Oman’s capital city is the perfect mix of history, culture and modernity

Dock your boat in Muscat’s luxury Marina Bandar Al Rowdha and explore the city’s enchanting array of old forts, mosques and museums. When night falls, turn your attention to Muscat’s more modern side and sample the top-notch dining establishments and glitzy bars.

Where It All Began

Trace Oman’s colorful history at Bait Al- Baranda Museum in Muttrah, from the early Neolithic settlements to the country’s modern-day achievements, housed in a beautiful old 19th century house. You can then broaden your newfound knowledge at the Omani Museum that holds a valuable collection of artifacts such as stone tombs, silver, pottery and other objects recovered from prehistoric sites, as well as schematic representations of the country’s ancient agricultural and irrigation systems.

Other must-sees are the city’s mosques, in particular the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, which opened in May 2001 after six years of construction. The exquisite architectural details of the majestic 416,000-square-meter building convey the devotion of the Omani people. The main musalla (prayer hall), reserved for men only, holds more than 6,500 people, while the women’s musalla accommodates 750. Fabulous Swarovski chandeliers add a modern touch to the traditional trappings.

Finish by taking in the striking Al-Jalali and Al Mirani forts, built as defense structures during the 60-year Portuguese occupation in the sixteenth century.  Situated around Muscat’s harbour, the commanding Al-Jalali is perched on a rocky crag while Al-Mirani is characterized by a 26.5-meter artillery tower and a complex network of passages.

Fine Wining and Dining

Although Muscat isn’t known for its wild nightlife, there are a number of late night haunts for those looking to let their hair down. You’ll find most of them in the five-star hotels. Copacabana in the Grand Hyatt Muscat is the city’s glitziest nightclub. Inspired by the Rio de Janeiro carnival, it’s a lively venue serving fruity cocktails with an international lineup of DJs. Nostalgic boaters will like the nautical-inspired interior of the John Barry Bar, also in the Grand Hyatt Muscat, and will be even more impressed by the cocktail menu and wine list. For a more laid-back vibe, Al Ghazal is an English-style pub in the Muscat Intercontinental Hotel with pool tables, sports channels and live bands.

If you’re after a slap up meal, the upscale Tanoor, in the Shangri La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa, delivers with an international menu incorporating Middle Eastern, Asian, and European cuisines complete with an atmospheric candlelit terrace overlooking the sea. The Chedi Muscat Hotel’s The Beach serves up gourmet seafood platters under the stars, while fulfilling your Arabian Nights fantasy.

Arguably the city’s best and most exclusive restaurant is Vue, in Al Bustan Palace Hotel. Run by star Australian chef Shannon Bennett, this contemporary French restaurant pioneers molecular gastronomy and offers various tasting menus to satisfy every gourmand’s cravings.

For the best local food in town, head to Automatic Coffee on Al Khuwair and feast on traditional grilled meat skewers, humus, fresh fish, falafel, and fattoush (the traditional salad).

Celebrate Oman

The Muscat Festival, the city’s most famous cultural festival is held annually in January and February and offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the true essence of Oman. The parks and beaches come alive with drama, dance and music performances as well as sporting events, art exhibitions and other traditional customs.

Useful Links:

Muscat Festival: www.muscat-festival.com
The Beach: www.ghmluxuryhotels.com/ChediMuscat.htm
Vue: www.ichotelsgroup.com/intercontinental/en/gb/locations/hotel-features/dining/restaurants/muscat-albustanpalace

Image sources: Luxurylaunches.com , Persiancarpetguide.com, Iguide.travel ,Shangri-la.com