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Al Alam Palace, Muscat, Muscat Overview

Al Alam Palace, also known as Sultan's Palace and the Sultan Qaboos Palace, is one among the six royal residences of Sultan Qaboos located in Muscat. It looks out to the Gulf of Oman. The ruling monarch’s residence was built in 1972 which holds a history of 200 years. The palace is known for its flamboyant Islamic architecture which is surrounded by lush green garden and the Mutrah Harbour. This official residence is used to receive distinguished guests who visit the country.

Al Alam Palace was built by Imam Sultan Bin Ahmed who is the seventh direct grandfather of Sultan Qaboos. It was initially called the Bait Al Alam and was rebuilt in 1972 as a royal residence. However, visitors will only be allowed to see the Palace from outside the gates and can take photographs from there.

History of Al Alam Palace

Al Alam Palace has been built on the site which was previously used as the British Embassy. According to legends, there used to be a flagpole stump, and it was believed that freedom was granted to any slave who touched it. Monarchs before Sultan Qaboos lived in Bait Al Alam which was demolished before constructing Al Alam Palace in 1972.

Structure & Architecture

Al Alam Palace is an epitome of intricate Islamic architecture. Manicured with gardens and government buildings having polished and white marble floors, the Palace is known to be a classic masterpiece. The complex of the Palace is impressively stage-managed and fronted by four decadent gold and blue columns. Despite being a ceremonial Palace for the Sultan of Oman, it is also known to have a pool, spa, and walled gardens of its own.

If you have a look at the government buildings in the vicinity of the Palace, you will find the traditional Omani style architecture reflecting through the crenellated rooftops, window shutters and wooden balconies. The Sultan of Oman does not usually stay in this Palace but has received eminent dignitaries like the Queen of England and the Queen of Netherlands. However, the Palace does not look like one of the usual over-the-top capital Palaces that you see in other countries.

Tips for Visiting Al Alam Palace

Visit the Palace during the day when the columns stand beautifully against the blue sky or during the night time when the Palace is magnificently lit up.
For a better view of the Palace, you can drive along the Al Alam Road and park your vehicle behind the Palace i.e., near the Omani French Museum.

How To Reach Al Alam Palace

Since Muscat has got a simple public transport system, you can reach the Al Alam Palace by bus without a problem. To reach the Palace, you need to get on Route 4 Bus which will drop you outside the Palace. Fares can cost between OMR 1 to 2.

The other option can be to get a taxi to the Palace, which will take around OMR 1 during daytime and OMR 1.3 at night.