Muscat, Capital city at Gulf of Oman, Oman
Description
Muscat is the capital of Oman, sitting on the Arabian Sea with neighborhoods spreading between steep coastal mountains and sandy bays across several provinces. The built-up area follows the coastline with low white buildings interrupted by empty hills and valleys.
History
The city served as a major trading port between East and West from the 1st century AD under Persian, Portuguese, and Ottoman control. Modern development began in the 1970s when oil revenues enabled the construction of new roads and infrastructure.
Culture
The souks in the old center sell frankincense, spices, and handwoven textiles using methods that have remained unchanged for generations. In the early evening hours, families gather along the corniche for walks while fishermen prepare their nets for night work.
Practical
The public bus system connects the main districts with regular runs, while taxis are readily available in all neighborhoods. English is widely spoken, especially in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops.
Did you know?
Two Portuguese forts from the 16th century sit on hilltops above the harbor and light up at night. The old city wall preserves its original gates through which caravans once passed carrying frankincense and spices.
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Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
21.2 km
Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
21.1 km
Al Alam Palace
415 m
Souk de Matrah
3.2 km
Majlis al Jinn
96.8 km
Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex
20.3 km
The National Museum - Sultanate of Oman
87 m
Fort Al Jalali
628 mOld Muscat
187 mShiva temple, Muscat
642 m
Bimmah Sinkhole
80.7 kmBeit al-Barakah
52.6 km
Al-Seeb Stadium
38.5 km
Wadi Shab
108.9 km
Al Sahwa Tower
35 km
Mutrah Corniche
2.4 km
Bait al Zubair
484 m
Fort Al-Mirani
549 m
Oman Botanic Garden
46.3 kmZawawi Mosque
17.6 km
Royal Oman Police Stadium
8.9 kmOman Children's Museum
11.5 kmحديقة القرم الطبيعية
10.9 km
Muscat Gate Museum
908 mOmani French Museum
355 m
Sultan's Armed Forces Museum
4.9 kmMuseum of Omani Heritage
12.6 kmOmani Aquarium and Marine Science and Fisheries Centre
3.7 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
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