Things To Do
in Muscat
Muscat, the capital of Oman, sits on the Gulf of Oman where rugged mountains back a shimmering coastline. The city blends traditional Omani architecture with modern developments, from grand mosques to contemporary hotels. Strolling Mutrah Corniche and exploring the Mutrah Souq reveals a living harbor of fish markets, spice stalls, and sea views.
The climate is warm most of the year, with cooler evenings along the coast and dramatic seasonal variations in the mountains nearby.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, where you can marvel at the stunning architecture and intricate designs. Take your time to explore the vast prayer hall and the beautiful gardens surrounding the mosque. Make sure to dress modestly to respect the local culture.
After lunch at a nearby café, head to the Royal Opera House Muscat, a cultural landmark showcasing the arts. Enjoy a guided tour to learn about its exquisite design and the performances held there. Spend some time in the surrounding gardens to relax and soak in the atmosphere.
As the sun sets, visit the Al Jalali and Al Mirani forts for a panoramic view of the city and coastline. The forts provide a glimpse into Oman’s rich history and strategic importance. Conclude your day with a traditional Omani dinner at a local restaurant, savoring dishes like shuwa and majboos.
Begin your morning at the bustling Mutrah Souk, where the scents of spices and aromas of incense fill the air. Wander through the narrow alleys lined with shops selling traditional Omani crafts, textiles, and silver jewelry. Don’t forget to barter for souvenirs to take home.
After exploring the souk, enjoy a delicious lunch at a nearby seafood restaurant overlooking the harbor. Taste the fresh catch of the day while enjoying views of the sea and the mountains. Post-lunch, take a leisurely stroll along the Mutrah Corniche, enjoying the sea breeze and local life.
As dusk approaches, take a boat ride along the coastline to watch the sunset over the Arabian Sea. The views of the city skyline and the illuminated forts are breathtaking. After the boat ride, indulge in some local sweets and coffee at a café in the souk to complete your day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $2-4 |
| 🚖Taxi ride (1 km) | $2-5 |
| 🏨1 night in a mid-range hotel | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality
- Stunning coastlines and dramatic mountain scenery
- Very hot summers and occasional limited nightlife outside hotels
- Road trips can take longer due to traffic and road conditions
- "Marhaba" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Min fadlik" - Please
- "Kam althaman?" - What is the price?
- "Ayna alhamam?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "La afham" - I do not understand
Places to Visit in Muscat
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic waterfront promenade with fishing boats, sailboats, and colorful markets—perfect for sunrise and candid harbor scenes.
The royal palace complex set against the sea and cliffs, best photographed from the harbor esplanade or from nearby viewpoints.
Twin forts guarding the harbor, offering dramatic silhouettes at dusk and striking coastal photography.
Impressive marble architecture; exterior shots highlight its grand scale and symmetrical courtyards.
Granite and glass facade with elegant interiors; great for exterior architecture shots and evening events.
Long, sandy shoreline with palm-lined promenades; ideal for sunset and wide beach photography.
Food in Muscat
Muscat Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-roasted lamb marinated with spices, traditionally prepared for special occasions; you’ll often find it in traditional settings across Muscat.
Must-Try!
Fragrant rice cooked with saffron and spices, served with chicken, fish, or lamb; a staple at many restaurants and homes.
Creamy porridge of wheat and meat, popular in cooler months and during special gatherings.
Roasted kingfish with lemon sauce served with rice; a coastal favorite.
A rich, sticky dessert made with ghee, rosewater, saffron, and almonds; a hospitality staple.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market by the harbor with spices, textiles, incense, and a lively street-food scene.
Early-morning seafood market where you can buy fresh catches and have them prepared locally.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Cover shoulders and knees in public spaces; lightweight clothing is practical in hot weather.
Remove shoes before entering mosques; women may be advised to cover hair and wear modest clothing; ask before photography inside sacred spaces.
Be mindful during Ramadan; avoid eating or drinking in public during daylight hours and show respect for local customs.
A polite handshake is common; use 'Salam' or 'Assalamu Alaikum' as a greeting when appropriate.
Safety
Tipping in Muscat
Ensure a smooth experience
Restaurant service charges may be included; if not, a tip of 10–15% is customary. Porters and hotel staff often receive 1–2 OMR per bag or per service request.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels and larger shops; cash in Omani Rial (OMR) is common in smaller venues. ATMs are plentiful in cities and towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Pleasant temperatures with warming days; good for outdoor exploring and hill routes. Occasional breezes keep evenings comfortable.
Very hot and humid, with temperatures often above 40°C (104°F). Plan outdoor activities for early morning or late evening, and stay hydrated.
Warm days easing into cooler evenings; a great time for coastal activities and mountain excursions.
Milder and comfortable, with temperatures in the 20s°C (70s°F); occasional rain can occur in the mountains.
Muscat at Night
Hiking in Muscat
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular canyon near Muscat with a scenic hike to turquoise pools and a cave passage.
A longer valley with clear pools and palm-fringed oases; good for a day trip from Muscat.
High-altitude drives with terraced farms, cooler temperatures, and viewpoints; ideal for nature lovers.
Oman’s highest peak offering dramatic cliff scenery and canyon views for experienced hikers.
Airports
How to reach Muscat by plane.
Major international gateway to Oman, located near Seeb about 30–35 km from central Muscat; taxis and airport shuttles are readily available, with several car-rental desks on-site.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic in Muscat, with a growing expatriate community from India, Pakistan, the Philippines, and East Africa.
A diverse mix of professionals and families from across the Middle East, Asia, and Europe living in Muscat.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely followed and played at community and competitive levels.
Popular among expatriate communities and local clubs.
Strong coastal culture with opportunities for sailing, kayaking, and snorkeling.
A traditional sport and cultural pastime in Oman, occasionally showcased in festivals.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Muscat.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available in many restaurants; look for vegetable-based dishes, legumes, and salads. In some places you may need to request dishes without meat or clarify ingredients like broth. Seafood is widely available as an alternative protein.