Several activities keep you busy while you’re visiting Muscat. Whether you want to go ice skating, learn about Oman’s history at museums, take in views of the Muttrah corniche, or buy souvenirs at the souq, there’s plenty to see and do.
Below, I’ve suggested the best eleven things to do in Muscat to enjoy your stay.
Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
The mosque is quite grand, and while walking around inside, notice the blue Iranian handmade carpets that took years to make. I’ve visited several times and enjoyed the detailed tiled works and the craftsmanship.
Make sure to walk around the garden and take note of the perfectly shaped bushes. Non-muslims can visit the mosque from 8 am to 11 am Saturday- Thursday.
Women must cover their heads and wear longer-sleeved shirts, long pants, or skirts. Men should not wear shorts. Women can also rent Abayas.
Royal Opera House Muscat
The Royal Opera House has dancing, opera, and musical performances. I went to an opera a few months after arriving in 2018. I do not remember the name, but I went because I had heard fantastic things about the architecture. Another reason why the opera house is one of the best eleven things to do in Muscat.
If you’re not an opera lover, they also offer tours so you can learn about the design and history. Check here for details. For a list of performances, go to their site.
Fun Zone
Located in Qurum, I once went with friends and had a blast, which makes this one of the eleven best things to do in Muscat.
Visitors can ice skate, play air hockey, go bowling, and kids can ride on the merry-go-round and play other games.
Guests can pay for ice skating for one hour, and skates are available for rental. Bring a light jacket to stay warm while skating.
People and Place Museum
I stumbled across this in Muttrah when I was walking around because it’s kind of tucked away. Located near the fort, this museum displays Omani traditional items. One can expect to find traditional clothing, jewelry, and a replica of a kitchen.
It will only take about fifteen minutes to go around, and there’s also a small shop to buy artwork. I went twice, and it seems open from 4:30 pm until 6:00 pm.
Muttrah Fort
Near the People and Place Museum, the fort is good for views of the corniche and harbor. After exploring the area, visitors can now grab a drink at the coffee shop.
The cost is 1 OMR for adult residents and 500 baisa for children. For non-residents, the price is 3 OMR for adults and 2 OMR for children.
The fort is open from 8 am to noon and 4:30 to 11 pm. The website says the fort is open all day, but there’s usually a break between noon and 4:30.
National Museum of Oman
This museum is one of my favorites because of the variety of exhibits. Step back in time to learn about the country’s maritime history, traditional clothing, and general history. One will also find rooms with old pottery, cookware, and jewelry.
I also like that they have a short, roughly ten-minute film highlighting Oman’s general history. Make sure to add this museum to your list of the best eleven things to do in Muscat.
The museum is in Muttrah and costs 5 OMR for non-residents, 2 OMR for residents, and 1 OMR for citizens and GCC nationals. It is open Saturday – Thursday from 10 am to 5:00 pm. On Fridays, the hours are 2 pm to 6:00 pm.
Bait Al Zubair
I have gone twice but haven’t been in about four years. Maybe it’s time that I return. It is in Muttrah near the National Museum.
It is similar to the National Museum but focuses more on heritage and traditional handicrafts. The last time I went, there were colorful green and yellow painted goats outside on display.
There’s also an area outside highlighting storage and cookware items, such as clay pottery water pitchers and wicker mats.
The cost is 2 OMR for adults and 1 OMR for children, but the price may have changed, so keep this in mind when entering.
Al Alam Palace
The ceremonial palace is also in Muttrah, and many people come here to take in the beautiful outside, complete with blue and gold columns. The palace is not open for visitors, but it’s possible to take a photo from the gate.
I’ve been in the morning and at night, and there are always crowds. But it is a lovely spot to visit because of the architecture. There’s also a garden here.
Muttrah Souq
For those looking for souvenirs, the souq is the place to go. There’s anything from traditional clothing to silver and gold jewelry. One can also buy bahour – like frankincense and Turkish lamps. They also sell spices.
I recommend having patience when coming to this souq. Too many shops haggle you to buy something, which can get overwhelming. The souq is open from 9 am to noon and 4:30 – 10 pm.
Muttrah Corniche
Walking along the water and taking in views of the harbor is lovely, which is why this made the list of the best eleven things to do in Muscat. At one end, there’s the fish souq. Or if you walk in the other direction, you’ll eventually reach the fort, souq, and Riyam Park.
To avoid the heat, walk early in the morning, around 6:00 am or after 4:30 pm. Parking can be challenging, so try finding a spot near the restaurant, Bait Al Luban, across from the fish souq.
Al Bustan Palace afternoon tea
If you’re looking for an afternoon treat of indulgences, book tea at the Atrium Tea Lounge at Al Bustan Palace. The dome and the immaculate chandelier are a few reasons to come here.
Book a table before coming. The cost is 13.5 OMR for an individual and 25 OMR sharing option. They sometimes have a special offer. Several years ago, when I went, they had a special price for November for National Day. Visit their site herefor details.
Conclusion
Hopefully these best eleven things to do in Muscat are helpful when planning your stay. Whether visiting the city for a few days or spending a week, there’s plenty to do to stay busy.