The Aflaj Irrigation Systems of Oman, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are ancient water distribution networks that use gravity to channel water from underground sources and springs to support agriculture and communities in the arid landscape.
Oman: Muscat – The Sultan Qaboos Great Mosque
We made our way to the visitors’ entrance. It was free to go in, which always makes us happy. As soon as we passed through the entrance, we were dazzled by the beauty of the mosque complex.
The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is a remarkable example of contemporary Islamic architecture. It harmoniously blends traditional design elements with modern aesthetics. Sultan Qaboos bin Said commissioned the mosque, which was inaugurated in 2001 to commemorate the 30th year of his reign.
There was a myriad of small courtyards, known as sahns, to make our way through, which were incredibly beautiful, which meant we stopped to take photographs. Surrounding the sahns were the liwans (like cloisters in churches) which are intended to provide shelter for the faithful from the hot sun. These spaces were stunning.
The whole mosque complex is vast spanning approximately 416,000 square metres, with the main building covering around 40,000 square metres. The design features a central square prayer hall crowned by a grand dome rising to 50 metres. Five minarets define the mosque’s boundaries, symbolising the Five Pillars of Islam: the main minaret stands at 91.5 metres, while the four flanking minarets each reach 45 metres in height. The mosque was constructed using 300,000 tons of Indian sandstone and was designed to blend Islamic, Middle Eastern and Omani architectural design styles.
The first main building we visited was a small prayer hall, which was quite lovely but was only the starter for the main course of the main prayer hall.
Stepping into the main prayer simply blew our minds.
The main prayer hall can accommodate over 6,500 worshippers. Its interior is adorned with intricate mosaic patterns and detailed carvings. There are two outstanding features.
The first is the hand-woven Persian carpet covering 4,343 square meters, which was, at the time of completion, the largest single-piece carpet in the world. This masterpiece contains approximately 1.7 billion knots and weighs 21 tons.
The second, and most eye-catching feature, is the chandelier. Suspended from the central dome is a magnificent chandelier measuring 14 metres in height and weighing 8.5 tons. Adorned with over 600,000 Swarovski crystals and 1,122 halogen bulbs, it illuminates the prayer hall with a warm, ethereal glow.
The main prayer hall also has exquisite tilework, wood carvings and stained glass. It is possibly the most beautiful building we have ever seen.
After leaving the main prayer hall we wandered through the grounds of the mosque complex, with its incredible landscaped gardens, which provide a serene environment for contemplation, irrespective of your particular faith. We walked through the liwan that runs along the length of the outer wall of the mosque complex. From the openings in the wall, we could see the gardens on the outside that buffer the mosque from the surrounding area – these were quite the sight in themselves.
Planning your visit
Getting There
- By Taxi/Car: The mosque is easily accessible from most parts of Muscat. Taxis are commonly used for visitors, and there is parking available at the mosque.
- Public Transport: While public transport options like buses are available, taxis or rideshares are often more convenient.
Â
Getting around Muscat
Getting around Muscat, Oman can be a bit tricky since public transportation is limited, and the city is spread out. Here are the best ways to navigate the city:
1. Car Rental (Best for Tourists)
- Recommended: If you’re visiting, renting a car is the best option for flexibility.
- Roads: Well-maintained, with clear English & Arabic signage.
- Parking: Free in most places, but can be limited in busy areas.
2. Taxis & Ride-Hailing Apps
- Mwasalat Taxis (Official taxis) – More expensive but regulated.
- Ride-hailing apps:
- Otaxi – Popular local app, cheaper than street taxis.
- Uber & Careem – Available but less common than Otaxi.
- Airport taxis: Fixed rates, but more expensive.
3. Public Buses (Mwasalat)
- Cheap and air-conditioned, but routes are limited.
- Red city buses connect major areas (e.g., Ruwi, Muttrah, Al Khuwair).
- Intercity routes available to places like Nizwa, Sohar, and Salalah.
The best time to visit Muscat
Seasonal Overview:
Muscat, the capital city of Oman, experiences a hot, arid climate characterized by long, sweltering summers and warm winters. Annual rainfall is minimal, averaging about 100 mm, primarily occurring between November and April. The city’s coastal location along the Gulf of Oman contributes to high humidity levels, especially during the summer months.
Winter (November to March): This period is considered the most pleasant time to visit Muscat. Temperatures are moderate, ranging from 15°C (59°F) to 30°C (86°F), with low humidity levels. These conditions are ideal for outdoor activities such as sightseeing, beach outings, and exploring local markets. Additionally, several cultural events, including the Muscat Festival, take place during these months, offering visitors a glimpse into Omani heritage and traditions.
Summer (April to September): Summers in Muscat are extremely hot and humid. Temperatures can soar up to 49°C (120°F), making outdoor activities challenging. The intense heat and high humidity levels can lead to discomfort and potential health risks such as sunburn and dehydration. Consequently, this period is less favorable for tourism.
Rainfall: Muscat receives scant rainfall, with the majority occurring between November and April. Even during these months, precipitation is minimal and typically does not disrupt travel plans. The city remains predominantly dry for the rest of the year.
Best Time to Visit: For tourists, the optimal time to visit Muscat is between October and March. During these months, the weather is more temperate, allowing for comfortable exploration of the city’s attractions and participation in outdoor activities. It’s advisable to plan trips during this period to fully enjoy the cultural and natural offerings of Muscat.
In summary, Muscat’s climate varies significantly throughout the year, with mild, pleasant winters and extremely hot summers. Planning a visit during the cooler months enhances the experience, providing comfortable conditions for sightseeing and cultural immersion.
Where to stay in Muscat
1. Mid Range: ltlalat Al Shorouq Hotel
Al Shorouq Hotel Apartments is a 3-star accommodation located in the Ruwi district of Muscat, Oman. The hotel offers 60 air-conditioned rooms equipped with modern amenities, including flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, mini-fridges, and free Wi-Fi. Each room features a private bathroom with complimentary toiletries.
2. Luxury – Sheraton Oman Hotel
The Sheraton Oman Hotel is a distinguished 5-star establishment located in the heart of Muscat’s business district, approximately a 20-minute drive from Muscat International Airport. The hotel offers 230 elegantly designed rooms and suites, many providing panoramic views of the Al Hajar Mountains. Guests can enjoy modern amenities such as complimentary Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, and coffee/tea makers. For those seeking enhanced luxury, the hotel features premium suites with separate living areas and access to the exclusive Sheraton Club Lounge.
3. Budget – Naseem Hotel
Naseem Hotel is a 2-star establishment located in the Muttrah district of Muscat, Oman. Situated directly across from the western end of the Corniche, it offers guests convenient access to the Muttrah Souq and the fish market, both just a short walk away.
The hotel features 40 air-conditioned rooms equipped with amenities such as ironing facilities and flat-screen TVs with satellite channels. Some rooms offer views of the sea.
More to Explore
