article .

Or see Daymaniyat island tour options

Need to rent a car in Oman?

• Compare prices on my favorite platform:   Discovercars.com – one of the best rated comparison sites!
• Choose a car with enough power for the mountain roads
• Consider their full coverage option – for peace of mind! 
• Book early to have a large choice of vehicles!

See all my tips

CULTURAL – 2 Muscat Attractions

There are many other attractions in Muscat you should consider. Some are touristic, others are less, but here there are:

#7 – Fish Market

If you want to glimpse at the life of Omani people, the Fish market is a must place to visit. Active early morning, you can see the boats arriving, the fish being sold and then prepared. It is one of my favorite activities in Muscat but wearing closed shoes!!!

Discover many more photos and information to plan your visit in the Muscat Fish Market article.

#8 – Muscat old city and Souq

Not far from the Fish Market, you can walk through the old city and the Souq, especially the gold section.

Discover many more photos and information to plan your visit in the Muscat Corniche and Souq article .

I don’t drink coffee

But I also like other drinks and sweets! Do you like the free content you find on my blog? All my tips and practical information, without intrusive advertising…

NATURE – 4 highlights of Muscat Tourism

#9 – corniche.

Not far from the fish market, you can walk through the old town and the souk, especially the gold section. Next to the souk there is a long walking path along the water called The Corniche.

#10 – Muttrah – Riyam Hike – Unique thing to do in Muscat

If you want to move a little and capture some great views of the city, you can hike above Riyam. It is an original activity in Muscat to get away from the crowds. Discover many more photos and information to plan your hike in Muscat .

I think it is one of the most unique things to do in Muscat with the most scenic places.

#11 – Riyam Park

The Riyam park is great for a stroll. It includes 2 hills giving scenic views of mountains and the corniche. There are also a great playground for children.

In the photo, it is the green area under the Incense Burner Tower.

#12 – Qurum natural park & beach

Another classic is the Qurum Natural Park located in the Qurum residential area. A well-maintained park in the heart of the city. You can also drive in the hills behind the park for more views of Muscat.

MUSEUMS – 11 Places to visit in Muscat

When in Muscat and was not in the mood for museums, having just lost my brother . However, I have researched them intensively and collected a list of you. First some notes:

• Raters on Tripadvisor have placed Bait Az-Zubair and the Armed Forces Museums in the list of top things to see in Muscat.
• The National museum has now opened in its new building (since december 2015). Apparently it is really modern so it might make soon the top list.
• As those museums do not have official websites, it is difficult to make sure you have the proper opening hours. I did my best, but cannot ensure those are correct.

And here is the list.

#13 – Armed Forces Museum

• In Ruwi – Al Mujamma St
• Weapons, clothing, instruments and defence systems
• 8AM-1PM / 3PM-6PM

#14 – Bait Al Barandah Museum

• In Mutrah – Al-Mina St
• History of Muscat since its geological formation to the present
• Sat-Thur: 9AM-1PM / 4PM-6PM

#15 – Bait Az-Zubair Museum

• In Mutrah – Al Saidiya Street
• Omani artefacts and collectables: weapons, jewellery, clothing, household item…
• Sat-Thur: 9:30AM-6PM

#16 – Muscat Gate

• In Mutrah – On Al Bahri Road
• Oman’s history from the Neolithic times to the present + view of the Corniche
• Sat-Thur: 9:30AM-11:30AM / 4:30PM-7PM

#17 – Natural History Museum

• In Al Khuwayr
• In the Ministry of Heritage and Culture building – Oman’s geography and geology, flora and fauna
• Sat-Thur: 8AM-1PM

#18 – National Museum

• In the Center – Al Saidiya St
• Oman culture – jewellery, crafts and Omani ships

#19 – Oil & Gas Exhibition Centre

• In Al Qurum – Sayh Al Malih St
• Processes of formation, exploitation and processing of how crude oil and natural gas
• 7AM-12PM / 1PM – 4PM / Thur: 7AM-12PM

#20 – Omani Heritage Museum

• In Al Alam Street
• Relics of ancient civilizations: stone tombs, rock carvings, agricultural tools, stone necklaces…
• 9:30AM-1:30PM / 5PM-7PM

#21 – Omani-French Museum

• In Center – Qasr al-Alam St
• History and documents related to the relationship between France and Oman 
• 9AM-1PM most of the year + 4-7PM Oct to Mar

#22 – Planetarium

• Planetarium
• Sun – Thu: 8AM – 3PM

#23 – Currency Museum

• In Ruwi – In the Central Bank of Oman
• Succession of currencies circulated in the Sultanate of Oman, both paper and metal
• Sat- Wed: 8:30AM -12:30PM

Muscat sightseeing – how to get around (transport options)

My experience of taxis in Oman was not really good. Mostly because they only knew the major sights, but not the streets. Apparently, they do that part time, so their knowledge of the city is limited. But if you drive only between major sights, airports and main hotels it should be ok.

You have to agree on the price beforehand. There is a plan to introduce meters, but it is not yet implemented… Between the various areas of the city it should not be more than 5 to 10 OR.

Not really buses, the baisa buses are minivans not clearly marked. If you want to attempt it I recommend asking locals.

Tourist bus

Hop on Hop off Bus by BigBus – considering the spread of the city, it is quite practical. The first bus departs Mutrah Souq at 9am and buses depart every 30 minutes until 5pm (last return at Mutrah Souq at 6:45pm). Timings are subject to change, especially during Ramadan (and with Covid)

Driving in Muscat

I was really surprised how easy it is to drive in Muscat. The roads are in excellent conditions, people are courteous and calm. The old town is where sometimes there are traffic jams, but otherwise, I think it is a good solution. For more information, check out my article dedicating to Driving in Oman .

Organized tours / private guide

You can also join organized half day or day tours or book with a private guide . In that case, you just have to sit back, relax and follow the guide. For a full day private tour of the city, count 200 to 300 USD.

5 Day trips from Muscat

If you have some more days in Muscat but don’t want to go on a round trip one of the things to do in join a day trip. Many are possible and below is a selection of the best ones.

For guided day trips from Muscat, I wrote a dedicated article to help chose with my selection of the best destinations.

Sink Hole and Wadi Shab

Wadi Shab is one of my favorite locations in Oman. You can hike one hour through the canyon and finish by swimming. Absolutely stunning! If you have time this is a must do!

On the way back you can stop at the Sink hole; which is very easily accessed from the main road down to Sur. It is a hole in the ground filled with beautiful water and bordered by the sea on one side and mountains on the other.

Discover many more photos and information to plan your trip with dedicated articles to the Bimmah Sink Hole and Wadi Shab

See options & book

Jebel Shams

A classic among tourists stopping one day in Muscat on their cruise, is to get up to Jebel Shams, also known as the grand canyon of Oman.Discover many more photos and info to plan your trip in the Jebel Shams article.

See options and book

Nizwa is another large city in Oman. The drive will be 1h30min. In the center of the city, you can discover a beautiful Souq, the castle with many cultural displays and climb to the top of the fort for breathtaking views of the oasis. Discover many more photos and information to plan your trip in the Nizwa fort and Nizwa Souq articles

See options

Wadi Bani Khalid and Wahiba sands

If you don’t mind a longer day tour with a lot of driving, you can reach Wadi Bani Khalid and the sand dunes of Wahiba Sands. Plan 2h30 drive in each direction. Long, but it gives you 3 unique landscapes of Oman in one day: city, wadi and desert!

Discover many more photos and information to plan your trip in the Wahiba Sands  and Wadi Bani Khalid articles

Book a day trip from Muscat or an overnight stay – see options

Rustaq Loop

For those who love forts and castles, it is a 1h30 min drive to reach Rustaq from Muscat. Do some better planning than me and don’t go on a Friday. I was there at prayer time, all the local men were going inside but I could not…

You can also do many day trips to the surrounding beaches along the North and South coast of the many but less known wadis everywhere. The list would be too long.

Off road / Off the beaten path

And if you are adventurous, there are also other places to discover in a 4WD: the plateau of Salmah and its tombs, the village of Wakan…

Holidays in Muscat – Itinerary (2, 4 days or more)

2 days in muscat.

If you have only 2 days in Muscat, I recommend staying in the city rather and going on day trips. There is much to experience:

• Morning 1 –  explore the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
• Afternoon 1 – Hike between Riyam and Mutrah – if you can’t head by car to the forts and palace and visit a museum
• Morning 2 – explore the Mutrah Souq & Fish market
• Afternoon 2 – enjoy a boat tour to see the town from the distance of relax at the beach

Oman itinerary 4 days – based in Muscat

If you are lucky enough to have a little more time, I recommend alternating days in the city and day trips

• Day 1 – Grand Mosque and Hike
• Day 2 – day trip to Wadi Shab
• Day 3 – Mutrah Souq and boat tour
• Day 4  day trip Wahiba Sands or to some forts depending on your interests

Oman itinerary – road trip

However, I think the best way to experience Oman is to go on a road trip and stay in different cities. If you are looking for a practical travel guide to help you plan your trip in Oman, check out my Travel Guide eBook:

Muscat FAQs

Is muscat worth visiting.

Absolutely. It is nothing like other capital cities. The white houses between the bare hilly landscapes are mesmerizing.

What is famous in Muscat?

The most famous buildings are the Sultan Qaboos Mosque and the Royal Opera.

Is it safe to travel to Muscat?

Muscat is overall, a safe city. It is a capital city, so always use common sense and typical protection behavior. Omani people are welcoming and open. As long as you are respectful, there is no issue.

What to wear in Muscat

Like everywhere in Oman, you should cover at least your shoulders and knees (women and men). Muscat is more relaxed, but I think it is always better to show respect for customs.

Is Muscat better than Dubai?

Both cities are so different, there is no way to compare. I prefer Muscat, but it is because I prefer Nature to shopping, and quiet places.

Want to see more of Oman?

• Best Things to do in Oman – read article
• Best of photos from Oman – Landscapes – read article
• Where to stay in Oman –  read article
• Best days trips from Muscat – read article
• Planning a road trip in Oman – read article
• Driving in Oman – read article
• The impressive Wadi Shab – read article
• The Bimmah Sinkhole – read article
• The Ras Al Jinz turtle reserve – read article

Planning a trip to Oman?

Check out my travel guide to help you plan:

And keep track of your own trip!

Want to see more of Oman’s beauty?

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Reader Interactions

January 14, 2016 at 4:25 AM

This is amazing! My friend is on her honeymoon at the moment in Oman and I was curious as to why – after reading this now I know!

January 14, 2016 at 12:59 PM

Ahah. When I was telling people where I was going, I had those who said ‘this is a country?’ and the others who were ‘what is there to see, desert?’. Yes Oman is beautiful and has a lot of variety. I hope your friend is having a great time. Thanks for your comment Laura.

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The Top 15 Things to Do in Muscat, Oman

The historic city of Muscat is diverse, with loads of ancient edifices and modern buildings. It is a perfect blend of old and new. From the masterful contemporary Opera House to the 400-year-old Mutrah Fort, the city offers a mixed array of architecture for history buffs and the like to devour. It offers pristine beaches, decadent dining offerings, and a host of activities to learn about Omani culture. An eclectic mix of Arabian adventures and stunning treasures awaits travelers during a visit to Muscat.

