muscat airport tour

Layover in Muscat, Oman: How to make the most of your layover of 24 hours or less

Transiting through Oman’s Muscat International Airport with 24 hours or less between flights? Be sure to make the most of your layover in Oman by exploring Muscat, the country’s vibrant capital. This 24-hour suggested itinerary will lead you to the city’s famous tourist attractions and will help you make the most of your layover. Depending on your traveling priorities, you can certainly fine tune this itinerary to suit your needs. Enjoy Muscat!

Things to know before traveling to Muscat, Oman:

Language – The official language of Oman is Arabic, which is spoken by the majority of population. Most Omani in Muscat speak English, so you can absolutely get by without speaking Arabic. However, not all people in Oman can speak English so learning a few basic Arabic words and phrases is recommended. Just like in other countries, speaking at least some Arabic phrases or attempting to learn is greatly appreciated by locals.

Currency exchange – The official currency of Oman is Omani Rial ( OMR ). Exchanging money in Muscat is easy and follows the same standard to elsewhere in the Middle East. Being a premiere business or leisure destination, Muscat is dotted with foreign exchange providers in all corners of the city. You can also get your currency exchanged at the airport. International debit cards and credit cards are widely accepted.

Clothing – There’s no need for a foreigner to feel obligated to dress in traditional Arabian clothing. Modesty is the key in Oman. For women, avoid revealing clothes so you won’t get unwanted attention. Jeans and shorts not higher than mid calf, knee-length skirts partnered with T-shirts or blouse are acceptable. For men, loose cotton shirts, T-shirts and pants are okay. Lastly, while visiting places of worship, you should be fully clothed. Don’t forget to remove your footwear before entering a mosque.

Transportation – Getting around Muscat is relatively easy. Taking a taxi is the best and easiest way to get around. Buses are also a good choice as they comfortable and affordable. If you are on a luxury vacation, consider hiring a driver to take you around Muscat. This option is expensive but it will give you complete control of the trip.

Accommodation – Muscat has some of the best villas and luxury hotels, hostels and guest houses ideally nestled in the heart of the city. The most frequently asked question from first time travelers is, “What’s the best area to stay in when visiting Muscat?” If you are going to follow our suggested itinerary, we recommend hotel options in Al Qurum, since all of the main sights are so close to each other and can be easily reached on foot. If you don’t plan to stay overnight and go straight to the airport after your layover tour, then you may stay for a few hours at one of the airport lounges like Plaza Premium Lounge and Majan Lounge.

Hotels to consider in Muscat:

Shangri-La Al Husn Resort & Spa

Sheraton Oman Hotel

Coral Muscat Hotel & Apartments

Ibis Muscat

Al Bustan Palace, A Ritz-Carlton Hotel

Grand Millennium Muscat

Detailed itinerary: Layover in Muscat: How to make the most of your layover of 24 hours or less

After your arrival at Oman’s Muscat International Airport , check in to your preferred accommodation. If you arrived early enough, rent a car or hire a taxi driver to take you to Khasab , a port city located in northwestern Oman. Known for its dramatic fjords and dolphin sightings , the city is a popular layover destination for tourists. Here you can hop on a traditional Dhow boat to experience the fjords of Oman, and if you have enough luck credits, you might see a pod of dolphins cruising through the waters. Do not miss to pay a visit to Khasab Fort , a 17th century Portuguese fortress.

If you are not ready for a little road trip on your layover, then may explore Muscat’s top tourist attractions instead. There’s no better way to get acquainted with the city than by the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque also known as the Grand Mosque of Muscat . Home to the world’s second largest carpet and chandelier, the mosque is the best place to get an insight to the locals’ religious practices. Although it is open to non-Muslims, dressing appropriately is required.

Make you way along the corniche to get to Mutrah Souq , Muscat’s s old traditional souk. Here you can bargain the best price for a good piece of souvenir, medicinal herb or exotic seasonings, jewelry, traditional textile and more. Even if you are not buying much, a walk through the souks is definitely worth it as it offers plenty of sights to photograph.

Spend the afternoon at Al Qurum Beach , the most popular beach in the city. Large hotel chains, shopping mall, and restaurants are near so this beach if the perfect place for layover tourists. In the evening, enjoy a luxurious seafood dinner at the Beach Restaurant at the Chedi ( 18th November Street  |  Al Ghubra ) .

Today is your international flight out of Oman. If you still have time, fit in an amazing breakfast or lunch in the town. You could even squeeze in some souvenir shopping before you travel to the airport. Head to the airport in time to check in for your international flight or you may opt to continue traveling independently, or extend your stay in Muscat. The decision is all yours!

Have you been to Muscar or anywhere else in Oman?   Do you have any tips or suggestions to share? If so, you can leave your comments below.

Featured image: Duty Free zone within the new terminal of Muscat in the Sultanate of Oman *Chris worldwide / Shutterstock)

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What to Do On a Layover in Muscat, Oman

Muscat is one of the best cities in Oman, surrounded by natural and architectural beauty. Luckily, it also has the country’s main international airport. So, if you still can’t visit Muscat to enjoy its wonders, but have a connecting flight with a transit in Muscat for few hours, then here is how you can use that time to get an unforgettable glimpse of the splendid city, and the country’s unique culture.

If you have three hours….

Three hours is definitely not enough to enjoy Muscat’s spectacular attractions or to walk around its famous local Muttrah souk. Nevertheless, you can go to Muscat City Center which is located on Sultan Qaboos Road, only 3 km (1.86 miles) away from Muscat International Airport. For three hours, you can enjoy walking around the mall and buy gifts or souvenirs from international and traditional Omani brands. You can also relax in one of the luxurious cafes such as: Tim Horton, Starbucks, Papparoti or Costa Coffee. If you are hungry, you can choose from a wide range of restaurants and fast food stores that offer various cuisines between Chinese, European, American and Mediterranean dishes. If you are looking for something different, then you can have some fun in the mall’s entertainment area “Magic Planet” or watch a movie in the mall’s “VOX Cinema”. The cinema plays Arabic, Indian, animation and foreign movies that take between 85 min. to 185 min.

If you have five hours…

If you have seven hours…

If you have seven hours to spend in Muscat, then head directly to Al Qurum . The city is around 26 km (16.2 miles) away from the airport, which can be driven in about 35 minutes. Al Qurum is one of the most beautiful and famous suburbs in Muscat, and it is also a dynamic commercial district. First, visit Shatti Al Qurum (Al Qurum Beach), which is one of Muscat’s best beaches, to enjoy the golden sand and the crystal waters of the Gulf of Oman. It is five minutes closer to the airport than the city of Muscat. If you are hungry, then enjoy an authentic Omani seafood meal in one of the top seafood restaurants in Muscat like: the Twins Turkish restaurant or The Beach restaurant, which both have marvelous views over the beach. Then, go to Al Qurum Natural Park , which is 5.4 km (3.4 miles) away. You can even enrich your dose of entertainment by visiting Marah Land, and enjoy the breathtaking electronic games. You can go to Al Qurum City Center, which is 2.9 km (1.8 miles) aways and takes around seven minutes drive. Like the City Center in Al Seeb, this City Center is one of Muscat’s best shopping malls. Simply have a walk in the mall, buy some souvenirs, or just rest in one of the cafes.

If you are looking for a deeper glimpse of Omani culture, then you can visit one of the nearby museums which include The Sultan’s Armed Forces Museum (8.6 km/ 5.3 miles away from Marah Land), Oman Oil and Gas Exhibition Centre (2.7 km/ 1.7 miles away from Mariah Land), and the Natural History Museum (9 km/ 5.6 miles away from March Land). You can also watch a show at the elegant Royal Opera House , which is 3.7 km (2.3 miles) away from Marah Land, but make sure to check the available shows and tickets first.

