Muscat

[[file:Mutrah Muscat Oman Banner.jpg|1280px|View of Mutrah from the C38 trekking path]]

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque Muscat - Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

Muscat (Arabic: مسقط) has been inhabited since at least 1000 BCE and for centuries was an important trading port on the Maritime Silk Road]. Today it is the capital of the Sultanate of Oman and its most important and populous city (at 812,000). It is home to a multi-ethnic and multi-cultural society, and receives the largest number of foreign visitors to the nation.

Muscat Halal Explorer

Wedged between the Arabian Sea and the rugged Western Hajar Mountains and the city referred to as Muscat is in fact several smaller towns which have grown together over time. These include old Muscat (commonly called the 'walled city'), site of the royal palace; Mutrah (also spelled Matrah or Matruh), once a fishing village and home to the labyrinthine Mutrah Souq; and Ruwi, which is the commercial and diplomatic quarter of the city. The metropolitan area covers 3,500 km², and this tripartite division can be inconvenient for the visitor especially as much accommodation is a fair distance from sights of interest.

Unlike other cities in the Gulf, notably in the United Arab Emirates and Qatar, Muscat does not have an ultramodern skyline. Following the preferences of the Sultan, modern construction is required to adhere to traditional Arabic architectural styles, resulting in a more low-key urban landscape.

Travel to Muscat

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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 (tel. +968 24518780 or 24518781, ). 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.

Public buses, run by the Mwasalat, stop on the ground floor outside the new terminal. Bus 1B runs 24/7 to Ruwi Bus Station for RO 0.5, where you can change to buses headed for Mutrah and old Muscat. Frequency during the day is every 20 minutes.

Travel on a Bus in Muscat

• Mwasalat - Oman National Transport Company - Al-Jaame Street 23.595264, 58.545654 near Sunday City Hotel in Ruwi ☎ +968 24 708522 (reservations), +968 24 510438 (information) |wikidata=| image=Bus terminal Muscat.JPG Runs buses to Muscat from Dubai (duration of journey: 6 hr). Within Oman there are daily buses to Muscat from Buraimi (via Sohar), Nizwa (2hr 20min), Salalah (13 hr, reservation required), Sanaw and Sur (4hr 15min).

By car

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

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

Book a Halal Cruise or Boat Tour in Muscat

• National Ferry Company - Call Center & Passenger Boarding Office 23.62713, 58.56615 Sultan Qaboos Port, Mutrah ☎ +968 2449 5453 (office) +968 800 72 000 (reservations) +968 2449 3910 Opening Hours: Sunday - Thursday 07:30-15:30 (office) One way: RO 45/23 (business/tourist class), return: RO 85/44 (business/tourist class) Ferries arrive weekly from Khasab to the main port in Mutrah, departing every Saturday at 11:30 and arriving five 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.

Cruise ships stop regularly at Port Sultan Qaboos GPS 23.6288,58.5659 Masqat Harbour - panoramio - in Mutrah. Shuttle buses transport visitors from the ship to the port entrance, and taxis are also available. A board at the seaport 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 'Muscat#Mutrah|See'). Visitors need to bring only their cruise boarding pass and their Tourist Entry Permit.

How to get around in Muscat

Best way to travel in Muscat by a Taxi

Route taxi Muscat - |Route taxi, or 'maxi taxi' Taxi Muscat - |Standard taxi

Maxi taxis (shuttle vanes, known throughout the expat community as baisa buses) ply the highway from Seeb to the Corniche area. The charge is RO 0.100 (100 Bzs) from the Corniche area to the church roundabout and another 100 Bzs from the church round about to Wadi Adai.

On arrival at the airport, situated roughly 40km from the main Muscat CBD, you can get a baisa bus down the main highway in either direction.

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 Maxi Taxis ply the main routes through town, and they go where they want so you might have to find one going your direction. Once you are on one and they will make sure you get there. The place to wait for them is on the on-ramps of most of the main highway junctions, when you'll usually see a few people waiting around for one. A journey within the Muscat area should not cost more than RO 0.300 each, but if you look like an experienced traveller and hand them RO 0.200 then you can usually get away with that.

By car

For visitors staying in Muscat for longer than a day, renting a vehicle 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 vehicle 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 vehicle 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 vehicle hires include mandatory insurance. The cheapest vehicle hire is about RO 15 per day for a 2WD economy vehicle with manual transmission and sometimes no air-conditioning; for a 4WD, expect to pay double that amount.

• ABC - ☎ +968 24 582663 A local agency.

• Al Maskry Rent-a-Car - ☎ +968 99438661, +968 99381524 A well-established local agency.