Stopover at Mutrah Fort

Mutrah Fort sits on top of a rocky, narrow hill overlooking the Sultan Qaboos Tourism Port. Visiting the fort is a rite of passage for any tourist visiting Muscat. Its comprised of three circular towers, which still hold old cannons that were used for protection in the past. Visitors can also enter the castle located at the fort during the week. It can be reached via Mutrah Souq towards the office of Wali Mutrah, and then turning right towards the fort.

See a Show at the Royal Opera House Muscat

The contemporary Royal Oman Opera House Muscat was the brainchild of the late His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said. The Opera House serves as the main focal point of cultural exchange to Oman. It hosts diverse artistic performances and educational programs. From the iconic American jazz artist Chick Korea to the annual military music concert that takes place in celebration of Oman’s National Day, the Royal Opera House is a fantastic architectural marvel to enjoy.

Find Treasures at Mutrah Souk

Once the local trading place for merchants before they set sail to the China and India trade routes, Mutrah Souk is now one of Muscat’s top market places. Visitors can barter for Arabian gems, including dazzling antiques, traditional Omani clothes like dishdashas, and its famed silver jewelry. Don’t leave the market without purchasing or eyeing a traditional Omani Khanjar dagger, which is still worn by men for ceremonial occasions. It is located near the Mutrah Fort.

Dine at the Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa

The Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa is set near a rural mountainside and the glistening Gulf of Oman. It has several romantic and family-friendly settings for not only relaxing but dining. Bait Al Bahr offers fresh seafood by the Gulf of Oman. Decadent choices include a mixed seafood platter of grilled lobster, prawns, and kingfish. If you’re interested in a more traditional Omani setting, then Al Tanoor, located at the Al Bandar Hotel on the Shangri-La complex, is the choice for you. It offers live cooking stations and an Arabian tent backdrop.

Visit Al Alam Palace

Coined the “Flag Palace,” Al Alam Palace is located in the center of Old Muscat. It is one of the six royal residences and the ceremonial palace of His Majesty the Sultan. While the palace is not open to tourists, the sparkling blue and gold structure is worth visiting to take a stroll on the palace grounds and snap a few pictures.  Neighboring government buildings include the Ministry of Finance and the National Museum, which is located across the road.

Stroll Through the Oman National Museum

Ekrem Canli / CC BY-SA / Wikimedia Commons

As the flagship cultural center of Oman, the Oman National Museum is the foremost place to visit to take a peek into Omani heritage. Opened in 2016, the museum faces the Al Alam Palace, and in its own right, has a grand design that fits its surroundings. It offers state-of-the-art conservation facilities, a UHD cinema, more than 7,000 objects, 33 immersive digital experiences, and discovery areas for children. 

Drop by the Beach

Muscat is home to stunning beaches for you to lounge by or take a walk along. Located on the northern coast, Shatti Al Qurum is the most famous beach in the region. It is near the upscale Diplomatic District, which you can’t miss with the glistening white buildings and country flags from around the globe flowing in the wind. Smoke shisha overlooking the beach at one of the cafes along the path or dine at the Crown Plaza. The white sandy Sifah Beach, located on the eastern coast of Muscat, is another favorite of locals and ex-pats alike. It’s great for camping or a day visit.

Toast to the Good Life

Muscat offers a range of bars for the party-goers to indulge in masterful cocktails. The world-famous Polynesian lounge  Trader Vic’s sits adjacent to the Intercontinental Hotel. Who doesn’t enjoy a drink that comes in a coconut? Another stand-out is Siddharta Lounge by Buddha-Bar, located in the W Hotel . The pool lifestyle concept offers an outstanding backdrop of a sunken bar and infinity pool for relishing a finely mixed cocktail.

Observe Culture at the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

The most iconic landmark in all of Muscat is the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque . The Mosque holds up to 20,000 worshippers and covers around 416,000 square meters. It also houses a library that contains 20,000 reference volumes in science, Islamic culture, and a mesmerizing chandelier, which is one of the largest in the world.  Non-Muslims are allowed to visit the mosque every day, except on Fridays, from 8:30 until 11 a.m. It’s imperative to dress modestly as well; women should cover their heads.

Enjoy Fine Dining

Courtesy of The Chedi

The dining scene in Muscat is made up of a mix of Omani traditional cuisine and delicacies from around the world. Ubhar restaurant prides itself on providing the highest level of Omani hospitality and culture. With its modern design and fusion of Omani dishes, Ubhar delivers a great option from more conventional restaurants. Next, with a name like The Restaurant, located in The Chedi hotel, it undoubtedly stands on its own merit. The Restaurant provides the most elegant setting, with its crystal chandelier-lit dining room and commanding bay windows—delight upon your choice of Middle Eastern, Indian, Asian, or western cuisine.

Cruise on an Omani Dhow

A dhow is a traditional Arabian wooden boat, which dates back to being used through the generations in Oman. The spectacular vessels are available for sunset cruises, dinner cruises, or even private charters for tourists. Dhows generally pass top tourist locations like the Sultan Palace, Al Bustan Palace , a Ritz-Carlton Hotel, and Qantab. Several tour operators are available from Muscat Yacht Club, located at Marina Bander Al Rouda.

Eat Traditional Food at Bait Al Luban

Anthony Bourdain put the famed  Bait Al Luban  restaurant on the map after he visited Oman. ‘Al Luban’ translates to frankincense, which is a source of kindness and soothing atmosphere in Omani culture. Bait Al Luban offers an assortment of traditional Omani foods, including shuwa, a unique Omani specialty of meat slathered in a copious blend of oil and spices, wrapped in palm leaves, and cooked over hot flames underground for hours.

Snorkel in the Arabian Sea

With a host of pristine beaches to choose from, Muscat is a prime snorkeling destination for water enthusiasts. Coral Ocean Tours offers half-day trips where you can experience not only snorkeling with sea creatures but also a bit of dolphin watching! Oman is an emerging snorkeling destination, becoming one of the top choices in the world.

Shop 'til You Drop

One thing Muscat does not fall short of is shopping mall options. Oman Avenues Mall is one of the largest malls in Oman, composed of more than 72,000 square miles. It is made up of 150 international and regional brand shops, as well as having a gym, cinema, children’s entertainment center, and a bowling alley. If you don’t get enough of your shopping fix at Oman Avenues Mall, then head to one of the oldest malls in Muscat, City Centre Muscat . It is home to more than 220 international lifestyle brands, 24 international dining outlets such as Nando’s and Buffalo Wild Wings, as well as 10-screen VOX Cinemas, the largest in Oman.

Behold Bait Al Zubair Museum

Opened in 1998, Bait Al Zubair is one of the first heritage and cultural centers in Muscat. It houses one of the largest permanent art collections and artifacts in the country. The immaculate building is a sight to see, as it was one of the first recipients of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos’ Award for Architectural Excellence. It is made up of six separate buildings, a garden with a miniature Omani village, and an aflaj irrigation system (an ancient Omani water channel). 

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UNESCO and UNWTO Sign Muscat Declaration on Tourism and Culture: Fostering Sustainable Development

Culture, in all of its wondrous expressions, inspires more than 1.2 billion tourists to pack a bag and cross international borders each year.  It is an important means to promote inter-cultural dialogue, create employment opportunities, curb rural migration, and nurture a sense of pride among host communities. Yet unmanaged, it can also harm the very heritage cultural tourism relies on.

Recognizing that a sustainable, approach with buy-in from all partners, is crucial to cultural tourism, peacebuilding and heritage protection, on 12 December, the Muscat Declaration on Tourism and Culture: Fostering Sustainable Development was signed by representatives of UNESCO, the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), delegations, private sector, local communities and NGOs. 

This concluded the two-day World Conference on Tourism and Culture co-organized by UNESCO and the UNWTO and hosted by the Sultanate of Oman. Through the Declaration, some 30 Ministers and Vice Ministers of Tourism and Culture, and 800 participants from 70 countries, reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen the synergies between tourism and culture, and to advance the contribution of cultural tourism to the 2030 Agenda on Sustainable Development.

“Cultural tourism is growing, in popularity, in importance and in diversity embracing innovation and change. Yet, with growth comes increased responsibility, responsibility to protect our cultural and natural assets, the very foundation of our societies and our civilizations” said UNWTO Secretary-General, Taleb Rifai.

Francesco Bandarin, UNESCO Assistant Director-General for Culture, emphasized that we need to create a positive dynamic between culture and tourism “that promotes sustainability while benefiting local communities. This dynamic must contribute to safe and sustainable cities, decent work, reduced inequalities, the environment, promoting gender equality and peaceful and inclusive societies.”

Ministers from Cambodia, Libya, Somalia, Iraq and Vietnam discussed the role of cultural tourism as a factor of peace and prosperity, and shared views on the capacity of tourism to support the recovery of their countries.

The Declaration calls for cultural tourism policies that not only empower local communities, but also employ new, innovative tourism models that advance sustainable development, host-guest interaction, and cultural exchange.  It promotes integrating sustainable cultural tourism and the protection of heritage in national, regional and international security frameworks.  The Declaration also references UNESCO’s 1972 Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage and 2005 Convention for the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions in relation to these objectives.

Ahmed Bin Nasser Al Mahrizi, Minister of Tourism of the Sultanate of Oman, highlighted the importance of exchanging experiences and ideas to achieving sustainable tourism development. Participants shared best practices on issues such as community engagement, visitors’ management, and use of resources from tourism in conservation in such diverse locations as the Ngorongoro Conservation Area in Tanzania, the Ras Al Khaimah in the United Arab Emirates or the Palace of Versailles in France.  Entrepreneurship, SME's and the protection of traditional knowledge were viewed as compatible with developing sustainable tourism, with examples from India in the hotel sector and in other regions developing local food initiatives. Other examples included World Bank projects revitalizing cultural heritage for sustainable tourism development, and Seabourn Cruise Line’s partnership with UNESCO to raise awareness of World Heritage with their guests.

Following the first UNWTO/UNESCO World Conference on Tourism and Culture in Cambodia in 2015, this second Conference was part of the official events of the 2017 International Year of Sustainable Tourism, so declared by the United Nations.  Istanbul (Turkey) and Kyoto (Japan) will host the 2018 and 2019, editions respectively.

Useful links

Official Conference website: http://tourismandculture.cvent.com

UNESCO World Heritage and Sustainable Tourism Programme: here

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10 Best Things To Do In Muscat: A Perfect Muscat Itinerary

By: Author Lotte

Posted on Last updated: February 9, 2023

Categories Oman

Muscat is a sprawling city, with several interesting neighborhoods, each with their own character and Muscat highlights.

If you are planning a trip to Oman and are looking for things to do in Muscat, this extensive Muscat city guide is for you!

The best things to do in Muscat

Disclosure: Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you!). We're very grateful when you use our links to make a purchase:-).

This post has been created in collaboration with several other travel bloggers, who have shared their favorite Muscat sightseeing activity to create this post and inspire you to visit Muscat, Oman.

Muscat tourist map

All the activities in Muscat mentioned above can be found on the map below. I've also added the Muscat hotels in the different price ranges.

Click here for the interactive map

10 things to see and do in Muscat

Visit the sultan qaboos grand mosque, enjoy traditional omani food at kargeen.

• Go hiking in Muttrah

Stroll along Muttrah Corniche

Shop at muttrah souq, learn about oman in the national museum, go on an eco-dolphin watching tour.