If you have 12 hours…

If you have 12 hours to spend in Muscat, then you are lucky to get the chance to visit the most traditional area – the city of Muttrah. Muttrah is one of the most ancient cities in the Capital Governorate of Muscat that is around 32 km (20 miles) away from Muscat International Airport. It used to be the center of commerce in the country as it had one of the largest seaports in the country. The city has one of the most traditional souqs in Oman; Muttrah Souk, which is a must-visit attraction. The souq has several stores and small shops that sell Arabian perfumes, silver crafts, Omani jewelry, gold, frankincense, pottery, and wooden handicrafts. It is the perfect destination for buying souvenirs. However, even if you are not buying anything, a walk through the souq is a walk through Omani heritage and culture, and is a great place to take pictures. Outside the souq, you can take a stroll on Muttrah Corniche and enjoy the great views of Muscat Port and the Gulf of Oman. Then, you can head to Riyam Park, which is 1.2 km (0.75 miles) away from the Corniche, to enjoy the natural beauty of Muscat, and great scenery over Muttrah.

For a great tour in Muscat and through Omani culture and history, you can visit Al Alam Palace (3.6 km/ 2.2 miles away from the Corniche), which is the royal residence of the Sultan Qaboos Bin Said, the current leader of Oman, and Al Jalali and Al Mirani forts (4.3 km/ 2.7 miles away from the Corniche).

It is worth mentioning that visas to enter Muscat are usually purchased before traveling to Oman. Nevertheless, there are some countries of which citizens are allowed to purchase a visa in the airport to enter the country, even for few hours. So, make sure that you can enter the city, if you have long hours waiting for a connecting flight in Muscat International Airport.

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Layover in Muscat, Oman - 1-Day Itinerary

Oman is the second largest country in the Arabian Gulf after Saudi Arabia. Although not as well-known as its neighbors the UAE, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, it actually has so much to offer — from diverse natural landscapes to magnificent Islamic architecture.

Unlike the ultra-modern Dubai, Oman has stuck to its traditional Arabian and Bedouin roots, featuring only low rise white-washed buildings in its skyline, thus giving visitors a glimpse of what the Middle East used to look like before modernity crept in.

Its strategic location makes Oman a great layover destination, connecting the west and the Far East — which was how I got to visit this beautiful country.

After falling in love with Simba in the Lion King , I was intent on going on a safari in Kenya . Unfortunately, there were no direct flights from my country to East Africa that were within my budget range.

While scouring the net for more affordable options, I stumbled upon Oman Air, which offered great deals, plus an opportunity for a long layover in the capital city Muscat. It was too good to pass up.

Table of Contents

Overview of Muscat, Oman

Muscat is a port city located on the Gulf of Oman coast, in the northeast of Oman. Surrounded by rocky mountains, deserts, and the sea, it consists of three smaller towns:

• Muscat – Often referred to as the “walled city”, it is home to the royal palaces.
• Mutrah –  Originally a fishing village, this is where you you can find the Mutrah souq (bazaar) and corniche.
• Ruwi – Generally considered the city’s commercial and diplomatic center.

For centuries, Muscat was inaccessible by land due to being surrounded by mountains on three sides. The first people to settle there were Arab tribes coming from Yemen by the sea.

By the 16th century, Muscat was a trading port used by merchant ships bound for India. This inevitably attracted the Portuguese, who conquered the town in 1507. City walls and two Portuguese forts (Mirani and Jalali) were constructed, but in the end, none of these could prevent the Omanis from reconquering the town in 1650 and ending the Portuguese era in the Gulf.

Muscat became the capital of Oman in 1793 and a seafaring empire in the 18th and 19th century before descending into oblivion under Sultan Said bin Taimur. City gates were bolted against the outside world until 1970, when the current Sultan Qaboos finally revived the city.

Demographics

As of 2021, Muscat population is close to 1.6 million people, composed of Arabs, ethnic Balochis, ethnic Lurs, Swahilis, Hindus, and Mehri. Omanis account for about 60% of the total population of Muscat, while expatriates and foreign workers constitute the other 40%. 

The official language of Oman is Arabic , which is spoken by the majority of the population. The younger generation in big cities, especially in places frequented by tourists can usually speak English.

However, based on my own experience, this is not always the case. At the airport, I went to the information counter to ask if there was any locker service to leave my luggage at. What ensued was practically a tour of the airport — through customs and back to the baggage carousel — where they thought I had left my luggage.

The only English-speaking staff member who finally came to assist me was a foreign worker from India.

Currency Exhange

The official currency of Oman is Omani Rial (OMR) and the current exchange rate is 1 OMR = 2.60 USD. Exchanging money in Muscat is easy, with many foreign exchange providers scattered around the city, as well as at the airport. International debit cards and credit cards are also widely accepted.

Best Time to Go to Muscat, Oman

The best time to visit Oman is during the ‘winter’ season from October to March , when the temperatures are milder (between 17°C to 35°C), and there is little to no rainfall. If you’re going to see turtles, this is also the best time to do so.

However, the winter months are the peak season in Oman, which means it gets busier than usual, although in general Oman is still not a very touristy country.

April and May are also a good time to go. Aside from being a buffer between the comfortable winter and the scorching summer, this shoulder season also sees fewer tourists and may offer you some travel discounts.

Avoid the summer months between June and August unless you fancy being fried in the desert.

Do You Need a Transit Visa for Oman?

All international visitors to Oman (other than Gulf Cooperation Council Nationals) must obtain a visa for the duration of their stay. Oman transit visa enables a single entry into Oman for a maximum of 72 hours and can be obtained online.

Travelers must have a passport that is valid for a minimum of six months after the travel dates, an onward travel ticket, and a visa for the next destination, if necessary.

Click here for online application and further information.

What to Wear in Muscat, Oman

If you have never visited a Muslim country before, this may be something you’re worried about. But rest assured — in Oman, there is no need for foreigners to wear traditional Arabic clothing like the thaub or abaya .

However, it’s still important to dress modestly. Pants should go below the knees for both men and women. For women, stay away from revealing clothes to avoid unwanted attention. Loose long-sleeved blouses, loose pants, or long skirts are great options. You don’t necessarily have to cover your head except in places of worship.

If you visit during the hotter months, loose, light-colored cottons or linens will help make the heat more bearable.

How to Get Around in Muscat, Oman

Again, I was fortunate enough to meet a local Couchsurfing host who offered to pick me up from the airport and show me around.

For half a day, he took me in his car to visit some of the major attractions in Muscat, have breakfast and lunch, and meet some of his friends. Then, he dropped me off in Qurum, where I explored on my own for a couple of hours before taking a bus back to the airport.

Having your own transport is undoubtedly the most convenient way to get around in Muscat. You can either rent a car and self-drive or hire a driver to take you around. This is of course not the cheapest option but it gives you the total freedom to go anywhere you like and at your own pace.

A more affordable alternative would be to take public buses, although these don’t cover all places. You also have to figure out the routes and stops, and factor in the waiting time. Check out their official website for bus route and timetable.

If you take taxis, make sure you have brushed up on your haggling skills. Agree on the fare before you go.

Unlike most major airports in surrounding countries, there are currently no airport tours from Muscat International Airport, but you could try to book one of these tours on Get Your Guide if it fits your schedule:

How Much Time Do You Need to Explore Muscat?

Muscat has a lot to offer visitors, from resplendent mosques and majestic forts, to lush green parks, golden deserts, and pristine beaches. To explore all of the city and visit all of the major tourist attractions can take you at least 2 – 3 days, depending on how packed you want your schedule to be.

