Muscat, Oman’s port capital, sits on the Gulf of Oman surrounded by mountains and desert. Muscat is famous for dazzling souks and superb seafood, but its terrain brings the biggest thrills. This middle east port city is a great place to trek deserts at dawn, spot dolphins at sundown, and enjoy plenty of Omani hospitality. Standing guard over the palace are the twin forts of Al Jalali and Al Mirani, which have been converted to museums and are open to the public. Non-Muslim travelers can also visit the breathtaking Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque on most mornings, admiring features like an enormous crystal chandelier, marble wall panels and the second largest Persian carpet in the world.

As for activities, the capital region has almost endless possibilities. Whether it is snorkeling at the Daymaniyat Islands, trekking from Old Muscat to Muttrah, a guided city tour or a day trip to a nearby wadi, Muscat welcomes all to experience its unique charm.

Here are some of the best things to do when in Muscat.

1. Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
This truly is a grand mosque. Five slender minarets, representing the five pillars of Islam, reach for the sky, and the large dome looks like it’s made from golden mesh. It is a huge mosque, if not quite the size of Abu Dhabi’s Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, and can hold up to 15,000 worshippers at any one time. The sandstone architecture is a photographer’s dream, with symmetry wherever you look, serene arches, shining marble, and quiet colonnades.

2. Muttrah Corniche
Curved waterside area offering paved paths & artful shelters, plus views of the water & mountains. It is now an interesting combination of old and new with a modern architectural design that plays beautifully with shadow and light while allowing fresh air inside. Built by the Portuguese back in 1580, the Mutrah Fort itself is not that exciting, but I still highly recommend climbing the 250 steps to the top — there are several viewpoints on the way up where you can catch your breath. Not only will you get superb views across the bays and the city, but you’ll also get a sense of the area’s history.

3. Al Alam Palace
A few bays along, you will find Al Alam, the colorful Sultan’s Palace. Sultan Haitham bin Tariq Al Said, who took the reins after the death of the much-beloved Sultan Qaboos bin Said in early 2020, has several palaces around the country, but this contemporary palace dating only to 1972 is the only one in public view — if, sadly, not open to the public. Flanked by the 16th-century Portuguese forts, it makes for an interesting sight.

4. The Oman National Museum
This purpose-built museum nestled against the stark Al Hajar Mountains is a thoroughly modern structure with many interactive experiences and hand-on exhibits that showcase Oman’s long history, from prehistoric to current times. Learning about the country’s past is a real eye-opener.

Working Hours
Saturday – Thursday 10:00 am – 05:00 pm (Ticket desk closes at 4:30 pm)
Friday - 02:00 pm – 06:00 pm (Ticket desk closes at 5:30 pm)

Entry Fees
Adult citizens and GCC Nationals 1.000 OMR (Please bring your ID)
Residents 2.000 OMR (Please bring your Resident Card) Tourists 5.000 OMR

5. The Royal Opera House
Inaugurated in 2011, the Royal Opera House is not only a center for the performing arts in Oman, but it’s also a beautiful building set in an expanse of marble. The gleaming white building is equipped with some state-of-the-art technology, giving it an advantage over older opera houses. Try and catch a ballet or concert if you can. It makes for a very luxurious evening out.

6. Qurum National Park
One of the most extensive gardens in Muscat, Oman, Qurum Natural Park is a place to be with tons of things you can do and explore. However, we need a relaxing and unwinding excursion at this time, and no other location can provide you with what you will discover at Qurum Natural Park. A tranquil spot, beautiful weather since it is above sea level, and a plethora of exotic flora are some of the benefits of visiting this place.

Park timings
Every day from 8:00 am – 11:00 pm

Admission Fees
Free for all

7. Qurum Beach
One of Oman’s most popular beaches, Qurum is a regular haunt among watersport lovers and leisure swimmers alike. The endless stretches of golden white sands are nearly always busy with joggers and strollers. The beach is also well known to command some of the best sunset views, making it a popular destination for evening walks.