Muscat is the mystical capital city of Oman. With a population of more than 1.6 million, it is referred to as the heart of Oman. Muscat has a firm foot in its culture, with most of its architecture showcasing traditional Arabian designs. Famous tourist attractions include The Royal Opera House, Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque and Qurum Beach.
Cheap flights to Muscat are now available for a limited time, so get ready to be enchanted by this seaside city. Muscat is home of Muscat International Airport (MCT), which is located 15 minutes from the city centre. Muscat International Airport serves a multitude of airlines – including Emirates, Qatar Airways, Etihad Airways, Ethiopian Airlines and South African Airways. Connecting flights are available from Cape Town and Johannesburg. Flight duration from Johannesburg to Muscat is approximately 10 hours, 40 minutes.
Popular flights to Muscat
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Why visit Muscat
Shopping and Bartering
Those who visit Muscat are invited to play a game of give-and-take in the exotic markets of this serene city, and walk away with the most beautiful gifts and souvenirs.
Seafood Lover's Dream
The harbour is home to an array of freshly prepared seafood that always leave visitors wanting more. Kingfish curry, grilled prawns, lobster and more – all perfectly seasoned, all reasonably priced.
Ancient Arab History
Many a Sultan’s dagger or inscribed sword is said to have left its mark on the history of Muscat. Be prepared to be left in awe at Oman’s great historical background.
General information
Essential details you need to know before your trip
Country
Oman
Currency
Omani Rial (OMR)
Exchange Rate
1 ZAR = 0.3 OMR
Language
Arabic
Hub Airport
Muscat International Airport (MCT)
Airline
Oman Air
Time Zone
GMT +4
Travel Adaptor
Type G
Best time to visit Muscat
The most popular time to visit Muscat is during its winter season (October to March). This is when the weather is most agreeable and day time temperatures average 30 degrees Celsius, with night time dropping down to a cool 15 degrees Celsius. Majority of festivals and events take place during this period.
As Muscat is located in the Middle East, it is known for its extremely hot summers that easily reach temperatures of 45 degrees Celsius. With this in mind, almost 100% of Muscat’s taxis, hotels and malls are air conditioned so you will not be affected by the heat when you are participating in indoors activities.
Weather & Climate in Muscat
Average temperature (°C) & rainfall levels (mm) per month
Month
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Low °C
17°C
18°C
21°C
25°C
29°C
30°C
31°C
28°C
28°C
25°C
21°C
19°C
High °C
25°C
26°C
30°C
35°C
39°C
40°C
38°C
35°C
36°C
37°C
31°C
27°C
Rainfall (mm)
10
30
10
20
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
10
Set on a backdrop of crystal blue waters, traditionally Arab architecture and a desert terrain in the distance, Muscat is really appealing to the eyes. Look close enough, and you’ll find dolphins and turtles enjoying a swim in the warm sea waters of the Arabian Sea, and majestic eagles in the desert sky.
Not to be overshadowed by the city’s near-perfect landscapes – the culture, food and history of Muscat is enough to make you want to stay. In Muscat, you are greeted by the words, “Peace be upon you,” as is done by Arabs from around the Peninsula and invitations for a cup of mint tea at a nearby stall.
The souks are vast and mysterious, with locals and tourists alike trying to barter for the best price. Win the barter, and you have gained the admiration of the store owner, “Well done, you have truly arrived in Muscat now!”
Compare several airlines and book your cheap flights to Muscat online at Travelstart!
South Africans who wish to visit Muscat do need to apply for a visa, but you can do this on arrival in Oman. To obtain this visa, you would need to have a return ticket to your home country or your next destination, and at least six months left on your passport. The visa is valid for 90 days. All paperwork will be done at Muscat International Airport.
For more information, contact the Embassy of Oman.
Omani Embassy in Pretoria, South Africa
11 Anderson Street
Brooklyn
P O Box 2650
Brooklyn 0075
Pretoria
South Africa
Muscat is considered a highly safe city, with almost no reports of crime in the area. All hospitals and clinics have English speaking staff, so if you find yourself needing to visit the doctor then you need not worry. Also, treatment of minor ailments is free for your first visit, and there are 24-hour pharmacies available throughout the city.
As Muscat is in a very hot region of the Middle East, it is important to stay hydrated. Try to carry and refill your water bottle as not all public areas (such as certain beaches and parks) will have refreshment vendors.
It is important to respect the culture in Oman, and so women are advised to dress modestly and to cover their legs until their knees. You may be denied entry to certain places if you don’t adhere to the dress code.
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