Why visit
Muscat is a low-rise Gulf capital of white buildings, mountains, souqs, forts, and a long harbor. It is one of the region's more scenic and understated city bases.
How to use this result
Use it as a capital-city prompt
Muscat is useful when you want a city-level starting point in Oman. Check whether the capital is the best arrival city, a practical transfer point, or mainly a geography and planning reference.
Check practical trip fit
Before planning around Muscat, compare airport access, local transport, time zone, neighborhood choices, weather, safety guidance, and whether another city in Oman better matches the trip style.
Muscat at a glance
City population
1.7 million
Elevation
8 m
26 ft
Time zone
UTC+4
Asia/Muscat
Airport
MCT
Muscat International
Founded
6th century CE
Getting around
Buses (Mwasalat) + taxis; rental car recommended for exploration
Signature dish
Shuwa (24-hour roast), majboos, harees, halwa, kahwa
Neighborhoods for travelers
Mutrah (old port)Old MuscatQurumShatti Al QurumAl Mouj
Oman at a glance
Country center
21.0°, 57.0°
Coast
Has coastline
Country area
309,500 km²
119,499 mi²
Country population
4.6 million
15/km²
Subregion
Western Asia
Currency
Omani rial (ر.ع.)
OMR
Dial
+968
Language
Arabic
Demonym
Omani
Internet
.om
UN
Member state
ISO code
OM / OMN
Where in the world
21.0° - 57.0°
Oman
Open in Google Maps
Click the map to open in Google Maps. Outline via svg-maps/world - CC BY 4.0
Did you know
- Muscat means "anchorage" in Arabic: the name refers to the deep natural harbor the city surrounds.
- Oman is the only country in the world where buildings cannot exceed the dome of the Grand Mosque.
- Omani frankincense from the Dhofar region has been traded for 5,000 years and is still considered the world's finest.
- Oman has the oldest continuously independent Arab state: no colonial period.
- The country contains the empty quarter (Rub al-Khali): the largest continuous sand desert on earth.
Bordering Oman
Traveler notes
- Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is the key architectural stop
- Mutrah Corniche and souq frame the old harbor
- Day trips can reach wadis, forts, and coastal villages
Plan checks
- Choose a neighborhood first: many capitals have tourist centers that are not the best places to stay.
- Public transport passes usually beat taxis and rideshares for multi-day visits.
Explore more
Facts last reviewed June 2026 against GeoNames and national statistics sources. See the editorial policy for how destination data is maintained.
Frequently asked about Muscat
What currency is used in Muscat?
Muscat uses the Omani rial (ر.ع.), ISO code OMR.
What languages are spoken in Oman?
The primary language is Arabic.
What is the international calling code for Oman?
The calling code is +968.
When is the best time to visit Muscat?
Nov–Mar. Check current weather and local events before booking.
What airport serves Muscat?
Muscat International (IATA: MCT).
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