Muscat Tourism

Muscat is a small port city on the coast of the Arabian Sea and the capital of the Sultanate of Oman. Low whitewashed buildings dot the cityscape interspersed with numerous beautiful mosques whose spires rise into the clear blue desert sky.

Oman’s economy was predominantly oil driven, but they have of late begun to expand the tourism industry, opening up the country to visits from foreign nationals. Often called the “Jewel of the Middle-East”, Muscat is a vibrant city with a glorious history and surrounded by beautiful beaches that are easily within the reach of the city. It is the ideal base to explore the whole of the country, taking advantage of the well-developed roadways and easily accessible destinations around the city.

The city is ringed by the Al Hajjar mountains which rise dramatically from the coast and stretch far into the interior. These starkly beautiful, brown behemoths are often studded with tiny forts; some left over from the Portuguese occupation of the mid 16th century and some recently constructed.

The city boasts two natural harbors and is one of the most widely used shipping lanes in the region. Bordered by Yemen and the United Arab Emirates, Oman is a country with vast heritage and true natural beauty that cannot be compared to other countries in the region. If you are looking for a vacation on the coast of the clear cerulean waters of the Arabian Sea and in close proximity to a myriad of oasis, wadis and gorgeous natural springs, this is definitely the place for you. A drive down the coast gives an almost Mediterranean feel to this Arab city, with white bleached villas and palm trees swaying in the warm breeze. You can’t ask more of this city, but simply visit here and enjoy every bit of it. 

Essential travel information and Muscat tips for your visit

Do's

  • Visit Muttrah Souk, the largest open air Arab market where one can buy Frankincense, local Keffiya’s (head scarfs) and Khanjars (Omani daggers) made by local craftsmen.
  • Remember the desert climate and keep hydrated.

Don’t

  • Comment on religion or the internal political structure.
  • Get into arguments with Taxi drivers.

Essential Information

  • Time Zone: UTC+04:00
  • Currency: Omani Rial (OMR)
  • Electricity: The standard voltage in Muscat is 240V 50 Hz. Broadband internet  is available in the city.
  • Languages: Arabic, Urdu, Hindi and English

Security

  • International Operator: 1305
  • Internal: 198
  • Faults and complaints: 192
  • Enquiries on traffic violations: 24510228 / 7
  • Passports and Immigration: 24569606
  • Medical Services: 603988
  • Emergency Accident Services: 561447
  • Other Medical Emergencies: 563625

Tipping

  • Tipping is not really a culture in Oman.
  • Do not tip the taxi drivers as they already hike up their fares for tourists.

Tourist Traps

  • Taxi drivers hike up their fares for tourists.

Customs

  • “Sallam aleya Kum” is answered by “Aleykum ya Sallam” (meaning Peace unto you) and will be spoken to you by almost everyone you meet.
  • Do not comment on religion or the internal political structure.
  • Do not eat, drink, or smoke if you happen to visit during the Holy month of Ramadan.

Muscat Trip Planner

Plan your customized day by day trip plan for Muscat. Choose from various experinces categories as adventure, romantic and family and kids friendly for your trip using using Muscat trip planner.

The best tours and activities in the city, guided by experts to give you a local insight to the best of Muscat

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Ask question in category
  • hi how are you i am working UAE in Dubai i like vist to muscat for 2 or 3 days can posibel vist visa thank you

    Answer Report Abuse
    • Hi,

      Depending on your nationality, you will have to check with the Oman Embassy if you require a visa to visit Muscat, Oman. 

      Find out many interesting things to do in Muscat while you are there. 

      Report Abuse