muscat oman cruise ship terminal

CRUISE PORT GUIDES

Muscat – Oman

Muscat cruise port – fast facts

– Cruise ships dock in Muscat. – Walking in port is strictly prohibited. – Cruise port is about 1,2 mile from center of town (Muttrah). – There is a hop on hop off bus. – Plenty of official taxis available for tours or short rides.

Travel information Oman

Official currency – Rial Accepts Us dollars – are often accepted Creditcards – are widely accepted

Drives on the – right Timezone – UTC +4

Inhabitants – 3,3 million Official language – Arabic Capital city – Muscat

Sultanate of Oman Government – Unitary parliamentary absolute monarchy

Arabic language

Good day – يوم جيد – yawm jayid How are you? – كيف حالك؟ – kayf halk? Thank you – شكرا – shukraan Cruise ship – سفينة سياحية – safinat siahia Port – ميناء – mina’

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Cruise Port Guide Muscat – Oman: docked at the Port of Sultan Qaboos

In Muscat cruise ships usually dock at Port of Sultan Qaboos, berth 4 and 5. This is the official port of Muscat that lies in front of Muttrah. There is no tourist information and no maps available on the dock. There is a terminal building which is not always open. The cruise dock is wheelchair accessible.

Walking in the port is prohibited and therefore there is a shuttle bus provided by the ship. This shuttle bus usually goes to the port gate and to the Mutrah souk. It is wise not to get off at the port gates, because in general you will only find taxis waiting for you there and nothing else. If you choose to be dropped off at the Mutrah souk you are in one of the three most interesting areas in the city.

Muscat is located between mountains and sea. It compromises a long string of suburbs, spread over 60 km. Muscat is sometimes referred to as the “3 cities”. This is referring to these 3 area’s: – Mutrah. This is where the cruise shuttle bus will drop you off. It is about 2 km / 1,2 mile from the port. Here you’ll find the famous Muscat corniche, the Mutrah souk, the Bait Al Baranda Museum and the Incense burner. – Ruwi. This neighbourhood is about 6 km / 3,5 miles from your cruise port. You could consider this as “downtown” Muscat. – Old Muscat. About 7 km / 4,5 miles from your cruise port. This is definitely one area not to miss on a visit to Muscat. Amongst others you’ll find Al Jalali fort, Al Mirani fort, Qasr Al Alam Royal Palace and Bait Al Zubair museum here.

Transportation in Muscat

Muscat facilities are pretty good. Keep in mind that the city is quit spread out and therefore you’ll need some form of transportation. Find out underneath what your options are.

Public bus system

There is a public bus service in Oman. You’ll find there are white/green busses and red busses. Although you rarely see them and therefore you’d might just want to skip this form of transportation in Muscat.

Taxis in Muscat

The official taxis of Oman are white and orange. They do not have meter. You need to negotiate on a price before you step into the taxi. Most taxi drivers will take US dollars or Euro. Taxi fare for tours through Muscat area at the rate of R.O. 10 per hours for the first 3 hours and for extra time to be R.O. 7 per hour. The minibus fare is double than the Saloon Taxi if the passengers are more than 4 person.

One way rides can be quite expensive in Oman. For example one way from the port to another neighbourhood is probably 15 US dollar or from the port to the Grand Mosque will probable be around 40 US dollar or 17 RO. To the left is a photo of a sign at the port with the taxi prices on them. This will give you a good idea of what it should costs, but in real life you notice that if rare to get the price as you’ll find it on the sign. Expect that you pay about 15 dollars for a 15 minute taxi drive. Prices like 15 dollars one way per taxi to the Qurum area and 40 dollars one way per taxi to the Grand Mosque are reasonable.

Hop on hop off bus

There is a hop on hop off bus available in Muscat. This red double bus will be waiting for you at the Mutrah Corniche, often at the same spot as where the cruise shuttle bus will drop you. Sometimes these busses also come onto the pier, but it depends on the kind of arrangements your cruise line has made for them. The Hop on Hop off bus is pretty expensive compared to other places, but Muscat is spread out and therefore Hop on Hop off is already a nice choice just for practical reasons. They do change their facilities every now and then, make sure to check their shuttle bus services with them.

Destination and distance from cruise port

In town: Mutrah (with the corniche, souk, incense burner, bait al brand museum) 2 km / 1,2 mile south of the port (where shuttle bus drops you off) Ruwi 6 km / 3,5 miles south west of the port Old Muscat (with Bait Al Zubair museum, Royal Palace, Al Jalali fort, Al Mirani fort) 7 km / 4,5 miles south east of the port

Al Bustan Palace 12 km / 7,5 miles south of the port The Grand Mosque 25 km / 15,5 miles west of the port

Out of town: Nakhl fortress 110 km / 68 miles south west of the port Ain Thowarah 110 km / 68 miles south west of the port Nizwa 180 km / 112 miles south west of the port Jabrin Castle 205 km / 127 miles south west of the port

FAQ about Muscat as cruise destination

– Are taxis allowed on the pier? No, they are not. Unless the taxi has arranged special permission from the port authority. You’ll find taxis at the shuttle bus drop off location.

– Are there maps available on the pier? No, they are not. But you’ll find you can buy a map for about 8 dollars in town.

– Will taxis take Euro or US dollars? Yes, most of the times they do, but they will change you in Rial.

– Will the shops in the souk thake Euro or US dollars? Yes, they often do, but also they will give you change in Rial.

– Is Muscat safe? Yes, Oman is one of the safest countries in the world.

– Is Muscat clean? Yes, it is about as clean as Singapore is.

– Where can I ride a camel in Muscat? You cannot. This simply is not an attractions in Muscat.

– Is there a dresscode to enter the Grand Mosque in Oman? Yes, there is very strict policy! Men should cover their arms and can not wear shorts. Women should cover up their entire arms, legs and hair.

– Can you make pictures in the Grand Mosque? Yes, even photo’s with flash are ok to make.

– Where is the nearest car rental? The nearest car rental is at Ruwi. You’ll need about a 15 dollar taxi drive to get there. This is where you’ll find a street with all kinds of car rentals on it.

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At about 40 minute drive from the port you’ll find Qurm beach. Not the best beach to lay down for a tan, but it is a large recreation area to the city. Come here to relax and do what the locals do on their free time. From port it is 13 km / 15 min drive to the west.

Qurm beach, Muscat

Oman is flexible when it comes to excepting dollars. Most shops will except US dollars but will change you in Omani Rial.

Us dollars in Oman

When you are in port there is a large chance the Sultan Taboos his yacht will be in port with you. Spot his gigantic yacht on the horizon which used to be the 2nd longest yacht in the world. You can see it from Muttrah and already from the ship. The ship is not open for visitors.

Sultans yacht

Port of Muscat, Muscat

Cruise ships dock at the Muscat port close to the neighbourhood of Mutrah. Find your shore excursion busses on the pier or take the shuttle bus to the local market. For the full information on your transportation options read the Muscat cruise port guide.

Muscat cruise dock

You’ll find the parliament buildings close to the Al Bustan Palace. Make a photo stop here if you are in the neighborhood to admire the beautiful, modern and Arab building of the parliament. From port it is 10 km / 15 min drive to the south east

Parliament buildings

Parliament, Muscat

In Old Muscat you’ll find the Royal Palace also known as Qasr Al Alam Palace. It serves as the official seat of the government and as the official office of Sultan Qaboos. It is mainly being used for high end visitors and special occasions. From port it is 4,5 km / 10 min drive to the east.

Al Alam Palace

Al Alam Palace, Muscat

The most impressive hotel of Muscat. You’ll notice that cruise lines often offer a high tea shore excursion to it. If this is the case go for it. Independent visitors often get turned down. The hotel is known as the modern legend of Oman with its Arabian and Indian design. From port it is 13 km / 15 min drive to the south east.

Al Bustan Palace

Al Bustan Street, Quron Beach, Muscat 114, Oman

Muttrah is the commercial centre for trade in Muscat and it definitely is also the most scenic and interesting part of Oman. There are plenty of things to do here. Make sure to plan to hang around for a couple of hours as it is the easiest and most diverse area to visit. Muttrah is the neighboorhood in front of the ship. Take the shuttle bus to it.

Muttrah, Muscat

The Corniche is the promenade in the sheltered harbour. It is really nice to have a leisurely stroll here for the fact that you’ll pass the old style buildings, large commercial harbour, overlooking the dhows in port and get acquainted with the true Omani heritage and style in the many forms of art on the street and surrounding area. The corniche is where the shuttle bus drops you off.

