By plane

23.6009658.286921 Muscat International AirportCategory:Has map markers (MCT Category:Airport listing ^IATA, formerly Seeb International Airport) (37 km west of Mutrah), ☏ +968 24 519223, +968 24 519456. Flights from many cities in the Middle East and southern Asia, and from several European cities.  

• Oman AirCategory:Has map markers (in Ruwi, opposite Central Bank), ☏ +968 24 707222, +968 24 798096 (reservations), +968 24 750812 (tickets), fax: +968 24 795546. Operates flights to Muscat from many airports in the Middle East, Asia and Europe. Domestically operates flights from Salalah and Khasab. 
• Air ArabiaCategory:Has map markers, ☏ +968 24 700828. 2 flights per day from Sharjah to Muscat, duration of flight is 55 min. 
• Air India ExpressCategory:Has map markers. Flights from Amritsar on Wednesday and Friday (duration of flight 3hr 15min, from Delhi on W, F (duration of flight 5hr 20min), from Kochi on Tu Th and Su (duration of flight 3hr 35min), from Kozhikode on F Sa Su (duration of flight 3hr 25min), from Thiruvanantahapuram on Tu Th-Su (duration of flight 3hr 45min, or 5hr 20min if flight goes via Cochin). 
• British AirwaysCategory:Has map markers, ☏ +968 24 565123, +968 24 2456877, fax: +968 24 795721. Service Terminated (updated Sep 2023)
• Egypt AirCategory:Has map markers, ☏ +968 24 794113, +968 24 796134, fax: +968 24 70989. Offers flights from Cairo to Muscat M W-F, arriving in Muscat next morning, duration of flight 4 hr. 
• EmiratesCategory:Has map markers, ☏ +968 24 786600, +968 24 792222, fax: +968 24 750989. 10 flights per day from Dubai to Muscat, flying time 1 hr. 
• Etihad AirwaysCategory:Has map markers, ☏ +968 24 823555, +968 24 817861, fax: +968 24 823556. 3 flights per day from Abu Dhabi to Muscat, duration of flight 1hr 05min. 
• flydubaiCategory:Has map markers. 3 flights per day from Dubai to Muscat. 
• Gulf AirCategory:Has map markers, ☏ +968 24 703222, +968 24 703544, fax: +968 24 7003381. Flights from Bahrain to Muscat. 
• KLMCategory:Has map markers. Flights from Amsterdam to Muscat on M W-F Su, duration of flight 8 hr 30 min. 
• Kuwait AirwaysCategory:Has map markers, ☏ +968 24 701262, +968 24 704455, fax: +968 24 700483.  
• LufthansaCategory:Has map markers, ☏ +968 24 796692, +968 24 510400, fax: +968 24 798987. Daily flights from Frankfurt to Muscat with a technical stop in Kuwait, duration of flight 8 hr. (updated Jan 2017)
• Pakistan International AirlinesCategory:Has map markers, Building No. 69, Way No. 2728, Block No. 127, Markaz Tijari Street, CBD area, ☏ +968 24792471, mctuupk@piac.aero. Flights from Islamabad on M W Th Sa and Su and from Peshawar on W Th and Sa. 
• Qatar AirwaysCategory:Has map markers, ☏ +968 24 787070, fax: +968 24 798987.  (updated Apr 2016)
• Royal JordanianCategory:Has map markers, ☏ +968 24 796693, +968 24 707930, fax: +968 24 788098. Flies from Amman to Muscat on Tu Th F and Su, arriving in Muscat next morning. 
• SwissCategory:Has map markers, ☏ +968 24 703303, +968 24 787416, fax: +968 24 799502. Daily flights from Zurich to Muscat via Dubai. 
• Turkish AirlinesCategory:Has map markers. Daily flights from Istanbul 
• SalamAir (السلام)Category:Has map markers, ☏ +96824272222. 

Taxis from and to the airport should cost between RO 6 (Golden Tulip, near the airport) and RO 12 (Al Bustan Palace Hotel, Al Bustan). Taxis can be booked at the Taxi Counter (☏ +968 24518780, +968 24518781, taxi@omanairports.com). Make sure you agree the fare with the driver before commencing your journey. Fares should be agreed before commencing the journey and may be pre-paid at the Muscat International Airport Taxi Counter. There are ATM machines inside the terminal just prior to exiting on the left side of the doors.

• 23.6013858.290782 Public buses from the airportCategory:Has map markers (ground floor outside the new terminal). Many bus lines operate from here. Timetables are integrated into Google Maps. Only cash payments are possible. Exchange or withdraw at the airport terminal beforehand. The public buses are operated by Mwasalat. 1.5 rials.  (updated Jan 2026)

By bus

• Category:Go listing with no coordinatesMwasalatCategory:Has map markers (Oman National Transport Company), ☏ +968 24 708522 (reservations), +968 24 510438 (information). Runs daily buses to Muscat from the UAE (Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and Kalba near the city of Fujairah). And runs daily buses inside of Oman from Buraimi (via Sohar), Nizwa (2 hr 20 min), Salalah (13 hr, reservation required), Sanaw and Sur (4 hr 15 min). (updated Jan 2026)
• 23.59732858.544763 Al-Khanjry TransportCategory:Has map markers, Al-harty Complex, ☏ +968 24 700600, fax: +96824788878. Runs three daily buses to Muscat from Dubai.  (updated Jan 2026)

For more information have a look into the article of Oman.

By car

You can reach Muscat by road from the United Arab Emirates. The journey takes about 5 hr by crossing the border in Hatta/Al Ain, some border crossings are just for Gulf Cooperation Council citizens.