• Visit Bait-Al-Baranda Museum
• Enjoy a show at the Royal Opera House

Relax at Shatti Al Qurum Beach

Top 5 tours in and around Muscat

• Muscat city tour (half day) : explore Muscat on a half-day tour of the traditional markets and city landmarks, such as the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. Learn about the history and modern-day culture of the cosmopolitan city. Click here to book .
• Dolphin-watching tour : experience an amazing dolphin-watching tour off the coast of Muscat. Sail around Oman’s beautiful coastline and admire the crystal-clear waters while keeping your eyes peeled for pods of dolphins. Click here to book .
• Go snorkeling at the Dimaniyat Islands : enjoy a full day out on the water with this small-group snorkeling cruise to the Dimaniyat Islands. Look for fish, turtles, and other sea life in the pristine corals and bays. Click here to book .
• Take a day trip to Wadi Shab : discover Wadi Shab, a magical waterfall within a cave, and go for a swim in one of the pools. Marvel at the Bimmah Sinkhole on the way back. Click here to book .
• Visit Nizwa and Al Hamra : spend a day discovering Nizwa and experience a great hike in Al Hamra, one of Oman's most beautiful villages. Click here to book .

Things to know when planning a trip to Muscat

Muscat is the capital of Oman and is located in the north of this beautiful country, on the Gulf of Oman. With approximately 1.7 million residents it's the biggest city in Oman.

For anyone wondering ‘ is Muscat worth visiting ‘, I can say from personal experience: yes, absolutely!

The best time to visit Muscat is during the winter months (November-March). Winter does not mean cold in Oman, it means comfortable. The average temperature is usually below 30°C, contrary to the unbearable heat of the summer months (April to September).

Yes, you need a visa for Oman, unless you are a resident of the U.A.E., Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, or Saudi Arabia. Getting an Oman visa isn't difficult, you can easily apply for an E-visa onlin e. There is even a video tutorial to walk you through the process. Depending on the length of your visit, you will either need a 10-day tourist visa (5 OMR) or a 30-day tourist visa (20 OMR).

The currency of Oman is the Omani Rial (OMR) . Coins have a denomination of 5, 10, 25, 50, 100 baisas, and 0.25 and 0.50 rials. Banknote denomination is 100 and 200 baisas, and 0.50, one, five, 10, 20, and 50 rials.

Plan your trip to Oman like a pro with these tools: ✈️ Find the best flight deals on Kiwi.com . ? Get the best 4×4 rental deal for your road trip on Rentalcars.com . ? Stay connected with an  Oman SIM card . ? Plan your journey with the  Oman Lonely Planet . ?️ Find your dream accommodation on Booking.com or Agoda . ? Book the best tours via Get Your Guide or Viator . ?️ Travel safely and get reliable travel insurance from Safety Wing .

The best places to stay in Muscat

There are many excellent hotels in Muscat , from luxury resorts to very affordable accommodations for those traveling to Oman on a budget .

In the table below you can find my recommendations. More information about these hotels can be found further down in the post.

Note: in Oman, hotel rates vary considerably throughout the year. During high season, from November until the end of March, hotel prices are much higher than during the low (because scorching hot) season, which runs from April until October. Therefore, the prices mentioned above are a rough indication of the price per night to help you compare the different options. Use ‘click here' to see the latest prices on Agoda and Booking and book ahead to get the best deal.

How to get around Muscat

Muscat is a very spread-out city, due to the lack of high-rise buildings. Therefore distances between places to see in Muscat are large and it takes some time to get from one side to the other.

There are several ways to get around in Muscat:

• Public transport : there are buses in Muscat and they are very cheap. You can find timetables and routes here . Note that not all Muscat sights are close to a bus station, so some walking is definitely needed when getting around Muscat by bus.
• Taxi or microbus : there are many taxis and micro-buses in Muscat. Except for official Muscat airport taxis, taxis in Muscat don't have meters so bargaining is required, even then they are usually quite expensive.
• Rent a car : despite the fact that traffic is rather heavy in Muscat (unlike the rest of Oman, which is why it's a great place for a road trip), a rental car is the easiest way to get around the city. Roads and signage are generally good and parking is available at most sites and hotels.

What to wear in Muscat

Islam is the state religion in Oman and it's very important to dress appropriately, also as a tourist.

Omani men generally wear a dishdasha (an ankle-length collarless gown) and many women wear abayas (long black dresses).

While you don't have to dress as the Omanis do, please dress conservatively. Wear loose clothes, and long sleeves and avoid shorts.

Especially when visiting religious places, be sure to wear appropriate clothes and behave respectfully!

What to do in Muscat: 10 great attractions in Muscat

Jeff from Our Passion For Travel : a visit to Muscat is not complete without checking out the impressive Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. Arguably the most impressive mosque in all of Oman, it was completed in 2001.

Its five minarets define the pillars of Islam, with the tallest reaching some 91 meters high.

Outside of the mosque, there are several pristine and meticulously maintained courtyards and walkways, each with its own impressive patterns.

Inside the mosque, you’ll find some interesting and beautiful pieces. At the time of opening, the mosque was home to the world’s largest chandelier.

Besides 600,000 Swarovski crystals covering its 14 meters of height, the chandelier is also covered with 24-carat gold plating. This chandelier is heavyweight by any standard, weighing in at 8.5 tonnes!

The big theme doesn’t end there. You’ll find what was once the world’s largest carpet in the Prayer Hall, which can hold 6500 worshipers. It’s 60 by 70 meters in size and took over four years to complete.

The mosque is beautiful inside and out, but so too are the people. If you seek out an Imam as we did, they’ll sit you down over some Omani coffee and dates and provide an overview of Islam, unravel any myths, and answer any questions you might have.

This unique experience comes at no cost to visitors and welcomes those from all faiths. 

Emily from Wander-Lush : if you are looking to sample traditional Omani cuisine at an Omani restaurant, Muscat has many excellent options.

Even if you’re traveling in Oman on a budget, I highly recommend splashing out for brunch at Kargeen, where you can sample some of the best national fares in the capital.

The name Kargeen translates to ‘ little wooden cottage ’. The locally-owned restaurant, which has been a Muscat mainstay since 1997, occupies a beautiful indoor-outdoor space with traditional timber and concrete architecture.

The smell of frankincense greets you as you enter the dining room, which is decorated in traditional style with ornate lighting and antique carpets.

In the cafe’s leafy courtyard, there are different kitchen ‘stations’ set up where you can watch chefs preparing  khubz ragag , traditional Omani bread. And that’s all before you sit down to eat!

Kargeen specializes in Omani and Arabic cuisine, served alongside an extensive range of western dishes. If it’s traditional food you’re interested in, don’t look past the Omani Breakfast .

It consists of bubbly  rukhal  bread served with zaatar, cheese, and honey, Omani-style eggs cooked up with tomatoes, more eggs, this time sweetened with date syrup, chickpea masala,  semya , and lots of Omani coffee or tea on the side.

Dishes are served in delightful little pots and enjoyed sharing style.

Kargeen is located on Al Bashair Street in Muscat’s diplomatic area, about a 15-minute drive from Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque.

The café is open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner from 7 am – except on Fridays when it opens at 12 midday.

A breakfast set costs 6.600 OMR (roughly 17 USD) per person at the time of writing, but for the ambiance and the taste, I think it’s absolutely worth it.

Hiking in Muttrah

Rahma from The Sane Adventurer : when looking for things to do, Muscat is filled with plenty of adventurous activities to do right in the heart of the city.

One of the most popular activities to do is  hiking in Muscat  in the tourist hub of Muttrah, which ends with a panoramic view of the Muttrah corniche and the Arabian Sea.

It is a short hike (just 10km) and it can be completely done self-guided. The best time to do the hike is either during the sunrise or the sunset.

The starting point of the hike is right in front of the parking spot of Riyam Park in Muttrah. There is no signage to mark the start of the hike, but one can see stairs carved into the mountain which leads halfway to the top of the mountain.

Along the hike, regular hikers and locals have marked the direction on the rocks, so it is pretty easy to follow the trail and complete the hike.

As it's a relatively short hiking trail, all you need to carry is some water and maybe light snacks if you wish.

However, one important item to pack is water shoes ( or wear Teva's or similar sandals), as depending on the weather, there might be quite a few pools of water to cross between the mountains.

The hike ends near the Muttrah fort, which is on a cliff and offers great views of the Corniche road. It is also the best place to see the sunrise or sunset!

Wendy from The Nomadic Vegan : the Muttrah Corniche is a seaside promenade that stretches for three kilometers along the waterfront of Muttrah Bay.

It's the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, particularly at sunset! From the Corniche, you have superb views of the mountains as well as of Muttrah Fort (also mentioned above), which sits on top of a hill protecting the bay.

Built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, it is now open to visitors as a tourist attraction and offers a different view of the bay that includes the corniche itself.

Muttrah is Oman's main port area, so you'll be able to watch the dhows unload their wares at the markets.

You may also spot one of the more prominent boats that are usually moored here, including his Majesty's dhow and a fully-rigged training ship named Shabab Oman .

You'll notice plenty of birdlife here, including huge flocks of seagulls. The water is quite clear, so if you look down you should be able to spot plenty of fish swimming in the bay too.

The Corniche is lined with mosques, restaurants, cafes, and latticed buildings. Most of the buildings are painted white, contrasting sharply against the dark hills.

Restaurants here serve various dishes, including traditional Middle Eastern cuisine and more international flavors. A meal at one of the restaurants with an outdoor terrace would be a perfect way to end your walk along the Corniche.

Muttrah is located in a small cove on the eastern side of Muscat. The main road runs right through it, and it can easily be reached by taxi.

Muttrah Souq is the traditional old city Souq and the best place to shop for souvenirs in Muscat.

Here you can find pottery, Omani silverware, frankincense, stacks of colorful kummah with intricate patterns (the traditional cap you will see many Omani men wearing in the streets), and much more.

A very typical Omani item is mandoos , beautifully decorated wooden inlay boxes that come in all sizes and are used to store jewelry and clothes.

Another interesting item that can be found in the Muttrah Souq is the khanjar , which is an Omani dagger.

This short curved sword shaped like the letter j has an important ceremonial function at national festivals, weddings, and other social events. So important that you can even find the khanjar on the flag of Oman!

The best time to visit Muttrah Souq (as with most souqs) is in the afternoon or early evening. You will find many Omani women browsing the Souq as well, so it's definitely worth noting which shops they prefer, as this is a good indication of quality wears being sold.

While I often find it quite exhausting to visit a Souq because of the pushy merchants, I really enjoyed visiting Muttrah Souq.

The shop owners are generally very relaxed and friendly, they will help you when you ask for it but they won't drag you inside their shops or try as with some other souqs I've visited.

Perhaps this is due to the fact that Muscat tourism hasn't fully taken off and there is a good balance between locals and tourists visiting the Souq.

In any case, a stroll around Muttrah Souq should be on your ‘ Muscat things to do list ‘.

The National Museum opened in 2016 and is a great place to learn about Oman. It traces the history of Oman through time, starting at the earliest human settlement in Oman.

This vast museum has 14 permanent galleries about various topics, such as maritime history, Oman currency, and an Armoury. You could easily spend half a day or more in this state-of-the-art museum.

There are interactive displays, videos, and welcoming knowledgeable staff that gladly tells you more about the museum and Oman.

The building itself is quite impressive as well, a landmark fit to hold the thousands of artifacts on display here.

Onsite there are a gift shop and a cafe, so you can enjoy a drink before heading to the next Muscat attraction on your itinerary.

