Muscat, Oman’s port capital, sits on the Gulf of Oman surrounded by mountains and desert. With history dating back to antiquity, it mixes high-rises and upscale shopping malls with clifftop landmarks such as the 16th-century Portuguese forts, Al Jalali and Mirani, looming over Muscat Harbor. Its modern, marble-clad Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, with 50m dome and prodigious Persian carpet, can accommodate 20,000 people.

Muscat’s old Muttrah quarter is known for its labyrinthine souk and busy fish market, as well as the Corniche waterfront promenade. To the east is the Sultan’s ceremonial residence, colorful Al Alam Palace, built in contemporary Islamic style. Nearby are numerous museums including the Bait Al Zubair, focusing on Omani culture and crafts. The Royal Opera House presents international performances, and Shatti al Qurum is a popular public beach. Just outside Muscat, lagoon reefs at Bandar Jissah and Bandar Khayran are diving destinations, as is Fahal Island, a striking limestone formation.

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