You can drive from Al Ghaydah in Yemen. The journey is about 6 hr via the border crossing at Sarfeit to Salalah and then another 10 hr to Muscat.

By boat

• 23.6271358.566154 National Ferry CompanyCategory:Has map markers, Call Center & Passenger Boarding Office (Sultan Qaboos Port, Mutrah), ☏ +968 2449 5453 (office), toll-free: +968 800 72 000 (reservations), fax: +968 2449 3910, reservation@nfc.om. Su-Th 7:30AM-3:30PM (office). Ferries arrive weekly from Khasab to the main port in Mutrah, departing every Saturday at 11:30AM and arriving 5 hours later. Ferries departing from Mutrah leave every Thursday at noon. All ferries have free Wi-Fi, with lunch, snacks and beverages included in the ticket price. You should get your ferry ticket in advance to ensure your place on the boat. One way: RO 45/23 (business/tourist class), return: RO 85/44 (business/tourist class).  (updated Apr 2016)

Cruise ships stop regularly at 23.628858.56595 Port Sultan QaboosCategory:Has map markers in Mutrah. Shuttle buses transport visitors from the ship to the port entrance, and taxis are also available. A board at the port exit lists fares to the most common destinations; all other destinations must be negotiated first. However, it is a short distance by foot to the Corniche, with the route passing by the fish market (described below under 'See'). Visitors need to bring only their cruise boarding pass and their Tourist Entry Permit.

By taxi

Maxi taxi

There are maxi taxis, which are also known throughout the expat community as baisa buses. They are white minibuses with an orange taxi sign on the top. They operate between Seeb in the west and the Corniche area in the east. They only go on the highways. The best place on a highway to wait for them is at the on-ramps of a junction, near a local bus stop and/or where you see a few people waiting for one. Flag down a maxi taxi and tell the driver to which destination at a highway you want to go to. The driver will tell you either to get in the minibus or that he goes to another direction; in this case wait for the next one.

A journey within the Muscat area costs about 0.2–0.4 rials (Jan 2026).

Standard taxi

The (mostly orange and white) taxis are a bit pricier, and they hang around the hotels where they get juicy fares from unwary travellers. They will charge RO 8 for an airport trip if you don't haggle, but you should be able to agree RO 5. They always say they will give you "good price", but it's best to figure out what you want to spend then agree before you get in. The minimum fare is RO 1.500 and most destinations won't be much more than that.

There are also shared standard taxis in the same white orange color. They mostly go along the highways. Prices should be about 0.5 - 1 rial.

By public bus

The Mwasalat company runs a few lines of public buses which cover the most important sights and the airport. Buses run every 15 to 30 minutes, are comfortable and have A/C. Enter at the front door, tell the driver your destination and pay with cash. Fares depend on distance, ranging from 300 Bzs to 1 rial. Transfers are not included in the fare: For every bus you need to buy a new ticket. Women are expected to sit in the front. As of Jan 2023, there were about 7 bus lines in operation, with most starting and ending in Ruwi. The routes, timetables, delays and the current position of the bus are integrated into Google Maps. Buses sometimes depart some minutes too early, which is not displayed on Google Maps.

• Route #1: Ruwi-Al Mabelah - Goes to the Royal Opera House, Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque and the Airport
• Route #2: Ruwi-Al Wadi Al Kabir
• Route #3: Ruwi-Wadi Adei
• Route #4: Ruwi-Mutrah-Al Alam Palace - Goes to Mutrah Souk, Al Alam Palace and National Museum of Oman

By car

For visitors staying in Muscat for longer than a day, renting a car provides the most flexibility and is far more economical than using taxis, as one taxi ride from Ghubrah to Muscat and back will cost about the same as hiring a car for one day. A 2WD is fine to see the sights within and around Muscat, but if you're planning to explore wadis and mountains you'll need a 4WD.

Road signs in Muscat can be confusing, and motorway exits are not always clearly marked. Compared with elsewhere in the Gulf (e.g. Dubai and Doha) Muscat drivers are reasonably disciplined, but visitors from outside the region may find the local driving style erratic. For a gentler introduction into Muscat traffic it may be easier to take a taxi (or hotel-provided shuttle) from the airport, and arrange for a rental car through your accommodation – rates are usually the same as if not better than at the airport.

Most local and international rental agencies have offices at the airport. An international driver's permit is theoretically required to rent a car, but usually agents will request only your national licence. All car hires include mandatory insurance. The cheapest car hire is about RO 15 per day for a 2WD economy car with manual transmission and sometimes no air-conditioning; for a 4WD, expect to pay double that amount.

• ABCCategory:Has map markers, ☏ +968 24 582663. A local agency. 
• Al Maskry Rent-a-CarCategory:Has map markers, ☏ +968 99438661, +968 99381524, info@almaskry.com. A well-established local agency. 
• Avis OmanCategory:Has map markers, ☏ +968 24 510342 (airport), +968 24 400888 (city).  
• Budget OmanCategory:Has map markers, ☏ +968 24 683999, fax: +968 24 683966, budgetom@omantel.net.om.  
• EuropcarCategory:Has map markers, ☏ +968 24 521369 (airport), +968 24 521369 (city).  
• HertzCategory:Has map markers, ☏ +968 24 521187 (airport), +968 24 625200 (city).  
• NationalCategory:Has map markers, ☏ +968 24 521369 (airport), +968 24 601081 (city).  
• SixtCategory:Has map markers, ☏ +968 24 510224 (airport), +968 24 482793 (city).  
• ThriftyCategory:Has map markers, ☏ +968 24 521189 (airport), +968 23 211493 (city).  