• Avis Oman - ☎ +968 24 510342 (airport), +968 24 400888 (city)
• Budget Oman - ☎ +968 24 683999 +968 24 683966

• Europcar - ☎ +968 24 521369 (airport), +968 24 521369 (city)
• Hertz - ☎ +968 24 521187 (airport), +968 24 625200 (city)
• National - ☎ +968 24 521369 (airport), +968 24 601081 (city)
• Nomad Tours - ☎ +968 9549 5240 (airport), +968 9549 5242 (city)
• Sixt - ☎ +968 24 510224 (airport), +968 24 482793 (city)
• Thrifty - - ☎ +968 24 521189 (airport), +968 23 211493 (city)

By public bus

The Mwasalat company runs a few lines of public buses which cover the most important sights and the airport. Buses are infrequent (15 to 20 minutes), but are comfortable and have A/C. Enter at the front door, tell the driver your destination and pay with cash. Women are expected to sit in the front. As of Dec 2016 and there were 5 bus lines in operation, all starting and ending in Ruwi. Fares depend on distance, ranging from 300 Bzs to RO 1.

• 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

What to see in Muscat

Muscat

Muscat Gate Museum - Muscat Gate Museum

• Al Jalali Fort Qasr Al Alam Street 23.616531, 58.597961 - Fort Al Jalali Old Muscat (2) Built as a prison in the rocky mountains in the 1580s during the Portuguese occupation, now converted into a museum devoted to Omani legacy. Unfortunately the fort is only opened to visiting dignitaries and heads of state and not open to the general public, but it's still feasible to climb the steep stairs up to the top and to enjoy the view.

• Al Mirani Fort Al Mirani Street 23.617248, 58.593487 - Fort Al-Mirani Oman-Muscat-Old Muscat 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.

• Qasr Al Alam Royal Palace 23.615911, 58.594689 - Al Alam Palace Qasr Al Alam Royal Palace (7) 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.

• Bait Al Zubair Museum - Al Bahri Road 23.614383, 58.589567 ☎ +968 24 736688 Opening Hours: Sa-Thursday 09:30-18:00 Bait al Zubair Bait Al Bagh Museum - The museum features displays on Omani social history, while tours are frequently run of the neighbouring reconstructed townhouse.

• Omani French Museum Qasr al-Alam Street 23.615292, 58.592169 in Bait Fransa near the police station Opening Hours: Sa-W 08:00-13:00, Thursday 09:00-13:00 RO 0.500 Omani French Museum Omani French museum photographs This small museum has displays detailing the relations between France and Oman, with many colonial objects from the 19th century.

• Muscat Gate Museum Al Bahri Road 23.618674, 58.585828 Opening Hours: Sa-Thursday 08:00-14:00 Muscat Gate Museum Muscat Gate Museum - 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.

• Bait Muzna Gallery - Saidiya St, Way 8662, House 234 23.614958, 58.589615 opposite Bait al Zubair Museum ☎ +968 24739 204 +968 24739205 - A gallery representing primarily Omani artists, and a few Oman-based western artists.

Mutrah

Fish Market Mutrah Oman - Fish market in Mutrah Portuguese Watch tower Mutrah Oman - Portuguese watchtower near Mutrah Souq

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.

• Corniche Al Bahri Road 23.621711, 58.562867 Muttrah Muscat Oman 2011 - 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.

• Fish market - fish souq - Al Bahri Road 23.625481, 58.562857 along the Corniche, across from the Marina Hotel Fishmarket - Opening Hours: Daily 06:00-10:00 Visitors can watch fishermen unload and sell the catch of the day.

• Bait al-Baranda Museum Al Mina Street 23.622915, 58.560701 ☎ +968 24 714262 RO 1 (adults), RO 0.500 (children) Muscat-Bait Al Baranda Museum (3) 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.

• Mutrah Fort 23.620507, 58.567159 - Pevnost Matra A 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.

• Riyam Park Al Bahri Road 23.623058, 58.578327 Riyam Park - 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.

• Old waterfront watchtower Al Bahri Road 23.624839, 58.579056 across from Riyam Park Watchtower and rubble - This restored Portuguese watchtower on the waterfront is a good place to catch views of the sunset.

• Old souq watchtower 23.618472, 58.562294 near Mutrah Souq and Mutrah Street Portuguese Watch tower Mutrah Oman - This Portuguese watchtower has also been restored, and although the tower is closed to the public and 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.

• Ghalya’s Museum of Modern Art - @museum.com Al Wadi Khabir 23.620323, 58.568276 on the Corniche, near Mutrah Fort ☎ +968 24 711640 +968 24 711620 Ghalyas Museum of Modern Art - Opening Hours: Sa-Thursday 09:30-18:00 RO 1 (adults 12+), 500 Bzs (children 6-12) Opened in 2011, this museum is made up of a cluster of houses and comprises three distinct sections. The Old House is set up with furnishings and displays appropriate to an Omani house between 1950 and 1970, i.e. before the accession of Sultan Qaboos. The still unopened Clothes Museum exhibits traditional Omani clothing as well as international costumes, and the Modern Art Museum displays modern artworks from Omani and international artists, hosting occasional special exhibits.

Ruwi and Qantab

Central Business District, Muscat, Oman - Ruwi

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

• Currency Museum Al Bank Al Markazi Street 23.60029, 58.54657 within the Central Bank of Oman building ☎ +968 24 796102 Opening Hours: Sa-W 09:00-13:00 250 Bzs (adults), free (children under 6) Has interesting displays of Omani currency, both coin and notes, with specimens from early history to the present day.

