Muscat is the pulsating heart of Oman. Blessed with pristine nature and the cultural values it is holding close, Muscat is one of the best destinations to be considered visiting in the 21st century. Unlike other GCC countries the city doesn’t have the charm of a high tech metropolis but with an unending possibility to enjoy a vacation in a much-relaxed way. Muscat can satisfy all types of travelers as it has everything to offer from Luxury, Beaches, Adventures, Food, history, and culture. As a resident in this beautiful country for the past few years, I can assure you that the experience awaiting you in Muscat will be an unforgettable one which you never had before.
A city surrounded by beautiful mountains that extend up to the shoreline kissing the beautiful waters of the Arabian Sea is a simple definition I can give to the Muscat. Here are some of the best things to do in Muscat.
What's Ahead
Muscat: Must-see attractions
Muscat holds the value of Islamic culture and architecture even when the country is going through modernization. It is home to some of the amazing and incredibly beautiful mosques, palace and cultural centers in the whole of GCC countries. Get amazed by the beauty of some of the architectural marvels and personal experience of Islamic culture with serenity within the city.
Sultan Qaboos Grand mosque Muscat
No one visiting Muscat can miss the Sultan Qaboos grand mosque as it is situated right in the heart of the city. The Mosque is submitted to the nation in 2001 by His Majesty Sultan Qaboos Bin Said to celebrate 30 years of his reign.
Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is one of the mosques which opened the first time for non-Muslim visitors in the country and now become one of the most visited attractions in Muscat. The main prayer hall has a dome rising to the height of 50 meters and is decorated with the world’s biggest Swarovski crystal chandelier which is 14 meters tall. Another major feature of the interior is the prayer carpet which is the second-largest hand-woven carpet in the world.
The outside of the mosque is decorated and covered with beautiful corridors, courtyards and passageways which are completely covered in sandstone which can accommodate up to 8000 worshipers. There is also a women prayer hall next to the main prayer hall and in total, the mosque has a total capacity of accommodating 20000 worshipers at a time. One of the uniqueness of the construction is its 5 minarets in which the main minaret is raised to a height of 90 meters. It’s a must-visit to have a close encounter with true Islamic and Arabic culture.
As a respect to the Islamic tradition and culture, everybody visiting the mosque should be covered from head to toe. Abayas and scarfs are available for ladies at the entrance of the mosque
Mohammed Al Ameen Mosque Muscat
While driving in and out of Muscat the Mohammed Al Ameen mosque can be seen from various parts of Muscat because of its central location on a hilltop. The mosque is completely covered in white marble and the construction was finished in 2014.
During night time the mosque can be spotted easily from any highway which is going to Muscat because of its bright golden illumination on the dome and blue outside illumination which highlights the white marbles. IMG
It also has an Islamic library with more than 20000 Islamic texts to study
Royal Opera House Muscat
The royal opera house Muscat is the center of excellence in global cultural engagement in Muscat built with a vision of promoting cultural tourism in the country.
The main auditorium of the Royal Opera house has an enormous stage with multi segments which can be moved or raised according to the demand of the performance. The ceiling and the VIP galleries also are moveable. There is also a dedicated gallery for the Royal family.
Outside the main hall, there are many unique musical instruments on display. The interiors are so elegant with mind blowing designs on the walls and roofs. It’s the best definition of a classic architecture in the modern age.
Opera Galleria, a shopping mall with premium luxury products is attached to the main building.
Al Alam Palace
Al Alam Palace is the ceremonial palace of Sultan Qaboos of Oman. It is located in the old Muscat area.
The palace has a history of over 200 years which was built by the 7th direct grandfather of the Sultan Qaboos Bin Said. Visitors are not permitted to the inner grounds of the palace but still can stop near the gate to take pictures.
The visitors are welcomed to the compound by long corridors which are built on the Arabic architectural style.
Mutrah Fort
Mutrah Fort was built by the Portuguese and was used for military purposes. The recently renovated fort is now open to the public. There is nothing much to see inside the fort, but the view of Mutrah cornice and the Arabian Sea is quite amazing, especially during sunset and sunrise.