Nabiha from Verses By A Voyager : Muscat is a city of rugged natural beauty with mesmerizing beaches and an abundance of incredible marine life. In fact, there are perfect dive spots very close to the city!

What's more, did you know that you can see dolphins just off the coast of Muscat, Oman ? Just a few kilometers from the Muscat port of Marina Rowdah, beautiful dolphins can be witnessed in pods, an amazing sight to behold!

Not only the sight of dolphins, but the entire boat trip to the sighting spot is very enjoyable and not to be missed on your Muscat itinerary.

There are plenty of boat trips organized from Marina Rowdah, which take you to the spot where dolphins are found in abundance.

Click here to book a dolphin-watching tour

The best reason to go dolphin watching in Muscat is that you can watch dolphins in their natural habitat, rather than in sea-life parks which are unethical to visit.

The best time for this activity is between April and August, as dolphins are most frequently seen during these months. The dolphin-watching Muscat tours last about 3 hours and cost 10 OMR (26 USD).

There are generally two trips every day, one at 8 am and the second one at 12 pm. Note that the 8 am trip is the best one for dolphin spotting.

In order to get to the marina, you can either take a cab (the fastest) or use public transport (the cheapest). Buses run from the city center, the trip is usually quite long but much cheaper than taking a cab.

Dolphin watching in Muscat is definitely a must-do activity when visiting the city during the summer months!

Learn about the history of Muscat at the Bait-Al-Baranda Museum

David from Surveys Fanatic : the Bait-Al-Baranda Museum is my favorite museum in Muscat! It's one of the best places in Muscat to learn about the history of the city.

While only a small museum, it still manages to cover the history of Muscat from 750 million years ago until the present day.

The story of Muscat begins with how the area was formed geographically. It's very interesting to learn about the tectonic plates around Muscat and how the surrounding Omani Mountains came to be.

In the Bait-Al-Baranda Museum, you will also learn about the founding of Muscat and how it developed over time. Much of it is shown through maps, which makes it easy to follow the story.

The exhibits are quite interactive, with many questions where you can guess the answer and subsequently read the explanations.

There is also a culture exhibit, with information on folk arts, clothing, and general information about the area. There are lots of informative displays and this museum truly is the best introduction to Muscat and Oman as a whole.

The Bait-Al-Baranda museum currently costs 1 OMR for adults and 500 baisa for kids. It is open Saturday to Thursday, from 9 am to 1 pm and 4 pm to 6 pm.

The museum is located on the seafront in Muttrah, just a short walk from the boardwalk and Muttrah Souq.

Visit the Royal Opera House 

Ania from the Travelling Twins : your first impression of Muscat will almost certainly be from the main city artery: the Sultan Qaboos Highway.

The city’s two most majestic buildings both face this road. One of them is the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque (mentioned above), and the other one is the Royal Opera House.

The Royal Opera House in Muscat was the first Opera house built in the Middle East. It's not only a beautiful modern building, but it also incorporates advanced technology for translation and engineering for transforming the auditorium.

The main lobby and auditorium are as impressive as the building’s exterior. Lavish interiors of carved and polished white stone and timber combine traditional and modern themes.

They will transport you to a time when a night in an opera was reserved for the rich and noble. If you want to visit the Opera today, dress smart and modestly and enjoy being part of the whole scene.

Important: be mindful of the dress code at the Royal Opera House, even during the day you may not be allowed inside if you are wearing shorts.

If you would like to see the interior, you can book a full tour of the Opera and see for yourself the royal box and all the advanced engineering systems.

Or just drop in during the day between 9 am and 11 am to see the outer hall and box office which will give you a taste of the opulent interiors.

After the performance, you can pop into a number of theater restaurants or cafes in the Galleria, or go for a stroll along Shatti beach, which is only a few hundred meters away. 

Elaine from Show them the Globe : Shatti Al Qurum is a lively beach in the heart of Muscat.

With its golden sands and clear waters, Shatti Al Qurum is one of the best beaches in Muscat. The beach is a popular spot for relaxing, swimming, and feeling the sand between one’s toes.

It’s a lovely walk along the coconut tree-covered promenade which lines the beach, where food and drink options include coffee shops, cafes, and BBQ areas.

Shatti Al Qurum is also a great spot to catch the sunset. The views are stunning as the sun slowly sets over the Gulf of Oman.

The beach is a magnet for locals and tourists alike. It gets crowded in the evenings as the Muscat temperatures cool and on Fridays when the weekend starts.

There’s usually lots of activity at Shatti Al Qurum, with groups playing sports such as volleyball and football. It’s also popular with families and was one of our favorite places to spend time in  Oman with kids .

Shatti Al Qurum is located in the residential Qurum district which is home to some of Muscat’s finest hotels, the incredible Muscat Opera House (mentioned above), and a theater.

This Muscat beach is most easily reached by car but is also accessible by bus. Make sure to bring sunscreen, water, and lots of patience to grab one of the highly coveted parking spots along the beach!

More Muscat places to visit

Here are some other interesting things to see in Muscat, if you've got some more time to explore this wonderful capital.

Al Alam Palace

One of the official residences of Sultan Qaboos. While the palace is not open to the public, you can explore the gardens around the palace and admire the beautiful building from the outside.

Al Jalali Fort

This impressive fort can be found in the harbor of Old Muscat, Oman.

Originally built by the Portuguese in 1580, it served different functions throughout the decades. The Fort was meticulously restored in 1983 and converted into a museum.

You have to apply for a permit to visit, but even if you don't intend to visit the museum it's still very worthwhile to admire this beautiful Fort (built on top of a rock) from the outside!

Oman Children's Museum

A great place in Muscat for families is the Oman Children's Museum.

Your kids will love this hands-on science museum, with many interactive displays (such as fake electric shocks, triggering a lightning bolt, and photographing your own shadow).

Where to stay in Muscat

Best budget hotels in muscat, mutrah hotel ☆☆.

Mutrah Hotel is a great budget hotel in Muscat and within walking distance of Mutrah Souq and the Corniche. The rooms are spacious and clean, the staff is very friendly and the breakfast is very tasty.

Book via Agoda | Book via Booking

The Secure Inn Hotel ☆☆☆

The Secure Inn Hotel is a nice option for those looking for a good but cheap hotel in Muscat. A new and modern hotel with onsite parking, large rooms, and a wellness area (hot tub and sauna).

Best 4-star hotels in Muscat

Levatio hotel ☆☆☆☆.

The Levatio is a beautiful 4-star hotel with an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, and onsite restaurant.

There is also a spa, free parking, and currency exchange services. Rooms are nicely decorated, and have comfortable beds and tea-making facilities.

Hilton Garden Inn Muscat Al Khuwair ☆☆☆☆

One can never go wrong by staying at a Hilton Hotel. The Hilton Garden Inn Al Khuwair is a modern hotel with a tasteful design and an outdoor pool.

Rooms come with city or mountain views. For traveling families: there is a children's play area as well!

Best luxury hotels in Muscat

Al bustan palace ☆☆☆☆☆.

This is the most popular and best luxury resort in Muscat. For a bucket-list-worthy stay and to celebrate special occasions such as a honeymoon or wedding anniversary, this is the place to be.

While spending a night at Al Bustan Palace comes with a (hefty) price tag , you will experience Omani hospitality to its fullest.

With an onsite Six Senses Spa, the poolside BLU cocktail bar, and the Ritz Kids entertainment program for children, there is something for every family member to enjoy.

W Muscat ☆☆☆☆☆

Also an excellent 5-star hotel but more affordable is the W Muscat . With professional and attentive staff, beautiful design, an outdoor pool, and not one but five onsite restaurants, you will surely enjoy your stay at the W.

What to see in Muscat: in conclusion

I hope this Muscat guide will help you plan a trip to Muscat, Oman !

It's a beautiful authentic city, where you can eat great Omani food, visit lots of interesting sites and get to know the friendly Omani people. Let me know if you have any questions about planning a trip to Muscat!

This post was updated in December 2022.

A guide to visit Muscat in 3 days

By Joan Torres 6 Comments Last updated on April 5, 2024

Looking for a place to stay? Check my guide on how to find the right accommodation in Muscat

Conveniently placed on a millennia-old trade route which served as an important, natural itinerary to Mesopotamia and Persia and, today, where a significant part of world’s petrol passes by, Muscat, the capital of Oman, has been a city of vital importance for centuries. 

Therefore, it doesn’t surprise me that Muscat is one of those capitals with so many layers of history, whose strategic location made it particularly appealing for quite a few empires, from the Persian Sassanids to the Arabs, the Ottoman and the Portuguese, the last one being defeated in 1744 by the same dynasty that has been ruling since then. 

Today, Muscat is a modern metropolis, where you can find all the luxury the Gulf Monarchies are famous for, yet, unlike Dubai , it has a real soul, its own character, traditions, and history. 

It’s a fascinating capital, like nowhere else in the region. 

This guide contains everything you need to know to visit Muscat , including places to visit, how to move around, where to stay and other curiosities and tips.

In this Muscat travel guide you will find:

Table of Contents

• Best time to visit
• Orientation
• Where to stay
• How to get in
• Day 1: Mutrah and Al-Bustan
• Day 2: Sultan Qaboos Mosque and Ruwi
• Day 3: Al-Qurum
• Transportation
• More Information

Travel insurance for Oman Get IATI Insurance : outdoor activities coverage + COVID-19 Buy it here to get a 5% discount

Introduction to visiting Muscat

Check: The best excursions and day tours from Muscat

Muscat is a city that has been growing on me. 

I have visited Muscat several times and when I first visited it, I actually didn’t like it much.

We had come during the utterly hot and humid month of July, plus we had done absolutely no research about the city, as we were just expecting to hang out in the city’s downtown for a while, but it turns out that Muscat doesn’t really have a city center.

It is a city composed of several cities located all over the place, so if you don’t really know where to go, you just end up seeing wide avenues and traffic. 

But then, I kept coming back, with a little more knowledge and traveling experience, so I started discovering all those neighborhoods and places to visit in Muscat, one by one, learning about its great history and hanging out with the kind Omanis. 

What I love about Muscat is that, unlike other capitals in the region, they didn’t need to waste money in building extravagant buildings in order to appear in the World Guinness Records, I guess because they didn’t need to, as people travel to Oman and Muscat because this is a real, welcoming city, inhabited by down-to-Earth Omanis who will bless you with their kindness and hospitality. 

Read: Riyadh (Saudi Arabia) travel guide

Best time to visit Muscat

It is important to travel to Muscat during the right season:

• Summer: Avoid it, totally. Temperatures average 45ºC, plus it is extremely humid, day and night. Basically, life stops pretty much during this season.
• Autumn and spring: Summers are long, so try to also avoid late spring and early autumn because the weather will still be quite unbearable.
• Winter: Best time to travel to Muscat. Pleasant weather all day long.

Read: What to do in Dubai in 1 week

How to orientate in Muscat

Muscat is kind of a linear city that stretches over 70km following the coastline. 

The city is spread out, making it impossible to walk, and difficult to move around by public transportation, and it is composed of several neighborhoods, so different from each other that they could literally be like small cities, most of them not being walking-friendly either. 

This means that Muscat isn’t one of those cities where you just go for a random walk and see what you bump into, but planning ahead before leaving your hotel or house is a must. 

Sultan Qaboos Street is a multi-lane highway that goes through the middle of the city, making it pretty easy to orientate, as no matter where you go, you need to enter it and then leave it at the respective exit. 

