Muscat

Muscat

Attraction Introduction

Muscat is the capital of Oman and the center of its economic development. It consists of three districts: Muscat, Mutrah, and Ruwi, with a population of over 400,000. The palace of Sultan Qaboos is located in the Muscat district, built in the 1970s. Visitors can take photos in front of the majestic Arabian-style palace.

The Mirani and Jalali military forts, built by the Portuguese during their occupation of Oman, are the most iconic historic landmarks in Muscat. However, these forts are still used as offices for the local police and as military bases, and are not open to the public. Visitors can admire the nearby coastal scenery and passing ships from outside the forts, as well as view the backyard of the palace from afar.

Mutrah District is home to the Mutrah Fish Market, which sells a variety of fresh fish and produce. Across from the fish market is the Muttrah Souq, a traditional market offering a range of everyday Arabic goods, perfumes, spices, traditional clothing, and handicrafts, as well as gold jewelry shops and currency exchange offices. Traditional markets and parks, along with more affordable hotels, are also located in this district. Ruwi can be described as an office district, where many businesses and government offices are situated. This area features several five-star international hotels built along the beach, most of which have bars. There are also various reasonably priced restaurants and hotels available in the city. Additionally, there is the Al Juma Souq, meaning Friday Market. Friday is akin to Sunday in Islamic regions, and Omani residents in Muscat enjoy shopping here. The variety of items available ranges from livestock, vegetables, grains, to second-hand cars, making it bustling and lively—more so than a typical Chinese-style traditional market.

Visiting the Oman Museum, Bait Nadir Museum, and Natural History Museum in the city helps you understand the Kingdom of Oman through its history, nature, and daily life aspects.

The annual “Muscat Festival” held between January and February invites renowned traditional craft artisans from Oman and neighboring countries to showcase unique crafts from their respective regions, along with various song, dance, and theatrical performances. The exciting activities attract tens of thousands of visitors from across the Middle East to this grand event.

The nearby Seeb is the location of the international airport and also the hub for camel racing. Camel racing takes place on Oman’s National Day, November 18th, and is enthusiastically participated in by people of all ages in Oman. Most jockeys are children, and the surrounding crowds cheer loudly to support their favorite camels. Immediately after the races, camel trading takes place, with winning camels seeing their value skyrocket dozens of times, making the effort and care put into training them by their owners well worth it.

Oman Muscat