The good news is the airport isn’t too far from the city center. For example, it’s only 12.5 kilometres (13 minutes’ drive) to the Grand Mosque and 32 kilometres (28 minutes) to Mutrah. So, even if you’ve only got a few hours, you can still go to one or two of these places.

With this guide and a little bit of planning, you should be able to enjoy the best of Muscat in a short time.

Things to Do in Muscat on a 1-Day Layover

The attractions in Muscat are not that far apart from each other and are perfectly doable in one day (if you don’t spend too long at each place).

For my journey home from Nairobi, Kenya , I opted for a long layover in Muscat, so I had approximately 10 hours to spend in the city before my flight back to Kuala Lumpur.

Here is a list of some of the best things to see and do on a layover in Muscat:

1. Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

Located in the heart of the city along the Sultan Qaboos Road, this stunning mosque is also known as the  Grand Mosque of Muscat  and is the only mosque in Oman that is open for people of all religions.

It consists of five high minarets, and several huge verandas and gardens to accommodate the large numbers of worshipers during the Friday prayers and Eid prayers.

The main prayer hall features a humongous fourteen-metre-tall Swarovski chandelier — currently the world’s biggest. It also has the world’s second largest handmade Persian carpet.

Regardless of religion, all visitors are required to dress appropriately to enter the mosque. Men should wear full-length pants and women must cover up from top to toe, exposing only their faces and hands. Shoes must be removed and placed on the shoe racks outside.

The mosque’s proximity to the airport (about 10 minutes’ drive) makes it a must-visit attraction for those on a transit. Non-Muslims may visit from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. every day except Friday.

Since I visited outside the visiting hours, I only had access to the ladies’ prayer hall, which unfortunately (but not surprisingly) doesn’t have all the extravagance of the main prayer hall that is reserved for men.

2. Royal Opera House of Muscat

The Royal Opera House of Muscat (10 minutes’ drive from the Grand Mosque) is a magnificent royal property that serves as the country’s main center of arts and culture.

Built with white stone marbles, this picturesque structure looks even more beautiful after sunset and is also one of the most Instagrammable spots in Muscat.

If you’ve got a few hours to spare, watching a show in one of the opulent auditoriums is a great way to experience they city’s grandeur (dress code applies). However, casual visitors are welcome to wander around the complex as well. Apart from concert halls, it also houses retail stores and luxury restaurants.

The Royal Opera House is open every day for show-goers and visitors. Click here to check the performance calendar.

3. Mutrah Souk

Only about 32 kilometres (20 miles) away from Muscat International Airport is Mutrah — one of the most ancient cities in the Capital Governorate of Muscat. Due to its seaport, which was one of the largest in the country, Mutrah used to be the center of commerce in Oman.

Now, it is better known as the tourist hub of Muscat, mainly because of Mutrah Souk — a traditional market filled with hundreds of small shops selling things like clothes, bags, key rings, home decorations, jewelry, perfumes, medicinal herbs, spices, nuts, earthenware, and their specialty: frankincense.

If you’re good at haggling, this can be the cheapest place to shop in Muscat. However, even if you’re not planning to buy anything, the souk is still worth a visit to get a better glimpse of Omani heritage and culture.

4. Mutrah Corniche

Just across the road from Mutrah Souk is a long stretch of pedestrianized walkway, locally known as the “Corniche”. Starting from the busy fish market and ending at Kalbuh Park, it runs along the coastline with low-rise buildings, small cafes, and mosques on the other side of the road.

Taking a stroll along the Mutrah Corniche is a popular thing to do for both locals and tourists in the city. You can also hire a bike to ride along the coast while enjoying the great views of Muscat Port and the Gulf of Oman.

On days when the winds are strong (like the day of my visit), the waves can get so big that they splash all the way across the Corniche. It’s fun to watch unsuspecting tourists getting splashed by the sneaker waves while they’re taking selfies (I was one of the tourists).

5. Riyam Park

After the Corniche, you can head to Riyam Park just 1.2 kilometres (0.75 miles) away. Situated on a hill overlooking the sea, it provides some truly amazing views of Mutrah and the coast.

The park features lush gardens, a mini amusement park for children, a few coffee shops, picnic areas, and the Riyam Memorial — a watch tower shaped like an incense burner that was built in honor of Oman’s 20th National Day.

Having been featured twice in The Amazing Race (Seasons 9 and 17), Riyam Park is also the place where a peace treaty was signed with the Portuguese in 1648.

6. Qasr Al-Alam Royal Palace

Continuing your journey east, you can drop by at Qasr Al-Alam Royal Palace. This 200-year-old building was rebuilt and redesigned in 1972. Now, it sports a gold-and-blue facade and is used as the official ceremonial palace of the Sultan of Oman.

As it is a royal palace, you can’t enter the building, but you can still walk around the complex to enjoy the peaceful ambiance.

7. The National Museum of Oman

As one of the oldest capitals in the region, Muscat bears a rich and interesting history, all of which is conserved in museums across the city.

While there are many museums in Muscat, such as the Natural History Museum, Omani French Museum, Children’s Museum, and the Sultan’s Armed Forces Museum, if you could only choose one to visit on your layover, you should definitely go for the National Museum of Oman.

Inaugurated in 2013, it is the newest addition to the list of museums in Muscat and is dedicated to showcasing Oman’s cultural heritage and traditions from different generations.

This state-of-the-art museum houses more than 5,000 objects and artifacts including a 16th-century shipwreck believed to be a part of Vasco Da Gama’s fleet.  

8. Bait Al-Zubair Museum

Bait Al-Zubair, which means “The House of Zubair” in Arabic, is a museum privately owned and funded by the Zubair family — one of the oldest families in Oman.

The museum displays cultural artworks and artifacts, mostly from the owner’s personal collections. There are five buildings in the complex, each one housing a different section of culture and history.

Recently, the museum has been turned into a cultural center, where many art and culture events are hosted throughout the year. There is also an Arabian-style cafe and a gift shop on site.

9. Qurum Natural Park (Rose Garden)

Muscat has a number of recreational parks and gardens, the largest of which is Qurum Natural Park, also known as the Rose Garden. Other than rose gardens, the park also has a huge man-made lake with fountains and a waterfall, children’s playing area, and an amusement park.

Whether you choose to have a picnic under the shades, stroll among the trees, or paddle on the lake, Qurum Natural Park is a great place to relax and rejuvenate close to nature. It is also free to enter.

10. Qurum Beach

Qurum Beach — the most popular beach in the city — stretches for nearly 4 kilometres (2.5 miles) along the Muscat coastline. With its clear water and swaying palm trees, this beach is the perfect escapade for layover tourists yearning for a dose of Vitamin Sea.

An array of water sports is available for visitors, including parasailing, banana boating, jet skiing, and scuba diving. In the evening, enjoy a luxurious seafood dinner at one of the restaurants lining the coastal road.

11. Visit the Forts

Learning about Muscat’s history and heritage wouldn’t be complete without actually visiting / photographing the forts:

• Mutrah Fort – Standing tall and high on a rocky hill facing the sea, Mutrah Fort was built in the 16th century by Portuguese traders to monitor the harbor. It comprises three circular towers with the bigger one in the center and the two smaller ones in the West. A cannon guards the northern side. The fort has recently been reopened after a long period of restoration.
• Al Jalali Fort and Al Mirani Fort – Said to have been built by the Sassanid Persians and later rebuilt by the Portuguese during their occupation, the twin forts sit opposite each other. One of them is located on a rocky outcrop in the middle of the sea and was once used as a prison. Today, they are both used by the Royal Oman Army. Although visitors aren’t allowed to enter, you can appreciate and photograph them from the outside.

