Excursion Introduction to muscat tour at Muscat

Enjoy a fine introduction to Oman's capital, the country's political, economic and commercial hub. An exciting mix of medieval, traditional and modern architecture and culture lends Muscat an ambience of its own.

Meet your guide on the pier and board the coach for the approximately 45-minute drive to the Grand Mosque.

Construction on the mosque complex began in early 1995 and was completed six years later. Inauguration followed in May 2001 by His Majesty the Sultan. The invested patronage of Sultan Qaboos plus his instructions to the team overseeing the project at the Diwan of the Royal Court, has endorsed the spiritual and architectural role of the largest mosque in Oman, able to accommodate up to 20,000 worshippers. The whole interior is panelled with off-white and dark grey marble. The ceilings are inspired by those of Omani forts and a Swarovski crystal chandelier with gold-plated metalwork hangs down for a length of 46 feet (14 metres). Your visit to this splendid house of worship will be an impressive experience.

Proceed for a visit to the National Museum. Located in the heart of Muscat in a purpose-designed building, the National Museum was established by royal decree in 2013 and opened to the public on July 2016. It showcases the nation's heritage from the earliest human settlement in the Oman Peninsula some two million years ago through to the present day. Take a tour with one of the National Museum specialized guides.

At the end of your visit, you will have the choice to either make your way back to the ship by bus, or be dropped at the Muttrah Souq. This colourful market, boasting scores of traditional shops, is one of the most frequented spots in Muscat. Stroll at your leisure through the narrow alleys, experience the unique atmosphere and see many authentic items, including frankincense, exotic perfumes, gold and silver jewellery, handicrafts in copper and camel bone, Omani designer products, and antiques (items over 50 years olds cannot be exported). Guests getting off at the souq will return to the ship at their leisure by Shuttle bus.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Grand Mosque, National Museum, Muttrah Souq.

Note

Please note: This tour requires a moderate amount of easy walking and standing, inside the mosque and the museum. Some steps are involved. The visit to the mosque requires both ladies and gentlemen to have their legs and ankles totally covered and wear long sleeve shirts/blouses. Ladies also need to bring a scarf to cover their head. Shoes must be removed at the entrance to the mosque; bring socks for comfort. Any food, drinks, and smoking are strictly prohibited at the Grand Mosque. No photographs are allowed inside National Museum.