Old Muscat

• 23.61653158.5979611 Al Jalali FortCategory:Has map markers, Qasr Al Alam St. Built as a prison in the rocky mountains in the 1580s during the Portuguese occupation, now converted into a museum devoted to Omani heritage. Unfortunately the fort is only opened to visiting dignitaries and heads of state and not open to the general public, but it's still possible to climb the steep stairs up to the top and to enjoy the view.  
• 23.61724858.5934872 Al Mirani FortCategory:Has map markers, Al Mirani St. Built at the same time as Al Jalali Fort which it faces across the harbour. This fort has also been converted to a museum which is closed to the general public, but it can be freely appreciated from the outside.  
• 23.61591158.5946893 Qasr Al Alam Royal PalaceCategory:Has map markers. This is the office of Sultan Qaboos, ruler of Oman. This beautiful palace stands on the head of a natural deep water harbour and is guarded on either side by the twin forts of Mirani and Jelali. Visitors are not allowed to visit the palace, but they are allowed to take photographs at the entrance of the palace.  
• 23.61438358.5895674 Bait Al Zubair MuseumCategory:Has map markers, Al Bahri Rd, ☏ +968 24 736688. Sa-Th 9:30AM-6PM. The museum features displays on Omani social history, while tours are frequently run of the neighbouring reconstructed townhouse.  
• 23.61529258.5921695 Omani French MuseumCategory:Has map markers, Qasr al-Alam St (in Bait Fransa near the police station). Sa-W 8AM-1PM, Th 9AM-1PM. This small museum has displays detailing the relations between France and Oman, with many colonial objects from the 19th century. RO 0.500.  
• 23.61867458.5858286 Muscat Gate MuseumCategory:Has map markers, Al Bahri Rd. Sa-Th 8AM-2PM. This museum marks the location of the old city wall, and has the original city gates which were used until the 1970s. The location offers good views of Old Muscat and the palace.  
• 23.61495858.5896157 Bait Muzna GalleryCategory:Has map markers, Saidiya St, Way 8662, House 234 (opposite Bait al Zubair Museum), ☏ +968 24739 204, fax: +968 24739205, art@baitmuznagallery.com. A gallery representing primarily Omani artists, and a few Oman-based western artists.  
• 23.61158358.5937598 National MuseumCategory:Has map markers, An Noor St, ☏ +968 24 701289. Sa-Th 10AM-5PM, F 2PM-6PM. This large museum tries to illustrate the history and customs of Oman from the Stone Age to the present day. Obviously huge effort is being put in the presentation, there are many 3D printed detailed models of Omani architecture and beautifully presented artifacts. There's also a curious exhibition of (largely kitsch) presents from foreign dignitaries on the top floor. RO 5 (adults), free (children).  (updated Sep 2022)

Mutrah

Formerly a fishing village, Mutrah is known primarily for its extensive souq and waterfront corniche. Mutrah harbour is also where the Sultan's royal yacht is docked.

• 23.62171158.5628679 CornicheCategory:Has map markers, Al Bahri Rd. The renovated corniche area is a popular place for a walk and also for its many not-so-expensive eating places. There are also good view of the fishing dhows in the harbour.  
• 23.62548158.56285710 Fish marketCategory:Has map markers (fish souq), Al Bahri Rd (along the Corniche, across from the Marina Hotel). Daily 6-10AM. Visitors can watch fishermen unload and sell the catch of the day.  
• 23.62291558.56070111 Bait al-Baranda MuseumCategory:Has map markers, Al Mina St, ☏ +968 24 714262. This renovated house from the 1930s has exhibits illustrating the history of Muscat. The lower level is devoted to pre-history and palaeontology, while the upper level is devoted to human history and ethnography. RO 1 (adults), RO 0.500 (children).  
• 23.62050758.56715912 Mutrah FortCategory:Has map markers, Al Bahri Rd. Built by the Portuguese in the 1580s, this fort is not open to the public, but visitors are permitted to climb up the hill to the outside for a good view of the area.  
• 23.62305858.57832713 Riyam ParkCategory:Has map markers, Al Bahri Rd. This park also has a small funfair with rides. Great views can be had from the giant incense burner perched on the hillside. Visited in The Amazing Race 9.  
• 23.62483958.57905614 Old waterfront watchtowerCategory:Has map markers, Al Bahri Rd (across from Riyam Park). This restored Portuguese watchtower on the waterfront is a good place to catch views of the sunset.  
• 23.61847258.56229415 Old souq watchtowerCategory:Has map markers (near Mutrah Souq and Mutrah St). This Portuguese watchtower has also been restored, and although the tower is closed to the public, the hill can be climbed for some great views of Mutrah and the Corniche. There is no clearly-defined path to the top; the easiest access is from the northwest.  
• 23.62032358.56827616 Ghalya’s Museum of Modern ArtCategory:Has map markers, Al Wadi Khabir (on the Corniche, near Mutrah Fort), ☏ +968 24 711640, fax: +968 24 711620, info@ghalyas-museum.com. Sa-Th 9:30AM-6PM. This museum is made up of a cluster of houses with furnishings and displays appropriate to an Omani house between 1950 and 1970, i.e. before the accession of Sultan Qaboos. There is also a small modern art gallery. RO 2 (adults 12+), 500 Bzs (children 6-12).  (updated Sep 2022)

Ruwi and Qantab

Ruwi is Muscat's primary commercial district, as well as the gateway to Qantab south of the city.

