Muscat City Tour with All Language Guide

An absolute must-see on any Muscat itinerary is the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque.

Located around 25-kilometres to the west of Mutrah, this is Oman’s principal mosque: a vast and exquisitely decorated sandstone building set within lush gardens and surrounded by tiled arcades.

The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque – The mosque completed in 2001 is constructed out of 300,000 tonnes of Indian sandstone and can accommodate up to 20,000 worshipers. It was the sultans gift to the nation to mark his 30th year of reign. The hand-loomed Persian carpet in the main hall is the 2nd largest of its kind, the carpet took a total of 600 women 4 years to weave and is lit up by the largest chandelier in the world.

The Royal opera house – Built on the royal orders of the sultan due to his passion for classical music and arts, the royal opera house was officially opened in 2011. The opera house displays contemporary Omani architecture and breathe taking interior design. The main hall and the theatre can accommodate up to 1,100 people and are open daily to the public.

Situated at the heart of Muttrah, on Oman’s largest harbor, the new fish market designed by Snøhetta is a tribute to both the past and the future of Oman. The city of Muttrah is known for its long history of commercial trade, its characteristic port, and long-standing fishery traditions. Located close to the city’s original fish market, built in 1960, the new market marks a continuity of the region’s trade and fishing traditions, while also fulfilling Oman’s need to accommodate for the country’s growing tourism industry.

The Mutrah souk is a traditional Arab market selling a variety of souvenirs, jewellery, frankincense, perfumes and garments. Many guests find it enjoyable to bargain with the many vendors around. After wondering around the souk, we shall grab lunch nearby then proceed to the museums.

The Sultan’s Palace Al Alam – The extravagant blue and golden Al Alam palace has a history of over 200 years and is one of the rulers six royal residences, the palace was built by Sultan Ahmed, the 8th grandfather of the current sultan. The palace remains off limits to visitors however we are permitted to stop near the gates to take photographs.