Official Language:
Arabic
Secondary Language:
English
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Currency:
Omani Rial
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Population:
Approximately 650,000 people call Muscat home.
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Weather:
Climate and current weather information for Muscat Oman: A wide range of climatic conditions can be expected in Oman, varying with the geography of each region. Muscat itself is described as pleasantly warm in the winter months from October to March, but in summer is hot and very humid, making air conditioning essential. There is little rain througout the year. Temperatures during the day are in the upper 80s °F to low 90s °F (25-32°C).
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PORT: Cruise ships dock at Port Qaboos. The Old City is about 1.5 miles away. Taxis are available at the port gate.
Muscat, the capital of Oman is located on the Gulf of Oman. The Gulf of Oman is an arm of the Arabian Sea. Surrounded by mountains, Muscat is the nation's chief administrative centre and the largest city. Surrounded by striking mountains and soft sandy shores. This is an ancient town, that has a unique civilization that reflects the Arabian and Islamic influences. Muscat is divided into six wilayats and it is Oman's financial and trade centre. Hamad bin Said took Muscat as Oman's capital from Rustaq between 1779 - 1792. Among the city's successes are: a major port, Mina Qaboos; Seeb International Airport and international airline Oman Air; its own stock market, the Muscat Securities Market; a TV and radio network, Oman TV and Radio; state-of-the-art hospitals; and superior educational establishments. However, the beginnning days of Muscat were quite differents. Curfews were imposed on Muscat's citizens and everyone had to be within the city walls by sunset. Trades were carried out using antiquated tools and cars were practically non-existent with only dirt tracks for roads. The majority of people had to walk everywhere . From Muscat City to Ruwi could take as long as four hours. Under the leadership of His Majesty, Sultan Qaboos, Muscat has improved beyond recognition, however the city has not lost its pride in its heritage and culture. The capital area with its combination of ancient and modern is an intelligent and aesthetic development.
Located in the heart of this old city is the magnificent Sultan’s Palace. The Al-Alam palace was built for the sultan of Oman in the 1970s and dominates the waterfront. The Old Town is a small maze of old buildings that are guarded by two 16th century Portuguese forts (Mirani and Jalali). The most popular of attractions also include the Natural History Museum of Bayt Al-Zubair, Nakhi Fort and the souk and majestic Corniche at Muttrah. Other attractions worth seeing are the impressive Bayt an Naman, and Fort of Rostaq. Since the 6th century BC, Muscat has been important, during the time when Persians controlled the port. Under Portuguese domination from 1508 to 1650, then subsequently the Iranians gained control of the city. Muscat became the capital of independent Muscat and Oman in 1741. In 1970 the country's name was changed to just Oman.
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Attractions |
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Forts of Al Jalali and Al Mirani:
These are the capital's most prominent landmarks, built in the 16th century AD.
Bab al Matha'eeb:
Many years back Muscat was walled in. Today the wall is now replaced by a stone moat, which the Omanis call "al hosn" or the fortification. There are still parts of the original wall which remain, including the three main access gates to the city: Bab al Matha'eeb, the Greater Gate and the Lesser Gate.
Al Alam Palace:
His Majesty's colourful and elegant Al Alam Palace along with the Al Bustan Palace Hotel.
Beaches:
There are many beautiful beaches in Musacat, including Al Jissah, Al Khayran and Al Sifa. Fishing is very popular in Muscat along with sewing fishing nets, basket weaving, tree felling, and herding.
Seeb:
A narrow strip of coastline along the Gulf of Oman. Seeb has a number of ancient monuments, but most well known for its modern landmarks situated on the large highway roundabouts, and the Seeb International Airport. Famous for its bullfighting, you will find spectators that assemble at a venue outside the town and form a 'human chain'. Competitors race two bulls, in which the bull winning the race is feted throughout the wilayat and will often fetch a better price at market.
Muttrah:
Muttrah is home to Oman's ancient trading port and the modern counterpart, Mina Qaboos. Muttrag has many public gardens and picnic areas, with the most popular one being Riyam Park. Located at the top of a cliff, visitors will also find three museums: the National Museum, Bait al Zubair and Bait al Falaj (the Armed Forces Museum). The traditional industries include: perfumery, weaving, textiles, silver and gold crafting and fishing.
Bausher:
The wilayat of Bausher is located between the sea and the mountains, southwest of Muttrah. Bausher has a history which dates back to 2000BC. The Battle of the Two Wastelands was fought here. One of the most famous places in Bausher is the Bait Al Kebir (the Great House) which was owned by Thuria bint Mohammed bin Azan. She was a wonderful lady who was known throughout the area for her kind and generous deeds. The Great House is now open to the public since its restoration in 1992. Other popular attractions include the Ain Ghala spring, Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex, Qurum Natural Park, Qurum beach, the Natural History Museum and the Children's Museum.
Quriyat:
Occupying a narrow strip of coastline along the Arabian Gulf. The name comes from qariyat meaning 'villages'. The first settlers arrived in Quriyat before the emergence of Islam in Oman. A majority of the locals retain traditional customs, and pursue ancient crafts such as blacksmithing, saddlework, boat building, camel rearing and repairing firearms. There are many natural and beautiful spots here, both on the coast and inland. Wadi Daykah is a tranquil valley with fresh, clear running water, this is a favorite spot for visitors and locals alike. Bimma, Fans and Dhabbab are beautiful pristine beaches to visit.
Shopping:
The Muttrah Souq is a bazaar that is without a doubt the most interesting souq in the Arab Gulf States. Here cruise passengers will find a variet of Arabian antiques, bright textiles and exquisite gold and silver jewelry. This is the most famous bazaar in the Sultanate of Oman. Bargaining is customary in the souq and in the small shops.
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More Information |
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Web: http://travel.state.gov/oman.html
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