The Muttrah Corniche

Al Bahri Road, Muscat

Sailing into Muscat is spectacular. Make sure to be on the outside deck about an hour before you dock because it will give you a spectacular view over the town and its surrounding landscapes.

Sailing into Muscat

Daily tours take place in the morning from 08.30 – 10.30 am. Get a unique look inside this magnificent Opera House which is considered to be one of the best in the world and is considered to be the milestone in the evolution of an Omani architectural style. From port it is 14 km / 15 min drive to the west.

Royal Opera House of Muscat

Al Kharjiyah St, Muscat 103, Oman

This is one of the best museums of Muscat. It tells you all about the countries history and geology through interactive exhibtions. The museum is in Muttrah. It is best to walk from the shuttle bus drop off point.

Bait Al Baranda Museum

Bait Al Baranda Museum, Muscat

This is the absolute must see in Muscat: the Sultan Taboos Grand Mosque. Visit this magnificent mosque and see the world’s second largest hand-woven carpet and chandelier. The mosque is open to the public (non Muslim) between 8 AM and 11 AM every day except Thursday and Friday. The entry is free. No shorts is allowed for men. Women must cover their arms, head and the ankles. Find the mosque about 25 km / 15.5 miles away from the cruise port.

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

Sultan Qaboos St, Muscat, Oman

There are about 500 forts and castles in Oman. A handful of them stand here on the coastline of Oman. In the ancient times they were defensive bastions and watch towers protecting old Muscat. Although used by the Ottoman, Persians and Omani, in 1507 the Portuguese came to Muscat and they took it by brutal force. Most of the forts have now been restored, feeding the imagination of visitors. Find the fortifications about 2 km walk from the shuttle bus drop off locations.

Portuguese forts

Frankincense has a prominent place in the history of Oman. Therefore it is expected that Oman would honour this product as much as they can. One piece of art sitting on the shore lines of Oman is the incense burner. You can spot it already from the ship. It is about 2 km / 25 minute walk from the drop off location of the shuttle bus.

Incense burner

Riyam Park, Muscat

There is wi-fi at the terminal building on the dock although this is not always open. If you take the shuttle bus to the Mutrah Corniche you will see a small billboard with the purple wi-fi logo on it like the picture above. Get connected here.

This is the market you’ll find at the drop off location of the shuttle bus. It is the city’s oldest market and it is still very popular among young and old. Go in and a feel for the vibe of the market. You’ll find its the perfect place to pick up your souvenirs. Typical products for sell are frankincense, shoes, silver antiques and metal crafts. Keep in mind it does roughly closes between 11.30 am and 04.30 pm.

Mutrah souk

Mutrah Souk, Muttrah, Muscat

Muscat is quite stretched out and therefore renting a bicycle is not a bad idea. You’ll find this bicycle spot at the end of the Corniche, about 1 km walk from the shuttle bus drop off location. Check its location on the map.

Bike Rental

Al Bahri Road, mustact

This is what the official taxi’s look like. White with orange. They do not have a meter. The taxi driver often speaks English and will take US dollars.

The official taxi of Oman

You’ll find this bus at the corniche where it has it start and end point. Sometimes cruise ships arrange to have it on the dock as well. Check with your front office on board.

Hop on hop off bus Muscat

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Fairy tale gateway to the splendors of the Sultanate of Oman; a must-see stop on any cruise to the Middle East.

The pier is located in a subdivision called Muttrah, the original old town, with a large souq. A 3 minute shuttle will bring you to the port gate. After being dropped off by the port bus at the main gate, turn left along the path on the same side of the road and walk to the new fish and meat market (single story white building with modern roof. Keep walking on the pavement until you come to the traffic lights and cross over using these or the pedestrian bridge to the Muttrah souq.

At the port gate there are plenty of taxis. If you plan to use a taxi they are not metered but the rates are set by the government: 10 Rial (20 Euro) per hour for the first 3 hours, 7 Rial per hour thereafter.

Before the discovery of oil, Muttrah was the center of commerce in Oman (Muscat). It is still a center of commerce as one of largest sea ports of the region is located there.

Printable map to take along.

Cruise calendar for this port.

Watch a destination video .

Live Nautical Chart with Wikipedia Markers

Port Location on Google Maps

Monthly Climate Averages for Muscat Oman

Hotels near the Cruise Terminal

Sightseeing:

Situated on a striking cove on the gulf of Oman, ringed by striking volcanic mountains and guarded by two ancient Portuguese forts, diminutive Muscat is the capital of the Sultanate of Oman. Its architecture is a picturesque blend of Arab, Indian, African and European styles. No highrises here, but a rather spread out city with buildings no higher than 8 floors.

Look for the sultan's palace at the water's edge, or visit the important national museum.
Al Jalali Fort and Al Mirani fort They are located in Qasr Al Alam Street. The forts were built in the rocky mountains, in 1580, during the Portuguese occupation as prisons and have now been converted into museums.
Grand Mosque This is the third largest mosque in the world and mostly the entire complex is open to non-Muslim visitors. Ladies are however advised to keep their heads covered while visiting the mosque. Men should wear long pants. Must sees in the mosque include the Swarovski crystal chandelier, the largest hand made persian carpet in the world and the marble paneling. It is open to the public from 9 until noon, Mondays through Thursdays. Oh NO!,another Mosque you might say. Well this one is a must see!
Within walking distance:
Corniche Area The recently renovated corniche area is a popular place for a walk and also for its many not-so-expensive eating places.
Muttrah Souk The maze-like souq (or marketplace) is often described as the best in the Gulf region which also includes a fish markets. The souq has several shops for jewelry, traditional Omani handicrafts and Omani food at reasonable prices. Several shops also accept credit cards.

Tours Excursions Transportation:

The number 4 bus stop is near the souq entrance and will take you into Muscat for around 1 rial. You need to have local money. It drops back off at the new fish and meat market.

Taxi drivers are very nice in Oman. All of them are Omanis as this profession is reserved for nationals. These are very reasonably priced. See above. Taxis are in good shape, good A/C, drivers speak reasonable English and are really proud to show their stunning country.

Just tell the taxi driver how long you want to use his services (3 -4 hours recommended) , just lean back and enjoy a wonderful trip around Muscat, possibly one of the nicest and cleanest cities in the world. No need to tell him your itinerary, he will know all the highlights.

The only thing within walking distance are the Souk and the Corniche with some sidewalk cafes. It takes about 30-40 minutes to get to the Corniche; The pavement is flat and new so suitable families with buggies or those in wheelchairs. The big bus stops here

Hop on/off bus . The Hop on/off bus has a stop right in front of the ship, no shuttle needed. The buses have an interval of 30 minutes, but be prepared for longer intervals.

It pays to compare your cruise line tours here .

Nearby Places:

Shopping and food.

From the water front enter the Muttrah Souk and bargain for some arab headgear (costs 1 rial), garments, nuts and spices, incense, earthen ware etc. 2km from the pier. In winter it is a nice walk, in summer an A/C taxi. The souk is more or less closed between 1PM and 5PM. If you have an overnight in Muscat, the souq becomes lively again after dark.

Muscat City center, Seeb. Currently the biggest mall containing a lot of shops, including a large Carrefour.

There are currency exchange shops and banks near the Souq entrance.

The currency in Muscat is the Omani rial (OMR). One rial is made of one thousand Baisa. Since 1986, the rial is officially tied to the US dollar at 1 rial = 2.6008 dollars;or 2 Euro. Exchange rates on the streets are a percent or two lower. The UAE's Dirham is accepted anywhere, so no need to get Rials. Credit cards are widely accepted.

Currency Converter

Communication:

Arabic is the national language, however most Omanis will speak good to excellent English, particularly in major tourist areas and cities.

Close to the soug are only a very few sidewalk cafes offering WiFi when ordering a drink or whatever. Soft drinks and coffees are very reasonable priced.

Opening Hours and Holidays:

Shopping hours: Shopping establishments are open from 9am to 1 pm and 4pm to 9 pm. Department stores, supermarkets and shopping complexes are open throughout the day during Ramadan from 9am to 10 pm, with a short lunch break all through the week, except Fridays. These timings could vary with different shops.

