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Muscat

Muscat is the capital and most populous city of Oman, serving as the seat of the Governorate of Muscat. The city lies on the Gulf of Oman near the strategically important Strait of Hormuz, with the dramatic Hajar Mountains dominating its skyline.

Photo: Tristan (CC BY 2.0)

Quick facts

Population
Currency
Omani rial (OMR)
Language
Arabic
Timezone
+04 (UTC+4)
Local time now
14:17:59

Hotels in Muscat

Muscat offers a range of hotel options for visitors, from established properties like Marina Hotel and Al Fanar Hotel to other accommodations such as Nasseem and Mina Hotel. Whether you're seeking a waterfront stay or centrally located lodging, Muscat's hotel selection caters to various travel needs and budgets. 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, the main airport connecting the capital to domestic and international destinations. This key transport hub facilitates travel to and from the Sultanate of Oman. See all airports →

مطار مسقط الدولي
32.0 km from centre

Car Hire in Muscat

Muscat offers several car hire options to help you explore the city and surrounding areas. Local agencies such as Rent a Car Office, النهضة الوطني للسفر وسياحة, Rent a Car, and AST provide vehicle rental services for visitors and residents alike. 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 a rich tapestry of cultural and historical experiences for visitors. From the stunning قصر العلم palace to world-class museums like المتحف الوطني and المتحف العماني الفرنسي, there are plenty of things to explore in Oman's capital. See all things to do →

المتحف الوطني
85 m from centre
المتحف العماني الفرنسي
352 m from centre
Bab al-Kabir
416 m from centre
قصر العلم
449 m from centre
Bait al Nahdah
456 m from centre
Bait al Bagh
475 m from centre

Restaurants in Muscat

Muscat offers a variety of dining experiences across the capital. From established restaurants like City Tower Grill and Maryam Al Fauri Restaurant to local favorites such as مطعم بيت اللبان and Alfireeg Grill, visitors can explore diverse culinary options throughout the city. 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 offers a variety of cafes where you can enjoy traditional and contemporary beverages. Popular spots like Kahwa and Sidab Tea serve quality coffee and tea, while other local coffee shops provide comfortable spaces to relax throughout the city. See all cafes →

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

Shopping in Muscat

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

Nature & Wildlife in Muscat

Muscat offers several natural retreats where visitors can experience the region's outdoor beauty. Key green spaces include Riyadh Park (حديقة الريام العامة) and the Al Ward neighbourhood garden (منتزة حي الورد), providing peaceful settings to explore local flora and enjoy Muscat's natural landscape. 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
2.0 km from centre
Park
3.6 km from centre

Climate snapshot

Muscat experiences a hot, arid climate typical of the Arabian Peninsula. Summers are intense and dry, while winters are mild and pleasant, making the cooler months ideal for exploring the city.

Interesting Facts About Muscat — Weird & Wonderful

  • The city's distinctive architecture features low-lying white buildings that characterise its aesthetic.
  • Muscat's port district of Muttrah, with its corniche and harbour, sits at the north-eastern edge of the city.
  • The metropolitan area spans approximately 6,500 km² and includes six provinces called wilayat.
  • Muscat's economy is dominated by trade, petroleum, liquified natural gas and porting activities.
  • The Hajar Mountains provide a dramatic natural backdrop to the city.

Frequently Asked Questions About Muscat

What currency is used in Muscat?

The Omani Rial is the currency used in Muscat and throughout Oman.

What language is spoken in Muscat?

Arabic is the official language spoken in Muscat, though English is widely understood in tourist areas and businesses.

What is Muscat's geographic location?

Muscat is located on the Gulf of Oman near the strategically important Strait of Hormuz, with the Hajar Mountains dominating the view from the city.

What are Muscat's main industries?

Muscat's economy is dominated by trade, petroleum, liquified natural gas and porting activities.

What is the Muttrah district?

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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