If you are looking to visit Muscat and wondering what to do there, then you are in for a treat. Although, it may not be as loud as other cities in the Gulf the capital of Oman sits waiting in its white washed buildings nestled between some dramatic brown mountains and a vibrant turquoise sea.
Quick answer: the best things to do in Muscat are the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Mutrah Souq and Corniche, the Mutrah Fish Market, the Royal Opera House, a dolphin watching cruise and the Bimmah Sinkhole.
On a Friday, head to the fish market and Qurum Beach, since the Grand Mosque is closed to non-Muslim visitors. Then, at night, choose the Corniche or the Opera House. Finally, if you are with kids, pick the cruise and the sinkhole.
Here’s the thing about Muscat. It never feels rushed. You can enjoy a morning exploring one of the most beautiful mosques in the world, haggle over frankincense, and then see dolphins jumping around your boat. As night falls you will be able to relax and enjoy the evening.
That’s why we’ve put this guide together with real planning in mind. We’ve picked out 6 things that are really recommended, and answered the top questions our customers usually ask about what’s open on a Friday, what’s to do at night and what’s good with kids.
Opening times and prices may vary so we’ve noted anything you may want to check beforehand. Now, get a coffee (or even better a nice cup of Omani kahwa with a date!) and let’s check out Muscat.
Best Things to Do in Muscat
Let’s start with the big hitters. If someone asked us for the best things to do in Muscat and gave us only one day, these two would be our answer. They’re very different in mood, one serene and one buzzing, and together they show you what makes this city special.
1. Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
Quick facts: open to non-Muslim visitors Saturday to Thursday, about 8:30am to 11:00am. Shoulders and knees covered; headscarf for women. Allow roughly 1 to 1.5 hours. Entry fee: confirm on the day — some guides list OMR 8, others report free entry, so it’s worth checking.
Although you’ll likely have seen images of this beautiful site already, the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, the country’s main mosque, offers non-Muslims an insight into this impressive building.
You will be able to enter during specific times in the morning. The inside of the mosque is stunningly large and peaceful. With beautiful intricately tiled floors, sandstone arches and a beautiful prayer room lit by the famous chandelier.
What we love most is the calm. Even on a busy morning, people lower their voices without being asked. You walk slowly, you look up a lot, and somewhere in the middle of it all you realise you’ve stopped checking your phone.
A few practical points, because this is where visitors most often trip up:
- Hours: non-Muslim visitors are welcomed Saturday to Thursday, roughly 8:30am to 11:00am. Sources differ slightly on the exact start time, so aim to arrive after 8:30am but well before 11:00am
- Friday: not open to non-Muslim visitors, so don’t plan it for then
- Dress code: cover your shoulders and knees, wear loose clothing, and women should bring an opaque headscarf. Avoid shorts, sleeveless tops and anything see-through or tight
- Entry fee: reports vary, so confirm before you go rather than assuming either way
Our honest tip? Go as early as you’re allowed. The light is softer, the crowds are thinner, and you’ll still have the rest of the day free for a long lunch.
2. Mutrah Souq and the Corniche
Quick facts: souq opens about 9am to 1pm and 4pm to 11pm, Saturday to Thursday (Friday: 9am to 11am and 4pm to 11pm). Corniche is about 3km long. Allow 2 to 3 hours. Best after 4pm.
If the mosque is Muscat’s calm, Mutrah Souq is its heartbeat. It’s one of the oldest marketplaces in Oman, a covered maze of lanes where the air smells of frankincense, rosewater and sizzling street food. Silver khanjar daggers glint from shop walls. Pashmina scarves hang like bright curtains. In fact, someone will almost certainly invite you in for a chat before you’ve even asked a price.
Bargaining is part of the fun, so don’t be shy. First, smile, ask politely, and counter at around two-thirds of the first price. That way, nobody takes it personally, and you’ll often leave with a story as well as a souvenir. Plus, shops sometimes stay open later when a cruise ship is in port, so it pays to check on the day.
When you’re done shopping, step outside onto the Mutrah Corniche. This waterfront promenade stretches for about 3km, from Sultan Qaboos Port to Kalbuh Park. It’s lined with shaded seating, red granite paths and sculptures honouring the fishing trade. Fromm there, look across the water and you’ll spot the Riyam Censer, a giant incense-burner monument that has become a symbol of the city.