It is a weirdly planned city, but the fact is that all capitals in the Gulf Monarchies are planned in a similar way but, once you get used to, it should be easy to navigate. 

That’s why choosing the right area to stay in Muscat is key for your trip

Where to stay in Muscat

These are just a few examples. For a more comprehensive guide, check my guide: Best areas where to stay in Muscat

Muscat is very big, so it is important to choose the right accommodation based on your preferred area. Here is some guidance. 

Staying in Ruwi

For budget travelers and backpackers. It is like Little India, where you find the best and cheapest Indian restaurants and it has the most convenient location, as it is close to everything and it is where the main bus station is, with buses going to Salalah and Dubai, ideal for those who don’t have a car. 

Budget Hotel –  Golden Tulip Headington – A really good value-for-money option in the most convenient area.

5-star Hotel – Sheraton – The best hotel next to the Ruwi area. It is a luxury hotel but prices are relatively low due to the location.

Staying in Qurum

Where expats live in, so you find the largest selection of Western-style restaurants, bars, hotels, and the nicest beach.

Budget Hotel Apartments – Coral Muscat – A fantastic value-for-money option, these apartments are some of the best in town.

5-star hotel – Intercontinental Hotel – A fancy hotel in the best area of Qurum.

Staying in Old Muscat

Cheaper than Qurum and close to Oman’s main attractions. Perfect for sightseeing. 

Budget Hotel – Naseem Hotel – A simple, but very clean hotel, located next to most attractions.

How to get to Muscat

You may also be interested in reading my Salalah travel guide

Traveling to Muscat by air

Muscat International Airport is growing so, today, you find plenty of connections with several cities in Europe and Asia. Nevertheless, I recommend you check the flights to Dubai first, as it is usually cheaper. 

Traveling to Muscat by land

Oman shares a border with UAE, Yemen and Saudi Arabia .

UAE – Traveling from Dubai to Muscat is a 400km drive. You can come by car but there are also buses from Bur Dubai. Read my 1-week itinerary to the UAE

Saudi – Apparently, the border was recently opened, but there are no buses and it is actually faster going through UAE, which would be a 1,300km drive from Riyadh to Muscat. Read my travel guide to Saudi Arabia . 

Yemen – The border is open but it is a very long drive and, most likely, you won’t be coming from there. 

Traveling to Muscat by boat – You can come by ferry from Musandam, an exclave within UAE that belongs to Oman. Read my Musandam travel guide . 

Places to visit in Muscat – 3-day itinerary

Looking for a day trip? Check the best excursions and activities you can do from Muscat

Essentially, there are 4 neighborhoods worth visiting in your Muscat itinerary: Mutrah, Al-Bustan, Ruwi, and Al-Qurum.

And then you have Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque which is located somewhere on Sultan Qaboos Road. 

Map of the things to do in Muscat

Places to visit in Muscat on day 1 – Mutrah and Al-Bustan

Mutrah and Al-Bustan, the last one being the actual Old Muscat, were two separate cities, or localities, whose harbors used to compete with each other somehow, Mutrah mainly serving as the engaging harbor of Al-Bustan, therefore Muscat. 

However, Mutrah also became a prosperous town for the simple reason that Muscat was not easily accessible by land, due to the mountains, so the camel caravans preferred to enter the region via Mutrah. 

They were two cities that complemented each other and today, they are the actual soul of the city and where the most interesting places to visit in Muscat are. 

Things to do in Mutrah

Fish Market – From giant tuna to marlin, this is one of the best places to visit in Muscat and the greatest fish market I have ever visited in the Gulf, better than the one that used to be in Dubai, for the simple reason that here, the stalls are run by local Omanis. Try to go early, around 6-7am, when the market is busier. If you come at 9-10am, some of the stalls are already empty. 

Mutrah Souq and lanes – Mutrah Souq is yet another souq and, honestly, my one of my least favorite things to do in Muscat, as it has become a touristic souq filled with souvenirs and very annoying sellers who don’t let you enjoy the place. There are, however, some parts of the souq where the locals buy, like the Gold Souq, but overall, after visiting tens of souqs all around the Middle East , this one isn’t particularly exciting. 

More interesting for me was wandering around Mutrah’s maze of streets, discovering traditional shops and kind-hearted Omanis, but also a large Indian and Bengali population. You will notice that this area is actually inhabited by the Omani poor, something you will never see in Qatar or UAE, which leads to the conclusion that Oman is a normal country. 

Shia District (Sur Al Lawatia) – Like most Shia communities around the Arab world living in primarily Sunni countries, the Omani Shia population living in Sur Al Lawatia is paranoid about outsiders, as the small Shia districts have always been a target for terrorist groups such as ISIS, especially in Lebanon .

I read that visitors are not welcome in the area, but I did enter and nobody said anything to me. However, hide your camera and don’t take photos , not even with your phone. 

Corniche – A cool place to walk around and take pictures of Mutrah’s skyline. Also, check out the harbor, where the Sultan’s impressive private yacht is anchored – when he is not using it. 

Mutrah Fort – Built by the Portuguese in the 16th century during their rule, Mutrah’s fort dominates the eastern edge of Mutrah. The fort isn’t very exciting but the views are great and entrance is free.

Things to do in Al-Bustan (Old Muscat)

Al-Bab al Kabir (Muscat Gate Museum) – This beautifully renovated building used to be the main entrance to Muscat and today, it has a museum that showcases the history and development of Oman. 

Al Mirani Fort – Also built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, this is my favorite fort to visit in Muscat (there is a third one visible from here named Al Jalali) but you are not allowed to enter.

However, from outside you have great views of the Old Harbor and a different perspective of Sultan Qaboos’ private palace. 

Al Alam Palace – The Sultan’s private home design seems to have been taken from Aladdin’s movie. You can’t enter, and I doubt they offer tours, but the exterior of the building is unique. 

National Museum – It showcases the history of Oman, from the first human evidence 5 million years ago to today. Entrance costs 5OR (13USD), which is quite pricey for a museum in this region, as both Riyadh and Dubai’s national museums cost a few cents. 

Things to do in Muscat on day 2 – Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque and Ruwi

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque – Of all the tourist places in Muscat, this is, definitely, the most visited one. An absolutely outstanding mosque mainly made of marble that has one of the largest Persian carpets in the world, weighing 600 tonnes of fine wool and cotton in 28 colors and made by 600 female weavers.

It also has a huge chandelier which used to be the biggest in the world, until its neighbor Abu Dhabi built a bigger one for the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.

An amazing mosque, really. Try to go there early because it is worth spending two hours at least and it only opens from 8 till 11am (for non-Muslims). On Friday, the mosque is closed. Remember that men should cover their knees and women their head, shoulders, and legs. Entrance is free. 

Ruwi – Skipped by most travelers but, in my opinion, one of the top places to visit in Muscat, Ruwi used to be a small village attached to Muscat and Mutrah and, today is popularly called Little India, similar to Deira in Dubai, as most of its population are Indians, Bengalis, and Pakistanis, from many different social and economic levels.

This means that here you find the largest selection of amazing Indian restaurants, most of them being very cheap. In the evening, Ruwi’s souq gets very busy, especially on Friday. 

I was actually staying here during my last visit to Muscat, as it is cheap, has the best food, is close to everything and has the main bus station to go anywhere in Muscat and Oman, including a direct bus from the airport. 

What to do in Muscat on day 3 – Al Qurum

Chill out in the expat area – If you want a change from Arabic and Indian food, this part of Al Qurum (highlighted in the map) has a large range of restaurants and shops of all kinds, from French bakeries to seafood restaurants and several international chains. The area also has 5-star hotels where you can find bars. I had a beer at the Trader Vic’s inside Intercontinental Hotel.  

For this reason, this is where most Western expats live, and you will see that it is actually a completely different world from Ruwi and Mutrah. 

Al Qurum Beach – The best and cleanest beach in the city, along whose shores coconut palms grow, which provides a sort of Caribbean touch. Local families also come here for a picnic on weekends. 

Royal Opera House – One of the most iconic buildings in Muscat is the Royal Opera House. I recommend you come here at sunset, when the building walls acquire a beautiful orange color and, when it gets dark, they light it up with different colors.

You can enter the main hall but, if you want to visit the entire building, you need to go on a tour, which costs 5OR. 

Day tours from Muscat

For more information, check trips and tours you can do from Muscat

These are some of the tours they offer:

Muscat half-day city tour – An easy way to explore the city.

Nizwa day trip from Muscat – Visit one of the oldest cities in Oman.

Wahiba Sands and Wadi Bani Khalid – Go to the actual desert dunes and to one of the greatest wadis.

Dolphin watching and snorkeling – The waters outside of Muscat are full of dolphins and an incredible marine life.

Transportation: How to move around Muscat

Getting to and from the airport:.

• By taxi – I recommend you download either Uber or Careem but, if you don’t have internet access, a taxi ride to Mutrah for example, should cost around 6-8OR. Note that they will try to charge you more. 
• By bus – There is a red bus that goes all the way to Ruwi along Sultan Qaboos Road, so depending on where you are staying, it can be very convenient. 

Moving around Muscat by regular taxi

If you don’t have a car, taxis are the way to go in Muscat. They don’t have taximeters, however, and taxi drivers from Muscat are really annoying because they always try to rip off tourists. Like I said, your best bet will be using either Careem or Uber. 

Renting a car

Renting a car will actually be cheaper than relying on taxis all the time, and it’s a super convenient way to visit Muscat.

Moving around Muscat by bus

The bus that goes all the way from the airport to Ruwi stops in a bunch of places in between, including the Opera House (Qurum) and near Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. There is also a bus that goes from Ruwi to Mutrah. A single ticket costs a maximum of 500 baisas, depending on where you go. 

Hitchhiking in Muscat

For budget backpackers, I have to say that hitchhiking within Muscat is fairly easy, so don’t be afraid of doing it! Omanis are super kind and love meeting foreigners! For more budget tips, read my backpacking tips for Oman .

More information for visiting Muscat

📢 In my Travel Resources Page you can find the list of all the sites and services I use to book hotels, tours, travel insurance and more.

All guides and articles for traveling in Oman destination

• Travel Guide to Musandam
• Travel Guide to Oman
• Where to Stay in Muscat
• Best Activities, Tours and Excursion in Oman
• A City Guide to Salalah Dhofar
• Oman Budget Guide
• Solo Female Travel Guide to Oman
• Is Oman Safe?

Check more city guides

• Tunis Travel Guide
• Asmara Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Riyadh
• Travel Guide to Dubai
• Beirut Travel Guide
• Erbil Travel Guide
• Tehran Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Astana
• Tashkent Travel Guide
• Baku Travel Guide
• Tbilisi Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Minsk
• Kiev Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Nouakchott
• A City Guide to Mosul

Muscat is a hidden gem. If you travel south along the coast you can find some places to camp with beautiful water and lots of sea life if you take a snorkel. I never made it to Salalah, but maybe next time. Also, try heading out to the sands. There you will find people racing up the dunes. Great place to camp as well.

Wadi Shab is a great hike as well. Through the mountains and you can even swim through a small opening into a cave. Worth the hike!!

Hi, I am glad to have landed on this page. Planning to visit Oman once things settle down. ( yes the Covid thingy). Good write up. Haven’t digested yet. Regards from Malaysia.

Great, hope the country opens soon!

