Muscat is an ancient port city and the elegant capital of Oman that has preserved its charm and authentic Arabic vibe. Picturesque mountains, beautiful old town and modern architecture, mighty old forts, rich culture and history, sandy beaches and verdant parks make Muscat one of the most interesting destinations of the Arabian Peninsula.
Tourism
Take a long romantic walk along the beautiful Mutrah Corniche promenade. Shop for precious artefacts and indulge in the busy and lively atmosphere of a traditional Arabic souk market at Mutah Souq. Fall in love with the elegance and opulence of Arabic architecture at the magnificent Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. Take a look at the collection of contemporary art at the cozy and charming Ghalya’s Museum of Modern Art. Learn about the great Arabic travelers of the past and take a look at Sohar boat, stationed near Al Bustan Palace Hotel. It was built as exact copy of a boat built in the 8th century and traveled the same route to China in the 1980’s. Take a look at the elegant National Museum and its precious artefacts. Explore the heritage and culture of Oman at the Bait Al Zubair museum. Learn about the history and culture of Oman at Omani-French Museum and Bait Al Baranda museum. Go diving and snorkeling at Bandar Jissah, Bandar Khayran and Fahal Island and gaze at the wonders of the underwater life and picturesque shipwrecks. Shop for tea, local produce and spices at the Oman Avenues Mall. Go for a walk along the beautiful and verdant Shatti Al Qurum. Go for a day trip and explore the magical Wahiba Sands rolling dunes. Rent a 4WD jeep and go for adventures in the picturesque mountains of Oman. Take a tour and go dolphin, whale and turtle watching.
Muscat has plenty of iconic sandy beaches with turquoise waters for every taste:
Al Bustan beach is private and offers luxurious experience and many water sport activities. Bandar Jissah beach at the luxury Al Jissah Resprt & Spa hotel offers a beautiful garden and many sports and water activities. Al Qurum beach has many lovely restaurants and cafes nearby. Qantab beach offers unique Omani experience and is located in a small bay. Sidah beach is located near a mountain and has soft sandy shore with some rocks. Kalbuh beach is perfect for swimmers and offers some of the most beautiful scenery in Kalbuh Park. Kalbuh beach is very relaxing. It’s perfect for camping and offers beautiful scenery.
Food and drinks
Try some of the iconic traditional specialties of Omani cuisine: mishkak, spicy lamb/beef with tamarind juice, shuwa, slow cooked spicy goat/lamb and legendary Omani coffee. Spoil yourself at the ornate and luxurious Al Angham restaurant, serving traditional Omani cuisine. Enjoy seafood and beautiful views at Al Boom and Dolphin bar. Try authentic shuwa at Al Mandoos restaurant. Listen to the live music, watch football and have a pint of beer at Al Ghazal bar and Duke’s bar. Have a karaoke night out at the lively Habana Sports bar. Enjoy a sophisticated cocktail and listen to live piano and best DJs at the elegant John Barry bar. Dance all night long at the chic and hip On the Rocks restaurant and club. Enjoy the great views and relax near the pool at the Sama Terrazza Rooftop Lounge.
Oman used to be famous throughout the ancient world as the largest exporter of incenses, especially its iconic frankincense made of Boswellia tree resin. It was considered the best in the world and was shipped from Omani ports to Rome, Greece, Mesopotamia, Egypt and even as far as China and India. Another iconic Omani incense is Oudh, made of native species of trees.
