Transportation in Muscat
Originally three distinct settlements, Muscat sprawls haphazardly along the sandy beaches and sparkling waters of the Gulf of Oman. Away from the coast, the city's growth has exploded inland in dramatic feats of engineering across once barren valleys and hills.Most attractions lie in the labyrinthine streets of old Muscat itself, around Muttrah's ancient harbour front and along the Corniche, which buzzes after sundown as Omanis take a stroll in the cooler night air. The lush parks and shopping malls of Qurm and the rapidly expanding business district of Ruwi are dotted with smart hotels and restaurants.
Read more about transport from and to the airport
Taxi
Taxis are the easiest and fastest way into Muscat from Seeb International Airport and are available throughout the city. They can be flagged down in the street, but be prepared to haggle over the fare before setting off as they are not metered. Chances are you will still pay well over the going locals rate.
Bus
A local bus network covers most of Muscat, including the main tourist areas of the old city, Muttrah, Qurm and Ruwi. Fares are nominal and destinations are displayed in English as well as Arabic on the front of the buses. Timetables in English are available at the main bus station in Ruwi.
Microbus
Cheaper than taxis and mostly used by Muscat locals, microbuses criss-cross the city picking up passengers from the side of the road. Ask if the driver is heading in your direction or sit tight until everybody else has alighted before requesting your destination. These little 12-seater taxi/buses also amass around the bus stations in Ruwi and Muttrah.
Car
The low cost of petrol in Oman makes it feasible to hire a 4 x 4 or large saloon car to get around the city. Speed limits go up to 120kph on the dual carriageways but are between 60kph and 100kph in most city areas. Road signs are in both Arabic and English.
Foot
The old town of Muscat and the Corniche at Muttrah are perfect to explore on foot.
Rent your car
In general, Muscat’s roads are modern with several dual carriageways, clear road signs and cheap fuel, making driving the easiest way to explore the city and surrounding areas. The large hotels have onsite car parks and elsewhere you can park at malls or on-street at meters.
Transportation Tips
Omanis drive on the right and adopt a laissez-faire attitude to other road users. They have a tendency to drive bumper to bumper. Don't be tempted to retaliate with abusive gestures as you may cause offence. If you have an accident, do not move the cars involved until the police arrive at the scene.