Hi Joan, Your write up is great as ever. I grew up in Oman and there are a lot of memories and emotions attached to Oman. Lovely country and great people. Thanks again, All the best in all you do. Regards, AK

cheers, thank you so much 🙂

Thanks for all the tips Joan, I’m just back from a trip to Oman and wanted to add that there is currently a hostel in Muscat for any travellers looking to save money. It’s well located, in walking distance to Mutrah and Ruwi, and the owner Khalid is very helpful, even offering personal excursions around Muscat and beyond to his guests (for free I think).

it’s on Airbnb, not booking, so here’s a link if it’s ok to share with everyone https://abnb.me/5TBKSdeRtvb

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Positive outlook for Oman tourism Industry in 2023

The Sultanate of Oman’s tourism sector performed exceptionally well, and exceeded expectations in 2022, two senior officials of the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism told the Observer in an exclusive interview.

Reviewing the performance of the tourism industry in 2022, Eng Ibrahim bin Said al Kharousi, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism for Heritage, said: “Even after taking into account the pandemic-related circumstances of 2020, the performance of the tourism sector in 2022 has exceeded our expectations for many reasons, which include the keenness of people to get out of their homes and travel, and the fact that Oman has a lot to offer to the incoming tourists.”

Pitching in, Asma al Hajri, Deputy Director General of Tourism Promotion, said: “We all know that 2020-21 was an exceptional year for tourism due to lockdowns, but the fact is that 2.9 million tourists we received in 2022 are only 16 percent away from figures of 2019 when we received around 3.5 million tourists. Travel bookings by our partners in the GCC and Europe suggest that Q1 of 2023 will be healthier compared to 2022.”

Asma said that being a Fifa partner country did help the tourism sector, but it was only one of the factors. “There were several roadshows and trade fairs in which the ministry has participated, and that has also helped last year.”

Al Kharousi said that the focus of the ministry is to continue to promote leisure and adventure tourism. “We have to target different segments of society. Some people have low expectations of the country, but they are shocked when they come here to find the opportunities and options we have.”

Asma said the Saudi Arabian market is among the important ones and the second best after the UAE. “In 2023, we will focus on bringing tourists from the GCC. Europe has been slowing down, but we expect a recovery by 2024. Overall, we expect the tourism sector growth to reach 2019 levels this year and fully recover by 2024.”

Asma added that a number of new initiatives and projects are in the pipeline, but details cannot be revealed at this stage.

Earlier in this speech at the Global Travel Week at Jumeirah Muscat Bay, represented by the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, Al Kharousi, said that Oman saw a rise in number of tourists, which, he said, stood at 2.9 million in 2022 - which grew by 348 percent, compared to 2021. The number of tourism projects and hotel establishments also increased relatively, he added.

TOURISM WEEK

The Global Travel Week Middle East, hosted by Oman, is exploring vistas of enhancing partnership and communication between international luxury travel and tourism companies, on one side, and their counterparts in Oman, on the other side.

This was realized through tourism service providers’ use of innovative communication methods to establish long-term relationships and exchange expertise.

As many as 200 specialists in the field of luxury tourism from different countries of the world are participating in the week, which is organized by Oman represented by the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism.

The event seeks to introduce tourism hotspots, exchange tourism experiences, and reaffirm commitment to support and develop travel and tourism in the region.

The opening ceremony was held under the auspices of Eng Ibrahim bin Said al Kharousi, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism for Heritage.

Al Kharousi pointed out that Global Travel Week seeks ways to establish long-term relations between international markets and GCC states. This is in addition to attracting major tourism companies and institutions specialized in luxury, entertainment, and adventure tourism, with the prime aim of showcasing Oman’s tourism potential.

Global Travel Week attracts tourism companies and various entities operating in the tourism sector from different countries of the world. It offers them an opportunity to meet their counterparts from tourism here, enables all to explore joint cooperation, and introduces Omani culture to international companies.

The activities of the event, which runs till Tuesday, include familiarisation trips to the governorates of Muscat, Al Dakhiliyah, North Al Sharqiyah, and Musandam. The trips will introduce participating companies from abroad to see tourist attractions in Oman. The program will be carried out with the participation of 40 Omani tourism firms and hotel establishments.

@vinot_nair

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The 8 best places to visit in Oman: rugged mountains, seaside towns and culture-rich cities

Jan 9, 2022 • 9 min read

Learn about Oman and its rich heritage in these top places to visit © Long Nguyen / Getty Images

Oman ’s vibrant cultural heritage is deeply intertwined with the gifts of its terrain, and it permeates every travel experience here. 

The country’s stories are found everywhere you go, from the atmospheric lanes of Mutrah Souq in Muscat, where ornate khanjars (traditional daggers) and patterned kumma (headpiece worn by Omani men) showcase excellent craftsmanship and pride, to the cliffside villages of Jebel Akhdar where old men in sandals expertly navigate narrow farm trails and distill rose water in silver bowls. Every encounter in Oman evokes a strong sense of the land.

Few visitors realize that the history of the Sultanate of Oman dates back 10,000 years. Archeological finds and relics from the Neolithic period point to the presence of ancient settlements involved in the frankincense trade. In the 17th century, Omani control of maritime routes and ports extended from the coasts of Persia (present-day Iran) to East Africa. Today, the country is known for its reverence for its natural landscapes and its perfect balance of tradition and modernity. 

Here are the best places to visit in Oman. 

Muscat: an effortlessly charming capital city

In Muscat , stone forts with watchtowers and mansions with latticed balconies stand alongside low-rise buildings and contemporary architectural masterpieces, and it all fits together effortlessly. The capital of Oman has much to see, including charming museums in restored old houses, courtyard restaurants and swanky shopping malls. The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque , with its arched walkways, colorful mosaic tiles, ornate dome and Swarovski-crystal-studded chandelier, is an impressive example of modern Islamic architecture. 

At the Royal Opera House , take a guided tour to learn about the contemporary architecture inspired by historical fortresses. Check the schedule for showtimes: the venue hosts renowned productions from around the world. The Royal Opera House’s dress code requires suits or dinner jackets for men, dresses below the knee for women and no jeans, T-shirts or tennis shoes. Admire whitewashed houses and blue-domed mosques along the 3km (1.9-mile) seafront promenade at Mutrah Corniche . Stroll toward Mutrah Fish Market for a closer look at the calligraphy-inspired slatted canopy roof and step inside to see the catch of the day. At Mutrah Souq , one of the oldest markets in the Arab world, you’ll find shops selling frankincense, lamps, local attire, pashminas, oud (perfume made from agarwood) and handmade sandals. 

Bahla: home to a legendary fort

The fortified oasis town of Bahla, where local legends and myths abound, is a must-visit for Bahla Fort , a Unesco World Heritage Site. Within the labyrinthine fort complex, built between the 12th and 15th centuries by the Banu Nebhan tribe and then expanded by subsequent ruling dynasties, you’ll find wind towers, mosques, houses and wells. Legend has it the tribe asked jinn, powerful spirits in pre-Islamic Arabian mythology, to build the fort in a single night when the tribe was under threat of attack. The fort has fantastic views over old mud houses and ruins in the village, surrounded by date plantations. 

Bahla is also famous for pottery crafted using mud kilns, and local potters are believed to be blessed with particularly skilled hands. You can browse pottery, jewelry, handicrafts, rugs and other wares at the Bahla Old Souq , and you might also be able to see potters in action at a workshop nearby.

Don’t miss the 17th-century Jabreen Castle a short drive away, worth visiting for its many rooms and reception areas, intricately latticed windows, painted ceilings and a date storeroom.

Nizwa: a city with a strong religious and cultural heritage

Visit the town of Nizwa , the capital of Oman in the 6th and 7th centuries, where the domes and minarets of mosques rise over sand-colored buildings surrounded by the Hajar Mountains. Owing to its inland location (versus that of Muscat on the coast) that limited outside influences, Nizwa has always had a strong connection to its religious and cultural heritage.

The 17th-century Nizwa Fort , with its round watchtower and high walls, protected the town from invaders over the Sultanate’s history and is a major tourist sight. At the nearby Nizwa Souq , shop for silver jewelry, delal (traditional coffee pots), saffron, dates and spices.

A 10-minute drive away, Falaj Daris Park , a Unesco World Heritage Site, is a great spot to see a falaj channel, an ancient but highly efficient irrigation method. This one, among nearly a hundred others, waters Nizwa’s 8km (5-mile-long) palm oasis and surrounding agricultural farms. 

Musandam Peninsula: where mountain peaks rise from the sea

The draw of the Musandam Peninsula is the sublime landscape of jagged peaks of the Hajar Mountains rising from the turquoise sea, leaving narrow inlets of water in between, a sight that has been compared to the fjords of Norway.

A boat trip on a traditional dhow (wooden boat) is the best way to experience the Musandam Peninsula, visiting islands and spotting a dolphin or whale in these waters. The town of Khasab is a good base from which to arrange a boat tour or snorkeling trip, or a mountain safari by 4WD to Jebel Harim . If you’ve got more time, other villages, wadis and fjord-like inlets such as Khor Najd are ready to be explored.

Jebel Akhdar: find cooler temperatures at Green Mountain

At 2980m (9777ft) up in the Hajar Mountains, Jebel Akhdar – whose name translates to Green Mountain – is one of the most beautiful places in Oman. It’s also one of the coolest, with ​​the temperature being about 15°C (59°F) cooler than Muscat throughout the year. The mountain even sees some snowfall in winter. 

Around Jebel Akhdar, you’ll find quiet Omani villages (some abandoned), slopes covered with terraced farms watered by falaj channels and orchards of pomegranates, peaches, apples, apricots and walnuts. In the spring, Jebel Akhdar is covered by pink Damask roses. The distilled rose water is used in cooking and as a fragrance.

Walkers will find a few marked trails of varying difficulty, and some involve descending steep steps. Guided hikes are also available. From the Saiq Plateau, enjoy breathtaking views of the villages, and terraced farms. You can also traverse the mountain face using a via ferrata (mountain route) during a guided hike with Alila Jabal Akhdar .

Jebel Shams: remarkable views in the Hajar Mountains

Go to Jebel Shams , the country’s highest peak at 3009m (9872ft) in the Hajar Mountains, for a picnic on the plateau with dramatic canyon views. Hikers can head out on an adventure through the canyons of Wadi Ghul and Wadi Nakhr, surrounded by rugged limestone walls. The Balcony Walk is a five-hour hike on an old donkey trail, now marked, with remarkable views along the rim, that ends in the abandoned village of As Sab. Other trails bring you to villages, farms, date plantations and natural pools hidden among the rocky landscape. Local operators, such as Husaak Adventures , offer one- or two-day guided hikes to summit Jebel Shams. 

Sharqiya Sands: visit the undulating dunes of the desert 

No trip to Oman is complete without a visit to the desert. At Sharqiya Sands , also known locally as Wahiba Sands, you’re surrounded by undulating dunes and desert vegetation in a seemingly infinite landscape that feels like it was crafted out of gold when the sun is low in the sky. These wind-sculpted dunes, some as high as 100m (328ft), continue on into the famous Empty Quarter, one of the largest sand deserts in the world.

While Bedouin (known in Arabic as Bedu, meaning desert dweller) still live and work here (many as guides), the Wahiba Sands are also popular with local families and tourists who come for a day trip or an overnight stay in one of many camps offering varying levels of luxury and amenities such as Thousand Nights Camp and Magic Camps . Staying overnight gives you the chance to experience the quietness of the desert after the day-trippers have left, partake in Bedouin traditions around a bonfire, feast on traditional dishes and stargaze in one of the most pristine landscapes in the region.  

