Name: Muscat
Rating: 4.3

Mutrah Corniche , Muscat Overview

Mutrah Corniche is a promenade stretching for 3 kilometres along the waterfront and is lined with restaurants, cafes, and markets. You can see the views of the Oman Port and harbour on one side and the beautiful rock formations of the Hajar Mountains and the Portuguese watchtowers on the other. The northern end of the corniche has a fish market and a dhow harbour. The eastern end of the harbour is dominated by the Mutrah Fort. The Fort is generally closed for visitors. However, its flank can be climbed for more great views of the harbour.

Things to Do & See

Iconic Dhow Ships: At the Mutrah Corniche, you’ll find his Majesty’s dhow, cruise ships, ferries and naval vessels. Shabab Oman, a fully-rigged training ship, retired now that its replacement has been commissioned, can also be found here.
Majmar: From afar, you can also see the giant ornamental incense burner, Majmar.
Beautiful Views of the Al Said: You could also see Al Said, Sultan Qaboos’ luxury yacht docked at the port. Al Said is the world’s highest displacement, most powerful, and the fifth-longest superyacht.
Lawati Mosque.
Historical Insights: There are also plaques on the walls offering local history insights.
Markets and Souk: Located near the corniche are Mutrah Souk and a fish and vegetable market. Mutrah Souk is the oldest marketplaces in the Arab world, and you can buy souvenirs like Arab and Indian artefacts, frankincense, khanjars, Bedouin jewellery, clothing for both men and women, gold.
Old Quarter: Muscat's historic walled city-centre, Old Quarter, lies just behind the Corniche. The Old Quarter is known for its large forts from the 16th century perched on neighbouring cliff tops: Al Mirani and Al Jalali. These forts were also built by the Portuguese.
The Bait Al Zubair Museum is known for its collection of weapons and full-scale Omani village and souk.
The National Museum of Oman is also located near to the Old Quarter, which showcases Omani heritage from the earliest human settlement to the present day.

Tips For Visiting Mutrah Corniche

The Corniche is best avoided during the midday heat. Visit early in the morning to see the fishermen at work and witness the fishing boats returning with their catches, or after 4 PM when the sunlight relents a bit.
The Corniche looks spectacular at sunset when the light casts shadows across the serrated crescent of mountains.
Wear comfortable footwear if you plan to walk a lot.
Opt for public transport like taxis and buses to avoid the hassle of finding a parking space.
For the foodie in you, there are a lot of local restaurants, pop-ups, and street food stalls.
Do not miss the panoramic view of the sun going down the water, set against the backdrop of the mountains.