Muscat
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At a glance
- Country
- Oman
- Region
- Muscat Governorate
- Population
- 1.4 million
- Best time to go
- October to April
- Main airport
- Muscat International (MCT)
- Coordinates
- 23.59°N, 58.38°E
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Overview
Oman's capital stretches for miles along the Gulf of Oman, squeezed between rugged brown mountains and the sea. Building heights are kept low and white, giving the city a calm, understated elegance quite unlike its Gulf neighbours.
The old harbour of Mutrah, with its corniche and souq, is the most atmospheric corner. Beyond the city, dramatic wadis, turquoise sinkholes and coral-fringed islands are all within easy reach.
Things to see
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Photo: Richard Bartz, CC BY-SA 3.0 Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
A serene marble mosque with a vast hand-woven carpet and a glittering chandelier; dress modestly.
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Photo: Dr. Thomas Liptak, CC BY-SA 4.0 Mutrah Souq
A maze of covered lanes selling frankincense, silver, textiles and spices behind the harbour.
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Photo: Francisco Anzola, CC BY 2.0 Mutrah Corniche
Stroll the curving waterfront at sunset, past dhows, fishermen and old merchants' houses.
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Photo: Arsalaan Ahmad, CC BY-SA 4.0 Royal Opera House Muscat
A graceful modern opera house in white stone, with a busy season of concerts and performances.
Tickets and tours -
Photo: Mohammedkhamisnasserkhamis, CC BY-SA 4.0 National Museum
A well-presented journey through Oman's history, from ancient trade to maritime power.
Tickets and tours
Things to do
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Photo: Paul IJpelaar, CC BY 3.0 Dolphin-watching boat trip
Early-morning boats head along the coast where pods of dolphins are often seen.
Find tours -
Photo: albinfo, CC BY-SA 4.0 Swim at Wadi Shab
Hike between canyon walls to emerald pools and swim through to a hidden cave.
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Photo: Wusel007, CC BY-SA 3.0 Bimmah Sinkhole
A limestone hollow filled with clear, turquoise water on the coast road south.
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Photo: Wusel007, CC BY-SA 4.0 Snorkel the Daymaniyat Islands
Protected islands with coral reefs, turtles and abundant fish, reached by boat from the city.
Find tours
Where to stay
Mutrah
Traditional and atmospheric, on the corniche close to the souq.
Hotels in MutrahQurum
Central, with beaches, parks and a good range of hotels and restaurants.
Hotels in QurumShatti Al Qurum
Beachfront resorts and upmarket hotels on a long stretch of sand.
Hotels in Shatti Al Qurum
Getting around
The city is long and spread out, so taxis, ride-hailing apps or a hire car are the best options. Driving is straightforward and essential for trips to the wadis.
The airport is around 30 km from Mutrah, about 30 minutes by taxi.
When to go
October to April is warm and sunny, ideal for the beaches and hiking. Summer is extremely hot and humid, and the holy month of Ramadan moves earlier each year.
Plan your trip to Muscat
Guide last checked October 2026. Opening times and prices change, so check before you go.