Dhofar: a region rich in frankincense

From late June to early September, the khareef , the monsoon from the Indian Ocean brings a certain romance to the lush landscapes of Salalah . The pleasant weather makes it one of the best places to visit in Oman in summer, when temperatures elsewhere in the country can reach above 40°C (104°F) on the hottest days. This coastal city is an excellent base from which to explore the wider Dhofar region. 

Salalah has plenty of sights to visit. The Sultan Qaboos Mosque , the largest mosque in Dhofar with its two domes and twin minarets, is a great example of Islamic architecture, and it’s open to non-Muslims from 8am to 11am Saturday to Thursday. Make the obligatory photo stop outside Al Hosn Palace , the Sultan’s palace complex, before wandering into Al Hosn Souq to follow the aromas of spices and frankincense.

Join local families picnicking on the white-sand Al Mughsail Beach, and watch geysers of seawater erupt from the ground at the Mughsail Blowholes . The surrounding region is home to natural springs and wadis (valleys). At Wadi Darbat , a walk past monsoon-fed waterfalls and grazing cattle or a boat ride on Darbat Lake is a great way to see the rain-drenched valley.

Woven into the story of Dhofar is its rich heritage of frankincense, an aromatic resin harvested from the Boswellia sacra tree, which has been used to make perfume and medicine, and in religious rituals, for thousands of years. Dhofar was at the center of frankincense production, and its rare and highly prized frankincense was coveted from China to the Mediterranean and North Africa. 

To learn more, visit the Wadi Dawkah nature reserve where you’ll find hundreds of frankincense trees from which the resin is still harvested. At the archeological sites of Khor Rori, Al Baleed  and Ubar , the ruins of fortified medieval towns tell of frankincense-trading caravans and settlements. Together, these sites, some dating to the 4th century BCE, constitute the Unesco World Heritage Site known as the Land of Frankincense . 

The mountains of Jebel Samhan offer spectacular views and are home to a protected reserve with Arabian leopards, Arabian gazelles and other indigenous wildlife. 

You might also like: 10 must-see natural wonders in Oman    Underwater oasis: where to dive in Oman    Hiking, canyoning, climbing and more: finding adventure in the Middle East   

Oman is on our 2022 Best in Travel list. For more stories from some of the world’s most exciting destinations click here .

Safety recommendations and restrictions during a pandemic can change rapidly. Lonely Planet recommends that travelers always check with local authorities for up-to-date guidance before  traveling during Covid-19 .

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How to Spend Three Days in Muscat: An In-Depth Itinerary

Muscat is a city with a very long history. In fact, archeologists have discovered evidence that people have been living in the area since 6000 BC, though it wasn’t till later that the area grew in prominence, in large part thanks to its coastal location. 

It was its maritime promise that first attracted the attention of the Portuguese, who held sway over the city for two centuries, building a couple of notable forts that can still be seen today, perched atop cliffs, guarding the old harbor. 

In contrast to these very noticeable symbols of Oman’s past are the modern monuments built to emphasize its future. These draw on traditional Muslim design but utilize the most up-to-date structural innovations. 

Largely, these bold steps are the work of the late sultan, Qaboos bin Said, who was a beacon of forward-thinking light in an often depressingly conservative part of the world. Indeed, Muscat’s foremost architectural marvels, the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque and the Royal Opera House, were both commissioned by him and given as a gift from this benevolent leader to the nation.

Compared to other Middle Eastern countries, most locals and expats living in Oman will tell you, quite rightly, that the sultanate is one of the more progressive places you can visit. 

Certainly, there are still restrictions regarding consumption of alcohol and proper attire (more on that at the bottom of the page), but on the whole, women are afforded a great deal more freedom. The country has a lax view of Islamic prohibitions on things like the cohabitation of unmarried men and women.

Oman is also unlike neighbors, such as the UAE and Saudi Arabia, in that it has consciously attempted to curb the unfettered growth of skyscrapers to preserve the country’s native aesthetic. In fact, there is a law banning buildings over a certain height, which is why Muscat’s tallest structure is the modestly tall 90-meter-high minaret of the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. 

For visitors, this creates the strange impression of a city that has at once modernized and yet seems not to have grown up, literally. Of course, there are flashy malls with all the most desirable fashion brands – no one could deny that Muscat has its haute couture and mod cons – but these are held in check by a desire to preserve a certain respect for the nation’s heritage.

Perhaps this is why we can’t recommend Oman enough as a place to visit. The truth is it is woefully underexplored, but hopefully this Muscat itinerary will help open your eyes to the wonderful mixture of history, modernity and natural splendor that awaits.

How Many Days to Spend in Muscat

Muscat can probably be explored in a day, possibly a day and a half – though of course, if you want to spend some downtime relaxing on the beach, three days could fly by in an instant! However, the Omani capital is a great base to make day trips into the less-developed interior of the country, where some of the most interesting historical sights lie.

Bearing that in mind, we would suggest spending three days in Muscat, with the first day devoted to exploring the city itself; ranging from the old town center in the east to the modern hub in the west.

The second day can be used to travel inland, towards the impressive forts of Nizwa, which will give you a glimpse into the conflicts and culture that have defined Oman. As part of this excursion, you can also check out some of the country’s most impressive natural monuments, such as the mountain of Jebel Shams and Oman’s answer to the Grand Canyon.

Finally, finish up your trip with a day devoted purely to getting a taste of the wild beauty of the country with some hiking and swimming in the nearby Wadi Shab and Bimmah Sinkhole. 

Day One: From Mosque to Mutrah

Rather than delay pleasure like a child hoarding sweets, we often prefer to start city visits with a trip to the most impressive attraction. In the case of Muscat, this is the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, which rises out of the landscape like a frosting-covered cake. 

Approximately 300,000 tons of sandstone were used to construct this beauty, which is not only the largest mosque in the country, but also has the tallest structure in Oman. The 90-meter-high central minaret is flanked by four further minarets at each corner of the building. This quintet is meant to represent the five pillars of Islam: faith, prayer, almsgiving, fasting (particularly during Ramadan) and pilgrimage (notably to Mecca).

This is not a centuries-old mosque of historical importance like you can find elsewhere in the world, but it is an apt symbol for today’s Oman. The building was opened in 2001 to coincide with the 30th year of Qaboos bin Said’s reign and was given as a gift to the people from the sultan. Its design draws on traditional Islamic concepts, nodding to the nation’s age-old culture, while at the same time showing off all the grandeur and modernity that the architects could muster.

Entrance is completely free, as is normal for most mosques. Make sure you dress appropriately before leaving your hotel, as visitors are expected to wear loose-fitting clothes that cover the arms and legs, while women must cover their hair.

Surrounding the mosque are some well-kept, if rather staid gardens. You can wander through these for a quiet moment of contemplation or hurry on towards the giant latticed dome. As you stroll about the exterior, keep an eye out for the numerous examples of Arabic script carved into the geometric patterns that adorn the walls and elegant arches. 

There are also many nods to the different Islamic aesthetic traditions that have flourished throughout history, from Egypt to Persia. Realistically, these are going to be hard for you to spot on your own, but we found the volunteers on-site very friendly, helpful and happy to answer a whole heap of questions while also highlighting some of the subtleties that we would definitely have missed on our own.

We have to confess to only sparing a brief moment for the women and children’s prayer hall, preferring instead to focus our attention on the piece de resistance: the main prayer hall, which can accommodate 6,500 worshippers. 

You’ll have to remove your shoes and store them on one of the shoe racks before entering – which only seems respectful, not just because the building is a mosque, but because you’ll be stepping across a carpet that allegedly took 600 Khorasan weavers four years to complete. That incredible amount of time is perhaps not surprising considering the carpet is composed of 1.7 billion knots and weighs a total of 21 tons. 

Those are some impressive figures, but the truth is you probably won’t be looking down but up, at what is the world’s second-largest chandelier. This dazzling light fixture, masterminded by Italian company Faustig, is made up of 600,000 gold-trimmed Swarovski crystals. 

These glitter off the turquoise geometric designs and stained-glass windows that line the dome. Worthy of the ballroom from Beauty and the Beast, this fairytale chandelier is mirrored by 34 miniature versions that are dotted throughout the hall.

Immediately facing the main doors to the prayer hall is an elaborate mihrab (a niche indicating the direction of Mecca), featuring honeycomb vaulting and brilliant blue ceramic tiles.

The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is located in the modern part of Muscat where some of the city’s trendiest shopping malls have their addresses. Also situated in the new area, slightly further east, is the Royal Opera House. 

Even if you’re not a fan of this form of musical drama, the building itself is a grandiose stunner. Like the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, it’s a vision in white on the outside, while the inside features gleaming creamy marble accented with elaborately carved wood – we were particularly impressed by the fabulous high ceiling.

You can explore the opera house on one of the daily tours, but if you are an opera fan, book a ticket for an evening performance. The dress code is strictly business suits, dinner jackets or dishdashas for men, while women are expected to wear evening dress, lending a wonderful sense of occasion to the visit.

Now you’ve seen some of the highlights of modern Muscat, it’s time to head over to the older parts of town. Oman was famous in the olden days for its frankincense. Today, this can still be purchased in Muttrah’s souk, a market filled with tourist souvenirs as well as numerous herbs and spices. 

Even if you have no intention of buying a thing, it’s still worth venturing through the maze of stalls to experience the Middle Eastern tradition of the bazaar.

Much more relaxing, however, is a stroll along the Mutrah Corniche. This promenade provides pleasant walks beside the sea – somewhat disrupted by the busy main road that lies beside it. 

If you head to the western end of the corniche in the mornings, you can watch locals haggle over freshly caught seafood at the Muttrah Fish Market. Though there’s been a fish market here for many years, it has recently been relocated into a thoroughly modern structure, designed by a Norwegian architectural firm.

Keep traveling east and you’ll come to the area that’s known as Old Muscat. This is where the city first began to germinate, but today it feels much sleepier than the more modern Muscat where the grand mosque and opera house are located.

This area contains some of the country’s best museums, a couple of 16th-century forts from the Portuguese occupation (Al Mirani and Al Jalali) and the quirky Al Alam Palace. Take a quick pic of the bizarre yellow-and-blue royal structure with its pavilion-esque façade through the railings (it’s closed to the public), before heading to Bait Al Zubair. 

This privately owned museum offers glimpses of Omani culture, with displays of traditional handicrafts, household items, clothing, jewelry and other assorted pieces of history, as well as an exhibit that illustrates a traditional Omani dwelling.

For almost two decades, the Bait Al Zubair was Muscat’s best window into the past. It is admittedly a bit of a hodgepodge, which we found charming, but others might describe it as chaotic. 

In 2016, however, the government unveiled a new, shiny white building to act as the official storyteller of the nation. The National Museum is a much grander, arguably more sterile affair, which has been very carefully curated along different themes, such as Omani seafaring and weaponry through the ages.

Don’t forget to eat! Many Omani dishes center on rice and meat or fish, such as makbous (mixed rice with your choice of meat/chicken/fish) and shuwa (meat marinated in local spices). 

We enjoyed munching on some great examples of these dishes at Ubhar, a slightly ugly but undeniably delicious restaurant. You won’t want to miss out on the excellent date cake, especially as dates are something of a national treasure in Oman.