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Muscat, Oman – Cruise Port Guide

What to do with Eight Hours ashore in Muscat, Oman – a Cruise Port Guide…

Muscat is the capital city of the Sultanate of Oman

and a popular winter cruise destination for Middle East itineraries and repositioning cruises. It has a completely different feel and none of the showiness of its close neighbours Abu Dhabi and Dubai with their massive high rise buildings and glitz. Abu Dhabi is elegant and restrained in comparison, partly because all new buildings are required to be built with traditional features such as a dome. This is largely due to the influence Sultan Qaboos, the countries hereditary absolute monarch since 1970 when he began the “Renaissance for Oman” project. Huge investment on health, education and welfare has transformed the country into a prosperous world economy without losing any of its charm or heritage.

Muscat is situated between mountains and sea and has a wide suburban area, spread over 60 km, with about 3.1 million inhabitants. Although the city is quite wide spread but is a quiet, clean, safe city to visit with three main areas Mutrah – the original port, Ruwi -“downtown” Muscat and Old Muscat where you will find the Royal Palace and the Bait Al Zubair museum.

Muscat views tourism as very important as a source of income for the country but the Government is very strict – no criticism of the Sultan is allowed, the press is largely controlled and homosexuality is illegal so, as with many countries in the area, it is best to behave sensibly, dress respectfully and avoid any overt displays of affection while visiting.

The official currency is the Omani Rial (ROH)- best alternative currency GBP but US dollars and credit cards also widely accepted

Cruise ships dock at Port of Sultan Qaboos,

berth 4 or 5, close to Mutrah – the original town which stretches along a wide coastal road with low latticed buildings and mosques. Look out for the Sultans Royal Yacht – one of the largest private yachts in the world! Cruise excursions and HOHO buses meet the ship at the quay otherwise you pass through security and are issued your visa (do not lose!) in the ports fully accessible terminal building. Here you will find tourist information, maps, toilets and wifi. From here you take a free shuttle to the port gate as walking in port is strictly prohibited. There was quite a queue for the port shuttle on exit from the terminal building – so be sure to allow a little time for security and shuttles if meeting a driver. You will find any pre-booked drivers waiting for you at the port gates as well as plenty of official taxis for hire otherwise you can carry on to be dropped at the Mutrah Souk, where you can also find a HOHO bus stop. There are bicycles for hire a twenty minute walk or so further along the Corniche away from the port.

Transport is not particularly cheap here – the official white and orange taxis are not metered so you will need to negotiate before getting in – signs give a suggested hourly rate for a tour of 10 Omani Rial ( about £20) per hour for the first 3 hours and additional time at 7ROH per hour – a one way taxi ride to the Grand Mosque would be around 20 ROAs – £40. As a comparison the HOHO bus day ticket is about £60 a person although you can also buy combined tickets with either Dubai or Abu Dhabi which would reduce the cost a little.

A HOHO tour takes about two hours and buses are every 30 minutes or so. The city is so spread out that you need some sort of transport if you want to see it all – as a comparison we pre-arranged a car and driver for four hours, with another couple from our ship- arranged through Roll Call, and we paid about £50 a couple. There did appear to be local buses but I probably don’t advise unless you speak/ read Arabic…

There is plenty to see within walking distance

of the ship – it is a flat level walk from the port gate to the Corniche. The Muttrah Souk is about half a mile and wishing the area you will find the Fruit market, Fish market, Muttrah Fort, Gold Souk, the Bait Al Baranda Museum with exhibits on Omans history and geology and the ‘Incense Burner’ look out point .

The Muttrah Souk is covered – it is clean and rambling, there are toilets and cafes with wifi at the entrance (non alcoholic drinks of course) and the souk runs back into a central courtyard and then out again in deceivingly wandering paths that are not quite as easy to negotiate as at first appeared! It closes during the middle of the day from about 11.30 to 16.30. We found that the further we got from the main entrance the less frenetic it was and prices seemed to be lower – in fact we bought the best quality pashminas for a really good price at a stall at the back of the souk – had I known the time, I would have bought more there and then not bothered shopping in Dubai or Abu Dhabi!! This is a traditional souk for brass, clothing, spices & antiques – haggling is essential! The Gold Souk is slightly further on along the Corniche.

Old Muscat is about 4 miles from the cruise port.

We liked this area with its peaceful shoreline, parks and flowers, we visited the Qasr Al Alam Royal Palace which is the official seat of the government and the official office of Sultan Qaboos, visiting dignitaries sometime stay there but the Royal family lives elsewhere. The All Alam Museum and the Bait Al Zubair museum were closed on the day we visited ( Friday) but the latter is apparently well worth a visit – you can find out about traditional Omani heritage as well as see early European maps and prints. The old Portuguese forts of Jilali and Mirani are situated in Old Muscat, part of the Portuguese coastal defensive system – over the years they have been used as houses, jails, royal residences, and garrisons and are not at present open to the public.

The Parliament building is even further out of town, about 15 minutes drive on the road to the Marina. The Parliament building is closed to visitors but the Marina “Bandar Al Rowdha” is where you can find a Diving school and take dolphin watching and snorkelling trips. They sometimes run a free shuttle to these from the port gates which might be worth investigating (but they are closed on Fridays!).

The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

is in the downtown area which is about 15 miles from the Cruise Port, in the opposite direction to Old Muscat and the Parliament building. It contains the world’s second largest handwoven carpet and chandeliers & is eclipsed only by the Mosque in Abu Dhabi. It is open to visits from non Muslim members of the public between 8 AM and 11 AM every day except Thursday and Friday and entry is free – Muslims are welcome to worship at any time. There is very strict clothing policy for visitors, men should cover their arms and knees (no shorts) and women should cover up their arms, legs, ankles and hair. We viewed from outside but could not enter because it we visited the port on a Friday – there are nice grounds to wander outside and photos were allowed.

Still in Downtown Muscat and not too far from the Mosque, you will find Muscat’s Royal Opera House. It is a really impressive piece of architecture, its traditional Islamic white marble facade reflects in the polished plaza surrounding it, almost as if it is on a sheet of water. There are free tours for visitors (not Fridays – you’re sensing a theme!) where you can (apparently!) visit the Sultan’s box, admire the teak interior and marvel at the ‘no echo’ acoustic. We were lucky enough to meet the Education department of the Opera House setting up an exhibition in the entrance hall and they were very welcoming and informative. There is also a Galleria next door to the Opera house with restaurants and shops – unfortunately it is closed…..

On our return to the ship we passed Qurm beach – a popular long sandy beach which looked well kept and clean. It is very popular with locals but definitely didn’t really look worth the half hour drive it would take you to reach from the port – however it was open on a Friday…

We very much liked Muscat and were really keen to return – preferably not on a Friday! We achieved this aim the following year but this visit had its own challenges so I will give it its own little Blog Post ” A Half Day in Muscat”. Suffice to say that I would perfect happily visit Muscat for a third time if I have the opportunity!

I hope you enjoyed reading this Cruise Port Guide and that it will be useful to you. I really liked Muscat, it’s clean air and low rise buildings are a real change from the UAE. If you have a chance to visit then grab it!

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Muscat cruise port

Coordinates 23.631, 58.565
Local Time 2024-04-18 16:01

Muscat cruise ship schedule

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Cruises from/to Muscat, Oman

Muscat, oman cruise port.

Visit the third largest mosque in the world, the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, where you can see a beautiful Swarovski crystal chandelier and the second largest hand made Persian carpet in the world.
Smell sweet when you visit the Amouage perfume factory.
Visit the Mutrah Souk, a market where you can haggle for clothes, spices and earthenware.
Learn about the history of Oman with a visit to the National Museum of Oman where you’ll see jewelry from past rulers and a letter written by the prophet Muhammad.

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couple_cruise_kingdom Cruise Port Terminal Information - Muscat, Oman

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Local Information

The local currency is Omani Rial (OMR)and money exchange is easy and straight-forward. The best rates would be at exchange bureaus, located around the markets and shopping malls. You can also use ATMs to withdraw cash from, but make sure you have contacted your bank to let them know you would be abroad and are aware of any fees your bank may charge you for getting money in a different currency. Major credit cards are accepted in the hotels, malls and larger shops. More and more traders now accept credit cards, but normally you need cash for markets, transportation and street food.

The opening hours in Muscat vary, but in general most outlets open at 10 am, close at 1 pm and open again at 4.30 – 5 pm to work until 10pm. Some shops are only open in the afternoon. Friday morning normally everything would be shut. Post offices, banks and government offices would be open 7.30 am to 2.30 pm Sunday – Thursday.