• National Museum An Noor Street 23.60232, 58.538658 near Abdulridha Mosque ☎ +968 24 701289 Opening Hours: Sa-Tu 09:00-15:00 500 Bzs (adults), free (children) The National Museum (Sultanate of Oman) National museum under construction (8726968452) Houses jewellery, costumes, and furniture.

• Sultan's Armed Forces Museum Al Mujamma Street 23.608352, 58.54556 Bait al-Falaj ☎ +968 24 312648 RO 1 Sultan's Armed Forces Museum - This excellent 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 examines Oman's international relations and military history. All visitors are given a mandatory military escort.

• Aquarium and Marine Science and Fisheries Centre 23.576574, 58.61137 between the Al Bustan Palace Hotel and the Capital Yacht ☎ +968 24 736449 Omani Aquarium and Marine Science and Fisheries Centre -

• Sohar boat Al Bustan Roundabout 23.567459, 58.608143 near the Al Bustan Palace Hotel in Qantab Sohar replica.JPG - 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

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque Muscat Chandelier - Dome of the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque with Swarovski crystal chandelier Qurm Park 1 - Qurm National Park As an alternative to the main CBD of Muscat, Mutrah, and Ruwi and there are plenty of places to go to and things to see along the main highway that heads northwest out of the CBD. This primary street and 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 neighborhoods 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: kilometers of beaches, fishermen with drag nets and open space to walk for hours.

• Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque As Sultan Street 23.583762, 58.388588Al Khuwair Opening Hours: Sa-Thursday 09:00-11:00 (for non-Muslims) Sultan_Qaboos_Grand_Mosque Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque Muscat This is the third largest mosque in the world and mostly the entire 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 and the second largest hand made Persian carpet in the world, and the marble panelling.

• Natural History Museum 23.598933, 58.422845 across the highway from the ice-skating rink Opening Hours: Saturday 09:00-13:30; Sunday 08:00-13:30, 16:00-18:00; Monday - West 09:00-13:30; Thursday 09:00-13:00 Oman_Natural_History_Museum Stuffed Arabian Tahr

• Children's Museum 2601 Way 23.61560, 58.48097Al Qurm Opening Hours: Sa-W 09:00-13:30, Thursday 09:00-13:00 Oman Children's Museum -

• Museum of Omani Heritage 23.6098, 58.4705 Medinat Al Alam, on top of Information Hill near the Ministry of Information ☎ +968 24 600946 Opening Hours: Sa-W 09:30-13:30, Thursday 09:00-13:00 500 Bzs Museum of Omani Heritage This small museum has a good collection of archaeological exhibits, and is worth visiting for the excellent views.

• Qurm National Park - Qurum Natural Park - 23.618182, 58.489058Al Qurm Qurm Park 1 - Has extensive rose gardens, a large manmade waterfall, a lake and an amusement park which is a must to visit during the Muscat Festival.

• Oil and Gas Exhibition Centre - KnowledgeW@ Seih Al Maleh Street 23.625368, 58.50888 on the right-hand side at the end of the street just before PDO Gate 2 ☎ +968 24 677834 Opening Hours: Sunday - Thursday 08:00-15:00; closed on public holidays Oman Oil and Gas Exhibition Centre Oil & Gas Exhibition Centre 1 - This private museum has six permanent displays explaining the formation of, and modern extraction of oil and natural gas.

• Planetarium planetarium.pdo.co.om Seih Al Maleh Street 23.624817, 58.50888 adjacent to the Oil and Gas Exhibition Centre (see listing above) ☎ +968 24 675542 +968 24 675553 Oil & Gas Exhibition Centre and Planetarium - Opening Hours: Sunday - Thursday Free 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.

• Bait Al Makham - Bait Al Magham - 23.555, 58.408 Bawshar ☎ +968 24 641300 x142 (call ahead) Opening Hours: S-W 08:00-14:00 500 Bzs A fortified house built at the beginning of the 20th century, now restored and with excellent views from the top of the building.

• Bawshar Fort Al Safa Street 23.552584, 58.411479 Bawshar - Free 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.

Top Muslim Travel Tips for Muscat

Festivals and cultural events

• Royal Opera House Muscat - Al Kharjiyah ST 23.613768, 58.468078 ☎ +968 24 403300 +968 24 403322 - Royal Opera House Muscat 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.

• Muscat Festival - 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.

Outdoor activities

Mutrah flickr07 - View of Mutrah harbor from trekking path C38 Bandar Jissah, Muscat, Oman (4324789732) - Along the coast of Bandar Jissah, near the Oman Dive Center

Trekking

There is some outstanding trekking in northern Oman, and for a taste there are a couple of easy treks within or very close to Muscat.

• Trekking path C38 !ut/p/c4/ 23.618374, 58.57467 from Riyam Park to Mutrah Souq Mutrah flickr07 - This short hike takes the walker away from the modern world of Muscat and also offers fantastic views of the rugged mountains surrounding the capital city. The path begins in Riyam Park, and follows a 5000-year-old trail used by miners to an abandoned village and then finally finishes near Mutrah Souq. Allow for 1.5-2 hours, with an additional 20-minutes return walk along the Corniche. A decent trail map can be found here].

