10 Architectural Marvels You Must Check Out in Oman!

Located on the south-eastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula – Oman is blessed with 1700 km of glistening coastline, mesmerising landscapes and natural splendour. However, Oman, officially known as the Sultanate of Oman, is not only celebrated because of its natural setting but also for its magnificent architecture.

Oman houses some of the most strikingly gorgeous houses, forts, castles, mosques and museums which attract millions of tourists every year due to their unique designs, style and a strong sense of identity. Therefore, while on a holiday in Oman, make sure to visit the following 10 impressive architectures:

1. Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

Built with 3,00,000 tonnes of Indian sandstone – Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque took six years to come to life. Embroidered in stunning mosaic patterns, the mosque mesmerizes you with verses from the Quran inscribed in Thuluth script on the corridor bars.

This glorious piece of modern Islamic architecture also houses one of the largest Chandeliers in the world adorning the main prayer hall. Another piece of art here is the famous 70m by 60m wide Persian carpet which took four years to weave and is now the second-largest hand-loomed Iranian carpet in the world.

#QuickFact: Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque can accommodate 20,000 worshippers, including 750 women in a private Musalla (prayer hall).

2. Royal Opera House

Located in Shati Al-Qurm district of Muscat on Sultan Qaboos Street, the Royal Opera House treats you to a unique contemporary Omani architecture. Initially called 'House of Musical Arts', the magnificent white structure is spread across 20 acres and can accommodate up to 1,100 people.

From a splendid entry to its grand staircase – the Royal Opera House will leave you fascinated with its grandeur. Admire its neatly manicured gardens, concert theatre, auditorium, posh restaurants and the art centre for musical, theatrical and operatic productions.

3. Al Alam Palace

Surrounded by the Al Jalali and Al Mirani forts – Al Alam Palace is one of the most gorgeous architectural masterpieces in Oman. This ceremonial palace belongs to Sultan Qaboos of Oman and flaunts the contemporary Islamic architecture beautifully.

Author Peter J. Ochs wrote, "When you visit the main gates of Al Alam Palace, it is unlike any other capital you will ever visit. The palace itself is elegant but humble in design, unlike the grandiose structures of other capitals."

So, get ready to be awestruck by the beauty of the palace fronted by four decadent gold and blue columns and embellished with all the ornate arches, tiling and carvings.

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4. Bahla Fort

One of the four historic forts in the sultanate, the Bahla Fort has been a part of the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1987 and has been restored a number of times since its supposed inception in 500 BC.

Visit the massive fort and you will be welcomed with several towers, mosques, and wells. Interestingly, the oldest part of the fort, known as Al Qabasah, consists of a five-storey collection of rooms and it can easily take 2-3 hours to explore them all.

5. Al Jalali and Al Mirani Forts

Dating back to the 16^th century, Al Jalali and Al Mirani Forts play a major role in defining the cityscape of Muscat. Decked with traditional doors, rugs and pottery – Al Jalali and Al Mirani Forts are the perfect places to catch the sun going down. Built on the harbour, you can always bask in the stunning city views of the sea here.

Built during the colonial period by the Portuguese, both the forts flaunt ancient war memorabilia such as armour and weapons.

Don’t forget to check out the heavy wooden doors studded with iron spikes and a maze of stairways, if you wish to go back in time.

6. Jabrin Castle

Jabrin Castle, also spelled as Jibreen Castle, is a late 17th century built, located about 175 km from Muscat, and is popularly known for its decorated windows, wooden balconies and stunning artwork on the ceilings. You also need to check out the Arabic calligraphy inscribed on the castle’s arches.  

The main attraction of Jabrin Castle is the “Sun and Moon Hall”, known for being cool throughout the year due to the strategic placement of its 14 windows.

7. Wadi Dayqah Dam

The biggest dam in Oman – Wadi Dayqah Dam is an architectural marvel nestled in the rocky mountains. This impressive human creation is located near the town of Qurayyat and is about an hour and a half’s drive from Muscat.

Inaugurated in 2012, the dam holds about 100 million cubic metres of rainwater and provides 35 million cube metres per year.

8. Nizwa Fort

One of the most visited monuments in Oman – Nizwa Fort is also one of the largest forts in the country. The 17^th-century fort, famous for its 40 metres tall round tower lets you climb on top of the tower and admire the stunning views of the Al-Hajar Mountains.

It will further impress you with beautifully furnished rooms, narrow staircases, corridors, high-ceiling halls, doorways and terraces. Once you are done touring the entire fort, you can also visit Nizwa’s nearby traditional souq or marketplace for handicrafts, fruits, vegetables, antiques and silvers.

9. Khasab Fort

The well-preserved Khasab Fort was built by the Portuguese in the 17^th century. It’s here where you can take a tour of the best little ethnographic museums in Oman.

The fort boasts of a detached central tower which adds a little drama to its historic vibe. You can also enjoy an excellent panoramic view from the fort, ideal for taking spectacular photographs.

10. Muscat International Airport

Last but not least, the door to the beautiful country – the new Muscat International Airport is the modern architecture marvel you need to check out. Described as a symbol of balance between Omani identity and modern architecture, this place grabs your attention with its sleek design, metal ceilings, advanced technology and stainless steel wall-cladding panels, providing an exceptional passenger experience.

Ready to lose your heart to these brilliant architectures in Oman?

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