12. Eat at a Traditional Omani Restaurant

While Muscat has almost all kinds of international food on offer due to the large number of expats in the city, you should definitely not miss out on the local fare.

13. Try Camel Milk

One of my favorite things to do when traveling is to go to the supermarket and just browse through the different kinds of items on sale, from raw groceries to household goods to candies and snacks. It’s a great way to learn about the local lifestyle and there will surely be some interesting finds.

In Oman, it was camel milk and camel-milk-based products, such as chocolates, soaps, and cold brews. If the arid weather wasn’t enough of a reminder that I was indeed in the desert, these camel products really drove the point home.

If You've Got More than One Day in Muscat

If your transit in Muscat is more than one day, you can do all of the above at a slower pace, spending more time at each place before going to the next.

Or you can also add more things to your itinerary because the city and its surrounding areas have a lot more to keep you occupied for many days! Here are some other things you can do in and around Muscat on your long layover:

• Visit local factories that are open for visitors, such as the Omani halwa factory and the Amouage perfume factory. Omani halwa is a popular local dessert made of margarine, sugar, rose water, and semolina, while Amouage is a world-renowned luxury perfume brand that was first established by the Sultan of Oman. It uses traditional Middle East perfume ingredients such as agarwood, incense, musk, rose, and spices.
• Visit Nakhal Fort , which is located about 40 minutes’ drive east of the city, at the base of the Jebel Akhdar section of the Hajar Mountains.
• Go rock climbing on the many mountains around Muscat. There are over 200 bolted climbs in the Jebel Shams and western Hajar Mountains regions about 150 kilometres from Muscat.
• Do water sports. Oman has a 3000-kilometre stretch of coastline, which makes it a perfect place to do water activities, including snorkeling, scuba diving, boat tours, dolphin watching, turtle watching, jet-skiing, kayaking, wake-boarding, fishing, and many more. You can also visit Marina Al Rowdha and Al-Mouj Muscat Marina — the two main centers for water activity operators in Muscat.
• Go dune bashing in the desert. The most famous spot for dune bashing is Muscat is in the area of Baushar. People who own four-wheelers typically use their own vehicles for dune bashing. Otherwise, you can rent quad bikes and pay per hour.
• Attend a camel race, if that’s your cup of tea. Camel racing is a popular Arab sport where camels compete on race tracks specially built for them. Race take place regularly and have evolved into official and professional events.
• Go on an overnight desert safari, where you get to take a short ride on a camel, experience Bedouin culture, and camp under the stars.

Where to Stay in Muscat, Oman

If you’re not staying overnight but would like to get some rest between flights, you can go to one of the airport lounges like Plaza Premium Lounge and Majan Lounge.

However, if you have more than a one-day layover, Muscat has some of the best hotels, hostels, and guesthouses ideally located in the heart of the city, and they’re all quite affordable. Even some of the four-star hotels fall in the budget price range.

Ramada Encore by Wyndham Muscat Al-Ghubra – Situated on the Sultan Qaboos Highway (13 kilometres away from the airport and 3.5 kilometres from the Grand Mosque), this 4-star hotel comes with a restaurant, a swimming pool, a fitness center and free private parking space. Its 24-hour front desk, airport shuttle, room service, and currency exchange service make it a great hotel for guests on a layover. From OMR 15 (USD 40) for a Twin Room.

Mysk Al Mouj Hotel   – Uniquely located inside Al Mouj, a thriving waterfront community 5 kilometres away from the airport, this hotel is surrounded by green spaces, luxury retail and dining outlets, and Oman’s only signature Golf Club. They also have a rooftop swimming pool and a restaurant called Salt, which has its own salt sommelier to help you choose the perfect salt for your dish from their rich salt selection. From OMR 37 (USD 96) for a Deluxe King Room, including breakfast.

Al Bustan Palace, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel   – Set against the Al Hajar mountains overlooking the sea, this 5-star luxury resort offers a unique palace experience with the longest (1 kilometre) private beach in Muscat, including a private section for ladies only. The resort also comes with an infinity pool, a spa, three restaurants, a pool bar, and a tea lounge. From OMR 70 (USD 180) for a Deluxe Twin Room with a balcony and pool view. Inclusive of breakfast. 

Traveling in Muscat, Oman as a Solo Female Traveler

For the most part of my day in Muscat, I was accompanied by my male host, who immediately took charge and did all the talking with the male sellers and waiters.

So, I didn’t really experience what it was like to travel solo in Muscat until he dropped me off in Qurum to explore on my own for a few hours.

And I’m happy to report that it was an overall good experience, probably better than in my own city. There were no catcalls, staring, or any form of harassment. The local men went about their business as any respectful person would.

Of course, it’s hard to judge after just a few hours in Muscat on my own, and I obviously can’t comment if it’s the same situation outside of the city.

I was also not the only lone female walking around. There were several others who I assumed to be Filipino workers.

However, I did notice a sign outside a traditional restaurant saying that lone female customers shouldn’t collect their food themselves, but must instead assign their drivers to collect for them.

Now, I’m not sure if female customers aren’t allowed to eat at those restaurants on their own, or it was just something lost in translation. If any of you knows what it means, please enlighten me in the comments.

Final Thoughts on Spending a Layover in Muscat, Oman

Unlike the neighboring capital cities, Muscat is one of the few that has not been overtaken by extreme urbanization or commercialism. It still retains its traditional Bedouin charms and cultural values, which is a treat for visitors seeking the true essence of Arabia.

However, despite being more traditional, it’s still well equipped with modern conveniences, such as a reliable public transportation system, decent hotels, shops, restaurants, and recreational areas, making it a great place to rejuvenate between long flights.

So, the next time you need to choose a layover destination in the Middle East, make sure you give this underrated city a try.

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51 comments.

It is interesting to look at the buildings and architecture in Oman which has retained most of its traditional Arabian and Bedouin roots. They all look so picturesque.

Yes, they do, Tekkaus. The low-rise skyline in Muscat is so unlike the neighboring capital cities, and makes it look all the more charming. 🙂

best betul baca blog pasal travel. terbayang2 travel ke oman jugak. hehe. boleh la dari tak dapat travel hehe

Hehe, saya pun sama, Bae. Tak dapat travel betul2, dapat tulis pasal travel pun jadi la..

That is nice that it is still stuck to its traditional way and not being overshadowed by modernity. I love to go to the market places of each country to find their signature gifts to bring home

Me too, Rawlins. I don’t usually buy things, but it’s still fun to look at the stuff they have on sale. The one in Muscat was especially interesting to me because it was the first Middle Eastern market I had been to.

Wahhhh sis dah sampai sana…..sis tak pernah lagi ke sana. Bila border ni buka baru la kita dapat travel lagi. Gambar2 kat sini buatkan sis teruja untuk explore Oman pula.

Ok, sis. Bila border buka nanti, boleh la travel ke Oman. Ataupun kalau nak pergi ke Eropah atau Afrika, cuba naik Oman Air, nanti boleh transit di Muscat. 🙂

Woww 2,3 hari jugak ye nak explore sana. Bangunan dia cantik-cantikla

Ya, Marina. Kalau nak explore semua tempat ni slow2, memang kena 2-3 hari jugak. Kalau sehari kena rushing la sikit.

Seronok la baca pengalaman Ummi ke negara orang. Pelbagai info yang akak baca dan tahu. Stay safe ummi.

Terima kasih, kak Eiza. Ni semua throwback je, kak. Tu je yang mampu sekarang ni. Haha.

