Half Day Muscat City with Omani Food Experience

Muscat , Oman

Half Day Muscat City with Omani Food Experience

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About this experience

Pick up 8.00 a.m. Guide will take you to the experience Traditional Omani breakfast with Omani Bread & Karak Tea. Later The city tour begins with a visit to the beautiful Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. This is one of the largest mosques in the Middle East. Later we drive along the picturesque Muttrah Corniche and visit Muttrah Souq which retains the chaotic interest of a traditional Arab market albeit housed under modern timber roofing. Then it will be time to have a photo stop at the official residence of his Majesty Sultan Qaboos Bin Said, The Al Alam Palace, which is flanked by the 16th century Portuguese forts of Mirani and Jalali. From the Palace, you will travel through the old town, here you will pass some of the original houses. After the Tour, Guide will take you to the local restaurant to try Omani food (Omani rice with Meat/fish/chicken/vegetables). Post this our guide will drop you at your hotel/Airport/Port.

Available options

Half Day Muscat City with Omani Food Experience

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Bottled water

All Fees and Taxes

English Speaking Guide cum driver

Omani Break & Tea

Omani Rice with Meat/Chicken/Fish/Vegetables

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The city tour begins with a visit to the beautiful Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. This is one of the largest mosques in the Middle East, and the only mosque open to non-Muslims and expatriate in Oman.

Stop 2

Later we drive along the picturesque Muttrah Corniche and visit Muttrah Souq which retains the chaotic interest of a traditional Arab market albeit housed under modern timber roofing. You will stroll through the Souq, where you will have the chance to buy Omani specialties like Frankincense, Omani daggers. You can also try your hand at bargaining for beautiful silver handicrafts and scarves. You will also be able to enjoy a moment along the corniche admiring the various cruise ships on the water at Mina Al Sultan Qaboos Port.

Stop 3

Then it will be time to have a photo stop at the official residence of his Majesty Sultan Qaboos Bin Said, The Al Alam Palace, which is flanked by the 16th century Portuguese forts of Mirani and Jalali.

Stop 4 Pass by

The Royal Opera House Muscat (ROHM) is Oman's premier venue for musical arts and culture. The Royal Opera House reflects unique contemporary Omani architecture, and has a capacity to accommodate maximum of 1,100 people.

Stop 5

The historic forts of Al Jalali and Mirani date back to the 16th century, and (although closed for entry to the general public) define the cityscape of the Omani capital.

*Total duration includes travel time.

What's not included

Tips

Anything for Personal Nature

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is open for visitors from 8:00 a.m. to 11 a.m. every day except Friday. Friday Mosque will be closed.

All visitors are strictly required to adhere to a dress code when visiting the Grand Mosque of Muscat. For men, no shorts or sleeveless tops. For women, acceptable attires include full-length dresses, long-sleeved blouses with long skirts or loose pants that cover your ankles.

About Muscat

Muscat, the capital of Oman, is a beautiful coastal city known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and strategic location along the Gulf of Oman. With a unique blend of traditional Omani culture and modern development, Muscat offers visitors a mix of historic forts, luxurious resorts, and vibrant souks.

Top Attractions

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

One of the most stunning landmarks in Muscat, this mosque is a masterpiece of Islamic architecture and a symbol of Omani heritage.

Religious/Architecture 1-2 hours Free (guided tours may have a fee)

Mutrah Souq

A traditional market offering a variety of goods, including spices, textiles, and souvenirs. The souq is a great place to experience Omani culture and haggle for bargains.

Market/Cultural 1-2 hours Free to enter, prices vary for goods

Royal Opera House Muscat

A world-class venue for opera, ballet, and other performing arts, offering a glimpse into the cultural richness of Oman.

Cultural/Entertainment 2-3 hours (depending on the performance) Varies by event (moderate to expensive)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Shuwa

Slow-cooked lamb or goat marinated in spices and wrapped in banana leaves.

Dinner Not vegetarian

Harees

A porridge-like dish made from wheat and meat, often served during Ramadan.

Dinner Not vegetarian

Halwa

A sweet dessert made from sugar, ghee, and spices, often served with tea.

Dessert Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in Wadi Shab Dune bashing in the desert Beach relaxation at Qurum Beach Spa treatments at luxury resorts Exploring Mutrah Souq Visiting the Royal Opera House Muscat Swimming in Bimmah Sinkhole Boat tours in the Gulf of Oman

Best Time to Visit

November to March

The best time to visit Muscat is during the cooler months from November to March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. This period also sees the highest number of tourists.

18°C to 30°C 64°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Arabic
Widely spoken: English, Urdu, Balochi
English: Widely spoken in tourist areas

Currency

Omani Rial (OMR)

Time Zone

GMT+4

Electricity

240VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Muscat is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it's always important to stay vigilant and follow local customs and laws.

Important Precautions:

• Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps
• Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help
• Keep valuables secure

Getting there

By air

Muscat International Airport • 30 km from city center

By bus

Muscat Central Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus service is affordable and connects key points in Muscat. However, it may not be as extensive as in other major cities.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Careem

Rentals

Car

Neighborhoods

Mutrah Al Khuwair Shati Al Qurum

Day trips

Nizwa

160 km from Muscat • Full day

Nizwa is a historic city known for its fort, souq, and traditional Omani architecture.

Wadi Shab

90 km from Muscat • Full day

Wadi Shab is a stunning natural area with waterfalls, pools, and hiking trails.

Bimmah Sinkhole

120 km from Muscat • Half day

A natural sinkhole with crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and photography.

Festivals

Muscat Festival • January to February Eid al-Fitr • Varies (depends on the Islamic lunar calendar)

Pro tips

Visit the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds
Explore Mutrah Souq in the evening when it's cooler and more lively
Try traditional Omani coffee and dates at a local café
Book a guided tour for day trips to learn more about the history and culture
Carry a reusable water bottle and stay hydrated, especially in the summer