Muscat

Muscat, the capital of Oman is nestled along the Gulf of Oman. It is an extraordinarily scenic city with a rich heritage dating back several thousands of years. The city is a bewitching fusion of immemorial heritage, natural wonders, and contemporary charm. Not to mention, If you are looking for places to visit near Muscat, Daymaniyat Islands Nature Reserve and Qantab Beach are among the most popular destinations.

Best Time to Visit Muscat

Experience cooler temperatures and pleasant weather perfect for outdoor activities in this city during the months of November, December, January and February. Muscat weather during this time is the best for exploring the outdoors. During the peak season, tourists can explore Omani traditions, art and culture by attending the Muscat Festival (January - February).

How to Reach Muscat

Only 42 kilometres from the city, the Muscat International Airport is ideal for travelling by air route. You can get a cab to Muscat City from the airport itself. Although Oman does not have any mainline railways yet, there are a few planned linkings to its adjoining countries.

What are the Things to See and Do in Muscat

As an international tourist destination, this city is particularly crowded during its peak season with many tourists flocking together for the Khareef Festival, Salalah Tourism Festival and Muscat Festival. There are a plethora of things to do in Muscat. Explore this city and take a bag full of traditional Omani souvenirs back home from the Mutrah Souq, City Centre Qurum and the Grand Mall. Some of the popular places to visit in the cityinclude Al Jalali Fort, Al Alam Palace, Bait Al Zubair Museum, Bimmah Sinkhole, Wadi Bani Khalid and many more. Also, you can have a good time immersing in the Muscat nightlife and exploring various pubs and restaurants.

Places to Visit in Muscat

Al Jalali Fort

The Portuguese built the Al Jalali Fort in the 16th century in order to protect the coastline of the city. Standing on a rocky outcrop, prehistoric coastal defence overlooks the city's harbour. Al Jalali Fortis among the most majestic Muscat tourist places.

Al Alam Palace

This regal Al Alam Palace is the titular palace of King Sultan Qaboos. Al Alam Palaceis a stunning example of modern Islamic architecture featuring two columns of gold and blue.

Bait Al Zubair Museum

The Bait Al Zubair Museumwill give you a captivating insight into the traditions, history and culture of Oman. The museum is privately operated and exhibits a wide range of Omani weapons, household items, traditional clothing and artefacts.

Restaurants in Muscat

Bukhara Restaurant

This is a popular Indian restaurant in Oman's capital city, which serves an extensive and authentic menu of North Indian food options consisting of savoury desserts, aromatic biryanis, curries and tandoori dishes.

Al-Khiran Kitchen

This is an all-day modern restaurant offering a diverse range of regional and international cuisines. It is situated in the city's JW Marriott.

Living Room

Another famous dining destination in Muscat, Living Room provides a fusion of Omani and global culinary flavours. The wide array of appetising dishes includes main courses, desserts, salads and starters.

Beaches in Muscat

Qurum Beach

Oman tourism is renowned for its grand beaches including Qurum Beach. This charming beach in the city offers crystal-clear waters, pristine sands and various water activities that you can enjoy with your loved ones.

Yiti Beach

The sprawling sands and shimmering waters of Yiti Beachoffer the perfect gateway to those travellers who would like to enjoy a relaxing time by the shore or simply have fun indulging in various water sports.

Azaiba Beach

If you are in search of tranquillity, head to Azaiba Beach where you can soak up the sun, read books by the shore or simply watch the waves rising up and down.

Places to Stay in Muscat

Grand Hyatt

Located in Hayy As Saruj, Grand Hyatt is renowned among tourists who love a luxurious and lavish hotel stay, an azure pool, incredible in-house restaurants and well-appointed rooms. Some of its upscale amenities include Mokha Cafe, the on-site restaurant serving Arabic and international cuisines, a fitness centre for your powerful workout sessions, and a private beach.

Sheraton Oman Hotel

Situated in Ruwi, the Sheraton Oman Hotel is the perfect 5-star getaway featuring several meeting rooms, expansive swimming pools, an exclusive Jacuzzi, a well-equipped gym for fitness enthusiasts, and a plush spa. Indian restaurants are also available within only a 400-metre radius of the hotel property.

Grand Millennium

Shopping malls like Grand Mall and Oman Avenues Mall are only 310 m and 240 m respectively from the Grand Millennium. The hotel staff here is fluent in Hindi, Urdu as well as English. Zanta, the on-site spa at this luxury hotel offers wellness therapies to help guests soothe their body and mind.

Food to Try in Muscat

The centre of Omani cuisine, this city offers a wide array of fresh and vibrant dishes. Ruz Al Mudhroub, a rice dish, is the city's most famous meal. Whereas, the most common beverage here is hard coffee. Spices like Maqbous, Kasba and saffron are used to cook chicken and meat dishes.

Things to Buy in Muscat

Muscat Grand Mall

Did you know that this is the most modern and the biggest shopping mall in this city? Indulge in a leisure and grand shopping experience from the mall's noteworthy selection of local and international brands, entertainment options and dining outlets suitable for tourists of all ages.

City Centre Qurum

This renowned shopping mall in this city is located in the heart of the city's supermarket scene. The City Centre Qurum showcases a wide range of restaurants and shops, along with a family entertainment area and a cinema.

Mutrah Souq

Fill your bag with local spices, souvenirs and traditional Omani handicrafts from this bustling marketplace featuring diverse Omani products, friendly vendors and vibrant shops.

Muscat Overview !

Conclusion

If you are on a tight budget and hate navigating through throngs of tourists, plan your trip to Muscat Oman from March to April. You can enjoy the warm weather in the city and make memories that last a lifetime.