Muscat

Muscat Oman is the capital of the Sultanate, a city of about 1.7 million people stretched across 60 kilometres of Gulf of Oman coastline at the base of the rugged Al Hajar Mountains. Unlike its skyscraper-filled Gulf neighbours, Muscat remains largely low-rise by royal decree, with most buildings limited to 8 to 10 floors and finished in white or sandy hues that reflect its traditional Arabian identity. Visitors arriving through Muscat International Airport, often after browsing Muscat duty free, find a city where heritage and landscape take centre stage. The main attractions are spread across three districts: Old Muscat, home to Al Alam Palace and the 16th-century Portuguese forts of Mirani and Jalali; Mutrah, known for its scenic corniche, bustling souq and port; and Al Ghubrah, where the vast Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque stands as a landmark. Beyond the capital, day trips lead to Wadi Shab’s turquoise pools, the dunes of Wahiba Sands and the turtle nesting beaches at Ras al Jinz.