Eastern end of Mutrah harbor is dominated by this fort and it is easily visible from the main street going to the old town of Muscat. There are some good photo opportunities also there from the fort. So it’s worth climbing the steep stairs of Mutrah fort.
Mutrah Souq
Stretched alongside the Mutrah cornice is the famous Mutrah souq, which still retains the vibe of a traditional Arab market.
The whole market is covered with timber ceilings with some traditional architectural carvings.
Numerous shops are lined on both sides of the walkway selling Arabic and Indian artifacts. Few antiques and traditional textile shops are of the interest of most of the tourists visiting here. The traditional knife “the Khanjar” which the Omanis wear along with their traditional dress during special occasions which is a pride symbol for them are also an item of interest in this souq.
Cards are accepted in most of the shops but it’s better to bring local currency to have some better deals through bargaining.
Book your tickets to the best Muscat city tours
Muscat: Natural wonders
The muscat city is built on the coast of the Arabian sea, so one of the major things to never miss is a visit to the beautiful beaches here. Also, there are a lot of parks throughout the city to enjoy some good picnic time.
Rose Garden
Qurum natural park famously know as the Rose garden is a vast and spacious public garden and nature reserve. Beautifully landscaped with a large placid lake it’s one among the hot spot for the locals to do a picnic or to stroll around through the winding paths admiring the beauty of manicured lawns and the artificial fountains and waterfalls.
One side of the park is surrounded by a natural reserve filled with mangroves. Rose garden is considered the green lung of Muscat. The natural reserve is also a favorite spot for bird watchers and photographers. It also has a small amusement park with some exciting rides for kids as well as for the adults.
Al-Riyam Park
Al Riyam Park is situated at the end of Mutrah corniche in Muscat which is a walking distance from both Mutrah souq and Mutrah fort. The beautifully landscaped garden is directly facing the sea and muscat harbor. There is are fun rides also there for kids and adults.
The major attraction of the Riyam park is the big ornamental incense burner which is an iconic landmark of Muscat. Riyam park is a very popular choice among the locals to spend weekend time with their family.
Qurum Beach
Qurum Beach is the longest and the most beautiful beach in Muscat. It is also one of the easily accessible beaches in Muscat with all roads directly reaching the beach in different areas. The beach is has a total stretch of 4Kms and because of that, there is enough space for everyone to enjoy in their own way. The beach is mostly very calm with shallow water which makes it ideal for swimming and other water activities.
Many restaurants, cafes and shisha bars are available alongside the shore which makes it an ideal spot for gathering with friends and families and also to enjoy a good meal with a sea view. The grass covered areas of the beach are favorite picnic spot for the locals.
Azaiba Beach
Not very far from Qurum beach is the Azaiba beach and Park. There is a jogging park on the beach side which is also a nice picnic spot. Compared to Qurum beach, Azaiba beach will be less crowded and during the weekdays it will be ideal for tourists to do sunbathing and to swim in a bikini without much distraction. The Pier extending to the sea is a good spot to enjoy the sunset and also is very popular for engaging in fishing activities.
Azaiba beach can be easily accessible from the 18th November street which is very near to the Muscat international airport.
Seeb Beach
Traveling further towards the west side of Muscat from the Azaiba region lies the Seeb beach. It also stretched for a very long distance but most of the space is occupied by fishing boats.
The beach area near to the muscat international airport is famous among kite surfers. Everyone visiting the beach on an evening hour will be welcomed by multi color kites hovering above the Arabian sea. There is also a walking path alongside the shoreline which is a hot spot for the locals to spend evenings with friends and families.
Qantab Beach
About 15 kms from the city center of Muscat the beautiful small village of Qantab can be accessed by road in about 25 minutes. The best time to visit the beach is by evening during sunset. Take a dip in the pristine clear water or take a cruise on a small boat to explore the secluded coves only accessible by boat towards the beach side of Muscat hills and Shangri-la Baar al Jishah resort.
Pass through the famous majestic natural stone formation in the shape of an arch which the most iconic and unique natural formation along the coast of Oman.
