Muscat Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
I. Planning & Safety
1. Is Muscat (and Oman in general) safe for tourists?
Answer: Yes, overwhelmingly. Oman is considered one of the safest countries in the Middle East, with locals frequently described as extremely welcoming and polite. Concerns about regional conflicts usually don’t apply, as Oman maintains a neutral stance.
2. Are there any unsafe areas to avoid in Muscat?
Answer: No, travelers consistently report feeling safe everywhere, even when walking alone at night. General common-sense caution applies, as in any major city.
3. Is Oman safe for solo female travelers?
Answer: Yes, it is considered very safe. Travelers recommend dressing modestly to show respect for the culture and to avoid unwanted attention, but solo female travelers frequently report positive experiences and feeling secure.
4. What is the best time of year to visit Muscat?
Answer: The ideal time is the winter season, from November to March, when temperatures are pleasant ($17^\circ\text{C}$ to $25^\circ\text{C}$). The summer months (May to September) are extremely hot, often exceeding $40^\circ\text{C}$.
5. How many days are enough to see Muscat?
Answer: 2 to 3 full days is generally sufficient to see the main sights within Muscat (Grand Mosque, Mutrah area, Royal Opera House). However, most travelers recommend 5 to 10 days for a full Oman experience including Nizwa, Jebel Shams, and the Wadis.
6. Do I need a visa for Oman?
Answer: It depends on your nationality and length of stay. Many nationalities (including UK, US, EU) are exempt for stays up to 14 days. For longer stays (up to 30 days), an e-visa is typically required and should be applied for in advance via the Royal Oman Police eVisa website.
7. Is it okay for an unmarried couple to stay in the same hotel room?
Answer: Yes, tourists (even unmarried couples) will generally not have any trouble checking into hotels or at immigration.
8. What is the local currency and should I use cash or card?
Answer: The currency is the Omani Rial (OMR). Major hotels, malls, and restaurants accept card, but you should carry cash for local souqs, smaller shops, street vendors, and certain taxis.
II. Culture & Dress Code
9. What is the dress code for women in Muscat?
Answer: Dress is modest. Generally, women should wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees in public spaces, souqs, and for everyday sightseeing. Lightweight trousers, long skirts, and tops with sleeves are ideal.
10. What is the dress code for visiting the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque?
Answer: Strict modesty is required. Women must cover their hair, neck, arms (to wrists), and legs (to ankles) with loose-fitting clothing. Men should wear full-length trousers and a shirt with sleeves. Dress code is rigorously enforced, and you may be denied entry if not compliant.
11. Is it acceptable to wear a bikini/swimsuit at the beach or hotel pool?
Answer: At hotel pools and resort private beaches, bikinis/swimsuits are generally fine. On public beaches and in Wadis (natural pools), women should cover up with a t-shirt and shorts over their swimwear to show respect.
12. Is public display of affection acceptable?
Answer: No. Public displays of affection, such as holding hands or kissing, are frowned upon and should be avoided.
13. Do people speak English in Muscat?
Answer: Yes, English is widely spoken, especially in Muscat, hotels, major tourist attractions, and by taxi drivers due to the large expat community.
14. What are some basic Arabic phrases I should know?
Answer: “As-salamu alaykum” (Hello/Peace be upon you), “Wa alaykumu s-salam” (Reply to hello), “Shukran” (Thank you), and “Insha’Allah” (God willing) are good to know.
15. Can I take photos of local people?
Answer: Always ask for permission first, especially before photographing Omani women, as it is considered extremely rude to take their picture without consent.
III. Getting Around Muscat & Oman
16. Do I need to rent a car in Muscat?
Answer: Highly recommended if you plan to explore outside of Muscat, such as Wadis, Nizwa, or Jebel Shams. Muscat itself is spread out, making a car convenient, but city travel is manageable with taxis/rideshares.
17. Is driving in Oman difficult for foreigners?
Answer: Generally, no. Roads are modern, well-maintained, and driving rules are standard. Be prepared for multi-lane roundabouts and be mindful of speeding laws. A 4×4 vehicle is essential for certain mountain roads (like Jebel Shams, Jebel Akhdar) and desert trips.
