With its diverse topography, vibrant culture and lively souk, Muscat is not only the capital but the heart and soul of Oman. There is no one place which you can visit to get a ‘feel’ of Muscat as each part has its own distinctive character. Muscat is a friendly and modern city of contrasts and the only way to truly experience the city is to go out and take in all that it has to offer.
Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque:
One of the few mosques that allow entry for non-muslims, the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is a real feast for the visual senses. The lavishly decorated mosque with its archways, courtyards, chandeliers, ornate doors, white marble floors and manicured lawns is an architectural marvel.
Mutrah Souk:
Always buzzing and renowned as one of the best souks in the region, the Mutrah souk is packed with men in dishdashas and women in abayas. The narrow alleyways are filled with shops that sell everything from local frankincense and burners to chunky silver jewellery.
Corniche:
The beautiful promenade runs for 3km long along the harbor and is lined with pristine gardens, parks, waterfalls and statues. Also, view the stunning Al-Lawatiya Mosque with its mosaic covered dome and striking minaret and a huge incense burner.
Qurum Beach:
Qurum beach is a pleasant spot to relax and watch the world go by and the sun set down. Also a good place to catch the locals play football and stroll with their families.
Bait Al Zubair Museum:
Get an insight into Omani life by visiting the Bait Al Zubair Museum. Located in a beautiful restored house, check out the fascinating collection of daggers, antique silver jewellery, incense burners, coins, rifles, men and women attires.
Al Alam Palace:
Walk up to the gates of the Sultan’s ceremonial Al Alam Palace which was built in 1972 and admire the stunning gold-leaf and turquoise mosaic facade that stands behind impressive black gates.
Royal Opera House:
Muscat’s most recent musical showpiece is the Royal Opera House which hosts musical performances from the Middle East as well as concerts and ballets from around the world. Combining Arabic architecture with the conventions of the traditional European theatre space, the Royal Opera House Muscat is today arguably the most advanced building of its kind.
Old Muscat:
The old town of Muscat is a quiet place flanked by two forts: Jalali Fort and Mirani Fort. The forts are not open for visitors but you are allowed to take photos of the exteriors. You can also view the city wall of Muscat which used to completely surround the old town.
Marina Bandar Al Rowdha:
Located on the western coast of Oman, the marina organizes tours for whale and dolphin watching, watersports, diving and fishing. For a more relaxing excursion, you can go for a cruise on a traditional dhow.
Amouage factory:
For a sniff of something exotic, head to Amouage factory where the ‘most valued perfumes in the world’ are produced. Amouage is a home-grown perfume brand which uses exotic ingredients like frankincense, roses, saffron and spices to make their trademark scent. Take a tour of the factory during which the guide explains the entire perfume production process.
Source: Oman tourism