• Trekking paths C52 and C53 23.551359, 58.643124 Bandar Jissah coastline Bandar Jissah, Muscat, Oman (4324789732) - These two easy treks offer stunning vistas over the coastline. Both trails begin in Bandar Jissah. Trail map for C52]; trail map for C53].

Book a Diving trip in Muscat

Turtle-Oman Dive Centre - Sea turtle near the Oman Dive Center

• BlueZone Diving Bander al Rhowda Marina 23.582091, 58.6061 ☎ +968 24 737293 This center offers diving trips, as well as a full range of PADI courses.

• Oman Dive Center - 23.545153, 58.648354 Bandar Jissah, 15 kilometers south of Muscat ☎ +968 24 824240 Oman Dive Center 2 - 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 feasible 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.

• Omanta Scuba | Al Kharjiya St, Shatti 23.61771, 58.465445 in the boat house at the InterContinental Hotel ☎ +968 9977 7045 - 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.

Mountain biking

With many excellent trails nearby, Muscat has a fast-growing mountain bike community. Bike Oman organizes weekly mountain bike excursions on Thursday, most of which begin within a 20-45 min. drive from Muscat. During the summer they organize weekly night time rides, usually on Mondays.

• Oman Bicycle Shop - 23.58711, 58.43020 behind the Radisson Hotel, Al Khuwair ☎ +968 96773824 Opening Hours: Saturday 15:00-19:00; Sunday - Thursday 10:00-13:00, 15:00-19:00; Friday closed Mountain bikes can be rented here by the day, weekend, or week.

Beaches

Qurum1 - Qurum Public Beach

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.

• Qurum Public Beach 23.615253, 58.458828 Qurum Qurum1 - Free 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.

• Marjan Public Beach - PDO Public Beach - 23.639158, 58.491145 near Petroleum Development Oman (PDO), Qurum Heights - Free 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.

• Al Ghubrah Public Beach 23.603977, 58.405518 between the Chedi Hotel and the desalination plant, Al Ghubrah - Free 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 affordable fare, including grilled Meat and fish, lentil soup, and potato salads.

• Seeb Public Beach 23.648691, 58.236097 Seeb Seeb, Muscat, Oman (4324767930) - Free This is a long stretch of beach, with some sections quite busy, and some sections accessible only with 4WD.

• Al Bustan Public Beach 23.570714, 58.613637 near the Al Bustan Palace Hotel Al Bustan Beach 3 - Free Named after the hotel, this beach has a good view of the mountains behind.

Bird watching

There are some good areas for avian enthusiasts, within and around the city.

• Al Ansab Wetlands - 23.562079, 58.32858 off of the Muscat Expressway, next to the water treatment plant ☎ +968 800 77111 Opening Hours: Best in the early morning or late afternoon Nearly 300 avian species have been spotted here, some during migrations and others living here year-round. The wetlands were developed by the Haya Water company, which offers guided tours, bookable online .

Muslim Friendly Shopping in Muscat

Mutrah Souq, Muscat - |Mutrah Souq Muttrah Souk, Muscat, Oman (4324701004) - Antique sextant for sale in Mutrah Souq Muscat Souk (9) - Silver ceremonial daggers for sale in Mutrah Souq

• Mutrah Souq 23.61922, 58.56380 main entrance along the Corniche, Mutrah Mutrah_Souq,_Muscat.JPG - The maze-like souq (marketplace) is often described as the best in the Gulf region. The souq has many shops for jewellery, traditional Omani handicrafts and Omani food at reasonable prices. Some specific items to look for include Arab hand-embroidered mussar (shawls intended to be worn as turbans, RO 10+), garments, nuts, spices, incense, and earthenware. A few shops accept credit cards.

• Amouage Perfume Factory - 23.591284, 58.237792 near the airport ☎ +968 24 534800Amouage-Oman - Opening Hours: S-Thursday 08:30-16:00 Amouage perfume is the most expensive perfume in the world, and visitors can learn about its production. It is recommended (but not required) to call beforehand to ensure that someone is available to show you around.

• Barka Omani Halwa Factory 23.681335, 58.186317 between Seeb and Barka

• Boraka Halwa Factory Mutrah Street 23.617071, 58.562642 Mutrah

• Jawahir Oman Jewellers | Al Wilaj Street 23.615218, 58.498114Al Qurum Complex, Al Qurm ☎ +968 24 563239 Sells prized Omani silver, crafted into contemporary jewellery and gifts in a Muscat workshop.

• Omani Heritage Gallery - Jawharat Al Shatti Shopping Centre 23.61634, 58.46310 across Al Kharijiyah Street from the Royal Opera House, Al Khuwair ☎ +968 24 696974 +968 24 696568 - This gallery is operated by a non-profit group which encourages cottage industries.