• 23.60835258.5455617 Sultan's Armed Forces MuseumCategory:Has map markers, Al Mujamma St (Bait al-Falaj), ☏ +968 24 312648. This curious museum is housed in a building built in 1845 as a royal summer home. The lower level has displays on Oman's history, and the upper level praises Oman's international relations and military history and weaponry; including a cluster bomb that is banned by international treaties (that Oman is not a signatory of.) An outdoor section presents some decomissioned heavy military machinery. All visitors are given a mandatory military escort. RO 2.  (updated Sep 2022)
• 23.57657458.6113718 Aquarium and Marine Science and Fisheries CentreCategory:Has map markers (between the Al Bustan Palace Hotel and the Capital Yacht), ☏ +968 24 736449.  
• 23.6067158.53632319 ChurchesCategory:Has map markers. 52 Christian denominations share this plot that is densely packed with their houses of worship. It gets particularly busy on Thursday nights and on Fridays if you want to peek into some of the services held in a variety of languages. free.  (updated Sep 2022)
• 23.56745958.60814320 Sohar boatCategory:Has map markers, Al Bustan Roundabout (near the Al Bustan Palace Hotel in Qantab). This boat was built in the dhow yards of Sur, south of Muscat. In 1980 Tim Severin and a crew of Omanis sailed in this vessel from Oman to Guangzhou, China in an effort to recreate the legendary voyages of Sindbad. Severin wrote about the undertaking in his book 'The Sindbad Voyage'.  

Al Ghubrah, Al Khuwair, Al Qurm, and Bawshar

As an alternative to the main CBD of Muscat, Mutrah, and Ruwi, there are plenty of places to go to and things to see along the main highway that heads northwest out of the CBD. This main road, the Sultan Qaboos Highway, goes past many areas on its way out to the airport and further still to Seeb, Sohar and eventually the northernmost tip of Oman. Heading along this road you pass the districts of Al Qurm (Qurum), Madinat Al Sultan Qaboos, Al Khuwair, Bausher, Al-Hail and Seeb. Each one has a number of sights and places to stay.

There is also a very long beach road from Al Qurm to Seeb, some 50 km. Situated along this are some of the large international hotel chains but, more importantly, you discover the true beauty of the Oman coast-line: kilometres of beaches, fishermen with drag nets and open space to walk for hours.

• 23.58376258.38858821 Sultan Qaboos Grand MosqueCategory:Has map markers, As Sultan St (Al Khuwair). Sa-Th 9-11AM (for non-Muslims). This is the third largest mosque in the world and most of the complex is open to non-Muslim visitors; ladies are however expected to keep their heads, ankles and wrists covered while visiting the mosque. Must-sees in the mosque include the Swarovski crystal chandelier, the second largest hand made Persian carpet in the world, and the marble panelling.  
• 23.61818258.48905822 Qurm National ParkCategory:Has map markers (Qurum Natural Park) (Al Qurm). Has extensive rose gardens, a large manmade waterfall, a lake and an amusement park which is a must to visit during the Muscat Festival.  
• 23.59893358.42284523 Natural History MuseumCategory:Has map markers (across the highway from the ice-skating rink). Sa 9AM-1:30PM; Su 8AM-1:30PM, 4-6PM; M-W 9AM-1:30PM; Th 9AM-1PM.  
• 23.615658.4809724 Children's MuseumCategory:Has map markers, 2601 Way (Al Qurm). Sa-W 9AM-1:30PM, Th 9AM-1PM.  
• 23.609858.470525 Museum of Omani HeritageCategory:Has map markers (Medinat Al Alam, on top of Information Hill near the Ministry of Information), ☏ +968 24 600946. Sa-W 9:30AM-1:30PM, Th 9AM-1PM. This small museum has a good collection of archaeological exhibits, and is worth visiting for the excellent views. 500 Bzs.  
• 23.62536858.5088826 Oil and Gas Exhibition CentreCategory:Has map markers, Seih Al Maleh St (on the right-hand side at the end of the street just before PDO Gate 2), ☏ +968 24 677834, KnowledgeWorld@pdo.co.om. Sa-Th 8AM-3PM; closed on public holidays. This private museum has six permanent displays explaining the formation of, and modern extraction of oil and natural gas. Free.  (updated Oct 2017)
• 23.62481758.5088827 PlanetariumCategory:Has map markers, Seih Al Maleh St (adjacent to the Oil and Gas Exhibition Centre (see listing above)), ☏ +968 24 675542, fax: +968 24 675553, Knowledgeworld@pdo.co.om. Su-Th. A full-dome digital system, which can accommodate up to 60 visitors. Two shows a week are presented in English; call or email to confirm times and to make reservations. Free.  
• 23.55558.40828 Bait Al MakhamCategory:Has map markers (Bait Al Magham) (Bawshar), ☏ +968 24 641300 x142 (call ahead). Sa-W 8AM-2PM. A fortified house built at the beginning of the 20th century, now restored and with excellent views from the top of the building. 500 Bzs.  
• 23.55258458.41147929 Bawshar FortCategory:Has map markers, Al Safa St (Bawshar). A large, photogenic ruined mud-brick fortress in a scenic location. Behind the fortress are scattered ruins and a long rampart wall, still unexcavated. Along the ridgeline in the hills are some prehistoric beehive graves. Free.  