Tipping in Muscat is in general not expected. Locals tend to tip their waiter at a nice restaurant about 5% of the bill. Bell hops and maids at hotels – no more than 1-2 OMR. No need to tip taxi drivers and only tip tour guides if you are very happy with their service – anything from 3 to 10 OMR for the group.

The local language is Arabic, and English is widely understood, especially by the people working in tourist services. English is often taught at schools as a second language and most signs are in both Arabic and English.

The local time is GMT + 4 and the international dialling code is 00 968.

Things To Do

ports muscat al alam palace at night ahoy 200

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is one of the proudest possessions of Omani people. It held several world records – the largest mosque, the largest chandelier and the hand-knotted carpet in the world – it took 600 women 4 years to complete. Although those records have now been broken, the mosque remains an incredible piece of modern Islamic architecture. It can take up to 20 000 worshippers and is lavishly decorated. The Mosque is open to non-Muslims visitors every day from 8 am to 11 am every day, except for Friday. The entrance is free, just make sure you are dressed modestly and have legs and shoulders covered (and hair if you are a woman).

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Muscat, Oman

Muscat Cruise Ship Schedule

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Muscat, Oman Cruise Ship Port

coming into port in Muscat

MUSCAT , OMAN

view residences above a little cove near Muscat

Oman’s capital and largest city sits on the Gulf of Oman surrounded by mountains and desert. The climate is hot and arid with hot summers and warm winters. Annual rainfall is about 4 inches. Arabic is the predominant language, but there are people who speak English and a number of other languages.

roadside decor

Muscat has lots of traditional architecture, but also modern skyscrapers and upscale malls. There are 16th century Portuguese forts and the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque that holds 20,000 people. Alcohol consumption is not allowed in public. Currency in Oman is the Rial. It takes $2.60 USD to equal 1 Omani Rial.

fort by the harbor in Muscat

MUSCAT CRUISE PORT

Lirica coming into port near Aida Prima

The port is near the old-town area. It’s an industrial port with container ships so walking through the port is prohibited, but free shuttles take passengers to the gates and Mutrah is walkable from there. Shuttles may also drop people off at Mutrah souk, a traditional market. Dress conservatively as this is a traditional Arab country. Taxis are available at the port gates, and maybe a HOHO bus. They ran on cruise ship days pre-covid, but hop on hop off bus service got suspended due to the pandemic and is currently still suspended until further notice. There is wifi in the terminal building, but it is not always open.

view of the city from the port

The Corniche is a 4-mile long seaside walkway with access to one of Muscat’s main tourist attractions, the Mutrah Souk. A souk is a market, and this is a large one with numerous alleys winding through the market stalls. It’s one of the oldest souks in Oman having been there for about 200 years. Al Jalali Fort is visible on a hillside across the harbor.

fancy light post in Muscat

If you are coming into Oman by cruise ship you may not need a visa even if the country you are from is generally required to have one. We had 3 ports in Oman on our cruise on the MSC Lirica. At each one people were given landing cards as they exited the ship, which substituted for visas for cruise ship passengers who are just coming ashore for a few hours. The cards were collected upon return to the vessel. If you do need a visa to visit Oman, be sure to get it from the official Oman Royal Police evisa website because the price if you get it directly from them is a fraction of what it costs through visa assist sites.

Sultan’s Palace

THINGS TO DO IN MUSCAT

flowers near the Muscat Opera House

Old town, Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque (to enter the Grand Mosque conservative dress is required including covering ankles, wrists, neck, head, and most of face for women. Open 9-11am) Mutrah souk, museums, Muscat Corniche (seaside promenade), dolphin watching cruise, beaches (Qurum Beach allows western style swimming suits), scuba diving, forts (Muttrah fort is open to the public), hotels (you can go inside even if you aren’t staying there. Some have restaurants or beaches.) Al Qurum Park (greenery in an otherwise desert landscape) Sultan’s palace (outside views only), water activities (tours available for diving, snorkeling, wake boarding, dolphin watching, or rent kayaks or jet skis).

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Alex Getting Lost

Adventures, please

Muscat Cruise Port • Docking in Oman’s Capital

Muscat cruise port is one seriously pretty place to dock, with craggy mountains surrounding the white buildings of the city, turquoise and green minarets and domed mosques, all combining to make a breathtaking view. There’s plenty to do within walking distance, there are some brilliant excursions into the city and the surrounding desert, and a sunset sail away from here is off the scale of beauty. (Check out the pictures over here.)

* This site uses affiliate links, where I may receive a small commission, at no cost to the reader.

What’s in port?

Cruise ships dock at the Sultan Qaboos Port, which is in a neighbourhood of Muscat called Muttrah. This is Muscat’s old town, and it’s been an important trading port for absolutely donkeys’ years. These days however, this port is all about the cruise ships; and that’s probably why you’re on this page. Welcome!

A port shuttle bus brings passengers from the ship to the port exit, where you’ll normally then pass through a small security building to have passports stamped. At the moment there’s no commercial terminal building at Muscat cruise port, so for souvenirs and a coffee you’ll have to head out into the city.

If you want to get from the port to the city, you’ll need to take a taxi. To get from the port to Muttrah, just turn left after you exit the gates and walk along the corniche; it takes mere minutes I tell you!

Where to get a taxi at Muscat cruise port

There are always plenty of taxis waiting outside the gates of the cruise port; if you get a taxi just make sure you agree a price with the driver before you get in! (The taxis aren’t metered in Oman.)

Is Muscat cruise port safe?

Yes! The Middle East gets a very bad rep, but as a crew member I visited Muscat several times and never felt unsafe. The locals are very friendly, although I’d also say it does pay to respect the traditions and customs of any country you visit, whether that means adapting your behaviour or your clothing.

I always explored Muscat with a friend- although I would have felt comfortable to go it alone- and as two western women we felt perfectly safe walking around both during the day and at night.

What to wear in Oman

As women, we made sure we covered up; Oman has more conservative standards of dressing, particularly for women, than say, Dubai. And apart from the obvious of just showing respect to another culture, dressing conservatively in Oman will just help you to not feel awkward or receive unwanted funny looks.

Loose, long trousers or skirts, and long-sleeved shirts, are perfect, although at the very least just make sure your shoulders are covered. You definitely do not have to whack on a burkha or even throw on a headscarf- Omanis understand that we”re visitors, and don’t expect us to dress in the exact same clothes as them.

The only exception to covering your hair is when visiting a mosque; if you’re a woman visiting a mosque in Oman, take a headscarf with you. If you don’t have one, most mosques will provide you with something.

For men, it’s best to stick to long trousers and definitely steer clear of tank tops.

Exhibit A, on the left: a great outfit choice. Exhibit B, on the right: very poor outfit choice. (But it’s ok because we were on the ship sailing away at this point.

Within walking distance of Muscat Cruise Port

The Muttrah neighbourhood, where the Sultan Qaboos Port is located, is absolutely beautiful, and although some cruise lines offer a paid shuttle directly between the cruise port and the middle of Muttrah, I definitely recommend walking. It’s a pretty, and very easy stroll, and there’s really no way you can get lost. Muttrah is also top of many a list of places to visit in Muscat, thanks to its magical souk and peaceful corniche.

One Day in Muttrah, Muscat

The Corniche

So, what is a corniche? That would be a road running along a waterfront or cliffside: basically a promenade. And the Muttrah corniche is a downright delightful one.

Starting from the fish market, head right the way along the 3km pathway past the beautiful old buildings of Muttrah, towards the mountains at the far end. It’s a really lovely walk, and is often filled with families out for a stroll- as well as several thousand seagulls.

Muttrah Souk

Muttrah souk is one of the oldest souks in the entire Arab world, and it’s open day or evening. And although it’s obviously a popular spot for tourists- with souvenirs galore on offer- it’s also still very much bustling with locals. Tendrils of frankincense waft out of doorways, heaps of spices adding their own warm fragrances to the pot, and lamps, beautiful engraved silver daggers and teapots hang from ceilings like Aladdin’s cave. It’s an all-round treat for the senses. The most intriguing part of all (for me), is the gold souk, which is filled to the brim with gold shops and the brightest, most yellowest gold I’d ever seen in my life.

It goes without saying that I was very much a window shopper in that particular section.

If you buy anything in the souk, don’t be afraid to haggle- they expect it. And it’s also ok to say no! It’s normal for shopkeepers to try and entice you in to buy something, but it’s also very normal to say no if you don’t want to.

Muttrah Fort

Up in the jagged mountains surrounding the harbour, you’ll probably have spotted a few little round towers. They look kind of like something out of the Voyage of the Dawn Treader, but they were actually built as defence towers by the Portuguese, who occupied Oman hundreds of years ago.