• Souq al Jumaa - Friday Market - 23.578393, 58.562395 Wadi Kabir, Ruwi Opening Hours: Fridays 07:00-21:00 A bustling flea market with everything from jewellery, camping gear, carpets and even cars. There is a section with clothing, and food stalls are also nearby.

Visit a Muslim Friendly Mall in Muscat

• Markaz al Bahja Mall - 23.61473, 58.24736 Seeb ☎ +968 24 503403
• Muscat Downtown - 23.59887, 58.24805 Seeb - Downtown Muscat Contains a lot of shops including a large Carrefour Hypermarket.

• Oman Avenues Mall - 23.5902115, 58.4110941 Sultan Qaboos Street ☎ +968 24 540200 Oman Avenues Mall A Oman Avenues Mall is the largest shopping mall in Oman. Offers shopping, dining, kid zones and entertainment to local residents and international tourists.

• Qurum Downtown - 23.60818, 58.49012 - Contains Carrefour.

• Sabco Centre 23.612127, 58.49498 near the turnoff between Sultan Qaboos Street and Qurm Heights Road, Qurm - A collection of about half a dozen medium sized shopping centres which is very popular with local residents. 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 (tel. +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

• Al Meera 23.591264, 58.376752Azaiba ☎ +968 24 583444 A Qatari-based chain.

• Lulu Hypermarket Al Mina Street 23.61818, 58.54535 Mutrah - All Lulu's branches have delis offering takeaways.

• Lulu Hypermarket Wadi Kabir 63 Street 23.579278, 58.561944 Ruwi

• Lulu Hypermarket As Sultan Qaboos Street 23.591191, 58.411168 Ghubrah ☎ +968 24 504504 This location is particularly convenient if you're looking to stock up before heading to the mountains.

• Carrefour Hypermarket Qurum Downtown 23.60836, 58.48970 - There is another Carrefour located in Muscat downtown (see listing above).

• Sultan Shopping Center 23.606503, 58.499147Al Qurm

Tailors

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

• The Raymond Shop - Assarain Textiles LLC an Ruwi High Street, Ruwi 23.588561, 58.54556 ☎ +968 2483 0149, +968 9926 7972 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

Halal Restaurants in Muscat

Traditional Omani Food - Omani food is heavily influenced by Indian cuisine, and is generally centered on richly-seasoned Chicken, fish, and lamb, as well as Rice. Bin Ateeq Restaurant 2 - A traditional meal of lamb, compressed wheat sticky pancake, and sweet bread pudding at Bin Ateeq Restaurant

Food is relatively affordable in Muscat, a meal can cost just a couple of rials. For affordable Indian food and there are some Halal 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.

• Al-exandria, Fanja House, Near Sabco Centre, Ruwi, Tel - 561611. The best Rotis (Indian Bread). Try the Chicken Jalfrezi and Paneer aloo (potato).
• Automatic, (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 vehicle park. There are also branches in Ruwi, Al Khuwair and elsewhere in Muscat.

• Al Haikal Restaurant 2996 Way 23.595482, 58.544736 near bus stand, Ruwi - (Pakistani) food.

• Al-Hanan, Ruwi (Cuisine - Indian).

• Al Shaheen Restaurant Honda Road 23.585994, 58.549076 Ruwi - (Pakistani) food.

• Al Tarboush - Al-Tarboosh - 23.612667, 58.495318 opposite the Sabco Centre, Qurm - Fast Arabian/Lebanese-style food available for takeaway or eat-in on the first floor.

• Bella-Pais, MAM roundabout, just off the Nizwa turn off (Cuisine - Greek + Other).

• Bin Ateeq - Al Khuwair Road 23.59655, 58.42657 near Shell petrol station and Holiday Inn, Al Khuwair ☎ +968 24 478225 +968 24 488784 Bin Ateeq Restaurant - Opening Hours: Daily 09:00-02:00 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.

• Bin Ateeq - 2730 Way 23.599145, 58.548996 Ruwi ☎ +968 24 702727 Opening Hours: Daily 09:00-02:00 Another branch of the popular Omani restaurant.

• Gujrat Bhojan Shala, Ruwi High Street, Ruwi (Cuisine - Indian).

• Muscat Light Restaurant & Coffeeshop Al Bahri Road 23.614152, 58.590699 Old Muscat - Ideal place for a break during a walking tour of Old Muscat.

• Ofair Traditional Restaurant Al Marafah Street 23.592597, 58.402466Al Khuwair ☎ +968 24 482965 Serves traditional Omani food.

• Oman Express, Tel - 7731329. Delivers Lunch - RO 18 for a month including Fridays or RO 15.6 excluding Fridays.

• Saravana Bhavan Restaurant 23.595753, 58.541593 Ruwi, opposite OC Centre ☎ +968 24 704502 South Indian Vegetarian restaurant.

• Subway, Downtown, Seeb, Tel - 542225.

