City: Muscat Governorate
Top Things to do in Muscat Governorate
Countries
The 10 Best Things to Do in Muscat Governorate, Oman
The Omani city of Muscat is predominantly populated by Islamic Arabs, though it also has a sizable, non-resident Indian population, further rounded out by American, British and Dutch citizens. Muscat is a tolerant and progressive city, where English speakers are relatively common. Arrange fares beforehand if seeing the city by taxi. To explore further, consider renting a car. Don't miss the imposing Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, atmospheric Old Muttrah Souk, Al Alam Royal Palace or Al Jalali Fort.
Restaurants in Muscat Governorate
1. Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
Overall Ratings
5 based on 4 reviews
Reviewed By CJW913 - De Pere, Wisconsin
This is one of the largest and most spectacular mosques in the Gulf region (the Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi actually outshines this one). Constructed of marble, sandstone and wood, the minimalist modern Islamic style of Muscat's mosque features five minarets that represent the five pillars of Islam. It was a gift from Sultan Qaboos to mark his 30th year of reign.
Compared to its chaste exterior, the interior is "a riot of opulence." The central Swarovski crystal chandelier in the main prayer hall, with its 1,122 lights, is breathtaking. The floor carpet is supposedly the world's second largest, taking between 400-600 female Iranian workers four years to make. (The number depends on the travel guide you read.)
Our Omani travel guide told us that this in the only mosque in Oman open to non-Muslims. As such, we were grateful for the opportunity to visit.
2. Mohammed Al Ameen Mosque
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 146 reviews
Reviewed By babafly2017 - Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Very beautiful mosque, a must sea from inside and out and nice reciting by the Imam who reads like Abdul Baset abdulsamad
3. Wadi Al Arbeieen
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 189 reviews
E un'oasi nel deserto in Oman a circa 150 km SE da muscat, con percorso fuoristrada, laghi naturali, oasi e piccoli villaggi che ti lasciano un ricordo indelebile del vero Oman. assolutamente da vedere
4. Royal Opera House
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1 reviews
Reviewed By Christie A - Doncaster, United Kingdom
Worth a tour, apparently the first theatre to provide transmitted translation of shows to Arabic, to every seat.
5. Sultan's Armed Forces Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 148 reviews
Reviewed By latawiec2 - Toronto
Great place to visit in Muttrah. Watch out for their opening hours because they're limited. They provide you a personal military guide who will walk you through the whole museum. All aspects of the history of Oman and its military are very well displayed throughout many rooms. There are outdoor displays of everyday military life and bigger military equipment (planes, tanks, ships). You can also see the Cadillac limo used by His Majesty the Sultan. The small entrance fee is well worth it. You need at least 2 hours to see all the exhibits. The museum is run by Omanese military personel in a professional way. Recommended for everyone.
6. Wadi Dayqah Dam
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 224 reviews
Reviewed By Friemens - Munich, Germany
If you judge the trip worth additional 36 km driving from the highway (25 minutes one way if you accept the speed limits) is an individual decision. You see a dam and the build-up water what is not very surprising. The landscape incorporating some rocks looks not bad, but you are not allowed to swim. 30 Minutes for watching everything is more than enough. The best time for sure is sunset, not many people and nice lighting conditions over the lake.
7. Bait Al Zubair
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 767 reviews
Reviewed By CJW913 - De Pere, Wisconsin
Our group of 22 had a whirlwind tour of the ground floor of this privately owned museum. It is light, airy and spacious. Displays include a selection of Omani weapons, jewellery, coins, costumes, household items and old photographs.
There is also a cafe located onsite where several members of tour bought coffees.
My spouse and I did not find anything remarkable about this place other than how airy it was.
8. Qantab Beach
Overall Ratings
4 based on 288 reviews
Reviewed By lolabug - Dubai, United Arab Emirates
With the closure of the main public beach due to the new housing development, this section of beach in the main village of Qantab is now the best place to find the little fishing boats to take you out on a ride down the coast to Shangri-La and back. While not at all luxurious (and you will have to get your feet a little wet climbing in and out from the beach) it is a wonderful ride with amazing views of the coast and rocky outcrops. Going through the natural tunnels is very picturesque. I have taken these boats more times than I can remember and they have always been a highlight of the trip. I don't know if it is a good price but, I usually pay 10 OMR for the ride.
9. Qurum Beach
Overall Ratings
4 based on 1 reviews
10. Yiti
Overall Ratings
4 based on 157 reviews
Reviewed By IvekFiume - Rijeka, Croatia
Yiti is kind of stil not very crowded place just about 40 km from Muscat. To get there by car is very easy. Stay late on the beach to watch beatutiful sunset. No fancy cofee shops or restaurant, so take with you enough water and food.
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