After that, if you’ve got energy left, climb up to Mutrah Fort. It dates back to the 1700s and the views over the harbour are well worth the stairs. However, opening hours vary between sources, so check before you go, and bring water, because there’s very little shade up there.
Things to Do in Muscat on Friday
Friday is Oman’s day of prayer and family time, and the city feels it. Mornings are slow, some places open late or not at all, and the Grand Mosque doesn’t receive non-Muslim visitors. Plenty of first-time travellers panic at this point. Please don’t, because a Friday in Muscat can be one of the most local, most relaxed days of your whole trip if you plan it right.
3. Mutrah Fish Market at Sunrise
Quick facts: best on Friday, early in the morning. Allow 45 to 60 minutes. Wear shoes you don’t mind getting wet. Pair it with breakfast on the Corniche.
Friday is actually the best time to visit the Mutrah Fish Market because local families come to buy their fish for the weekend. This gives a lot more authentic atmosphere.
If you get there early you will see beautiful displays of tuna, kingfish and shiny sardines. The fishermen will shout out their prices and there will be lots of people checking over the gills of each fish very seriously. There is also a food market in the same building which sells local produce and drinks. You can grab some dates and fruits while you’re there.
It can be a bit hectic, loud and smelly (duh!) so make sure you have shoes that don’t mind getting splashed. Walk straight out onto the Corniche and grab a coffee while you watch the sun rise over the harbour. It’s an easy, enjoyable way to start your day with almost no cost involved.
A relaxed Friday rhythm
After the market, take it slowly. Most visitors find a gentle plan works best on Fridays:
- Morning: fish market, then breakfast by the Corniche
- Midday: rest at your hotel or enjoy a long lunch, since many shops pause around prayer time
- Afternoon: head to Qurum Beach for a stroll, a swim or a sunset spent watching families fly kites on the sand
- Evening: Mutrah Souq reopens from 4pm and it’s wonderfully atmospheric once the heat drops
One small reminder: mosques and some attractions keep different Friday hours, so check each place on the day before you set off.
Things to Do in Muscat at Night
The nightlife in Muscat is much more relaxed than you might think. There are no neon-lit strip clubs or mega clubs here. However there are beautiful bright waterfronts, warm sea air and live music. You will love this if you are looking for a more laid back evening, with long conversations over a cup of tea.
4. An Evening at the Royal Opera House Muscat
Quick facts: Al Kharjiyah Street, Shati Al-Qurm. Show schedule, ticket prices, dress code and tour times: check the official site. Allow 2 to 3 hours for a performance.
This is the cultural gem of the city and well worth visiting even if you have never seen an opera before. The building is stunning; an elegant mix of Omani and Islamic architecture with pale stonework, intricate carvings and an impressive atrium that really comes alive at night.
There is such a variety of shows available; from classical music and ballet to Arabic music and grand productions. It is always well worth booking in advance for the most popular shows and dressing up as it can be quite a special evening.
Schedules, dress code and any guided tour times are published on the opera house’s own website, and we’d strongly suggest checking there before you commit to a date.
Even if there’s no show on, the complex around it is lovely for an after-dinner wander. Cafes, boutiques and landscaped walkways make it a pleasant stop at the end of a long day.
More ways to enjoy the evening
When visiting Muscat, you can expect to do a few simple things very well:
Walk along the Mutrah Corniche and enjoy the peaceful seafront. In the evening when it’s cooler locals will gather here to relax. Get yourself a fresh juice and wander around.
Visit Mutrah Souq after 4pm. The stalls are brightly lit, the air smells of incense and with the sun gone it’s finally warm!
Visit Mutrah Fort at dusk. The harbour views at sunset are some of the best in the city. Check closing time before you climb, and bring water.
There are plenty of places to eat well here. Try some local grilled fish or shuwa (slow cooked marinated lamb). You can even get a plate of freshly made hummus and some local Omani bread. Many of the restaurants on the coast have amazing terraces.
Muscat is a very safe and laid back city to visit in the evenings. It is often said to be one of the most relaxed cities in the region. Remember to use your common sense, keep your valuables with you in the busy areas and make sure you agree a price with your taxi driver or use an app.