Cantiknya lahai..terus teringin nak ke Oman bila baca entry ni. Entah bilalah kita dapat travel balik tak tahulah. Harap cpt2lah semua ni berakhir supaya kita dpt semua kehidupan kita..huhuhu

Tak tahu la bila, kan. Tahun ni pun belum tentu lagi boleh. Nanti bila semua ni dah berakhir, boleh la cuba pergi ke Oman, ya.. 😀

Banyak juga tempat sis sempat lawat di Muscat ni even sehari. Menarik semua tempatnya. Boleh jadi wishlist.

Ya, Marsha. Tapi kalau nak explore semua tempat ni dalam masa sehari, kena ada kereta la baru senang. Naik bas boleh, cuma makan masa sikit la nak menunggu dan tak semua tempat dia pergi.

Kawan Sis punya anak ada stay kat Oman ni Ummi, tapi now tak tau laaa dah balik ke tak Malaysia.. memang kalau dia share gambar cecantik.. one day ada rezeki nak juga laa ke sini..

Memang cantik kat Oman ni, sis. Saya baru pergi sehari je pun dah cukup kagum, sebab kat sana masih maintain senibina tradisional, tak banyak bangunan pencakar langit seperti di Dubai, dsb.

I Rasa Banyak knowledge I dapat Dari entri you ummi. Esp tentang negara org lain – budaya, sosio ekonomi Dan pelbagai lagi

Terima kasih, Ayu. Semoga info ni bermanfaat di kemudian hari 🙂

Bestnya tengok.. View lawa, bangunan semua menakjubkan. Pengalaman macam ni memang tak dapat dilupakan. Details ummi cerita. Sampai i ras anak terbang je pergi sana..

Terima kasih, Nadia. Saya yang menulis ni pun rasa nak terbang je pergi sana sekali lagi, sebab banyak lagi tempat di luar Muscat yang menarik.

Nice ya! If got the opportunity will try to visit Oman as well even just for a layover just like yours! Thanks for sharing this (Y)

You’re welcome, Kitkat. Yes, try to find an opportunity to have a layover in Muscat if you’re going to Europe next time. It’s really worth it!

cantiknya Oman..tak dapat travel ke sana baca story umi and tengok gambar je pun jadi la..btw tertarik tengok gambar umi pakai tudung..cantik sangat 🙂

Terima kasih, Cik iena! Oman memang sangat cantik, walaupun saya sempat explore sebahagian daripada Muscat saja. 🙂

seronok baca pengalaman ummi. menarik juga Oman.. boleh la nnt fly guna Oman Air dan transit kat sini..

Ya, Huda. Next time kalau nak ke Eropah, daripada fly terus ke destinasi, apa kata transit di Muscat? Kira dapat holiday 2 dalam 1 la. Biasanya flight yang ada layover lebih murah daripada direct flight 😉

Antara country yang I paling teringin nak visit is among Middle East punya country. I always love their history, culture and old building.

Kalau nak tengok bangunan lama, tinggalan sejarah dan kebudayaan, memang elok sangat la pergi ke Muscat, Oman ni. Sebab kalau macam Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha semua tu dah maju2, dah jadi bandaraya besar tempat transit pelancong dari serata dunia. Di Oman ni, identiti dan kebudayaannya masih terpelihara. 🙂

Wow thanks for sharing your experience, i m glad to know that we can get Oman for 72 hrs.

You’re welcome, Kelly. Yes, you can stay in Oman for a maximum of 72 hours on a transit visa. 🙂

Amazing. This has been so high on my list and definitely feel more inspired to go now!

That’s great, Jacqueline! I hope you’ll make it to Muscat one of these days. 🙂

Wow! The scenery and the architecture in Oman looks beautiful! I am very curious of the camels milk. I would love to visit Oman in the future!

I hope you will, Sophia. It really is beautiful and I wish I had more time to explore beyond Muscat. You must try the camel milk when you visit. 😉

Wow, Muscat is such a beautiful place. You have truly captured the vibe with these BEAUTIFUL photos!! It makes me want to travel again.

Thank you, Amy! It made me want to travel again too, writing this post. Haha. Muscat is a really beautiful place.

Very awesome! I would love to visit. Were you alone? How would you feel as a female solo traveler?

For the most part of it I was with my (male) host, so he volunteered to do most of the talking (haggling at the market, ordering food at the restaurant, etc), but I also experienced exploring on my own for a few hours. I felt totally safe actually. No unwanted attention, catcalling, or lewd staring. Local men just went about their day. I’m not sure what it’s like outside of the city though.

I’d love to visit and learn about the history!

I hope you will, Kylie. Muscat is a really great place to learn about history, since it still retains most of the old buildings and architecture 🙂

Pingback: Visiting Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Muscat – A Quick Guide – Ummi Goes Where?

As salam Ummi..really need your guidance here. Saya ada trip trip on 02/07/22 dan akan transit 23hrs di Muscat. Saya ada book aerotel yg dlm airport tu..cuma nak tanya still kena apply for transit visa atau tak perlu if nak check in to the hotel? sebab saya try tapi mcm option untuk apply transit visa tu takde utk Malaysian. Thanks and love your blog btw..keep it up!

Salam, Ridzuan. Kalau menurut website Oman Visa Online , sekarang Malaysians dah tak perlu visa untuk stay di Oman kurang daripada 14 hari.

As of December 2020, 102 nationalities are visa-free for stays of up to 14 days: Albania, Algeria, Andorra, Argentina, Armenia, Australia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Belgium, Bhutan, Belarus, Bolivia, Bosnia Herzegovina, Brazil, Brunei, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, China, Colombia, Cyprus, South Africa, South Korea, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cuba, Denmark, Ecuador, Egypt, Estonia, Finland, France, Georgia, Great Britain, Greece, Guatemala, Honduras, Hong Kong, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Iran, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Jordan, Kazakhstan, South Korea, Spain, United States, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Latvia, Lebanon, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macao, Macedonia, Malaysia , Maldives, Malta, Mauritania, Mexico, Moldova, Monaco, Morocco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Norway, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Poland, Uzbekistan, Portugal, Romania, Russia, San Marino, El Salvador, Serbia, Seychelles, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Sweden, Switzerland, Suriname, Tajikistan, Taiwan, Czech Republic, Thailand, Tunisia, Turkmenistan, Turkey, Ukraine, Uruguay, Uzbekistan, Venezuela and Vietnam.

Tapi kalau nak kepastian, boleh cuba hubungi kedutaan Oman sendiri: 03-4257 1400

Duly noted Ummi! terima kasih atas response dan info

Assalamu Alaikum, How did you collect Transit visa? That immigration website don’t allow to apply for Transit visa.

Hi, Zahid. According to their website, it seems like the transit visa is no longer required for Malaysians now for stays less than 14 days. But you may want to contact the embassy personally if you need to be certain (please see the comment right above yours) 🙂

Hi Ummi, stumbled upon your blog while searching for layover info on Muscat. Great info & great writing 👍🏼👍🏼

Wanna ask did you lug your backpack with you all over during your layover? I tried searching and it seems muscat airport do not have any luggage storage / locker services 🤔

Thank you, Vai T. Yes, I carried my backpack with me the whole time, which wasn’t really a problem because I only had a small one. I did ask at the airport if they had any luggage storage service — they didn’t.

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Free and up-to-date :), muscat airport, general information.

Muscat Airport is a modern airport in the north of Oman. On March 20, 2018, the new terminal T1 of the airport was put into operation, located between the two runways, north of the old terminal T2. Muscat Airport expects to grow further in the coming years, driven by the ambitions of flag carrier Oman Air and low-cost carrier SalamAir.

