How to Plan a Trip to Muscat
The complete 2026 guide — flights, hotels, things to do and airport transfers, all in one place. Everything a first-time visitor to Oman needs.
Your 4-step Muscat plan
Step 1 — Book flights to MCT
Muscat International Airport (MCT) is the main gateway to Muscat. Compare fares across major airlines and OTAs before locking a date.
See flight deals to MCTStep 2 — Pick a neighborhood
Base yourself in Mutrah Corniche & Souq for the best first-time visit — The most beautiful old-town waterfront in Arabia — dhow boats, a 16th-century Portuguese fort, and silver jewellery stalls inside the souq.
Where to stay in MuscatStep 3 — Plan your itinerary
Start with Mutrah Corniche & Souq, then build outward. Most first-time visitors need 3-5 days to see the highlights of Muscat.
Things to do in MuscatStep 4 — Sort your airport transfer
Taxi (no bus link from MCT) is OMR 7–12 ($18–31) and takes 20–35 min. Pre-book a private transfer for stress-free arrival.
MCT arrival guideBefore you book — visa check
Oman offers visa on arrival for 75+ nationalities — OMR 20 ($52). Many GCC-adjacent and Western passports. e-Visa available online at evisa.rop.gov.om.