Festivals and cultural events

• 23.61376858.4680781 Royal Opera House MuscatCategory:Has map markers, Al Kharjiyah St, ☏ +968 24 403300, fax: +968 24 403322, info@rohmuscat.org.om. This stunning building is the venue for a wide range of performing arts, including western classical music, classical Arabian music, jazz and flamenco, and ballet and modern dance.  
• Category:Do listing with no coordinatesMuscat FestivalCategory:Has map markers. Held annually from late January to early February, this month-long event celebrates Omani culture and traditions with demonstrations, food, dance and music performances, and other entertainment. (updated Nov 2025)

Outdoor activities

Diving

• 23.58209158.60614 BlueZone DivingCategory:Has map markers, Bander al Rhowda Marina, ☏ +968 24 737293, Bluzone@omantel.net.om. This center offers diving trips, as well as a full range of PADI courses.  
• 23.54515358.6483545 Oman Dive CenterCategory:Has map markers (Bandar Jissah, 15 km south of Muscat), ☏ +968 24 824240, reservation@omandivecenter.info. This German-operated center conducts diving trips and PADI certification courses. The private beach is open to day visitors (RO 2 on weekdays, RO 4 on weekends), and it is possible to stay overnight in one of their beach bungalows (RO 49-176, depending on season and size of party; breakfast and dinner included). There is no public transportation to this area, so visitors will need to take a taxi or rental car.  
• 23.6309258.26626 Omanta ScubaCategory:Has map markers, Al Mouj - Marina, 18th November Street, The Wave, ☏ +96890999270, info@omantascuba.com. 07:00-19:00. Conducts diving trips and a full range of PADI courses, as well as dolphin-watching tours. Diving destinations include the Damaniyat Islands, Fahal Island and Bhandra Kharan, with other destinations depending on demand.  (updated Oct 2022)

Beaches

On private beaches (i.e. those attached to hotels) western swimwear is acceptable. On public beaches, however, visitors should be mindful of Omani conservative norms. Women are advised to stick with one-piece suits, and men should wear longer swimming shorts (not speedos); keep shoulders and knees covered unless you are actually on the beach. Women may find a parasol helpful to hide from prying eyes.

Beaches with a sign 'Family Beach' are closed to single or bachelor men.

• 23.61525358.4588288 Qurum Public BeachCategory:Has map markers (Qurum). No facilities except open showers. Clean and well-maintained, with places offering jetskis for rent near the Intercontinental. This beach gets very busy on weekends. Free.  
• 23.63915858.4911459 Marjan Public BeachCategory:Has map markers (PDO Public Beach) (near Petroleum Development Oman (PDO), Qurum Heights). This beach is quiet during the day, and more lively in early evenings. There are some small, excellent coral reefs just a short distance from the shore, suitable even for novice snorkelers. Clown fish, parrot fish, sea cucumbers, and occasionally sea turtles and rays can be spotted here. Free.  
• 23.60397758.40551810 Al Ghubrah Public BeachCategory:Has map markers (between the Chedi Hotel and the desalination plant, Al Ghubrah). This is a family-oriented beach, with picnic benches and shaded areas. In the evening near the desalination plant there are several food trucks which offer good and inexpensive fare, including grilled meat and fish, lentil soup, and potato salads. Free.  
• 23.64869158.23609711 Seeb Public BeachCategory:Has map markers (Seeb). This is a long stretch of beach, with some sections quite busy, and some sections accessible only with 4WD. Free.  
• 23.57071458.61363712 Al Bustan Public BeachCategory:Has map markers (near the Al Bustan Palace Hotel). Named after the hotel, this beach has a good view of the mountains behind. Free.  

Malls

• 23.57159358.4048738 Mall of OmanCategory:Has map markers. It's the biggest shopping mall in Oman.  (updated Jan 2026)
• 23.6147358.247369 Markaz al Bahja MallCategory:Has map markers (Seeb), ☏ +968 24 503403.   Oman's answer to Dubai Mall
• 23.5988758.2480510 City Centre MuscatCategory:Has map markers (Seeb St), ☏ +968 800 78786. Sa-W 10AM-10PM Th F 10AM-midnight. Contains a lot of shops including a large Carrefour Hypermarket.  
• 23.59021258.41109411 Oman Avenues MallCategory:Has map markers (Sultan Qaboos St), ☏ +968 24 540200. Oman Avenues Mall is the second largest shopping mall in Oman. Offers shopping, dining, kid zones and entertainment to locals and international tourists.  (updated Jan 2026)
• 23.6081858.4901212 Qurum City CentreCategory:Has map markers. Contains Carrefour.  
• 23.61212758.4949813 Sabco CentreCategory:Has map markers (near the turnoff between Sultan Qaboos St and Qurm Heights Rd, Qurm). A collection of about half a dozen medium sized shopping centres which is very popular with locals. The actual Sabco Centre has a small souq-like collection of shops that contains many of the handicrafts that are available in the Mutrah Souq. There is also a Godiva Chocolates shop (☏ +968 24 562367). Opposite the Sabco Centre is the Omani Craftsman's House that only sells guaranteed Made in Oman crafts at fixed (but relatively high) prices.  

Hypermarkets

• 23.59126458.37675214 Al MeeraCategory:Has map markers (Azaiba), ☏ +968 24 583444. A Qatari-based chain.  
• 23.6181858.5453515 Lulu HypermarketCategory:Has map markers, Al Mina St (Mutrah). All Lulu's branches have delis offering takeaways.  
• 23.57927858.56194416 Lulu Hypermarket Wadi KabirCategory:Has map markers, 63 St (Ruwi).  
• 23.59119158.41116817 Lulu HypermarketCategory:Has map markers, As Sultan Qaboos St (Ghubrah), ☏ +968 24 504504. This location is particularly convenient if you're looking to stock up before heading to the mountains.  
• 23.6083658.489718 Carrefour HypermarketCategory:Has map markers, Qurum City Centre. There is another Carrefour located in Muscat city centre (see listing above).  
• 23.60650358.49914719 Sultan Shopping CenterCategory:Has map markers (Al Qurm).  

