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Muscat

Muscat is the capital and most populous city of Oman, strategically located on the Gulf of Oman near the Strait of Hormuz. The city is renowned for its distinctive white architecture, dramatic mountain backdrop, and vibrant port district.

Quick facts

Population
—
Currency
Omani rial (OMR)
Language
Arabic
Timezone
+04 (UTC+4)
Local time now
23:07:23

Hotels in Muscat

Muscat offers a variety of hotel options for visitors, including well-established properties such as Marina Hotel, Nasseem, Mina Hotel, and Al Fanar Hotel. Whether you're seeking waterfront views or centrally located accommodation, Muscat's hotels provide convenient bases for exploring the city's attractions. See all hotels →

البطاشي
2.7 km from centre
Marina Hotel
3.2 km from centre
2 ★
Nasseem
3.5 km from centre

Airports in Muscat

Muscat is served by مطار مسقط الدولي (Muscat International Airport), which provides connections for travelers arriving in and departing from the capital of Oman. See all airports →

مطار مسقط الدولي
32.0 km from centre

Car Hire in Muscat

Muscat offers several car hire options for visitors and residents looking to explore the city and surrounding areas. Services like Rent a Car Office, النهضة الوطني للسفر وسياحة, and AST provide vehicle rental solutions to suit different travel requirements. See all car hire →

Rent a Car Office
5.5 km from centre
النهضة الوطني للسفر وسياحة
5.6 km from centre
Rent a Car
5.7 km from centre
Rent a Car
6.3 km from centre

Things to Do in Muscat

Muscat offers visitors a rich tapestry of cultural and historical attractions. From the grand قصر العلم and historic city gates like Bab al-Kabir and Bab Waljat to museums such as المتحف الوطني and المتحف العماني الفرنسي, the capital blends traditional Omani heritage with modern cultural spaces. See all things to do →

المتحف الوطني
85 m from centre
Bab Waljat
219 m from centre
المتحف العماني الفرنسي
350 m from centre
Bab al-Kabir
416 m from centre
قصر العلم
450 m from centre
Bait al Nahdah
456 m from centre

Restaurants in Muscat

Muscat offers a variety of dining experiences to suit different tastes and occasions. From establishments like City Tower Grill and Maryam Al Fauri Restaurant to Alfireeg Grill and مطعم بيت اللبان, visitors and locals can explore the city's restaurant scene. See all restaurants →

مطعم بيت اللبان
119 m from centre
City Tower Grill
372 m from centre
Maryam Al Fauri Restaurant
612 m from centre

Swimming Pools in Muscat

We're still gathering swimming pools listings for Muscat — check back soon.

Spas in Muscat

We're still gathering spas listings for Muscat — check back soon.

Nightlife in Muscat

We're still gathering nightlife listings for Muscat — check back soon.

Bars in Muscat

We're still gathering bars listings for Muscat — check back soon.

Cafes in Muscat

Muscat's cafe culture offers a welcoming retreat where locals and visitors alike can enjoy traditional and contemporary beverages. From specialty coffee shops to traditional tea houses like Kahwa and Sidab Tea, the city's cafes provide authentic Omani hospitality and a comfortable space to experience local life. See all cafes →

Kahwa
383 m from centre
Sidab Tea
917 m from centre
Coffee Shop
1.1 km from centre

Shopping in Muscat

Muscat offers a diverse shopping experience, from traditional markets like Mutrah Souq to modern shopping destinations. Whether you're browsing local souqs or exploring contemporary retail centers, the city provides a range of options for visitors and residents alike. See all shopping →

شركة هضاب بوشر للتجارة والمقاولات ش.م.م
3.0 km from centre
Mutrah Souq Entrance
3.1 km from centre
سوق مطرح الشعبي
3.4 km from centre

Nature & Wildlife in Muscat

Muscat offers several natural escapes and green spaces for visitors to explore. From the expansive Riaam Park (حديقة ريام) to the botanical charm of Al Warda neighbourhood gardens (منتزة حي الورد), the capital provides peaceful retreats where you can experience Oman's diverse flora and outdoor settings. See all nature & wildlife →

Garden
480 m from centre
منتزة حي الورد
1.5 km from centre
حديقة الريام العامة
1.7 km from centre
حديقة ريام
1.9 km from centre
حديقة ريام
1.9 km from centre
حديقة ريام
1.9 km from centre

Climate snapshot

Muscat experiences a hot, arid desert climate with warm conditions throughout the year. Summers are intensely hot, while winters are mild and more pleasant for outdoor activities.

Interesting Facts About Muscat — Weird & Wonderful

  • The Hajar Mountains dominate the landscape and provide a striking natural backdrop to the city.
  • Low-lying white buildings are a defining architectural feature of Muscat.
  • Muttrah, the historic port district, features a corniche and harbour at the city's north-eastern edge.
  • Muscat's economy is primarily driven by trade, petroleum, liquified natural gas, and porting activities.
  • The metropolitan area spans approximately 6,500 km² across six provinces called wilayat.

Frequently Asked Questions About Muscat

What currency is used in Muscat?

The currency of Oman is the Omani Rial.

What language do people speak in Muscat?

Arabic is the official language of Oman and is widely spoken in Muscat.

What is Muscat's population?

According to the National Centre for Statistics and Information, the Muscat Governorate had a population of 1.72 million in 2022.

Where is Muscat located?

Muscat is located on the Gulf of Oman near the strategically important Strait of Hormuz in the Asian continent.

What is Muttrah?

Muttrah is Muscat's historic port district, located at the north-eastern edge of the city, featuring a corniche and harbour.

Map of Muscat

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