Muscat

Muscat has a long and rich history dating back to antiquity.

Pre-Islamic and Early Islamic Periods
- Evidence of settlements as early as the 6th millennium BCE.
- Became part of various regional empires including the Persians, Parthians, and Sassanids.
- Introduced to Islam in the 7th century AD.
Portuguese Occupation (1507–1650)
- Conquered by the Portuguese under Afonso de Albuquerque in 1507.
- Used as a strategic port between Europe and India.
- Fortresses Al Jalali and Al Mirani were built during this period.
Omani Rule
- Expelled the Portuguese in 1650.
- Became the capital of a powerful maritime empire under the Al Busaid dynasty, which ruled parts of East Africa (Zanzibar), the Persian Gulf, and parts of present-day Pakistan.
- Remained relatively isolated until the mid-20th century.

Location
- Located on the Arabian Sea along the Gulf of Oman.
- Surrounded by rocky hills and mountains, particularly the Al Hajar Mountains.
Climate
- Hot desert climate
- Summer: May to September; very hot and humid (40°C+)
- Winter: Mild and pleasant (20°C–25°C)
- Low rainfall, mostly between November and March

Population: Approx. 1.5 million (2024 est.)
Ethnic Groups:
- Omani Arabs (majority)
- South Asians (Indians, Pakistanis, Bangladeshis)
- Expatriates from Europe, the Philippines, and East Africa
Religion: Predominantly Ibadi Islam (unique to Oman), with minorities of Sunnis, Shias, Hindus, and Christians

Key Sectors
- Oil and Gas: Still dominant, though Muscat plays a more administrative than production role
- Shipping and Logistics: Port Sultan Qaboos was a key port (now commercial port activities moved to Sohar)
- Finance and Banking
- Tourism: Growing rapidly
- Trade: Regional trading hub
Economic Diversification
- Under the Oman Vision 2040 plan, the country aims to reduce oil dependency.
- Growth in tourism, manufacturing, and technology sectors.

Muscat is a metropolitan region made up of several smaller towns and districts, including:

Architecture
- A mix of traditional Arabic and Islamic architecture with modern influences
- Whitewashed buildings are a defining feature due to local regulations
- Forts, mosques, and traditional houses are prominent
Arts
- Rich traditions in music, dance, pottery, silverwork, and textiles
- Royal Opera House Muscat is a premier cultural venue
Cuisine
- Influenced by Arab, Indian, Persian, and African flavors
- Common dishes: Majboos (rice and meat), Mashuai (grilled kingfish), Halwa (Omani dessert)

Roads
- Well-developed road network with modern highways
- Heavy reliance on private cars; taxis and app-based services are common
Public Transport
- Limited bus system operated by Mwasalat
- No metro or train system (yet)
Airport
- Muscat International Airport (MCT)
  - Largest airport in Oman
  - Hub for Oman Air
  - Modern terminal opened in 2018
Seaports
- Port Sultan Qaboos (now mainly cruise ships)
- Sohar Port used for industrial shipping (about 2 hours from Muscat)

Modern healthcare system with public and private hospitals
Notable institutions: Royal Hospital, Khoula Hospital, and private hospitals like Aster and Apollo

Popular Activities
- Beach relaxation
- Dolphin watching and snorkeling
- Desert safaris and mountain hikes (e.g., Jebel Akhdar)
- Cultural festivals like Muscat Festival.