Know More about Muscat, the Capital of Oman

What is Muscat Famous for?

Muscat is the capital and one of the most important cities of Oman. According to the 2018 census, the population of Oman was estimated 1,450,500.  It also covers an area of 273 Km².

This city lies between the mountains and sea. It is bordered by the Hajar Mountains on one side and by the beaches of Oman Gulf on the other side. The mountains of the region have also arid climate and poor vegetation.

Muscat is considered as both coastal and port city. As an important trading port, this city has been noticed by the powerful sovereignties during the history.

The capital of Oman features humid climate and hot summers. You will experience the hottest days, especially in August. As a result, the best time for travelling to this region is December to March.

The Most Important Attractions of Muscat

Muscat is a city with 900 years of antiquity, but most of the monuments have been constructed in modern times. Nevertheless, this glorious royal city still retains its historical texture, and you can’t find the trace of skyscrapers in the city. Above all, the city of Mombasa in Kenya is the sister city of Oman.

Many of the city's landmarks include palaces and castles. These palaces, utilized as museums at present, were used by various political officials in the near past. Castles that once protected the city, have also become tourist attractions today. We introduce some of the most important attractions of the city in the following:

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, the Largest Mosque in the Persian Gulf

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, located in Muscat, is the largest mosque in the Persian Gulf. The mosque features modern-Islamic architecture and has a capacity of 2000 people. Its design and architecture took almost 7 years; finally, the mosque opened in 2001.

Sultan Qaboos Mosque is also remarkable in terms of interior decorations. one of its prominent features is an Iranian carpet which weighs 21 tons. This beautiful Persian carpet was woven in 4 years. There is also a very large chandelier in this mosque, which gives a glorious manifestation to the mosque.

Al Alam Palace with a History of 200 Years

Al Alam Palace is the ceremonial palace of Sultan Qaboos, located in the heart of Muscat. The palace has a history of about 200 years and was renovated in 1972.

Al Alam Palace is so elegant and considerable in design. The building is fronted by four decadent gold and blue columns and adorned with all the ornate arches. The palace is surrounded by Mirani and Jalili Forts which were constructed by the Portuguese as a defensive territory.

The way to Al Alam Palace also has beautiful attractions for tourists. The palace is located along a walkway surrounded by white buildings. There are also lush gardens around it that doubles its beauty.

The palace construction, the gardens and the buildings around are vivid examples of modern Arabic architecture. Although tourists cannot visit inside the palace, watching the exterior is also spectacular. you will also enjoy beautiful and dazzling lighting at night.

Royal Opera House, the Cultural and Artistic Construction of the Modern Time

Important buildings were dedicated to the culture and art of Oman, in the reign of Sultan Qaboos. One of them is the Royal Opera House, built in classic-Islamic architectural style. It also has versatile utilization in both music and theater. With a capacity of 1100 people, the Royal Opera House has been hosting artists since 2011.

Stal Gallery & Studio

Stal Gallery, launched in 2013, is another sight of Muscat in which artworks are displayed. The gallery has achieved an important position internationally by displaying the contemporary visual arts belonging to artists from Arab countries and other nationalities.

Visiting the Process of Producing Perfume in Amouage Factory

Amouage Perfumery, opened in 1983, produces perfumes with oriental fragrance. Besides purchasing, the tourists can visit the process of producing the perfume.

Mutrah Historical District in Muscat

Mutrah is among the old districts of Oman in which a 200-year-old market has set up. The market features a wooden ceiling decorated with colorful patterns. A variety of products, from jewelry to snacks and accessories, are offered in the market.

Traditional coffee shops, lying at the market’s main entrance, have been the gathering place of locals since the past. Therefore, it is the best place to know more about the locals and their culture.

Mutrah Corniche, Lying in the Old Texture of Muscat

Mutrah Corniche, lying between the sea and the city, is among the spectacular attractions of the old district. This walkway offers you a view to the historical castles and Sultan Qaboos Piers. Besides, the facilities such as chairs and canopies have been provided for tourists to rest.

Snorkeling Besides Watching Turtles and Dolphins

Qurum Beach, featuring soft waves, is a safe place for swimming and snorkeling. The beach spans an area of 4 Km² and encompasses many restaurants and shopping centers around. Among the sport facilities, one can mention jet skiing, para sailing and canoeing.

In general, all the beaches in Oman have good conditions for diving. Therefore, the most luxurious diving clubs have been set up in the country; the most important one is Bandar Al Rodah.

Don’t forget to watch the turtles on the hot days of the year when they come to the beach.  In Raʾs al-Jinz Beach, the best place for watching turtles, you will see baby turtles finding their ways to the sea.

Gulf of Oman is the best place for watching dolphins. Besides, you will find the migratory birds flying freely.

Travelling to Muscat, the capital of Oman

On your trip to Oman, make sure to visit the capital. If you travel in the right time, you can enjoy the coolish breeze. Besides, you can experience a variety of activities such as climbing the Hajar Mountains; watching dolphins, turtles and migratory birds. You will also experience strolling through beautiful monuments.

1001 Nights Tours has provided various tours for exploring this beautiful city. In order to know more about the details of the tour, you need to know more about the itinerary. Click here to get familiar with the capital of Oman.  To study about the other cities of Oman click here.