Where is Muscat Airport situated?

The airport of Muscat is located west of Muscat and east of Seeb, close to the sea (Gulf of Oman). By car, Muscat International Airport is accessible via three main roads, known as Sultan Qaboos Street, 18th November Street and Muscat Expressway.

How many terminals does Muscat Airport have?

The airport has two terminals, but currently only Terminal 1 (New Terminal) is in use. The old terminal T2 south of the two runways is closed since 2018, it will be redeveloped and used as a low cost terminal somewhere in the future. New Terminal has three piers with a total of 29 gates, the walking distances are relatively short. Nowadays, every aircraft is connected to the terminal via a jet bridge, which means that bus rides on the platform are a thing of the past.

Airport Map

Transportation, what is the distance from muscat airport to the centre of muscat.

The distance from Muscat Airport to the centre of Muscat is 35 kilometres. By car, it takes 40 minutes to get to the centre of Muscat.

From MCT Airport to Muscat City centre by Car

City centre

Travel by car

Public transport

It is possible to travel to and from Muscat Airport by public transport. Visit the Muscat Airport transportation page for the possibilities.

Taxi transfer

A taxi is the quickest and most comfortable way to get to and from Muscat Airport. The price for a taxi ride from the airport to the centre of Muscat is about OMR 20.-. Book your taxi at Muscat Airport and discover the comfort of pre-booked taxis.

From MCT Airport to Muscat City centre by Taxi

Book a taxi

At Muscat Airport you can rent a car from car rental companies Europcar, Hertz, Thrifty (The Hertz Corporation), National (Enterprise Holdings), Budget, Avis, Enterprise, Sixt, Dollar (The Hertz Corporation) and local providers. It is most convenient to find and book a car well in advance. By doing so, you can save money and time at the airport.

Airport parking

Muscat Airport offers various official parking options, from premium to low cost. In addition, alternative parking options are available near the airport. If you want to park as cheaply as possible, it's wise to book online!

Book your parking space

At the airport

Do you want more information about facilities, currency exchange, services, free Wi-Fi, lounges, etc. at Muscat Airport? Check our at the airport page for a complete overview of all facilities and services at Muscat Airport.

Departures and arrivals

Looking for departure times and/or arrival times ? Find the latest flight status information for flights departing from and arriving at Muscat Airport.

Flight tickets

Looking for a cheap flight? Use our flight search engine to find and book cheap flights from and to the airport.

Which airlines fly from and to Muscat Airport?

We offer you a list of airlines at Muscat Airport . The main airlines at the airport are:

• Qatar Airways

Book your flight

Accommodations

Hotels near the airport.

Looking for the best hotels near Muscat Airport? We have selected the best hotels near the airport in different price ranges. Take a look at our accommodations page for more information.

Aerotel Muscat - Airport Transit Hotel, Muscat

Aerotel Muscat is a one-of-a-kind airport transit hotel, strategically located at Level 5 within Departures (airport secured area) of Muscat International Airport.

Novotel Muscat Airport, Muscat

Novotel Muscat Airport is centrally located on Al Maardih Street in Muscat’s thriving Al-Seeb district, a hive of commercial activity, close to the Sultan Qaboos Highway and just 10 minutes from Muscat International Airport.

Radisson Collection Muscat, Hormuz Grand, Muscat

The Radisson Collection Hotel, Hormuz Grand Muscat: the treasure of the Gulf. Set where east meets west, a new kind of luxury rich in culture overlooking the Muscat mountains exceeds the expectations of the modern traveller.

Find more accommodations

Hotels in Muscat

Looking for the best hotels in Muscat? We have selected the best hotels in the city in different price ranges. Take a look at our accommodations page for more information.

Crowne Plaza Muscat, an IHG Hotel, Muscat

Set on a clifftop in the city center, Crowne Plaza Muscat features stunning panoramic city & sea views. Unwind by the double-deck infinity pool or natural private beach surrounded by the glistening waters as the sun dips into the Gulf Sea.

Sheraton Oman Hotel, Muscat

Located in the center of Muscat, 5 km from Mutrah Souq and National Museum , the tallest hotel in Muscat, Sheraton Oman Hotel features a bar and spectacular views of the city.

Al Falaj Hotel, Muscat

This 4-star hotel provides easy access to the business district and tourist attractions, as well as being well-equipped with a diversity of facilities.

Things to do

It is possible to book tickets , activities and tours in the city and near Muscat Airport. You can avoid queues and save money by buying your tickets online. Planning a trip and wondering what to do, we give you some inspiration!

Muscat Half-Day City Tour with Audio Guiding

Explore Muscat on a half-day tour of the traditional markets and city landmarks, such as the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. Learn about the history and modern-day culture of the cosmopolitan city.

From Muscat: Wadi Shab & Bimmah Sinkhole Full-Day Tour

Discover the main attraction of Wadi Shab, a magical waterfall within a cave, during this full-day tour. Take a 40-minute hike to reach the destination, where you can also dive into a couple of pools. Marvel at the Bimmah Sinkhole on the way back.

Muscat: Guided Landmarks Tour

Admire the majestic Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, experience the elegance of the Royal Oman Opera House, and traverse the charming Mutrah Corniche. Dive into the culture at Mutrah Souq, gaze upon historic forts, and capture the essence of Oman's past.

Find more things to do

★☆☆☆☆   1 review

Have you visited Muscat Airport lately? So far, 1 airport passenger has written an airport review about Muscat Airport and gave a score of 1 out of 5. Provide other airport travellers with essential airport information and tell us about your airport experience.

Latest airport review

I went to Oman for the first time, from london with flight WY 102 on the 17th of December, 2022. I left muscat for dhaka on the 21st December 2022 at 130am with flight. WY 315. For this flight to dhaka, On the skybridge, I entered, on my way to the plane. When I was there in the middle, I took a left (being a seasoned traveller), instead of going straight, since I was, and generally travel business class. The gentleman working there, loudly said to me “hello” and pointed his hand (didn’t even say or ask anything) towards the economy line, like I was some lesser mortal or creature. I looked at him like “what’s up, what do you mean?” And then he asked “you are in business? “ I said “yes”. Then let me go. It would be good and civil if they politely asked passengers instead of making automatic and bigoted assumptions on what class someone may travel, based on how someone looks, or being condescending. Emailed the airport twice on this but no response as yet.

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Destination

• The Best of Muscat in a Day: A City Tour for First-Timers

Muscat city tour

Leaving on the captivating Muscat City Visit divulges a Hypnotising embroidery of Omani culture and history. As the sun-doused capital of Oman, Muscat brags an amicable mix of custom and innovation, easily comparing resplendent mosques with smooth contemporary design. The city visits through its lively business sectors, such as Mutrah Souq, where the aroma of outlandish Flavours blends with the giggling of dealers. Along the peaceful waterfront, the impressive magnificence of the Ruler Qaboos Fantastic Mosque orders worship, while the King’s Royal residence remains as a demonstration of the country’s glorious legacy. Settled between tough mountains and the purplish blue Middle Eastern Ocean, Muscat’s charm isn’t just in its sights yet in addition to the veritable warmth of its kin. An excursion through Muscat is an odyssey through time, uncovering the essence of Oman.

What is special in Muscat?