Things to Do in Muscat with Family
Travelling with children changes the whole shape of a holiday, doesn’t it? You want somewhere safe, somewhere with space to run, and something that keeps everyone, from toddlers to grandparents, smiling. Muscat handles this beautifully. The pace is gentle, locals are famously warm toward kids, and the best family experiences here are outdoors and wonderfully simple.
5. Dolphin Watching Cruise
Quick facts: typically about 2 hours. Best in the morning. Good for most ages, but ask the operator about minimum age and life jackets when you book.
A sure-fire winner with an energetic child. Boats leave from the coast of Muscat and will generally take between 2-3 hours. You will head out into the Gulf of Oman and often spot pods of dolphins swimming alongside the boat. Watching a dolphin jump out of the crystal clear waters, with the backdrop of the mountains is an experience your child will talk about for weeks!
Most boats leave in the morning as the sea will be calmer and the light is beautiful. Many of the tours will include snorkelling stops along the way or a short glimpse of the coastline.
There is never a guarantee of seeing dolphins as they are wild animals. Ask your tour operator how successful they have been recently. Don’t forget to pack sun cream, hats and a light jacket as the wind can be quite cool out at sea.
6. Bimmah Sinkhole (Hawiyat Najm Park)
Quick facts: about 125km from Muscat (1.5 to 2 hours by car). Free entry. Open daily 8am to 8pm. Swimming allowed; modest clothing expected; no jumping from the top.
First, drive out to the Bimmah Sinkhole. This is approximately 125km outside of Muscat, so will take between 90 minutes and 2 hours to reach. On your way you’ll have some fantastic scenery. At the sinkhole there is a large, deep pool of bright green water formed in a limestone sinkhole, surrounded by a well kept park area.
This is great for families because there is no entrance fee and the park is open everyday between 8am – 8pm. In addition, there are toilet facilities and shaded pavilions, and lots of lush greenery thanks to irrigation systems. There are stairs leading down to the water so you can jump in and enjoy a swim in the cool, slightly salty waters.
However, some areas are very shallow but others can be up to 20-30metres deep. Younger swimmers should be kept under close supervision and life jackets may be a good idea. Also, you cannot jump in from the top of the sinkhole and visitors are expected to dress modestly. We recommend wearing T-shirts and knee length shorts.
Since it can be quite humid take some water and a hat. Afterwards, many families include a visit to the Wadi Shab or have a picnic by the sea on their way back. Alternatively, if you don’t fancy driving there are plenty of day tours available from Muscat including transfers.
Family-friendly extras
Short on time or travelling with little ones? A few other easy wins:
- Qurum Beach: wide sand, calm water and plenty of space to play
- Mutrah Corniche: flat, shaded and perfect for a pushchair
- Mutrah Fish Market: kids tend to love the colourful catch, especially the giant fish
Whatever you decide on try to do it in the early morning or late afternoon as the midday sun can be very strong in Oman (especially between May and September).
Muscat at a Glance
Not sure which experience fits your trip? Always confirm opening hours and fees before you go, since they can change.
| Experience | Best for | Best time | Key detail |
| Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque | Culture and architecture | Morning, Sat to Thu | Non-Muslim visits roughly 8:30am to 11am; strict dress code |
| Mutrah Souq and Corniche | Shopping and atmosphere | Late afternoon and evening | Souq closes midday; Corniche is about 3km |
| Mutrah Fish Market | A local Friday morning | Early morning | Busiest and liveliest on Fridays |
| Royal Opera House | Evenings and culture | After dark | Check the official schedule and dress code |
| Dolphin Watching Cruise | Families and nature lovers | Morning | Trips usually last around 2 hours |
| Bimmah Sinkhole | Families and swimmers | Morning or late afternoon | Free entry; open 8am to 8pm; about 125km away |
Planning Tips
A little preparation makes Muscat even easier. Here’s what we’d tell a friend.
- Best season: winter, roughly November to March, brings the most comfortable weather. Summers are very hot, so plan outdoor activities for early or late in the day.
- Getting around: taxis and ride-hailing apps work well in the city. For Bimmah or other day trips, hire a car or join a guided tour.
- Dress: dress modestly in public places, even outside the mosque. Light, loose cotton clothing keeps you cool and respectful.
- Book ahead: popular tours and Opera House performances can sell out in peak season, so reserve early.
Entry rules: two different things, often confused
This trips people up, so it’s worth being precise.