Muttrah Fort is in a very nifty location overlooking the harbour, and you can walk up to the fort from the town. You won’t need long to explore, although if you enjoy a good viewpoint then this is the place for you.

Check opening times and ticket prices here.

The Al-Riyam Park

Right at the end of the corniche, is what appears to be a big golden spaceship, which lights up at night. It is in fact, not a space ship folks. Would you believe it?

It’s actually a giant frankincense burner, built to celebrate Oman’s 20th National Day, and there’s no denying it’s rather a spectacular sight.

Just before you reach this frankincense burner, you’ll see another set of surreal sights: a retro-looking amusement park, filled with slightly sun-bleached rocket ships, robots and hot air balloons. This amusement park was closed when we visited- in fact we thought it had been abandoned- but this was in 2021 when things were only just starting to return to normal, and I know the park is now open for business.

The gardens surrounding the amusement park are also very pretty, and free to enter.

Things to do in Muscat (Outside of Muttrah)

If you want to head further into the city of Muscat (which is a slightly more glamorous affair than Muttrah’s old town vibes, but far less shiny than somewhere like Dubai), the best thing to do is either hop into a taxi, or book an excursion in advance.

Must-see destinations at Muscat cruise port include:

The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, which is the largest mosque in Oman.
The Muscat Royal Opera House .
The Al Alam Palace , one of Sultan Qaboos’ many palaces.
Qurum Beach, one of Muscat’s most popular beaches in the heart of the city.

To see all these locations in one day is very much possible. The taxi drivers outside the port can always arrange a whistle-stop tour with you, or if you’d prefer not to have the hassle of negotiating a price, you could pre-book a tour.

This half-day private tour of Muscat takes you to the must-see destinations in the city, including the Sultan Qaboos Mosque, the stunning Royal Opera House, Qaram Beach- where you can try Omani bread and tea- the Al Alam Palace, which is the sultan’s official residence, and the Omani parliament. The tour lasts around four hours, and is a great way to see a lot whilst still having private time at the end of your day in Muscat.

There is a Muscat hop-on-hop-off bus tour which often runs directly from the cruise ship, however personally I feel like you get more value for money in either a pre-booked private tour or a taxi. But if you’re a sightseeing bus fan, there is indeed one in Muscat!

Visiting Abu Dhabi’s Grand Mosque at Night

Best excursions from Muscat cruise port

The city of Muscat is surrounded with breathtaking natural scenery; whether that’s rugged mountains, sweeping deserts or the beautiful waters of the Persian Gulf and all the life it holds. So it goes without saying that for lovers of the great outdoors, Muscat is the perfect destination.

This private tour takes you by four wheel drive into the mountains up to Nizwa, the old capital of Oman, making several other stops before heading up to Jebel Akhbar, the stunning ‘Green Mountain.’

If you want more of a desert experience, get yourself onto a desert safari. Head to Wahiba Sands for a truly sandy off-road experience, meet a bedouin family and go for a camel ride too if it takes your fancy, then travel to Wadi Bani Khalid, a steep canyon full of natural pools where you can go for a swim.

In Wadi Shab you can hike between the turquoise pools, through rocky canyons and past stunning waterfalls (and you might want to bring water shoes, as at some points you may have to walk through streams). This trip takes guest to both Wadi Shab and to the Bimmah Sinkhole , which legend has it was formed by a falling star.

Daymaniat Island is an incredible protected nature reserve off the coast of Muscat, where sea turtles, coral reefs and exotic fish thrive. Visit as part of a snorkelling tour , and keep your eyes peeled for dolphins and reef sharks as well.

golden glow on a Portuguese tower in Muscat cruise port

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Cruise port focus: Muscat, Oman

Muscat is the ancient capital of Oman, sitting amid a stunning mountain range it is a city of greenery and barren peaks, and is best approached from the sea as the sun rises over the Gulf of Oman.

Muscat Port emerges in the grey light of dawn.

Cruise terminal : There isn’t one, ships dock in commercial port but there are plans to redevelop it

Shore excursions : Muscat has an extensive array of shore excursions from historical sites to beach resorts and dhow trips to desert safaris

Language : Arabic officially, but English widely spoken

Dress code : Shoulders and legs should be covered if visiting a mosque

Currency : The Omani rial

Qasr Al Alam Royal Palace is guarded by the twin forts of Jalali and Mirani.

Muscat is one of those cities that leaves an enduring first impression. Most cruise ships arrive in the true dead of night, slipping past the Port Sultan Qaboos breakwater as the city sleeps.

The lap of the dark water against the hull beneath your cabin balcony is the only sound until the murmur of the bow thrusters break the spell.

Then, the sun begins to rise, turning the terracotta mountains surrounding the city a deep pink and the ancient call to prayer echoes over the old quarter of the historic capital. Muscat is a city best approached by sea, and you should definitely be awake to see it.

The Royal Opera House in Muscat, Oman.

Muscat is a city with a different set of values to the other capitals in the Arabian Gulf region, it prides itself on tradition, it’s history, and on being a model of restraint when it comes to economic development.

The old waterfront area of the city, Muttrah, has been carefully preserved, presenting a blend of traditional architecture and rugged natural beauty and is the first part of the city seen by disembarking cruise passengers.

The waterfront area in Muscat, Oman.

Oman tourism officials have announced plans to completely redevelop this waterfront area, turning it into a residential and retail mixed-use area with hotels, huge parks, towering apartment blocks and malls.

Hopefully the historic character of the area will be kept intact, but the redevelopment is bound to be welcomed by the growing number of cruise tourists visiting the city, as it will provide ample attractions and things to do within walking distance of the ship.

The old part of the town, as it is now, spans a graceful waterfront Corniche flanked by 16th-century hilltop forts on either end, their shadow a reminder of the Portuguese influence here.

Oman was occupied by Portugal in the 17 th century, to protecting their oriental trade routes, around the same time that Britain’s East India shipping giant began to establish Dubai as its regional hub.

Behind the mountains, away from the old town, you’ll find ‘Modern Muscat’, which is where the economics, politics and daily life of the capital are carried out.

For cruise tourists, the old town will be the main attraction, with its winding alleys of the souq, historic forts, and the Sultan’s palace.

Qasr Al Alam Royal Palace is guarded by the twin forts of Jalali and Mirani, it is the office and official residence of Sultan Qaboos, the ruler of Oman. Unlike Buckingham Palace or other European royal residences, there are no open days for tours, but you can take pictures from the palace gates.

Beyond the city, there are tours into the mountains and wadis or 4×4 rides along the coast to visit fishing villages or inland to explore some of the medieval forts.

The cruise terminal in Muscat

There is a cruise terminal building in Muscat, but it is no longer used by the cruise lines as most are now too big for the quay it is located on.

Instead, cruise lines dock at the port’s former commercial berths and all customs processing is done behind the scenes while passengers have breakfast.

Then it’s a simple case of going ashore with your cruise card. There are shuttles to the port entrance as passengers cannot walk from the ship.

At the port entrance there are a multitude of taxi drivers, which can be a little overwhelming at first, but they’re all very friendly (and unlike Dubai and Abu Dhabi) the taxi drivers here are actually Omani.

Is Muscat good for shopping?

Terracotta incense burners with little fabric bags of frankincense from Salalah in the south of Oman make great gifts and are sold at the old Muttrah Souq. Traditional Omani Khangar daggers or saifs (long swords) are also sound here.

If you’re looking to go shopping at more Western-style malls, head to Muscat City Centre, the largest mall in the city and home to hundreds of household brand names.

Currency and language in Muscat

The local currency is the Omani rial and although traders along the waterfront will accept US dollars, you’ll lose out on the exchange rate, so use one of the many ATMs or exchange places along the corniche.

Arabic is the official language, but tour guides speak good English, as do most taxi drivers, but shopkeepers won’t be able to understand English.

Like other cities in the region, many people living and working in Oman are not native Omanis, so you’ll likely also deal with Indians, Pakistanis and Filipinas during your port call, all of whom speak English.

How to behave in Muscat

Omani people are renowned for their gentle, polite hospitality, but the country has several red lines that must not be crossed.

Public same-sex affection is one of them, as is the consumption of alcohol in public, and the use of drugs. Oman has some of the strictest drug laws in the world.

Oman is a conservative Muslim country, so men and women should dress modestly. If you want to visit the Grand Mosque, for example, you need to cover ankles, wrists, neck, head and most of your face; there is an inspection at the entrance.