Muscat, the capital city of Oman, brags a one of a kind mix of conventional appeal and current charm that separates it as an enrapturing objective. What genuinely recognizes Muscat is its agreeable combination of rich legacy and contemporary advancement. With its dazzling engineering that flawlessly incorporates the normal scene, Muscat offers a visual blowout of lavish mosques, complex castles, and dynamic business sectors. The city’s obligation to protect its social roots while embracing present day improvement is apparent in its painstakingly arranged metropolitan design and safeguarding of authentic locales. Settled between magnificent mountains and the purplish blue waters of the Inlet of Oman, Muscat’s stunning landscape is additionally Emphasised by the warm friendliness of its occupants. This agreeable concurrence of custom and development, outlined by staggering vistas, makes Muscat an unprecedented and genuinely extraordinary objective for voyagers looking for a legitimate and captivating Middle Eastern experience.

Here are some of the things that make Muscat special:

The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque : This mosque is one of the largest and most beautiful mosques in the world. It is a must-see for any visitor to Muscat.

• The Royal Opera House : This world-class opera house is a symbol of Muscat’s cultural renaissance. It hosts a variety of performances throughout the year.
• The Muttrah Fort: This historic fort is located on the waterfront in Muttrah. It offers stunning views of the city and the Gulf of Oman.
• The Mutrah Souq : This traditional market is a great place to buy souvenirs and handicrafts. It is also a great place to experience Omani culture.
• The beaches of Muscat: Muscat has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. They are a great place to relax and enjoy the sun and sand.

If you are looking for a city that is both modern and traditional, with something to offer everyone, then Muscat is the perfect destination for you.

Read More:- Half Day Muscat City Tour

How do you spend time in Muscat

Investigating the beguiling city of Muscat offers a magnificent embroidery of encounters for each guest. From first light till nightfall, there’s a horde of ways of investing energy in this captivating Omani capital. Start your mornings with a peaceful walk around the stunning Corniche, where the turquoise waters of the Bay of Oman tenderly lap against the shore, offering a tranquil setting for reflection.

As the day advances, submerge yourself in the dynamic atmosphere of Mutrah Souq, where the twisted rear entryways overflow with the aromas of outlandish Flavours, hand tailored treasures, and the vivacious talk of traders. For a dash of culture and history, the superb Ruler Qaboos Fantastic Mosque remains as a compositional show-stopper, welcoming guests to wonder about its complicated plan and tranquil climate. As the sun sets, go to the Al Jalali and Al Mirani posts that monitor the city’s shoreline, lending a quality of authentic persona.

At long last, enjoy the night with a gala of conventional Omani Flavours at a nearby eatery, enjoying sweet-smelling rice dishes, delicious kebabs, and debauched pastries. In Muscat, time unfurls in a variety of encounters, each offering a brief look into the substance of this charming Middle Eastern diamond.

Read More:- Unveiling the Magic of Desert Safari Muscat

Day use hotels in Muscat

Day use lodgings in Muscat are an extraordinary choice for explorers who need a spot to unwind and spruce up during the day. These lodgings offer various conveniences, like agreeable beds, Wi-Fi, and admittance to inn offices, like the pool, exercise centre, and café.

Probably the greatest day use lodgings in Muscat include:

• Aerotel Muscat: This hotel is located in the heart of Muscat, close to many of the city’s attractions. It offers spacious rooms with all the amenities you need for a relaxing day.
• Novotel Muscat Airport: This hotel is located near the airport, making it a convenient option for Travellers who need a place to freshen up before or after their flight.
• Hilton Nursery Motel Muscat Al Khuwair: This inn is situated in a calm area of Muscat, making it an extraordinary choice for the people who need to unwind and get away from the buzzing about of the city.
• Ibis Muscat: This inn is situated in the core of Muscat, near a large number of the city’s attractions. It offers reasonable rooms with every one of the conveniences you want for a loosening up day.

Day use lodgings in Muscat are an extraordinary cash saving tip for convenience and partake in all that the city brings to the table. Whether you are a business explorer or a Traveller, day use inns can be a helpful and reasonable choice for your next outing to Muscat.

Here are some additional tips for finding day use hotels in Muscat:

Check with individual hotels: Many hotels in Muscat offer day use rates, even if they do not advertise them on their websites. It is always a good idea to check with individual hotels to see if they offer day use rates.

Use a day use hotel booking service: There are a number of day use hotel booking services that can help you find day use hotels in Muscat. These services can make it easy to compare rates and find the best deal.

Book in advance: Day use hotels in Muscat can be popular, so it is a good idea to book in advance. This will ensure that you get the day use rate that you want and that you have a room reserved for your desired time slot. What to see in Muscat in one day

If you only have one day to explore Muscat, here is a possible itinerary for you:

Morning: Start your day with a visit to the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. This is one of the largest mosques in the world and is a must-see for any visitor to Muscat. The mosque is open to non-Muslims for tours in the morning.

Afternoon: Subsequent to visiting the mosque, make a beeline for the Muttrah Souq. This is a customary Bedouin market where you can track down everything from Flavours and gifts to gold and silver gems. The souq is an extraordinary spot to deal and wrangle.

Evening: In the evening, enjoy a delicious meal at a local restaurant. There are many great restaurants in Muscat serving traditional Omani cuisine. After dinner, take a walk along the Mutrah Corniche. This is a waterfront promenade that offers stunning views of the city and the Gulf.

Here are a few different things you can do in Muscat on the off chance that you have additional time:

Visit the Old Muscat. This is the noteworthy heart of the city and is home to a significant number of Muscat’s most significant verifiable milestones.

Climb in the Hajar Mountains. These mountains offer dazzling perspectives on the city and are an incredible spot to go climbing or setting up camp.

Visit the Channel Shab. This is a wonderful channel (valley) with clear turquoise waters and transcending bluffs. It is an incredible spot to swim, swim, or kayak.

Take a desert safari . This is an extraordinary method for encountering the desert and see a portion of Oman’s untamed life.

Muscat city tour package

Muscat city visit bundles are an extraordinary method for seeing the features of Muscat in a short measure of time. These bundles commonly incorporate transportation, an aide, and admission to a portion of Muscat’s most well known attractions, like the Ruler Qaboos Great Mosque, the Muttrah Souq, and the Mutrah Corniche.

There are a variety of Muscat city tour packages available, so you can choose one that fits your interests and budget. Some packages are designed for families, while others are more suited for couples or solo Travellers.

On the off chance that you’re in a rush, a coordinated excursion to Muscat is an extraordinary method for getting to know the city and find out about its set of experiences and culture. These bundles can likewise be an extraordinary method for meeting different voyagers and making new companions.

Save time: You won’t have to worry about planning your own itinerary or transportation.

Learn about the city: Your guide will be able to share interesting facts and stories about Muscat.

Meet other Travellers: You’ll have the opportunity to meet other people from all over the world.

Get the most out of your trip: You’ll be able to see the most popular attractions in a short amount of time

Consider your budget. Muscat city tour packages range in price from budget-friendly to luxurious. Decide what you want to see. Some packages focus on historical landmarks, while others focus on natural attractions. Choose a package that fits your schedule. Some packages are full-day tours, while others are shorter. Read the reviews. Read reviews of different packages to get an idea of what other Travellers have experienced.

Categories:

• Desert Safari Muscat
• Do I need cash in Muscat?
• First-Timers
• How do you spend time in Muscat?
• How many days is enough in Muscat?
• Is Muscat a walkable city?
• Is Muscat an expensive city?
• Is Muscat good for shopping?
• What is Muscat city famous for?
• What is the famous street in Muscat?
• What to do in Muscat in 24 hours?
• Where can I walk around in Muscat?
• Which is the beautiful city in Oman?
• Which month is best to visit Muscat?

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Planning a trip end of May. Will it be the right time to visit ? What will the weather be like in Salalah ? As we have kids with us too.

Thanks in advance.

2 replies to this topic

End of May would be absolutely hot, with daytime-temperature above 30 degrees celsius. So not the best time for coming with kids.