Visa exemption. Nationals of more than 100 countries — including the UK, US, Canada, Australia, Japan and EU states — can enter for up to 14 days with nothing to apply for at all. You simply present your documents at immigration, along with proof of onward travel and accommodation.
The free 14-day tourist visa. Separately, the Royal Oman Police created a 14-day tourist visa at nil fee under Decision 109/2026, published in the Official Gazette on 2 August 2026 and effective from 3 August. It’s a distinct visa category rather than the exemption above.
Two limits worth knowing. The 14-day entry is strictly non-extendable, and the overstay fine is OMR 10 per day. If you want longer, apply for the 30-day Tourist eVisa (Type 26B) at OMR 20 before you travel, through the official ROP portal at evisa.rop.gov.om.
Eligibility depends on your passport and rules change, so check the Royal Oman Police or Ministry of Foreign Affairs before booking.
Sample 3-Day Itinerary
Day one (Saturday to Thursday) 8.30am visit the Grand Mosque. Have a long lunch then relax before visiting the Mutrah Souq & Corniche from 4pm. Finish off having your evening meal by the sea.
Day two (Friday would be a good option). Visit the Mutrah Fish Market at sunrise then have your afternoon at Qurum Beach. Visit the Souq from 4pm onwards.
Day three Take a day trip to the Bimmah Sinkhole or take a morning dolphin cruise followed by an evening at the Royal Opera House.
Also Worth Adding
Other guides often mention the National Museum of Oman, Al Alam Palace (usually a photo stop from outside) and the Al Jalali and Al Mirani forts. However, access to the forts is restricted, so check current permit rules before you go.
Final Thoughts
Muscat is a must-visit for any tourist willing to take it slow. Between the peaceful Grand Mosque, lively Mutrah Souq, playful dolphins chasing your boat and the breathtaking Corniche in the evening, this city will steal your heart.
Whether you’re looking for the top things to do in Muscat on your first visit, or are looking for family friendly activities, there is something here that will truly make your day special.
Finally, if you have visited Muscat before, tell us where your favourite place to visit was.
FAQs
What are the best things to do in Muscat, Oman?
Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Mutrah Souq, Corniche, Royal Opera House, dolphin watching cruise and a trip to the Bimmah Sinkhole provide everything you could want. Culture, shopping, nature, and a great night out!
Can non-Muslims visit the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque?
Yes. Non-Muslim visitors are welcome Saturday to Thursday, roughly from 8:30am to 11:00am. Dress modestly, and women should cover their hair. It’s closed to non-Muslim visitors on Fridays.
What can I do in Muscat on a Friday?
Visit the Mutrah Fish Market in the morning, relax at Qurum Beach in the afternoon and return to Mutrah Souq after 4pm. The Grand Mosque isn’t open to non-Muslim visitors on Fridays.
What time does Mutrah Souq open?
Generally about 9am to 1pm and again from 4pm to 11pm, Saturday to Thursday. On Fridays the morning session is shorter, running roughly 9am to 11am. Hours can shift, so check locally.
What are the best things to do in Muscat at night?
Walk the Mutrah Corniche, shop in the souq after 4pm, catch a performance at the Royal Opera House, visit Mutrah Fort before it closes, and enjoy dinner by the sea.
Is Muscat safe at night?
Muscat is widely regarded as one of the safer and calmer cities in the region. Still, keep valuables secure in busy markets and use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps.
What are the best things to do in Muscat with family?
Dolphin watching, swimming at the Bimmah Sinkhole, an afternoon at Qurum Beach and strolling the Corniche are all popular with children and parents alike.
How far is the Bimmah Sinkhole from Muscat?
About 125km southeast of the city, a drive of roughly 1.5 to 2 hours. Entry to Hawiyat Najm Park is free, and it’s open daily from 8am to 8pm.
When is the best time to visit Muscat?
The cooler months, from around November to March, are the most comfortable for sightseeing. Summer temperatures can be intense, so outdoor plans should stick to early mornings and evenings.
Do I need a visa to visit Oman?
Probably not, if you’re from one of the 100-plus exempt countries — you get 14 days with nothing to apply for. There’s also a separate free 14-day tourist visa introduced in August 2026. Both are non-extendable.
How long can I stay in Oman without a visa?
Fourteen days, and it can’t be extended. The overstay fine is OMR 10 per day. For a longer trip, apply for the 30-day Tourist eVisa at OMR 20 before you travel.