• Namath Al Seeb Restaurant - Neemeht Al Seeb - Souq Ruwi Street 846, Ruwi, Muscat, Oman 23.586280, 58.545699 The restaurant is located in the Souq Ruwi street near house number 846. It should be close to the provided GPS location. ☎ +968 92402665 US$2 Nice clean bistro with excellent fresh food every day. It is famous for its lahori chaska. Be prepared that the food could be spicy. It serves home made flat "bread" fresh straight from the oven. Despite the "Restaurant" name it is really a bistro as it has no toilet facilities.

• The Chedi Pizzas Restaurant Way No. 3215 23.60210, 58.39860 The Chedi Hotel, Ghubrah - Offers less expensive food than the other Chedi outlets, with the same understated chic ambience.

• Haffa House Hotel Restaurant Al Farahidi Street 23.59593, 58.539999 Ruwi ☎ +968 24 707207
• Kargeen Caffe - Al Bashair Street 23.600624, 58.454999 ☎ +968 24 699055 +968 24 695522 - Traditional Omani food served in a traditional setting. There is an outdoor seating area for shisha smokers, and a surprisingly good selection of Vegetarian options. Reservations are recommended, particularly on weekends.

• Turkish House 23.592257, 58.430061Al Khuwair ☎ +968 24 488071 Opening Hours: Daily 11:00-01:00 The most popular Turkish Halal restaurant in Muscat, with excellent fish dishes. Take-away and delivery available in the Al Khuwair area.

• Ubhar Restaurant - Al Sarooj Road and Al Kharjiyah Street 23.61252, 58.464307Al Qurm ☎ +968 24 699826 Opening Hours: Daily 12:30-15:30, 18:30-23:00 Exceptional, traditional Omani dishes with a modern twist, very highly rated.

Lunch buffet in Al-Bustan Palace hotel - Brunch buffet at Al Khiran Restaurant (Al Bustan Palace Hotel)

• Al Khiran Al Bustan Palace Hotel 23.566775, 58.616244 Qantab Lunch buffet in Al-Bustan Palace hotel - RO 19.5 + 17% service charge Famous for their Friday brunch buffets.

• Bait Al Bahr - @la.com 23.55121, 58.65997 Shangri-La Hotel ☎ +968 24 776565 Opening Hours: Daily 19:00-23:00 Traditional Omani seafood. Reservations strongly recommended; smart casual, nonsmoking.

• The Chedi - North Ghubra 32 23.60251, 58.39950Al Ghubra - The Beach Restaurant Interior - Four open kitchens featuring international cuisine.

• Mumtaz Mahal - Way 2601, Bldg 80, Complex 226 23.61523, 58.48346Al Qurm ☎ +968 24 605 979 Opening Hours: Daily 12:00-15:00, 19:00-00:00 Mumtaz Mahal- Restaurant Indian cuisine. Smart casual dress, reservations and credit cards accepted.

• Passage to India Al Wutayyah 23.592149, 58.522951 near Hatat House ☎ +968 24 563452 (reservations) - Indian cuisine.

• Taj Samarkhand Oasis by the Sea Residences 23.616187, 58.461973Al Qurm ☎ +968 24 602757 Indian Peshwari cuisine.

Grocery stores

• Spinney's Al Khariyah Street 23.606577, 58.453262Al Qurm, by the Sultan Qaboos Expressway - A Lebanese-based grocery store chain, has take-away options.

• Al Fair Supermarket - 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.

• Lulu's - Oman's favourite supermarket chain with a branch off Sultan Qaboos Street in Al-Khuwair.

Muscat Coffee Shop - Muscat coffee shop

Every road, street corner or little collection houses, huts or businesses has a 'Coffee-Shop' – basic but worth a go. Fresh fruit juices are delicious and available from a number of stalls and cafes in Muscat. Expect to pay between RO 0.500-1.500 for these juices depending on type and size.

• Al Ahli Coffeeshop 23.618551, 58.564633 Mutrah Souq ☎ +968 24 713469 Also has fresh fruit juices.

• Fast Food North Juice Centre Al Bahri Road 23.620232, 58.56489 Mutrah - You can watch the world go by from the outside tables.

• and Starbucks (Please do not support Starbucks as Starbucks supports Israel. Shun this coffee and go for alternative brands and if possible for a Muslim owned brand.) Coffee 23.622679, 58.475364Al Qurm - Located on the beach road that goes between the Crown Plaza Hotel and the Intercontinental Hotel. It is so close that if you cross the road, you are on the beach. The larger drinks are about RO 2-2.2, but the view through the glass wall of the waves coming into the beach is excellent.

Lounges

• Left Bank 23.6154, 58.483559 ground floor beneath Mumtaz Mahal Restaurant, Qurm ☎ +968 24 693699 Opening Hours: Sa-Thursday 12:00-15:00, 18:00-02:00; Friday 14:00-01:30/02:00 Known for good drinks as well as good food. Reservations recommended if you come here for dinner. Expensive.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Muscat

Muscat - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Muscat, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Muscat. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Muscat and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Muscat. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Muscat. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations inMuscat: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Muscat.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Muscat: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Muscat, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Muscat.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Muscat, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Muscat, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Muscat and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Muscat, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Muscat, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Muscat without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Muscat is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Muscat.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Muscat is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Muscat, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Muscat Media: info@ehalal.io

Muslim Friendly Hotels

• 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 2022).

