Muscat Oman
Country: Oman · Region: Arabian Gulf · Currency: Omani Rial
Muscat is Oman's capital and largest city, a historic trading port wedged between the Arabian Sea and mountains, consisting of several districts including old Muscat, Mutrah, and Ruwi. Cruise ships dock at Port Sultan Qaboos in Mutrah with easy access to souqs, museums, and waterfront attractions.
Top sights
Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Mutrah Souq, Al Jalali Fort, National Museum, Qasr Al Alam Royal Palace, Corniche
Things to do
- Qasr Al Alam Royal Palace
- The office of Sultan Qaboos standing on a natural deep water harbour and guarded by twin forts; photography permitted at the entrance but visitors cannot enter.
- National Museum
- Large museum illustrating Omani history and customs from the Stone Age to present day with detailed 3D printed models and beautifully presented artifacts.
- Bait Al Zubair Museum
- Museum featuring displays on Omani social history with tours frequently run of a neighbouring reconstructed townhouse.
- Mutrah Souq
- Labyrinthine souq in the former fishing village of Mutrah, known for its extensive marketplace.
Beaches
- Corniche
- Renovated waterfront area in Mutrah popular for walking with views of fishing dhows and many affordable eating places.
Where to eat
- Corniche eating places
- Many not-so-expensive restaurants and food vendors line the renovated corniche area in Mutrah.
- Fish market
- Daily fish market (6-10AM) along the Corniche where visitors can watch fishermen unload and sell the catch of the day.
Forecast for Muscat
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Weather in Muscat by month
Averages from 2015 to 2024, not a forecast. Within about two weeks of a date, the live forecast above is the one to trust.
| Month | Average high | Average low | Rainfall | Wet days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 76°F | 63°F | 0.5 in | 3 |
| February | 79°F | 65°F | 0.3 in | 2 |
| March | 85°F | 70°F | 0.4 in | 3 |
| April | 93°F | 78°F | 0.3 in | 3 |
| May | 101°F | 84°F | 0.0 in | 1 |
| June | 102°F | 87°F | 0.0 in | 2 |
| July | 100°F | 88°F | 0.3 in | 3 |
| August | 98°F | 84°F | 0.0 in | 1 |
| September | 96°F | 82°F | 0.0 in | 1 |
| October | 92°F | 78°F | 0.6 in | 2 |
| November | 85°F | 71°F | 0.3 in | 2 |
| December | 78°F | 65°F | 0.5 in | 3 |
Getting around
Taxis (use O Taxi app to avoid haggling), public buses operated by Mwasalat, or maxi taxis are available from Port Sultan Qaboos; the Corniche is within short walking distance of the port.
What to eat
The renovated Corniche area in Mutrah has many affordable eating places, and the Fish market operates daily from 6-10AM for fresh local seafood.
Tips
Bring only your cruise boarding pass and Tourist Entry Permit; agree on taxi fares before entering the vehicle to avoid overcharging.
Best for
History, Culture, Souqs