Arabia’s jewel

Muscat with its many distinct features to explore makes it a city of contrasts

There are not many cities like Muscat, which is the capital city of Oman. The reason for saying this is that while many would feel that its cousin city Dubai might be getting all the limelight but it has diversity that is quite appealing and second to none.

Described as ‘Arabia's jewel’, this city is a blend of the old and the new. It is quite green having the lined well-manicured green lawns and trees, which is unlike any of the desert cities. If you happen to visit during winters, then an interspersed of multi-coloured flowers will also welcome you.

Old world charm

For any city to be attractive, it has to reveal its past with the new. And Muscat does that with elan. Its old-world character is visibly attractive; forts, castles, mosques and towers dot its landscape. The Jalali and Mirani forts flanking Al Alam Palace are majestic. The Corniche, with its promenade and souqs (markets) is one of the highlights of the city.

It has high-rises, world-class highways, upscale suburbs rooted in traditional Islamic architecture, elegant mosques that take your breath away. There is so much diversity and cultural vibrancy that the city makes you its own in no time. Needless to say, the city has become the heart and soul of Oman.

Discovering the city charm

Muscat has certain distinctive characters, which should be explored that showcase its modern outlook as a city of contrasts.

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque – One of the few mosques that allow entry for non-Muslim. It is lavishly decorated with archways, courtyards, chandeliers, ornate doors, white marble floors and manicured lawns.

Corniche - The beautiful promenade runs for 3 km long along the harbour and is lined with pristine gardens, parks, waterfalls and statues. You can view the stunning Al-Lawatiya Mosque with its mosaic covered dome and striking minaret and a huge incense burner. 

Qurum Beach - Just relax and watch the world go by and the sun set down; it is a good place to catch the locals playing football and stroll with their families.

Bait Al Zubair Museum - Explore the Omani life by visiting this museum, which is 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 hosts musical performances from the Middle East as well as concerts and ballets from around the world. The combination of Arabic architecture with the conventions of the traditional European theatre space makes it truly brilliant.

Old Muscat - The old town has Jalali Fort and Mirani Fort, which are not open for visitors but 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 organises tours for whale and dolphin watching, water sports, diving and fishing.

Amouage factory - The ‘most valued perfumes in the world’ are produced here. It 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.