• Aywa Guesthouse - formerly known as Aywa Hostel - Ghubrah North, Way 3209, no. 725 23.595450, 58.398915 ☎ +968 9804 9029 Check-in: 4pm / Check-out: 12 noon RO 19 double room Guesthouse has a terrace, lounge, and kitchen. Price includes WiFi and using guest computer, printer/scanner and washing machine.

• Delmon Hotel Apartments | Al Wada Al Kabir Street 23.578671, 58.565011 Ruwi ☎ +968 24 818181 +968 24 818844 Price RO 23-75 - Includes breakfast and free Wi-Fi.

• Golden Oasis Hotel - Al Wada Al Kabir Street 23.578374, 58.564392 Ruwi ☎ +968 24 811655 RO 35-55 - In the centre of Ruwi and close to the main commercial area. A popular choice for tourists.

• Marina Hotel Corniche 23.624203, 58.560985 Mutrah, across from the fish souq ☎ +968 24 713100 Has good views of the harbour, but with two late night restaurants is quite noisy at night. Free wi-fi available only in lobby.

• Ruwi Hotel - 23.594371, 58.541883 Ruwi ☎ +968 24 704244 +968 24 704248 - A tired and run down hotel that is more the standard of a third world back packer establishment, but has an interesting café.

• Al Waffa Hotel Flats Ruwi Mwasalat Bus Station, Muscat Oman 23.595392, 58.545478 The hotel is just in front of Mwasalat bus station, see GPS location. ☎ +968 24786522 Despite bit strange reception entry and the hotel has nice big & clean rooms with toilette, shower, fridge and SmartTV. Excellent location. RO 20/night for 2 persons.

• Crown Plaza Hotel - Al Qurm Street 23.628641, 58.483053 Heights Residential Area, Al Qurm ☎ +968 24 660660 Crowne Plaza Hotel - Price Check-in: 14:00 / Check-out: 13:00 Has a grand view north up the beach towards the Intercontinental.

• Golden Tulip Seeb Exhibition Street 23.58467, 58.30394 Seeb, across the expressway from the airport ☎ +968 24 514444, +968 24 510055 (reservations)
• Haffa House Hotel - Al Farahidi Street 23.59579, 58.54020 ☎ +968 2470 7207 +968 2470 7208 Check-in: 14:00-24:00 / Check-out: 12:00-15:00 From RO 40, including breakfast Non-smoking rooms, gym onsite, free Wi-Fi, luggage storage available.

• Somerset Panorama Muscat | @scott.com Al Ghubrah Street 23.582824, 58.408375 ☎ +968 2 204 0000 This property offers studio, one- and two-bedroom apartments. Amenities included are housekeeping, food delivery, laundry & dry cleaning services.

Al Bustan Hotel - Al Bustan Palace Hotel Hyatt hotel, Muscat, Oman - Grand Hyatt interior

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

• Al Bustan Palace Hotel - 23.567114, 58.615696 Qantab ☎ +968 24 799666Al Bustan Hotel - Built to house a regional conference in the mid-1980s and the hotel is famous for its brunches. Worth visiting just to check out the lobby and hotel grounds.

• Al Falaj Hotel - Al Mujamma St, 2031 23.606336, 58.538867 Ruwi ☎ +968 24 702311 +968 24 795853

• The Chedi - home North Ghubra 32 23.60244, 58.39914Al Ghubra ☎ +968 24 524400 +968 24 493485 The Chedi Muscat The Chedi Muscat hotel - Five star luxury with traditional Omani architecture.

• Crystal Suites - Vegetable & Fruit Market Road, Way 6702, Block 167 Wadi Kabir 23.566682, 58.573092 Ruwi ☎ +968 24826100 RO 30+ 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.

• Grand Hyatt - 23.608705, 58.444442Al Qurm ☎ +968 24 641234 +968 24 605282 Grand Hyatt Muscat Hotel Hyatt hotel, Muscat, Oman This is an opulent building designed by a Yemeni prince in what seems almost a parody of Arabian palace styles.

• InterContinental Muscat - Al Kharjiya Street 23.61615, 58.46523Al Shati ☎ +968 24 680000 +968 800 77 999 Check-in: 15:00 (early check-in available on request) / Check-out: 12:00 From RO 110, including breakfast On the beach, with onsite restaurant, gym, tennis court, outdoor pool, and free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel.

• Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa - 23.55071, 58.66007 southeast of Muscat ☎ +968 24 776666 +968 24 776677 Shangri-La's Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort Oman - 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.

Medical Issues in Muscat

It is advisable to drink bottled water while in Muscat. Oman Oasis, Tanuf, Arwa, Salsabeel and Aquafina are the most recognisable brands of mineral water and is available in most convenience shops. "Masafi" and "Darbat" are also brands at reasonable prices - RO 1 for 12*1.5 litre. Tap water is generally not safe, and so use bottled water.

