Muscat, the capital of Oman, a popular destination in the Middle East has been an important trading port between the East and West since the early 1st century. By virtue of being a prominent port-town, Muscat soon became home to tradesmen and settlers from across the seas including Persians and Gujaratis. After the rule of the region was passed between various powers, it was in 1970 when the current ruler Qaboos bin Said rose as the Sultan. Muscat has since seen a meticulous rise in infrastructural development and paved a booming economy. Today, a multi-ethnic society has made Muscat its home.
The city lies within close proximity of the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most important sea passage that connects the Persian Gulf to the open ocean. Dates, fish and mother of pearl account for a majority of the city's exports. Oman as a country and home of the city boasts of an incredibly diverse environment with a wide array or tourist attractions. Oman's cultural tourism is also reckoned worldwide. Soft sand beaches, water sports, diving, desert safaris, caves, markets, museums, trekking, heritage sights, horse racing, and even turtle reserves come together to form the ultimate list of things to do across the country.
Eating Out!
The cuisine of Muscat as a region of Oman takes on its interpretation of Omani cuisine. With inspiration and influence of foods from several parts of Asia, the cuisine here includes dishes that often revolve around chicken, lamb and fish. While in Muscat, indulge in local delicacies and beverages including Maqbous, Harees, Kebabs, Mashuai, Kahwa and Laban.
SpiceJet Recommendations!
The Restaurant at The Chedi
18th November Street | Al Khuwair, Muscat, Oman
The Indus
Opera Galleria, Royal Opera House, Muscat, Oman
The Beach Restaurant
18th November Street | Al Khuwair, The Chedi, Muscat, Oman
D'arcy's Kitchen
Madinat Al Sultan Qaboos, Oman
Khargeen Cafe
Madinat Sultan Qaboos, Oman
Shangri La's Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa-Al Husn
Barr Al Jissah
Al Bustan Palace
Quron Beach
Midan Hotel Suites
Building 259, Way 3205,
Al-Marefah Street, Al-Ghubrah North
Grand Hyatt Muscat
Shatti Al Qurum Diplomatic District
- Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque spans over 416,000 metres and has a holding capacity of 20,000 people. Visit this mosque for its contemporary Islamic style, ornate interiors, a 14 metre intricate chandelier, and the worlds's second largest breathtakingly rich hand-woven carpet that took four years to produce.
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Royal Opera House Muscat
Visit this gorgeous opera house that opened its doors to fans of classical music and art. Words fall short of describing its contemporary Omani architecture, magnificence and beauty. While Royal Opera House hosts tours of the building for which tickets have to be bought in advance, you can also opt to walk around it. To truly indulge in its splendor, the performance season begins in September and ends in June.
Embark on days out while in Muscat to explore its beautiful beaches, mosques, monuments, and dhow rides along the corniche. Musandam in the north of Oman, and Salalah in the south are must visit neighbouring peninsulas to Muscat.
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Muscat Festival
One of the most recogonised festivals in this city is the Muscat Festival that brings together the entire city in reflecting its culture, beauty and history. Held during the months of January and February every year, it provides an incredible insight into the depth of Muscat's history, heritage, and development. Shopping, sightseeing and activities inspired by Omani culture here bring the perfect opportunity in form of this festival to explore Muscat.