For exploring the city and going on shore excursions, there’s no real dress code, but Omanis will take quiet offence if anything more than shoulders and knees are visible.

Who cruises to and from Muscat?

Muscat is a major cruise destination in the Middle East, in fact it beats out every other city, even Dubai and Abu Dhabi, with 311 cruise itineraries featuring the city as a port of call in 2019.

Cruises from Muscat are a lot more limited.

Cruises from Muscat

There are only two cruise lines offering Muscat cruise departures in 2018 and 2019, Marella Cruises (formerly Thomson Cruises) and Silversea .

Silversea Cruises’ ship Silver Muse will sail a 17-night cruise from Muscat to Singapore on October 23 rd , 2019. This cruise is also available for booking as a 6-night voyage, with the cruise ending in Colombo, Sri Lanka.

Marella Cruises will cruise from Muscat with Marella Discovery in 2018 and 2019.

The 2018 cruise is a 14-night voyage from Muscat to Cochin, India, departing November 29 th .

The 2019 cruise is aboard the same ship as she cruises home from her Asian season, departing April 18 th , 2019, the 15-night cruise is from Muscat to Corfu in Greece via the Suez Canal.

Cruises visiting Muscat

The more than 310 cruise itineraries with Muscat as a port of call are as varied as they come.

Just about every major cruise line apart from Carnival Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line will be visiting the city.

Some 160 of the cruise itineraries visiting Muscat in 2019 are with cruise ships homeporting out of Dubai or Abu Dhabi during the 2018/19 cruise season and 2019/2020 season.

The cruise season in the Arabian Gulf runs from November to March each year.

A full list of cruises that feature Muscat as a port of call in 2019 can be found here .

Published by Shaun Ebelthite

Founder and editor of Cruise Arabia & Africa. I try to create the best news and information specifically for cruise passengers taking cruises to and from Dubai (where I live) and South Africa (where I was born). You can contact me at shaun(at)cruisearabiaonline.com. View all posts by Shaun Ebelthite

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Cruises to Muscat, Oman

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Muscat Shore Excursions

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Muscat Oman Cruise Port Guide

Oman’s capital city happens to be the country’s largest, but while on an India cruise you’ll quickly discover that Muscat is a bit of an undiscovered gem. The city carries centuries of geographic significance as a trade harbor on the Gulf of Oman. Cruising and tourism, however, are poised to shape Muscat into a haven for travelers. Seaside activities are one of the main draws, along with the city’s respectful, genial spirit.

Don’t miss a chance to reverently stroll the grounds of the Grand Mosque, which is the third-largest mosque in the world, or see the Al Alam Palace, where the Sultan of Oman resides. On your Muscat cruise, snorkelers can dive into the clear waters of Bandar Khayran or explore the Sharqiya Sands in the Omani desert. The golden-orange sands are unlike anything you’ve ever seen. Muscat is proof that the desert can also be paradise.

While we don't currently sail to Muscat, you can still discover the beauty of Asia on one of our luxury Asia cruises . Browse our luxury cruises to Asia below.

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Top sights & attractions for cruises to muscat, grand mosque.

One of the most popular activities on a Muscat cruise is to walk through the Grand Mosque, the third-largest mosque in the world that can fit nearly 20,000 people. Dress modestly in order to enter this holy site. Women must cover their hair, so be sure to bring a head scarf or purchase one at Muttrah Souq.

National Museum

History buffs and those who are curious about Omani history and the growth of Muscat should head to the National Museum for exhibits on culture, preserved artifacts from thousands of years ago, and more. When you’re done visiting the museum, head to the stunning Al Alam Palace across the street.

Al Alam Palace

Home to the Sultan Qaboos of Oman, passengers on a cruise to Muscat can stand at the gates of this magnificent palace and capture a truly unique photo op. The blue and gold facade of the buildings looks like blue water against sand. It won’t take long to see the Al Alam Palace, and afterward you can continue on to the National Museum or go shopping at Muttrah Souq nearby.

Muttrah Souq

You’ll be taken in by the sounds of shoppers haggling and vendors selling their wares at the massive Muttrah Souq, which is one of the largest marketplaces in Muscat. Bargaining is welcome here, and though credit cards are accepted, you can hammer home a deal a little easier when you pay with Omani rials.

Learn More About Muscat Shore Excursions

Top things to do in muscat, see oman’s “grand canyon”.

You’ll want to take your time at Wadi Ghul, a canyon in the Hajar Mountains that’s reminiscent in scale and natural beauty to the Grand Canyon in the United States. For those on a cruise to Muscat eager to explore by foot, take the Balcony Walk, a four-mile hike to the canyon, which offers the best lookout point into the depths of the canyon.

Experience the Sharqiya Sands

This part of Oman’s desert was formed by coastal sand blowing into the mainland thousands of years ago. Today, it’s one of the most photographed stretches of desert in the world for its golden, never-ending dunes. Learn to sandboard in the desert or go off-road for an adventurous excursion during your Muscat cruise.

Take a Muscat Sightseeing Tour

Why see just one sight on foot when you could see them all on a tour? Take the stress out of getting from one spot to another when you venture via bus to the city’s major sites, from Al Alam Palace to the Grand Mosque and the Royal Opera House Muscat.

See a Show at the Royal Opera House Muscat

There’s no better display of Oman’s commitment to art and culture than the extravagant Royal Opera House Muscat, which hosts ballet, jazz, opera, plays, and educational events. See the white stone of the opera house glitter against lights at night for a truly romantic evening in Muscat.

Top Food and Drink Spots Near the Muscat Cruise Port

Omani cuisine is heavily influenced by Indian dishes, and you’ll find many classic Middle Eastern food items in Muscat as well. Grilled meats, which are usually marinated in yogurt and accompanied by flatbreads and dips, are musts for lunch or dinner. Cardamom is a key ingredient in many Omani dishes. Try Omani coffee, or kahwa, which is infused with notes of cardamom, and polish off dinner with a traditional dessert called halwa, which is made with dates, honey, and other spices. Kargreen Cafe is famous for its unique avocado milkshake, while Dukanah Cafe is a perfect spot to try a traditional Omani breakfast. For dinner after a show at the Royal Opera House, head to the upscale Ubhar. Adventurous foodies can try camel, which is considered a delicacy.

Culture & History of the Muscat Cruise Port

Arabic is the official language spoken in Muscat. Oman is a conservative country nestled between the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, so be sure to research how to dress. A tour to the Grand Mosque requires travelers to dress very modestly, covering most of the body including wrists, ankles, and part of the face. Being aware and following these codes of dress will show respect for Omani culture and tradition. Oman is beginning to blossom as a tourism destination, so you’re likely to meet other travelers coming from Arabic countries and the Middle East during your cruise to Muscat. The oil industry and agriculture largely power the economy of Oman, and the city of Muscat is continually adding and improving upon infrastructure to attract more tourists to the region.

Muscat Port Facilities & Location

Because Muscat is a bit undiscovered when it comes to tourism, the Muscat port is minimally equipped. If you’re headed on a shore excursion, you’ll be directed to the appropriate shuttle to get you there. For those venturing out on their own, there’s a local shuttle service that runs every 20 minutes. You can also take a 10-minute walk to the city center from the terminal if the weather allows..

Transportation in Muscat

Unfortunately, there aren’t buses or trains near the cruise port, but taxis are available at the port gate most times of the day that cater to cruise passengers. You can explore the center of Muscat on foot, but be aware that the hot, dehydrating climate can be draining, so be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day. There’s a hop-on/hop-off bus that gives passengers a nearly two-hour long tour along eight different stops in Muscat.

Shopping Near the Muscat Cruise Port

The Muttrah Souq is your best bet for all types of shopping, whether you’re searching for souvenirs or food stalls. Clothing, spices, and Bedouin jewelry are readily available here. Head to the chain Lulu Hypermarket further outside Muscat for a variety of clothing and food goods.

Local Currency & Tipping Customs

While in Oman, you’ll use the Omani Rial as the official currency. Be sure to check the current exchange rate before you depart on your travels. There will be currency exchange available at the Muttrah Souq near the cruise port. Always ask vendors, restaurants, and taxi drivers before you use a credit card. Though credit cards are generally accepted, there are some exceptions. Tipping isn’t traditionally a part of the culture here, but rounding up to the nearest rial is polite, and you can tip restaurant staff 10% for exceptional service.

