Mini Guide to Muscat
Why fly to Muscat?
The airport serves the capital of the magical country of Oman, synonymous with the traditional view of Arabia. The country is not as commercialised as
Abu Dhabi or
Saudi Arabia and as such attracts tourists keen to see the Arabia of old. Muscat is the main draw with its souks, Kasbah and narrow golden sandstone buildings. Omani cuisine is sought after too with a mix of the spice of the Far East and the sweetness of the Middle East. Whatever you visit Oman for, be it business or pleasure, the country will rarely disappoint.
Getting to Muscat?
Muscat International Airport is the primary transport hub not only for Muscat but for Oman. Being its largest airport and serving the capital city, it is a very well developed airport. All major airlines operate to and from Muscat including BA and Oman Air which fly from
London Heathrow. Car rental at Muscat Airport is easy to arrange online making collection of your car very simple on arrival and helps make the onward journey quick and easy. The road network from the airport to the capital is excellent, however there is also a good rail link. Buses, taxis and private transfers operate from the airport too.
What can I Expect at the Airport?
The current terminal has a reasonable range of facilities including the commended Woodlands Restaurant. WH Smith have an outlet at the airport selling books and souvenirs and for Muslim travellers, there are prayer rooms for men and women.
Tell me more about Muscat?
The Capital city of Oman, Muscat offers visitors a variety of ways to spend their days and nights. From visits to the Grand Mosque and the Royal Opera House, to exploring the Souq and relaxing on the beach; Muscat is a city that provides plenty for travellers of all demographics. However, should they want to travel outside of the capital, there is a plethora of other options.
Desert
Venturing south, the Muscat skyline gives way to rocky plains by the side of the road, eventually turning into the smooth, flowing dunes as pictured above. It is here that guests have the opportunity to experience as much (or as little) of the desert as they wish, with dune bashing, sand surfing, quad biking and camel riding just a few of the activities available! Alternatively, they can simply set up camp and relax in the tranquillity of the sweeping sands.
Mountains
Stunning mountain ranges are less than two hours to the west of Muscat. As the road begins to wind steeply into the clouds, every bend provides a breath-taking view of the surroundings. Another area that welcomes a diverse range of tourists, the rocky slopes give the chance to explore by mountain bike, hiking or a spot of rock climbing and via ferrata for the really daring. As with the desert, there's also the chance to relax and unwind, with cliff top swimming pools, spas or a spot of yoga with a view of all 2,000 metres below!