Tailors

There are numerous Indian-run tailors. An Italian-style suit typically costs RO 5.

• 23.58856158.5455620 The Raymond ShopCategory:Has map markers (Assarain Textiles LLC), Ruwi High Street, Ruwi, ☏ +968 2483 0149, +968 9926 7972, raymonds@omantel.net.om. Customs suits costing from RO 50-60 each in fabrics from pure wool, wool blends, Cashmere, Mohair, Angora and linen.  

Money changers

• Oman-UAE Exchange Centres - LuLu Hypermarkets, Ghala and Ruwi
• Global Money Exchange - Ruwi
• Travelex - Seeb International Airport
• Purshottam Kanji - Ruwi
• Mustafa Sultan Exchange - Many outlets throughout Oman

Budget

Food is relatively cheap in Muscat, a meal can cost just a couple of rials. For inexpensive Indian food, there are many restaurants catering to Indian guest workers in Al Khuwayr. In Mutrah you can walk down the waterfront in the Corniche area to catch a cool sea breeze, and treat yourself to some sandwiches and Halib (tea with milk) or Sulaimani (black tea) at one of the wayside restaurants. A cup of tea costs about RO 0.100.

Mid-range

• 23.59225758.43006120 Turkish HouseCategory:Has map markers (Al Khuwair), ☏ +968 24 488071. Daily 11AM-1AM. The most popular Turkish restaurant in Muscat, with excellent fish dishes. Take-away and delivery available in the Al Khuwair area.  (updated Sep 2022)
• 23.6125258.46430721 Ubhar RestaurantCategory:Has map markers, Al Sarooj Rd and Al Kharjiyah St (Al Qurm), ☏ +968 24 699826, info@ubharoman.com. Daily 12:30-3:30PM, 6:30-11PM. Exceptional, traditional Omani dishes with a modern twist, very highly rated.  (updated Sep 2022)
• 23.59912158.38578722 AutomaticCategory:Has map markers, 18th November Street. Cuisine - Lebanese. Try the Hummus (chickpea paste), Fatoosh (salad), Mutabel (eggplant paste), Falafel and mint tea. Even the waiters are not sure why the restaurant is named automatic. There is a branch of Automatic located on the side of the Sabco Centre facing away from the central car park. There are also branches in Ruwi, Al Khuwair and elsewhere in Muscat.  (updated Sep 2022)
• 23.59920358.53977523 Al-exandriaCategory:Has map markers, Fanja House, Near Sabco Centre, Ruwi, ☏ +968 24 561611. The best Rotis (Indian Bread). Try the chicken Jalfrezi and Paneer aloo (potato).  (updated Sep 2022)
• 23.5965558.4265724 Bin AteeqCategory:Has map markers, Al Khuwair Rd (near Shell petrol station and Holiday Inn, Al Khuwair), ☏ +968 24 478225, fax: +968 24 488784, mail@binateeqoman.com. Daily 9AM-2AM. This place is mentioned in various guidebooks as the only 'authentic' Omani restaurant in town - and its fame means that this is now popular with tourists. The food is acceptable, if a bit pricey.  (updated Sep 2022)

Splurge

• 23.56677558.61624427 Al KhiranCategory:Has map markers, Al Bustan Palace Hotel (Qantab). Famous for their Friday brunch buffets. RO 19.5 + 17% service charge.  
• 23.5512158.6599728 Bait Al BahrCategory:Has map markers (Shangri-La Hotel), ☏ +968 24 776565, bautakbahrservice.slmu@shangri-la.com. Daily 7-11PM. Traditional Omani seafood. Reservations strongly recommended; smart casual, nonsmoking.  
• 23.6025158.399529 The ChediCategory:Has map markers, North Ghubra 32 (Al Ghubra). Four open kitchens featuring international cuisine.  
• 23.6152358.4834630 Mumtaz MahalCategory:Has map markers, Way 2601, Bldg 80, Complex 226 (Al Qurm), ☏ +968 24 605 979, contact@mumtazmahal.net. Daily noon-3PM, 7PM-midnight. Indian cuisine. Smart casual dress, reservations and credit cards accepted.  (updated Sep 2016)
• 23.59214958.52295131 Passage to IndiaCategory:Has map markers, Al Wutayyah (near Hatat House), ☏ +968 24 563452 (reservations). Indian cuisine.  
• 23.61618758.46197332 Taj SamarkhandCategory:Has map markers, Oasis by the Sea Residences (Al Qurm), ☏ +968 24 602757. Indian Peshwari cuisine.  

Grocery stores

• 23.60657758.45326233 Spinney'sCategory:Has map markers, Al Khariyah St (Al Qurm, by the Sultan Qaboos Expressway). A Lebanese-based grocery store chain, has take-away options.  
• Category:Eat listing with no coordinatesAl Fair SupermarketCategory:Has map markers. A chain of supermarkets sells a wide range of items.. Many of them are on the main Sultan Qaboos highway making them easy to spot. 
• Category:Eat listing with no coordinatesLulu'sCategory:Has map markers. Oman's favourite supermarket chain with a branch off Sultan Qaboos Street in Al-Khuwair. 

Lounges

• 23.615458.4835594 Left BankCategory:Has map markers (ground floor beneath Mumtaz Mahal Restaurant, Qurm), ☏ +968 24 693699. Sa-Th noon-3PM, 6PM-2AM; F 2PM-1:30AM/2AM. Known for good drinks as well as good food. Reservations recommended if you come here for dinner. Expensive.  