Find Cruises to Inited Oman's Muscat Port

Muscat, Oman

Oman's capital city, Muscat is situated along the country's namesake gulf and blends modern flair with Old World charm. Three forts dating to the 1500s are installed on the rocky shoreline, the historic Muttrah Corniche district is lined with 19th-century homes and bright minarets, and new Dubai-style structures showcase current architectural trends. Popular attractions include the Oman Aquarium (one of the largest in the Middle East), the history-heavy Muscat Gate Museum, the National Museum and the Sultan's Armed Forces Museum. You could spend an entire day touring the Muttrah Fish Market, where more than 100 traders tout their fresh catches and produce, or shopping in the local souq, a traditional Arabian marketplace where vendors hawk textiles, jewelry and even a few antiques. Visitors are welcome in the opulently decorated Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque-a must-see for any Muscat visitor.

Exit the airport and head south for 4km. Merge onto Route 1 and drive for 23km, then at the roundabout, take the 3rd exit onto Harat A'shamal St to Port of Sultan.

All information about Muscat Cruise Port. Timetable for the arrival of ships, the time of their stay and the number of passengers. Muscat Port news. Weather forecast and historical weather, as well as water temperatures around Muscat.

Muscat: tourist information

Oman's capital enchants visitors in a way that no other city in the Gulf can even begin to match. Maybe it's because Muscat doesn't have that slightly artificial feel which typifies so much of the rest of the region. Muscat, Mutrah and Ruwi are the capital's core districts. Muscat, the old port area, is the site of the sultan's main palace and a fascinating place to wander around, but it has few shops and, except for the old city walls, it isn't exactly bursting with sights. Mutrah, 3km (2mi) north-west of Muscat, is the main trading and residential port area. A few kilometres inland from Muscat and Mutrah lies Ruwi, the capital's modern commercial district. There are three forts in Muscat, all of which took on their more or less present form in the 1580s during the Portuguese occupation of Muscat. Mutrah Fort sits on a hill while Jalali and Mirani forts guard the entrance to Muscat. All of the forts are still used by the police and/or military and are closed to the public, but it's okay to photograph them. Muscat has by far the best aquarium in the Gulf. All of the specimens on display are native to Omani waters and most are accompanied by thorough descriptions in English. The Oman Museum, in the Medinat Qaboos, west of Muscat, covers the entire sweep of Oman's 5000-year history. There are also a displays on shipbuilding, Islam and fort architecture. In Ruwi, the National Museum has sparkling displays on Omani silverwork, and the Sultan's Armed Forces Museum, in the Bait al-Falaj fort, has an excellent outline of Omani history. You could easily spend a day in Mutrah. Start off early at the fish market, then head down to the souk for a cup of tea and a wander around the most interesting bazaar in Arabia. To the east, a restored watchtower looks out over Mutrah. The climb is steep and involves more than 100 steps, but the view from the top is worth it. Muscat's best value rooms are along the Mutrah Corniche. If you spend only a little above rock-bottom you'll get good views and great atmosphere. There are several small restaurants along the Corniche, too, and several good bets in Ruwi .

Country: Oman
Capital: Muscat
Government: Oman
State/Region: Masqat
Time Zone: +4 GMT
Language: Arabic
Latitude: 23.6133333
Longitude: 58.5933333
Est. Population: 54800
Currency: Omani Rial
Fire: Fire - Phone: 999
Police: Phone : 9999
Hospital: Armed Forces Hospital- Phone: (968) 24331931, (968) 24331997
Ambulance & Rescue: Sagar Polyclinic- Phone: (968) 24393601

Muscat Cruise Port Schedule

Muscat in the News

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Port rating and occupancy

Port of Muscat ranks 795th in the world in terms of the number of tourists visiting it.

Number of cruise ship calls in the coming year: 0 .

The total number of tourists (passengers) of cruise ships in the port of Muscat in the next 12 months is 0 .

According to the popularity rating among more than 1,000 cruise ports in the world , Muscat ranks 1164.

Weather in Muscat

Current water temperature in Muscat now is 77°F (25.0°C)

Water temperature data provided by seatemperature.net .

Annual Weather

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Muscat, Oman Cruise Ships Schedule

Muscat, Oman cruise port calendar 2023 provides the latest list of cruise ships scheduled to arrive in port with detailed information, including date and time of arrival and departure, and maximum passenger capacity for each vessel. This timetable displays dates and times cruise liners are scheduled to sail in port divided into two separate columns (arrivals and departures) with the name of the ship, cruise operator, and the number of passengers. Please note, the following cruise ship schedule is created on regularly updated itineraries from the world's leading cruise lines.

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View of the waterfront coast with mountains in Muscat, Oman

Cruise to Muscat, Oman

Muscat shore excursions, amazing experiences coming soon., sorry, there are no excursions for this port at this moment., things to do in muscat.

Portuguese Past

Impressive twin forts called Fort Al-Jalali at the entrance of Old Muscat's harbor near Sultan Qaboos palace in Muscat, Oman

The Portuguese occupiers built the impressive Al Jalali and Al Mirani Fort in the 16th century. Although they're closed to the public, they're a stunning backdrop for stroll along the harbor. The forts are on both sides high on the cliffs guarding the city's entrance.

Play Sultan

Visit the Grand Mosque (open in the morning), a gift to the nation from Sultan Qaboos and a mix of Omani, Islamic and modern architecture. It can accommodate 20,000 worshippers and has a rich prayer hall, an elaborate chandelier and a huge Persian carpet that took four years to weave.

The National Museum entrance in Muscat, Oman

Picturesque Heritage

Learn more about Oman's past in the elegant New National Museum in Old Muscat. Browse the beautifully presented archaeological artifacts, manuscripts and ship models during your Muscat cruise. When you're done, snap a photo of the Al Alam Palace with its blue and gold pillars opposite the museum.

A traditional arabic meal with rice, meats, and sauces

Local Cuisine

The traditional dish of Oman is majboos (also called kabsa ), basmati rice with spicy beef, chicken or fish — typically local-caught lobster, mackerel or red snapper — served with yogurt sauce. Perk up with a cup of kahwa , the local coffee mixed with cardamom powder, served alongside dates and sweets after a meal.

Beautiful and colorful decorative lamp shade lanterns being sold at the Muttrah Square in Muscat, Oman

Head to Mutrah Souq, Muscat's oldest market and one of the most characterful souqs in the region. Cruise to Muscat and browse a variety of goods and souvenirs like frankincense, perfumes, gold and silver jewelry, Omani hats and ornate decorative lamps with traditional geometric patterns. You can also shop in The Avenues or one of the other big modern malls for more modern retail therapy.

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Thursday, April 18, 2024

Photo Credit: ONA

Oman ports thrive in 2023, handling record cargo and welcoming surge in cruise ship tourism, oman ports in 2023 handled 93.2 million tons of goods and witnessed a surge in cruise ship arrivals..

Oman News Agency

[email protected], saturday, april 13, 2024.

Muscat: Throughout 2023, Oman ports, including Sultan Qaboos Port, Salalah Port, Sohar Port, Khasab Port, Shinas Port, and Suwaiq Port, showcased their effectiveness by handling over 93.2 million tons of cargo, marking a 1.5 per cent increase from the previous year’s handling. This growth encompassed general goods, liquid products, and bulk commodities, underlining the ports’ significance in facilitating trade and commerce.

Moreover, the number of berthed ships at Oman ports rose to 11,005 in 2023, a 4.3 per cent increase from 2022. This uptick in maritime traffic further solidified the ports’ reputation as key players in the region’s shipping and logistics landscape.

A notable highlight was the surge in cruise ship activity at Sultan Qaboos Port, Salalah Port, and Khasab Port. These ports witnessed a remarkable increase in cruise ship arrivals, welcoming 229 ships with over 599,000 passengers in 2023, compared to just 87 ships carrying 205,000 passengers in 2022. This substantial growth, exceeding 190 per cent, reflects Oman’s successful efforts in attracting major cruise operators and enhancing its tourism appeal.