Day Two: Heading Inland

Now you’ve seen some of the highlights of the capital, it’s time to explore other parts of the country. Not so long ago, the city of Nizwa was seen as a kind of counterweight to Muscat. Where one was on the coast and more liberal, the other was inland and staunchly conservative. While some remnants of that dichotomy still exist, Nizwa today has thrown open its arms to international tourists, letting the outside world see more of a traditional way of Omani life.

Nizwa was at one time the capital of Oman. It has always been an important place because of its location between the country’s coast and its interior. Coming upon the city, we were enchanted by views of its sandy-colored structures, which seem to whisper of a different age – though on closer inspection, you’ll see plenty of newer buildings mixed in, too.

The city is presided over by a 17th-century fort, built by Sultan bin Saif, the man who drove out the Portuguese invaders from Oman. The castle’s battlements provide panoramic views of the surrounding area, though its most impressive feature is the huge round tower, which was (and still is) amply furnished with cannons for defense. 

Nizwa Fort is one of several military constructions that dot this region, a testament to how important former rulers thought it was to keep a tight grip on the gateway between the different parts of Oman. 

Half an hour’s drive from Nizwa, you can also find the forts of Bahla and Jabreen, each with their own points of interest. In fact, some tours will combine all three into a single day trip for you, if you don’t want to drive yourself.

Bahla is the only one of the region’s castles that has been included on UNESCO’s World Heritage Site list, perhaps because it is the oldest. Frankly, it’s pretty incredible that its mud-brick walls, easily damaged by rainfall, have survived this long. 

Over the centuries, the various people in possession of the building have had to rebuild sections as they collapsed, leading to a mishmash of styles from different eras, spread across different levels.

Jabreen is another beast yet again. Dating from the late 17th century, it has been carefully restored to provide a pretty good idea of how livable these types of fortifications must have been in the past. The rooms have been furnished with cushions and carpets, while the windows display intricate geometric patterns. From the battlements, appreciate the commanding position the castle commands, ruling over the surrounding plans.

As an add-on to your day, you can also visit Jebel Shams, Oman’s highest mountain, which looks out on the nation’s answer to the Grand Canyon. It’s hard to capture how impressive this enormous chasm is – though we did see a fair few people trying to do so by getting precariously close to the cliff edge. 

It’s possible to walk along the top or descend into the canyon and hike along the wadi (valley) floor. Just bear in mind this is a fair few hours’ drive from Nizwa and Muscat along winding roads, so should probably only be attempted if you have ample time and aren’t prone to car sickness.

Day Three: Swimming the Wadis

Day three is all about communing with nature while doing a little physical activity. Just over an hour and a half from Muscat, further along the coast, is the famous Wadi Shab, a natural gorge filled with crystalline water. Oman has many wadis, but this is one of the most popular due to its particular beauty and easy-to-reach location. 

It’s perfectly possible to drive out here yourself, and there’s on-site parking to make your journey as easy as pie. However, there are also tour companies that will combine a trip to Wadi Shab with a visit to Bimmah Sinkhole into a full-day tour for you, if you don’t fancy making the excursion yourself.

After you arrive at the parking lot, you will need to take a short, quaint boat ride on a little skiff to get to the start of the hike to Wadi Shab. Make sure you have a couple of rials to give to the boatmen to pay for your passage. These guys are here for most of the day to ferry visitors back and forth, but make sure you check when they clock off so you don’t get stranded!

Once you’ve made it to the other side of the lake, you’ll then set off on a hike through palm groves, sandy plains and boulder-strewn streams. If you have a backpack you don’t mind carting about, it’s a good idea to bring along a couple of different kinds of shoes: some sturdier footwear for the more challenging parts of the hike and a pair of flip flops or water shoes for when you have to traverse the streams. 

Don’t worry about getting lost, as there are red and black arrows painted onto the rocks that indicate the way to go. In any case, it’s all fairly straightforward and you probably won’t be the only one making the trek.

The wadi consists of several different pools, but you are only allowed to swim in three. They aren’t connected, so you’ll have to stroll over scree to get between them. Once you get to the last pool, make sure you look out for a small crack at its end. You can swim through this to reach a little cave with a modest waterfall, which is definitely worth doing if you want some proper Indiana Jones cred.

If you’re like us and find yourself bewitched by the beautiful setting, you can easily spend a few hours just floating for hours, taking a well-earned break after the past two days of tramping through city streets and desert forts. You can even pack a picnic so you don’t have to worry about leaving to grab some grub. Just make sure you set aside enough time for one final stop.

Between Wadi Shab and Muscat is the Bimmah Sinkhole. This geological quirk is a turquoise pool of water that was created after the earth suddenly collapsed. A staircase has been built into the rock so that you can now more easily walk into the crater for a swim.

If you haven’t already eaten, the area around the pool has been set up with picnic tables, shaded by palm trees. While not as impressive as Wadi Shab, it’s worthwhile making a small detour for a quick peek.

Speaking of swimming, we haven’t managed to squeeze any beach time into this Muscat itinerary. However, if you do want to catch some rays, Oman’s capital has kilometers and kilometers of long sandy stretches. Qurum Beach is particularly popular with locals and tourists. While it certainly isn’t as beautiful as some beaches you’ll find around the world, it also doesn’t feel as heavily commercialized – though you can still find plenty of cafes along the coast if you want to grab a bite.

What to Know Before You Go

Local Laws in Oman

We’ve already sung the praises of how progressive Oman is relative to the rest of the Middle East. However, ‘relative’ is the key word here. Oman is still a Muslim country and does have strict laws regarding behavior, though many of these are relaxed for visitors. Generally, the attitude of the locals is one of ‘live and let live’. 

For instance, alcohol is largely prohibited, though it can be purchased and consumed within certain licensed hotels and restaurants. You are expected to dress modestly, covering your arms and legs, but wearing a swimsuit on a public beach (providing it isn’t overly skimpy) would be fine. 

The law states unmarried couples cannot cohabit in a hotel room, but everybody turns a blind eye when people actually do it, to the extent that many Omanis don’t even realize it’s actually illegal and not just socially frowned upon.

Having said all this, it’s always best to play it safe when visiting a foreign country, even if – as in the case of Oman – some of the overtly Islamic laws are almost never enforced. It is also advisable not to overdo the public displays of affection, as a courtesy to local customs.

Where to Stay

Most of the available accommodation for short-term stays is located in the new town, though you can find a couple of rustic places in Mutrah and Old Muscat, as well as some four-star and five-star hotels beside the beaches.

For modern comfort at a reasonable price, the Citadines Al Ghubrah is an excellent option. Each room comes equipped with a little kitchenette if you want to do your own cooking, but we just relied on the morning buffet for most of our in-hotel eating. 

One of the highlights is the outdoor rooftop pool, which is great for cooling off in the summer. Plus, the location is right next to tons of downtown restaurants, as well as the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque and all the modern malls.

If you want something with a little more ambiance to it, we can also heartily recommend the Fort Guesthouse in the Mutrah district. The rooms are perhaps a little on the cozy side, but the decoration is much more unique and emblematic of Oman than some of the more mod-con options in town. 

The staff are super engaging, which adds to the whole ‘staying with locals’ kind of vibe. Essentially, it’s what the name suggests: a friendly guesthouse rather than a more formal kind of hotel.

The Best Time of Year to Visit Muscat

Try to avoid traveling to Muscat (and Oman generally) during the month of Ramadan. Not only are local laws more strictly observed and policed during this time, but it can also be a massive inconvenience going anywhere, since normal opening hours go out the window and everything is less reliable. Bear in mind that the dates of Ramadan change every year, so make sure you check before you book your holiday.

Even in the winter, temperatures in Oman are usually over 70 degrees Fahrenheit (20 degrees Celsius). There are also very few rainy days, even during the wettest season. In the summer, however, it can get a little too swelteringly hot for comfort. 

This makes mid-autumn through to early spring the best time to drop in on Muscat. From October to March, you’ll still get plenty of sun and time to bathe on the beach, but without any of the discomfort associated with doing tourist activities in temperatures exceeding 90 degrees Fahrenheit (30 degrees Celsius).

How to Get Around Muscat

Muscat stretches out along the coast, clinging to the sea. Imagine that instead of a circular donut of a city, you have one that’s pulled out like a spaghetti noodle. In essence, this means it’s hugely impracticable to walk between areas because the distance is pretty far – and the city is not designed for pedestrians. 

At the same time, public transport is a bit of a headache for tourists, not because it’s especially hard to navigate, but because the bus routes between the main places you’ll want to visit can take up to four times as long to travel as if you were in a taxi – and if you only have three days, you don’t want to waste a significant chunk of them on a bus. 

OK, you might be thinking, I’ll splurge for a taxi – and indeed, these aren’t super expensive in the grand scheme of things. However, they are not metered, so you kind of just have to negotiate your fare beforehand and hope you’re getting a reasonable deal. 

The government has talked about introducing metered taxis, but so far, no concrete action has been taken. However, if you’re staying at a hotel, you can always inquire at the front desk about what’s reasonable, or even ask them to order a taxi for you with a pre-agreed price.

Really, though, the easiest thing to do is rent a car! Preferably, you’ll want a 4×4, as you’ll need a reasonably heavy-duty vehicle once you head out of the city on your day trips. This option comes with its own problems, because from our experience, Omani drivers are pretty aggressive when it comes to getting where they want to go as fast as possible. 

That’s not to say you’re taking your life in your hands by taking to the road, just be aware that people aren’t so much interested in observing social niceties as they are interested in being time efficient.

If you want to hop between the forts around Nizwa or stop off at Bimmah Sinkhole on the way back from Wadi Shab, a rental just makes everything so much easier. And anyway, isn’t there something romantic about driving out into the dune? 

Plus, if you need to stop at any point, every side of the road is essentially a pull-off, since everyone seems to just take off into the desert whenever they want a break.

Safety Advice

Oman is renowned as one of the safest places to visit in the Middle East. It’s also one of the most progressive when it comes to women’s rights, though female visitors should still be cautious during the evening and ensure they dress appropriately. Petty crime is not unheard of, but certainly rare.

Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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Mutrah Souq

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Qurum Natural Park

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Muscat Gate Museum

Al Jalali Fort

Omani And French Museum

Marine Science & Fisheries Centre

Top Experiences To Do in Marine Science & Fisheries Centre

Best of Oman

Al fahal island.

Al Bustan Beach

Bimmah Sinkhole

City Centre Qurum

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1. Wadi Shab and Bimmah Sinkhole Group Full Day Tour

2. Nizwa & Jabel Akhder (Sharing)

3. Daymaniyat Islands Snorkeling Sharing Trip

4. Snorkeling at Dimaniyat Islands and Dolphin Watching

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7. 2 Hour Dolphin Watching Experience in Muscat

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14. Half-Day Private Muscat City Tour

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16. Scuba Diving to Dimaniyat Islands Muscat Oman

17. Nizwa Souq, Nizwa Fort and Jabel Akhder Private Guided Full Day

18. Nizwa and Green Mountain Group Full day tour

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20. Muscat City Tour with Omani Guide (Private).

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23. Boat Trip and Snorkeling at Daymaniyat Island

24. Private Full Day With Watching Desert Sunset

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26. Private Full-Day Wadi Shab and Bimmah Sinkhole Tour

27. Jebel Shams Day Trip: The Grand Canyon of Oman

28. Full Day Private Nizwa/Jebel Akhdar

29. Authentic Omani Home Dining

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