Muscat: Museums
The museums in Oman are one of the best ways to understand the history and culture of the country. There are a handful of museums in the capital city of muscat itself to give the visitors an essence of the ancient and modern Oman
Natural History museum
Located at the ministry district in Al Khuwair the natural history museum has detailed coverage of Oman’s life forms. Museum has a display of indigenous insects, birds, mammals, and botanical gardens. Major attraction of the museum is the huge skeleton of a sperm whale displayed in the whale hall.
Children’s Museum
Located in Qurum area near to the Qurum Natural Park Children’s Museum in Muscat is having a simplified and animated version of different science and technology which will be much easy for the children to understand in a fun-loving way. Even though it is named children’s museum the exhibits are suitable for all ages.
National Museum
National Museum of Oman is showcasing the nation’s heritage from the earliest human settlement in the region millions of years ago through to the present day. The museum is opened in 2016 and is situated just in front of the Al Alam Palace in Muscat. The museum houses more than 5000 exhibits, digital immersive experiences, conservation facility and a high definition cinema.
Bait Al Zubair Museum
Bait al Zubair museum is located near to the Al Alam Palace and National Museum in the heart of muscat. Museum has a large collection of ancient weapons, household equipment, costumes, and vintage cameras. Outside the museum, there is a replica of a traditional Omani village and souq.
Fun Activities to do in Muscat
Oman Aquarium
Located in the Mall of Muscat in the Al Mabela region of Muscat Oman Aquarium is the largest in the middle east. The aquarium will offer an enriched visitor entertainment experience with more than 30,000 species of marine animals including Sharks, rays, octopus, turtles, penguins, and crocodiles.
Dune bashing in the heart of Muscat
The taste of dune bashing can be enjoyed with in the city of Muscat itself in Bousher dunes, which is one of the last dunes remaining in the city area. 4×4 vehicles and quad bikes are available for lease at the base of the dunes on an hourly basis. A thrilling and fun experience recommended for those who will not be able to travel deep into the vast sand dunes of Oman.
Jet ski ride in Muscat beaches
Jetski rides are fun and also the best way to enjoy the coastline of beaches in Muscat. Early morning Jetski rents are available for a reasonable price on the beaches of Qurum and Azaiba. But mostly these jet ski operators will not be available during the weekdays. For weekdays approaching a marine tour operator will be the better option.
Snorkeling & Dolphin watching
Snorkeling in the pristine clear waters of the Arabian sea can be an unforgettable experience. For those who are not comfortable getting into the water, they can enjoy the sight of jumping dolphins above the surface from the boat itself. If lucky enough then there are chances to see sea turtles also. But it is recommended to do snorkeling to enjoy the vibrant marine life on the coast of Muscat. Boats can be easily hired from any marina in Muscat. A popular location for Dolphin watching in Muscat is Bandar al Khairan. But the best-recommended location for snorkeling is Ad Damniyat island which is a two-hour cruising from the Muscat mainland and it is a protected natural marine reserve. The coral reefs here are considered to be one among the most beautiful in the world.
Special deals on fun activities in Muscat. Book now
How to get around in Muscat
As a traveler, the easy way to get around most of the tourist spots in muscat is by booking a ticket with BIG BUS muscat. Double-Decker open-top buses are passing through each of the main tourist spots in two easy comfortable schedules every day.
Book your BIG BUS Muscat tickets here
The best way to get around muscat is by a personal vehicle only. Lots of rental car services are available in muscat which are offering basic saloon cars to luxury ones. As public transportation is still not that advanced in the country rental cars are the most reliable mode of transport in and around Muscat. The roads are well maintained with proper signboards all over the place, so it will be easy for anybody to reach their destination driving without any hassles.
Also, taxis are available for hotel and airport transfers but are very expensive compared to other modes of transportations. Orange and white taxis are available along the main streets on a sharing basis and also can hire it as a personal cab by paying extra. Online taxi booking apps are also available like careem, Otaxi and mwasalat which is more convenient to commute to or from a far location from the main street.
Recommended Taxi APP: OTaxi Download it here
Muscat is one of the most underrated cities in the Gulf region which has a lot of hidden gems awaiting each traveler. Add muscat to your next itinerary and experience the real essence of Middle east
Have a picture perfect holiday!!
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Read Also: 22 Best Things to do in Muscat, Oman, written by a Local (A Guest Post on Czech the world blog)
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