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Cruise Port Guide Muscat
Muscat cruise port - fast facts. - Cruise ships dock in Muscat. - Walking in port is strictly prohibited. - Cruise port is about 1,2 mile from center of town (Muttrah). - There is a hop on hop off bus. - Plenty of official taxis available for tours or short rides.
Muscat Oman Cruise Port
Location: Fairy tale gateway to the splendors of the Sultanate of Oman; a must-see stop on any cruise to the Middle East. The pier is located in a subdivision called Muttrah, the original old town, with a large souq. A 3 minute shuttle will bring you to the port gate. After being dropped off by the port bus at the main gate, turn left along the ...
Muscat (Oman) cruise port schedule
Muscat cruise port schedule 2024-2025-2026, map, address, ship terminals, hotels, tours, shore excursions. ... Port Muscat cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Muscat, Oman. ... Port Muscat (Mina Sultan ...
THE 25 BEST Cruises to Muscat 2024 (with Prices)
Pros: The port is an easy walk from the town center, souk and the waterfront's Qasr Al Alam Palace. Cons: Taxis are expensive and so organized tours are the economical choice for exploring outside ...
Muscat Cruise Port
Walking around Sultan Qaboos Port is prohibited, so ships provide free shuttles to the port gate where taxis and tour vehicles sometimes wait. Oman's taxis are unmetered but follow government-set rates, so ensure that you agree a price before traveling. Hop-on hop-off and public buses run from the corniche to Old Muscat and downtown Muscat.
Muscat, Oman
What to do with Eight Hours ashore in Muscat, Oman - a Cruise Port Guide… Muscat is the capital city of the Sultanate of Oman . ... Cruise Terminal, Port of Sultan Qaboos Cruise ships dock at Port of Sultan Qaboos, berth 4 or 5, close to Mutrah - the original town which stretches along a wide coastal road with low latticed buildings and ...
MUSCAT Port Map and Cruise Schedule
MUSCAT cruise port map with cruise ship locations and cruise schedule arrivals/departures. READ MORE... CruiseMapper provides free cruise tracking, current ship positions, itinerary schedules, deck plans, cabins, accidents and incidents ('cruise minus') reports, cruise news ... Muscat cruise port Asia. Schedule Review Hotels. Coordinates 23.631 ...
Muscat · Oman · Port Schedule
Muscat, Oman cruise ship port calendar shows all scheduled arrival and departure dates in a timetable format. The cruise calendar displays the ship's estimated time of arrival including related information such as how crowded is the port, as well as the ship's next port-of-call. The following timetable provides valuable information and ...
Muscat, Oman Cruise Port
Learn about the cruise port of Muscat, Oman. Find 2024, 2025 and 2026 cruise itineraries from Muscat or view sample excursions and things to do in Muscat, Oman.
Cruise Port Terminal Information
Muscat, Oman. The cruise port of Muscat - official name Port Sultan Qaboos - is a small and modern facility, situated right in front of the Muttrah neighbourhood, the old waterfront area of Muscat. The berths used by cruise ships are 4 and 5. It's not possible to walk inside the port itself, a shuttle bus will drop you by the port exit, or ...
Muscat Cruise Ship Schedule
Helping cruise passengers and shore excursion organisers find the number and identities of cruise ships docked in Muscat on any given day. ... Muscat, Oman Where do cruise ships dock in Muscat (or tender) @ googlemaps Port Sultan Qaboos Cruise Port Current Marine Traffic @ marinetraffic.com Muscat Marine Traffic. Muscat Cruise Ship Schedule. 2024
Muscat, Oman Cruise Ship Port
Muscat has lots of traditional architecture, but also modern skyscrapers and upscale malls. There are 16th century Portuguese forts and the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque that holds 20,000 people. Alcohol consumption is not allowed in public. Currency in Oman is the Rial. It takes $2.60 USD to equal 1 Omani Rial.
Muscat Cruise Port • Docking in Oman's Capital
Muscat Cruise Port • Docking in Oman's Capital. February 11, 2024 alexwp. Muscat cruise port is one seriously pretty place to dock, with craggy mountains surrounding the white buildings of the city, turquoise and green minarets and domed mosques, all combining to make a breathtaking view. There's plenty to do within walking distance ...
Cruise port focus: Muscat, Oman
Silversea Cruises' ship Silver Muse will sail a 17-night cruise from Muscat to Singapore on October 23 rd, 2019. This cruise is also available for booking as a 6-night voyage, with the cruise ending in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Marella Cruises will cruise from Muscat with Marella Discovery in 2018 and 2019.
Muscat, Oman Cruise Port
5. Verified review. by Ambiinthe6. A must see. MSC charges you for a shuttle but you can get a free shuttle. We did the Big bus here the first day and the second day we took a cab to the mosque. I highly recommend Hamood he will give you a great tour of Muscat. This is his number 096892171079. Visited: Feb 18, 2019.
Port of Muscat, Oman
17 Dec 2024 - 08:00. Norwegian Dawn. 2.808 passengers. 18 Dec 2024 - 10:00. Cruise ship arrivals for the port of Muscat, Oman. Advanced filtering options, crowds info, and more.
Port of Muscat, Oman
3.400 passengers. 28 Nov 2024 - 17:00. Mein Schiff 4. 2.700 passengers. 28 Nov 2024 - 22:30. Page 1. Cruise ship departures for the port of Muscat, Oman. Advanced filtering options, crowds info, and more.
Muscat Cruise: Best Cruises to Muscat
Al Alam Palace. Home to the Sultan Qaboos of Oman, passengers on a cruise to Muscat can stand at the gates of this magnificent palace and capture a truly unique photo op. The blue and gold facade of the buildings looks like blue water against sand. It won't take long to see the Al Alam Palace, and afterward you can continue on to the National ...
Silversea Cruise Ports: Muscat, Oman
Driving Directions and Parking Information. Port of Sultan Qaboos PSQ. Mutrah High St, Muscat, Oman. The Port of Sultan is located approximately a half hour from Muscat International Airport. Exit the airport and head south for 4km. Merge onto Route 1 and drive for 23km, then at the roundabout, take the 3rd exit onto Harat A'shamal St to Port ...
Muscat, Oman 2024 Cruise Ship Schedule and City Info
Port of Muscat (Oman). Port schedule 2024-2025-2026, occupancy rate, news, practical information, live cameras, weather, water temperature and more. ... The total number of tourists (passengers) of cruise ships in the port of Muscat in the next 12 months is 0. According to the popularity rating among more than 1,000 cruise ports in the world ...
Muscat, Oman Cruise Ships Schedule 2023
Muscat, Oman Cruise Ships Schedule. Submitted by Cruise Port Crew on 18 September, 2019 - 10:44. Muscat, Oman cruise port calendar 2023 provides the latest list of cruise ships scheduled to arrive in port with detailed information, including date and time of arrival and departure, and maximum passenger capacity for each vessel.
Cruises to Muscat, Oman
Best Deals to Muscat, Oman. These cruises are selling out fast, get them while you can. CHECK SHORE EXCURSIONS IN Muscat, Oman. (9) Discover all you need to cruise to Muscat, Oman. Visit royalcaribbean.com to get information on Muscat, Oman cruises, including things to do, dining, ports of call, cruise ships, shore excursions, offers, and more.
THE BEST Cruises from Muscat 2024 (with Prices) on Cruise Critic
Lowest pricing is based on our 3rd party pricing supplier and valid as of April 13th, 2024. Looking for cruises from Muscat? Find and plan your next cruise out of Muscat on Cruise Critic through ...
Oman ports thrive in 2023, handling record cargo and welcoming surge in
A notable highlight was the surge in cruise ship activity at Sultan Qaboos Port, Salalah Port, and Khasab Port. These ports witnessed a remarkable increase in cruise ship arrivals, welcoming 229 ships with over 599,000 passengers in 2023, compared to just 87 ships carrying 205,000 passengers in 2022.

Muscat – Oman

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Cruise Port Guide Muscat – Oman: docked at the Port of Sultan Qaboos

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FAQ about Muscat as cruise destination

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Us dollars in Oman

Sultans yacht

Muscat cruise dock

Parliament buildings

Al Alam Palace

Al Bustan Palace

The Muttrah Corniche

Sailing into Muscat

Royal Opera House of Muscat

Bait Al Baranda Museum

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

Portuguese forts

Incense burner

Mutrah souk

Bike Rental

The official taxi of Oman

Hop on hop off bus Muscat

WHATSINPORT.COM: YOUR CRUISE GUIDE TO 1200 PORTS OF CALL

Sightseeing:

Tours Excursions Transportation:

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Muscat, Oman – Cruise Port Guide

Muscat is the capital city of the Sultanate of Oman

Cruise ships dock at Port of Sultan Qaboos,

There is plenty to see within walking distance

Old Muscat is about 4 miles from the cruise port.

The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

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Muscat Cruise Port • Docking in Oman’s Capital

What’s in port?

Where to get a taxi at Muscat cruise port