Budget

• Hostels can be found in different areas of the city. In Gubrah, around the Al Maha International Hotel, there are many hostels, many very affordable restaurants, two hypermarkets, the Oman Avenues Mall and the highway with a local bus stop, taxis and shared standard taxis. These hostels in Gubrah have got a good rating on Google Maps and booking.com, mostly due to their friendly owners; if you have high demands regarding cleanliness, they might not be a good choice for you .
• Guest Houses. There are a number of guest houses (Isteraha in Arabic) spread around Muscat which are quite affordable and acceptable in general.
• Corniche Area There are five hotels on the Corniche waterfront in Mutrah that all charge RO 15. Al Fanar Hotel, which is very rundown at the end of the waterfront, charges RO 10. Naseem Hotel, opposite the Corniche, charges RO 27 for a twin-bed room (as of Dec 2016).
• 23.5954558.3989151 Aywa GuesthouseCategory:Has map markers (formerly known as Aywa Hostel), Ghubrah North, Way 3209, no. 725, ☏ +968 9804 9029, guesthouse@aywaholidays.com. Check-in: 4PM, check-out: noon. Guesthouse has a terrace, lounge, and kitchen. Price includes WiFi and using guest computer, printer/scanner and washing machine. RO 19 double room.  (updated Jan 2017)
• 23.57867158.5650112 Delmon Hotel ApartmentsCategory:Has map markers, Al Wada Al Kabir St (Ruwi), ☏ +968 24 818181, fax: +968 24 818844, delmonhotelapartments@yahoo.com. Includes breakfast and free Wi-Fi. RO 23-75.  
• 23.62420358.5609853 Marina HotelCategory:Has map markers, Corniche (Mutrah, across from the fish souq), ☏ +968 24 713100. Has good views of the harbour, but with two nightclubs is quite noisy at night. Free wi-fi available only in lobby.  
• 23.59437158.5418834 Ruwi HotelCategory:Has map markers (Ruwi), ☏ +968 24 704244, fax: +968 24 704248, reservationruwi@omanhotels.com. A tired and run-down hotel that is more the standard of a third world backpacker establishment, but has an interesting bar.  
• 23.59539258.5454785 Al Waffa Hotel FlatsCategory:Has map markers, Ruwi Mwasalat Bus Station, Muscat Oman (in front of Mwasalat bus station, see GPS location), ☏ +968 24786522. Despite bit strange reception entry, the hotel has nice big & clean rooms with toilet, shower, fridge and SmartTV. Excellent location. RO 20/night for 2 persons.  (updated Mar 2017)

Mid-range

• 23.62864158.4830536 Crown Plaza HotelCategory:Has map markers, Al Qurm St (Heights Residential Area, Al Qurm), ☏ +968 24 660660. Check-in: 2PM, check-out: 1PM. Has a grand view north up the beach towards the Intercontinental.  
• 23.5846758.303947 Golden Tulip SeebCategory:Has map markers, Exhibition St (Seeb, across the expressway from the airport), ☏ +968 24 514444, +968 24 510055 (reservations), fb@goldentulipseeb.com.  
• 23.5957958.54028 Haffa House HotelCategory:Has map markers, Al Farahidi St, ☏ +968 2470 7207, toll-free: +968 2470 7208, reservations@shanfarihotels.com. Check-in: 2PM-midnight, check-out: noon-3PM. Non-smoking rooms, gym onsite, free Wi-Fi, luggage storage available. From RO 40, including breakfast.  (updated Oct 2017)
• 23.58282458.4083759 Somerset Panorama MuscatCategory:Has map markers, Al Ghubrah Street, ☏ +968 2 204 0000, enquiry.muscat@the-ascott.com. This property offers studio, one- and two-bedroom apartments. Amenities included are housekeeping, food delivery, laundry & dry cleaning services.  (updated Nov 2017)

Splurge

Muscat offers a considerable range of luxury hotels, including those listed below.

• 23.56711458.61569610 Al Bustan Palace HotelCategory:Has map markers (Qantab), ☏ +968 24 799666. Built to house a regional conference in the mid-1980s, the hotel is famous for its brunches. Worth visiting just to check out the lobby and hotel grounds.  
• 23.60633658.53886711 Al Falaj HotelCategory:Has map markers, Al Mujamma St, 2031 (Ruwi), ☏ +968 24 702311, fax: +968 24 795853, reservationalfalaj@omanhotels.com.  
• 23.6024458.3991412 The ChediCategory:Has map markers, North Ghubra 32 (Al Ghubra), ☏ +968 24 524400, fax: +968 24 493485, reservation@chedimuscat.com. Five star luxury with traditional Omani architecture.  
• 23.56668258.57309213 Crystal SuitesCategory:Has map markers, Vegetable & Fruit Market Road, Way 6702, Block 167 Wadi Kabir (Ruwi), ☏ +968 24826100, info@crystalsuites.om. 78 rooms, each a 32” LCD TV, DVD player. Amenities include a restaurant serving Mughlai and Afghani dishes, an open to sky Atrium with children’s play area and dining facilities, and ballrooms for wedding receptions and functions. RO 30+.  
• 23.60870558.44444214 Grand HyattCategory:Has map markers (Al Qurm), ☏ +968 24 641234, fax: +968 24 605282, muscat.grand@hyatt.com. This is an opulent building designed by a Yemeni prince in what seems almost a parody of Arabian palace styles.  
• 23.6161558.4652315 InterContinental MuscatCategory:Has map markers, Al Kharjiya St (Al Shati), ☏ +968 24 680000, toll-free: +968 800 77 999, muscat@icmuscathotel.com. Check-in: 3PM (early check-in available on request), check-out: noon. On the beach, with onsite restaurant and bar, gym, tennis court, outdoor pool, and free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel. From RO 110, including breakfast.  (updated Apr 2016)
• 23.5507158.6600716 Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort and SpaCategory:Has map markers (southeast of Muscat), ☏ +968 24 776666, fax: +968 24 776677. Part of the international luxury chain. In Bar al Jissah, which is about 30 minutes outside central Muscat. The hotel can be challenging to find, so make sure you have a good map if you are driving. The Shangri-La is on a beautiful section of the coastline.  
• 23.57712558.29179817 Hormuz Grand MuscatCategory:Has map markers, Airport Road (10-minute taxi ride from airport), ☏ +968 2435 0500, reservations.muscat@radissoncollection.com. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. A Radisson Collection Hotel. Near the airport.  (updated Oct 2024)

ATMs

Bank Muscat and NBO have by far the most ATMs in Muscat. Both accept foreign credit cards.