18. What are the options for taxis in Muscat?
Answer: You can use white/orange-striped street taxis (where you must negotiate the fare beforehand) or ride-hailing apps like O-Taxi or Marhaba Taxi, which are generally safer, more reliable, and have fixed prices. Airport taxis can be very expensive; book a transfer or use an app.
19. Is there good public transport in Muscat?
Answer: Public transport (buses) is not well-developed for tourists and services are limited. It’s generally not a practical way to get around the main tourist sites.
20. Can I use Muscat as a base for day trips?
Answer: Yes, many popular locations like Wadi Shab, Bimmah Sinkhole, and Nizwa are feasible as long day trips from Muscat by car.
IV. Things to See & Do in Muscat
21. What are the must-see attractions in Muscat?
Answer:
Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque (Morning visit only, check timing).
Mutrah Souq (Traditional market, best after sunset).
Mutrah Corniche (Waterfront walk).
Al Alam Palace (Sultan’s Ceremonial Palace, view from outside).
Royal Opera House Muscat (Check for tours or shows).
National Museum.
22. Where is the best place to stay in Muscat?
Answer: The Mutrah/Old Muscat area is popular for its walkability and proximity to the Souq and Corniche. Al Qurum/Shatti Al Qurum is a more modern area with hotels and beaches.
23. Where can I find the traditional Omani market?
Answer: The Mutrah Souq is the main, traditional marketplace for buying souvenirs, frankincense, jewelry, and spices.
24. Where can I find Omani Frankincense?
Answer: You can buy frankincense in the Mutrah Souq or in specialty stores, often along with traditional burners.
25. What is the best beach near Muscat?
Answer: Many travelers recommend the beaches near Qurum or those attached to the major hotels/resorts (like Al Bustan Palace or Shangri-La) for private, well-equipped access.
V. Food & Drink
26. What are the must-try Omani dishes?
Answer:
Shuwa (slow-cooked marinated lamb/goat, typically for celebrations).
Harees (wheat and meat dish).
Majboos/Qabooli (rice dishes with meat/fish and spices).
Omani Halwa (traditional sweet made with rosewater, saffron, and nuts).
27. What are the best restaurants for traditional Omani food?
Answer: Bait Al Luban and Rozna Restaurant are frequently recommended for authentic Omani cuisine with a great atmosphere suitable for tourists.
28. Is tap water safe to drink?
Answer: While desalinated and technically potable in most places, most tourists and locals drink bottled water as a precaution.
29. Can I buy alcohol in Muscat?
Answer: Yes, but it is restricted. Alcohol is mainly sold in licensed hotels, resorts, and a few high-end restaurants. It is illegal to drink in public or be publicly intoxicated. Tourists arriving at the airport can purchase a limited amount from the duty-free shop.
30. Do I need to worry about the heat during Ramadan?
Answer: Yes, if your visit falls during Ramadan, you must be aware that eating, drinking, and smoking in public is strictly prohibited during daylight hours. Restaurants outside of major hotels may be closed or only offer takeout.
VI. Day Trips from Muscat (Oman Highlights)
31. Is it worth leaving Muscat?
Answer: Absolutely. Many travelers agree that the real beauty and adventure of Oman lies outside the capital in the mountains and wadis.
32. What are the best day trips from Muscat?
Answer:
Wadi Shab & Bimmah Sinkhole (a popular coastal combination).
Nizwa (historic fort and traditional souq, about 1.5-2 hours drive).
Jebel Akhdar (Green Mountain, requires a 4×4 to access the plateau).
Jebel Shams (Oman’s Grand Canyon, requires a 4×4).
33. Do I need a 4×4 car for Wadi Shab and Bimmah Sinkhole?
Answer: No, a regular sedan is fine for the drive to the main parking areas for both. However, some deep wadis further inland will require a 4×4.
34. Is it possible to visit the desert from Muscat?
Answer: Yes, the Wahiba Sands (Sharqiyah Sands) are the closest major desert area. This requires a longer drive and is usually done as an overnight trip, often requiring a guide and a 4×4 for dune driving.
35. Can I see dolphins or go snorkeling/diving near Muscat?
Answer: Yes, boat trips for dolphin watching, snorkeling, and diving are popular and easily arranged from the Muscat area (e.g., to the Daymaniyat Islands).