Plan a CruiseMuscat, the capital of Oman, offers a captivating blend of Arab, Indian, African, and European architecture. The city is spread out with buildings generally not exceeding eight floors. Cruise ships dock at a pier in Muttrah, the historic old town and a bustling commercial center. A complimentary 3-minute port shuttle service transports passengers from the ship to the main port gate.
Getting Around from the Port
- Walking: From the port gate, turn left and follow the path along the road to reach the new fish and meat market. Continue on the pavement until you reach traffic lights or a pedestrian bridge, which will take you across to the Muttrah Souq. The Corniche area is also accessible on foot, about a 30-40 minute walk from the port gate on new, flat pavement suitable for buggies and wheelchairs.
- Taxis: Taxis are readily available at the port gate. They are not metered, but government-set rates apply: OMR 10 (approximately €20) for the first three hours, and OMR 7 per hour thereafter. Omani taxi drivers are known for being friendly, speaking reasonable English, having good air-conditioned vehicles, and being proud to showcase their country. A 3-4 hour taxi tour is a recommended way to see the city's highlights.
- Local Bus: Bus #4 stops near the Muttrah Souq entrance and travels into Muscat. The fare is around OMR 1, and local currency is required. The bus drops off at the new fish and meat market on its return journey.
- Hop-on/off Bus: A Hop-on/off bus service has a stop directly in front of the ship, so no shuttle is needed. Buses are scheduled every 30 minutes, though longer intervals can occur.
Attractions and Activities
- Muttrah Souq & Corniche: Both are easily accessible from the port gate. The Muttrah Souq, about 2km from the pier, is a maze-like marketplace considered one of the best in the Gulf. It offers jewelry, traditional Omani handicrafts, spices, and food at reasonable prices, with many shops accepting credit cards. Note that the Souq is largely closed between 1 PM and 5 PM but becomes lively after dark. The recently renovated Corniche area, about a 30-40 minute walk, is perfect for a stroll and features many inexpensive eating places.
- Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque: This impressive site is the third-largest mosque in the world and a must-see. It's open to non-Muslim visitors Monday through Thursday, from 9 AM to 12 PM. Ladies must keep their heads covered, and men should wear long pants. Highlights include a massive Swarovski crystal chandelier, the world's largest handmade Persian carpet, and intricate marble paneling. This attraction is best reached by taxi from Muttrah.
- Al Jalali and Al Mirani Forts: Located on Qasr Al Alam Street, these two ancient forts were built by the Portuguese in 1580 during their occupation. Originally prisons, they have now been converted into museums. These are best visited via a taxi tour.
- Customized Taxi Tours: Consider hiring a taxi for 3-4 hours. Drivers are knowledgeable and will take you to Muscat's main attractions, providing an excellent way to explore beyond Muttrah.
Dining
The Corniche area, within walking distance of the port gate, is known for its many inexpensive eating places and sidewalk cafes. There are also a few sidewalk cafes near the Souq entrance that offer Wi-Fi with a purchase. Soft drinks and coffees are very reasonably priced. *
Shopping
The Muttrah Souq (approx. 2km from the pier) is an excellent place to bargain for local items such as Arab headgear (around OMR 1), garments, nuts, spices, incense, and earthenware. In summer, an air-conditioned taxi is recommended for the journey to the Souq. For modern shopping, Muscat City Center in Seeb is the largest mall, featuring numerous shops including a large Carrefour. Shopping establishments generally operate from 9 AM to 1 PM and 4 PM to 9 PM.
Safety
Muscat is a very safe city, and taxi drivers are reliable and professional. Be aware that the Muttrah Souq is typically closed between 1 PM and 5 PM. During the hot summer months, it's advisable to take an air-conditioned taxi for distances like the 2km walk to the Souq. When visiting religious sites like the Grand Mosque, adhere to the specified dress code as a sign of respect.
Currency and Language
The local currency is the Omani Rial (OMR), which is divided into 1000 Baisa. Since 1986, the Rial has been officially tied to the US Dollar at a rate of OMR 1 = USD 2.6008. This equates to approximately OMR 1 = EUR 2. The UAE's Dirham is also widely accepted. Credit cards are generally accepted in most shops and restaurants. Currency exchange shops and banks can be found near the Muttrah Souq entrance. While Arabic is the national language, most Omanis, especially in tourist areas, speak good to excellent English.