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Many airlines have 'stopover' programs that let travelers tour a city between connecting flights, and some will even pay for a hotel — here's how to book them

• Many people intentionally book flights with long connections so they can explore the layover city.
• Airlines capitalize on this trend with "stopover" programs, some even offering free hotels and food.
• These stopovers benefit travelers, airlines, and the carrier's home country by boosting tourism.

A special segment of adventurous travelers will purposely book itineraries with long connections in layover cities just to leave the airport and explore for a few hours or days between flights.

Airlines have jumped on this growing trend with built-in "stopover" programs, which can come with free or discounted hotels, excursions, transportation, and food at the layover destination.

It's basically a vacation within a vacation.

Although it sounds too good to be true, stopovers benefit everyone involved. Travelers get more choices and don't have to be confined to an airport, airlines gain customers who may have otherwise chosen a nonstop option on a competitor, and the carrier's home country sees a boost in tourism.

Plus, the cheap or complimentary accommodations typically come at a small cost to airlines, thanks to partnerships with local hotels or tour companies.

Not all stopover programs are structured with an emphasis on tourism, though, as some were created simply to offer conveniences during long layovers. Still, they are a way to secure a free hotel and explore an extra city.

Here are 22 global airline stopover programs, each lasting anywhere from hours to months.

Many carriers allow stopovers to be added to a regular cash booking, but some are only available via award tickets . This means the flight was paid for using points/miles or a combination of points/miles and cash.

Air Canada has a stopover option built into its Aeroplan loyalty program. It allows customers booking award flights to add a stop on international journeys and explore practically any city the airline flies to outside the US and Canada.

The add-on costs 5,000 Aeroplan points each way and can only be booked if the stop is at least 24 hours, capping out at 45 days.

Air France/KLM

Air France and Dutch carrier KLM's Flying Blue loyalty program offers a stopover of 24 hours or more in a connecting city on either carrier or their airline partners.

The option is free to add to award tickets, and passengers can stay up to a year in the stopover city.

China Southern Airlines

China Southern Airlines offers a free one-night hotel stay for transfer passengers with connection times lasting between six and 30 hours, though there are some time and route restrictions.

Breakfast and transportation are included for eligible travelers.

Copa Airlines

Copa Airlines' Panama stopover program allows customers to spend anywhere from 24 hours to seven days in the nation's capital, Panama City, on their outbound or return trip.

The option is free for the first stopover, but a second stopover can cost up to $250 plus taxes. Copa offers discounted hotels and tours that can be booked via its stopover website.

Emirates allows a stopover in Dubai with the option to add discounted tours or hotel bookings to the itinerary via its website.

The UAE carrier also has a " Dubai Connect " program that gives passengers with layovers between 6 and 26 hours, depending on the cabin, a complimentary hotel, transfers, meals, and any needed visa.

Dubai Connect only triggers if the customer takes the next available flight. Essentially, you can't intentionally book a longer layover to quality for the free stopover hotel.

Ethiopian Airlines

Ethiopian Airlines' transit program gives customers flying via Addis Ababa a free hotel, transit visa, and transfers during layovers lasting between eight and 24 hours.

The hotel on the airline's website is the Ethiopian Skylight In-Terminal Hotel, located inside the airport.

Etihad Airways

Etihad Airways offers a stopover in its Abu Dhabi hub, which comes with an undisclosed discount at select three-star hotels for up to two nights.

Two and four-night stays can be booked at more luxurious four and five-star hotels at a 40% discount. The minimum stay is 24 hours.

Although Etihad's website says it is temporarily unavailable, the airline used to allow eligible travelers to use a so-called Transit Connect Package that provided a free hotel near the airport for layovers lasting 10 to 24 hours. It is unclear when or if the program is returning.

Fiji Airways

Fiji Airways offers a stopover program in Fiji for those traveling to and from Australia, New Zealand, and other South Pacific nations.

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Hotels and activities like ziplining and beach resorts can be booked through the airline as part of the stopover package.

Finnair allows passengers to book 6, 12, or 24-hour layovers in Helsinki at no additional fare charge and outlines itinerary ideas and information on its website , like transportation, free walking tours, and restaurants.

Customers can book a hotel through the airline and earn Finnair Plus points.

Iberia customers can plan a stopover in Madrid to or from an international destination for one to six nights at no extra cost.

Discounts on hotels, excursions, and transfers in the Spanish capital are available through Iberia.

Icelandair offers a stopover option for one to seven days in its capital city of Reykjavik on transatlantic itineraries for no additional charge.

The airline offers itinerary help and assistance in booking excursions and tours. Hotels need to be booked separately.

Japan Airlines

Japan Airlines considers itself one of the "most stopover -friendly" carriers in the world.

The stopovers, which trigger at 24 hours, are not limited to JAL's hubs in Tokyo but can be enjoyed in places like Osaka and Kyoto using the airline's multi-city booking tool.

Latam Airlines

Latam Airlines offers stopovers for between one and three days on flights that connect in São Paulo, Brasilia, Fortaleza, Recife, Manaus, Curitiba, and Belem. Only international itineraries that connect in São Paulo.

Hotels and amenities can be booked via Latam, but the stopover booking is free.

Oman Air offers customizable stopover packages to give travelers time to explore the country's capital, Muscat, and beyond. An additional fare charge may be applicable, though the airline does not fly to the US.

Packages and a-la-carte options include discounted hotels for up to three nights, as well as organized tours, meals, and transfers.

Australian flag carrier Qantas offers its stopovers in a similar manner to JAL in that multi-city bookings can be manipulated to add extra days between flights in layover cities, like Bangkok, Osaka, or San Francisco.

This comes at no extra cost on eligible Qantas fares and can be used on its Oneworld partner airlines.

Qatar Airways

Qatar Airways' stopover program allows passengers with a minimum layover of 12 hours and up to 24 hours to choose from a list of deeply discounted four and five-star hotels. Certain flight itineraries allow for up to four nights.

Nightly hotel rates start at $14 per person for 1 night at four-star standard hotels, with premium five-star beach hotels starting at $30 per person for one night.

Royal Jordanian Airlines

Royal Jordanian Airlines' transit program gives economy and business-class travelers with at least eight and six-hour layovers, respectively, a free hotel room, meals, and transit, assuming certain fare conditions are met.

However, the connecting flight must be the earliest possible — meaning, similar to Emirates, passengers can't intentionally book a longer layover to be eligible for the complimentary perks.

Swiss International Air Lines

Swiss International Air Lines, or SWISS, has a multi-city stopover booking tool on its website that allows passengers to find itineraries with extra days in Switzerland.

The cost of hotels and other perks is on the customer, though.

Singapore Airlines

Singapore Airlines' stopover program is available via the multi-city tool, similar to other carriers, where travelers can add hotels, transfers, and activities. The stopover can last one to seven days.

Singapore also offers free transit tours to passengers with layover times between five and a half and 24 hours at Singapore's Changi Airport. It's first-come, first-serve and includes sightseeing around Singapore.

TAP Air Portugal

TAP Air Portugal allows customers to add a stopover in Lisbon or Porto between one and 10 days, offering discounts on hotels, food, and activities.

It also offers 25% off a domestic flight to a second Portuguese destination, like the Azores or Madeira islands, to take during the stopover.

Turkish Airlines

Turkish Airlines' stopover program gives economy travelers a one-night free hotel stay and business flyers a two-night free stay if the period between their connecting flights in Istanbul exceeds 20 hours.

Those traveling from the US in economy class can stay up to two nights in a four-star hotel, while those traveling in business can stay up to three nights in a five-star hotel.

Watch: Thousands of bags pile up at US airports after flight cancellations

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