Telecommunications in Muscat

Omantel offers pre-paid Hayyak SIM cards and top-up cards, which can be purchased at mobile phone shops and hypermarkets. Also available are pre-paid Jibreen Cards, good on both mobile and landlines, in denominations of RO 5 and 1.5. A 5-rial card gets you 11 minutes of talk time.

Skype is blocked in Oman, and can only be visited through a VPN. While other VoIP services have been blocked in the past, Google Talk, Viber, FaceTime and MSN Messenger are all accessible.

The calling card Global One does not work in Muscat. Although the Global One website lists the rates for calls from Oman there are no numbers listed alongside. The nearest Global One help line is in Dubai.

Free Wi-Fi is available in several public parks, including Qurm National Park, Naseem Garden, Al Amerat Park, and Wadi Kabir. For access, visitors are routed to an Omantel landing page requesting a mobile number, to which a password will be sent; clients are limited to 1.5 hr/day. Costa Coffee also offers free connection in five locations: Qurm Downtown, Muscat Downtown, MQ, Bareeq al Shatti, and Oasis Mall.

Omantel [https://?linkId=4&Menuid= Ibhar hotspots are scattered throughout Muscat, mainly in coffeeshops, restaurants, and shopping malls. Pre-paid Ibhar cards are available at any Omantel counter or at the hotspot location.

Cope

Emergency number (ambulance, fire and police) is 9999.

ATMs

ATMs are very common now, especially in the Embassy neighborhood and near most shopping malls, larger hotels, petrol stations and supermarkets. Also, every little neighbourhood has a several bank branches.

Bank Muscat is by far the largest bank in Oman and one of the largest in Gulf. It has over 230 ATMs all around Muscat.

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.

Muslim Friendly 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 Observer - One of Oman's most-widely distributed English newspaper, also available in print.

• Oman Tribune
• Times of Oman - Oman's oldest English newspaper, printed Sa-Thursday, available online and in print.

• Muscat Daily - Oman's most widely distributed English newspaper, available in print.

• TheWeek - A free weekly newspaper published on Wednesdays.

• H! - A free weekly newspaper offering light reading, published every weekend by the Times of Oman.

• Oman Today - A small glossy magazine with tips on tourism, local trips and eating-out, published monthly.

• Khaleej Times - Published in Dubai and available throughout the Gulf.

Embassies & Consulates in Muscat

{{flag|Austria

• Austria - Embassy closed in 2011 for budgetary reasons; nearest diplomatic mission is in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

{{flag|Bahrain

• Bahrain - 115, Madinat Al Sultan Qaboos ☎ +968 24 605074, +968 24 605075, +968 24 605133 +968 24605072

China - Villa 1368, way 3017, Shatti Al-Qurum ☎ +968 24 949204 Egypt Eg.emb@ Jamai'at al Dowal al Arabyia Street in the Diplomatic Area ☎ +968 24 600411, +968 24 600982 +968 24603626

• France - P.O. Box 208 Madinat Qabous PC 115 ☎ +968 24 681800, +968 24 681804 (emergencies) +968 24 681843
• Germany - Hillat Al-Jazeera, Way No. 4911, Villa 953 near Al Nahda Hospital, Ruwi ☎ +968 24 832482, +968 24 837374, +968 24 835000 +968 24 835690 Opening Hours: Sunday - West 09:00-12:00* Greece - PO Βox 175 ☎ +968 24 793072 +968 787714

• Iran - Jamai'at al Dowal al Arabyia Street in the Diplomatic Area ☎ +968 24 696944, +968 24 696947 +968 24 696888

{{flag|Italy

• Italy - Al Qurum House 842 Way 2411 ☎ +968 24 560968, +968 24 564832, +968 24 564838 +968 24 564846

{{flag|Jordan

• Jordan - Jamai'at al Dowal al Arabyia Street in the Diplomatic Area ☎ +968 24 692760, +968 24 692761 +968 24 692762

{{flag|Switzerland

• Switzerland - Consulate - Al Asfoor Plaza Bldg 1F 104 Qurum ☎ +968 24 568205 +968 24 568206
• United Kingdom | 116 Mina Al Fahal in the Diplomatic Area ☎ +968 24 693077, +968 24 609000 +968 24 609010 Opening Hours: Sunday - Thursday 07:30-14:30

United States | PO Box 202, PC 115, Madinat Al Sultan Qaboos ☎ +968 24 643400, +968 24 643400 (emergencies) +968 24 643740

Tourist information

• National Travel Tourism, Ar-Rumaylah Street, Wattayah, tel. +968 24 566046, e-mail: @, Sa-Thursday 08:00-13:00, 16:00-19:00

Travel Next

• Drive west to Nizwa, and then go hiking or camping in the magnificent Hajar Mountains. Explore the fortresses in the area, and visit the UNESCO sites of Bat, Al-Khutm and Al-Ayn.
• Drive south for an hour to explore the spectacular Central_Coastal_Oman#Do|Wadi Shab. Along the way check out the Bimmah Sinkhole, and then continue onwards to Sur.
• Head north to Sohar for some good diving, visit Ibri and then continue onward to the Musandam Peninsula.

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