10 Best Things To Do in Muscat, Oman

No doubt about it, Oman's capital city of Muscat is a stunning place to visit. Whether you're looking for culture, history, shopping or simply some relaxation by the sea, there's something for everyone in this ancient and enchanting city.

Here are our top 10 picks for things to do and places to visit in Muscat. Enjoy!

1. Visit the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is one of the largest mosques in the world and can accommodate up to 20,000 worshippers. The mosque was built in 2001 and is named after Sultan Qaboos bin Said al Said, the current ruler of Oman. The mosque is located in the capital city of Muscat and is surrounded by gardens and fountains.

It’s easily one of the best things to do in Muscat and visitors can admire the beautiful architecture and take photos outside of the mosque. Inside, the main prayer hall is decorated with chandeliers and mosaics. The mosque also has a library, a museum, and a school. Non-Muslims are welcome to visit the mosque during certain hours.

2. Go scuba diving or snorkelling

If you're staying in the centre of Muscat, Oman, or nearby,  immerse yourself in some superb snorkelling
excursion opportunities — the perfect addition to your list of things to do in Muscat. The shallows are full of marine life, including many different types of reef fish, turtles, Parrot fish, Lion Fish, Angel fish, and sting rays.

There are also many diving centres where you can take lessons if you're a beginner. With warm and clear waters, the teeming reefs provide an unforgettable experience, making it one of the most enjoyable family-friendly things to do in Muscat! 

3. Watch a show at The Royal Opera House

The Royal Opera House Muscat is one of the most iconic buildings in the Oman capital, and a visit here is a must for any tourist when looking for places to visit in Muscat. Not only is the Opera House itself a work of art, but it also plays host to some of the most prestigious operas and ballets in the world.

Even if you’re not a fan of classical music, it’s worth popping into one of the performances just to say you’ve been there. And if you are a fan, then you’re in for a real treat – the acoustics in the auditorium are superb, and there’s nothing quite like seeing a live performance in such a spectacular setting. If you can’t get tickets for a show, then make sure to take a tour of the building; it’s truly breathtaking.

4. Visit Bait Al Zubair Museum

The Bait Al Zubair Museum is a great place to visit in Muscat to learn about Omani culture and history. The museum houses various household artifacts, including pottery, copperware, furniture, windows, doors, keys and accessories that date from the 3rd millennium BC to the 20th century.

The pottery selection consists of both locally manufactured and imported items and features terracotta/earthen and stoneware that was primarily used for storage, cooking and as incense burners. The locally made pottery has distinct regional styles and designs, some of which date back thousands of years. If you're interested in learning more about Omani culture and history, the Bait Al Zubair Museum is definitely worth a visit with the family!

5. Watch the sunset at Qurum Beach

If you're looking for a great beach to relax on during your holiday in Muscat, head to Qurum Beach. This long, sandy beach is located in the upmarket neighbourhood of Qurum and is a popular place to visit in Muscat for locals and tourists alike.

There are plenty of restaurants and cafes lining the beachfront, so you can enjoy a bite to eat while taking in the stunning views of the Arabian Gulf. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also book some fun water sports like jet skiing or parasailing. Finally, we recommend staying to watch the sunset!

6. Visit the Al Alam Palace

The palace has a rich history of over 200 years and is one of the residing palaces of the current Sultan Qaboos. With a façade of blue and gold, the palace was rebuilt in 1972 and is surrounded by the Mirani and Jalali forts built by the Portuguese at around the 16th century.

Although visitors cannot get very near the palace, they are allowed to take pictures from the front gates and get a good view. The palace is a beautiful place to visit during the night as the lighting is spectacular.

7. Explore The National Museum Oman

The National Museum Oman is a must-visit destination for any traveller exploring Muscat. The museum is home to an impressive collection of artefacts and objects that tell the story of Omani culture and heritage, from the earliest evidence of human settlement in the Oman Peninsula through to the present day.

The museum is conveniently located in the heart of Muscat, making it easy to visit on a day trip from Fraser Suites Muscat. Admission is free for young children, so it’s top of the list for things to do in Muscat with your family. Be sure to allow plenty of time to explore the museum's extensive collections; you could easily spend several hours here!

8. Go shopping at the Mall of Oman

The Mall of Oman is the perfect place to spend a day, whether you're looking for some retail therapy, wanting to try out new restaurants or looking for some places to take the kids.

With over 350 stores, there are plenty of things to do for everyone here, and the 38 dining outlets means you can refuel whenever you need to. The Magic Planet and Snow Park are great entertainment destinations, and the 14-screen VOX Cinemas complex means you can catch the latest blockbuster films.

9. Spend an afternoon at Muttrah Souk

If you're visiting Muscat, be sure to spend some time exploring the Muttrah Souk. This fascinating marketplace is home to a variety of shops selling all sorts of exotic items, from gold and frankincense to jewellery and handicrafts.

The narrow alleyways are packed with shoppers, so be prepared to do some haggling if you want to buy anything. It's a great place to visit if you are looking for things to do for a few hours in Muscat and to soak up the atmosphere of this vibrant city.

10. Enjoy a day trip to Wadi Bani Khalid

If you're looking for an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of Muscat city life, a trip to Wadi Bani Khalid is a must thing to do. This beautiful wadi (valley) is located about 2 and a half hours' drive from Fraser Suites Muscat and is home to several water pools and a spring (ayn in Arabic) that flow inside the wadi all year long.

The wadi is also surrounded by several villages and colourful plantations, making for an impressive landscape. With its unique red rock formations, the wadi is a unique spot, so it's popular with visitors and locals alike.

Where to stay close to the top attractions in Muscat, Oman

Looking for a luxurious and convenient hotel apartment in Muscat? Look no further than Fraser Suites Muscat! Our serviced apartments are located in the heart of the city, just a short walk from many of Muscat's top attractions.

Whether of you're looking to explore the city's vibrant nightlife or spend a day relaxing on the beach, Fraser Suites Muscat is the perfect base for your stay. We offer a range amenities and services to make your break as comfortable and enjoyable as possible, including a restaurant, swimming pool, spa, fitness centre and kid's club. Book your stay today and start planning your perfect trip with our latest offers!

Muscat is a beautiful and culturally-rich city that has something to offer everyone. From stunning beaches and markets to historic sites and museums, there is plenty to see and do in Muscat. If you're planning a holiday to Oman, be sure to add some of these top 10 attractions to your itinerary!