Gyms

There are some very good gymnasiums in the 4- to 5-star hotels and some privately run gyms in other places like Millennium Gym, and Horizon Gym. You may pay money for that extra with the number of days you stay in Muscat.

Hospitals

• KIMS Oman Hospital, Darsait
• Muscat Private Hospital, Ghubrah
• Al Nahda Hospital, Ghubrah
• Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, Al Hamriya
• Al Shatti Hospital, Shatti al Qurum
• Atlas Star Medical Centre, Bausher
• Al Amal Medical Centre-Al Wadi Al Kabir, Al-Khuwair
• Royal Hospital
• Badr Al Sama Hospital-Ruwi, Al Khuwair, Al Khoud, Barka, Sohar, Salalah
• Babylon Medical Centre, Amerat

Laundry

Laundry charges 4-star hotel are high. Prices are much lower at any of the numerous Indian run laundries, although clothes left on a Monday typically won't be ready until Wednesday.

Newspapers

• Oman Daily ObserverCategory:Has map markers. One of Oman's most-widely distributed English newspaper, also available in print. 
• Oman TribuneCategory:Has map markers.  
• Times of OmanCategory:Has map markers. Oman's oldest English newspaper, printed Sa-Th, available online and in print. 
• Muscat DailyCategory:Has map markers. Oman's most widely distributed English newspaper, available in print. 
• TheWeekCategory:Has map markers. A free weekly newspaper published on Wednesdays. 
• H!Category:Has map markers. A free weekly newspaper offering light reading, published every weekend by the Times of Oman. 
• Oman TodayCategory:Has map markers. A small glossy magazine with tips on tourism, local trips and eating-out, published monthly. 
• Khaleej TimesCategory:Has map markers. Published in Dubai and available throughout the Gulf. 

Embassies

• BahrainCategory:Has map markers, 115, Madinat Al Sultan Qaboos, ☏ +968 24 605074, +968 24 605075, +968 24 605133, fax: +968 24605072.  
• ChinaCategory:Has map markers, Embassy District in Khuwair, ☏ +968 2 495 8000, fax: +968 2 495 8055, chinaemb_om@mfa.gov.cn. Su-Th 09:00-12:00.  (updated Feb 2024)
• EgyptCategory:Has map markers, Jamai'at al Dowal al Arabyia St (in the Diplomatic Area), ☏ +968 24 600411, +968 24 600982, fax: +968 24603626, Eg.emb_muscat@mfa.gov.eg.  
• FranceCategory:Has map markers, P.O. Box 208 Madinat Qabous PC 115, ☏ +968 24 681800, +968 24 681804 (emergencies), fax: +968 24 681843.  
• GermanyCategory:Has map markers, Hillat Al-Jazeera, Way No. 4911, Villa 953 (near Al Nahda Hospital, Ruwi), ☏ +968 24 832482, +968 24 837374, +968 24 835000, fax: +968 24 835690. Su-W 9AM-noon.  
• GreeceCategory:Has map markers, PO Βox 175, ☏ +968 24 793072, fax: +968 787714.  
• IranCategory:Has map markers, Jamai'at al Dowal al Arabyia St (in the Diplomatic Area), ☏ +968 24 696944, +968 24 696947, fax: +968 24 696888.  
• ItalyCategory:Has map markers, Al Qurum House 842 Way 2411, ☏ +968 24 560968, +968 24 564832, +968 24 564838, fax: +968 24 564846, ambamasc@omantel.net.com.  
• JordanCategory:Has map markers, Jamai'at al Dowal al Arabyia St (in the Diplomatic Area), ☏ +968 24 692760, +968 24 692761, fax: +968 24 692762.  
• RomaniaCategory:Has map markers, Villa 2990, strada 2840, Shatti Al-Qurum, PO Box 161, Bareeq Al-Shati, ☏ +968 24953871, fax: +968 24953872, muscat@mae.ro.  
• SwitzerlandCategory:Has map markers (Consulate), Al Asfoor Plaza Bldg 1F 104 (Qurum), ☏ +968 24 568205, fax: +968 24 568206, consulch@omantel.net.om.  
• United KingdomCategory:Has map markers, 116 Mina Al Fahal (in the Diplomatic Area), ☏ +968 24 693077, +968 24 609000, fax: +968 24 609010, muscat.enquiries@fco.gov.uk. Su-Th 7:30AM-2:30PM.  
• United StatesCategory:Has map markers, PO Box 202, PC 115, Madinat Al Sultan Qaboos, ☏ +968 24 643400, +968 24 643400 (emergencies), fax: +968 24 643740, consularmuscat@state.gov.  

Tourist information

• National Travel TourismCategory:Has map markers, Ar-Rumaylah Street, Wattayah, ☏ +968 24 566046, nttoman@omantel.net.om. Sa-Th 8AM-1PM, 4-7PM.