Major Tourist Attractions In Muscat

Two old Portuguese forts Jelali and Merani give Muscat a medieval feel. They are used by police and military and are closed to public but can be photographed.  
 Muscat's picturesque old buildings co-exist with modern, commercial and residential quarters giving the city an ambience of its own. The seaside palace of H.M.Sultan Qaboos Said, nestled between steep rocky hills, offers a spectacular sight, especially at night. 

Muthrah souq is a meandering maze of shops with unique sights and smells. The entrance to this souq is off the Corniche. Another smelly souq, yet unique in its sight and feel, is the Fish Market with its fascinating array of fish at the northern end of the Mutrah Corniche. Best time to get there is early in the morning to see the night’s catch coming in.

Restored forts at Jabrin, Rustaq and Nizwa are well worth a visit. Riyam Public Gardens, along the Corniche, offers excellent views of the harbour from the incense burner monument. There is also a Children's fun park with lots of rides. Qurum Natural Park features a boating lake and water fountains, is also the home for Funworld, a children’s entertainment park. 

Dhow trips are one of the best ways to get a perspective of the country, especially the Muscat Bay. Most tour operators organize dhow trips.

A permit from the Department of Castles and Forts at the ministry of National Heritage and Culture is needed to visit archeological sites and old forts.