Cheap flight to Muscat

When is the best time to visit?

November through March are ideal for Muscat: temperatures of 20 to 28 degrees, little rain and pleasant for walking and exploring culture. From April to October temperatures can reach 40 degrees or more. December and January are the busiest and most expensive; for the best balance book for November or after mid-February.

Best neighbourhoods in Muscat

• Muttrah The oldest district with the famous Corniche and Oman's most celebrated souq. Walking distance from the port, ideal for soaking up atmosphere.
• Old Muscat (Mascat) The historic heart with the Al Alam palace facade, Fort Mirani and Fort Jalali by the sea.
• Al Qurum Modern district with a broad sandy beach, shops and restaurants, great for families and longer stays.
• Shatti Al Qurum Expat and tourist neighbourhood with international restaurants, cafes and Qurum beach.
• Medinat Qaboos Quiet residential area with good bus and taxi connections, handy as a budget accommodation option.

Top 5 things to do in Muscat

• Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque One of the most beautiful mosques in the world, open to non-Muslims from 08:00 to 11:00 (except Friday). Entry 4 OMR. Strict dress code: covered shoulders and legs required, women also need a headscarf.
• Muttrah Fort and Corniche Climb the Portuguese fort (3 OMR) for a panorama over the harbour, then stroll the boulevard and get lost in the labyrinthine Muttrah Souq for incense, silver and silk.
• Royal Opera House World-class opera and concert venue opened in 2011 by the late Sultan Qaboos. Visit the gardens during the day or book a performance for a special evening.
• Wadi Shab day trip Around 140 km south of Muscat: emerald green pools and waterfalls in a deep canyon. Group tours including boat cost 12 to 15 OMR per person. Not to be missed.
• Bimmah Sinkhole On the way to Wadi Shab: a hidden blue lake in a limestone cave, free entry. Perfect swimming stop on the way.

Insider tip: Muttrah fish market at sunrise

The early morning fish market on the Muttrah quay is the real Muscat. Fishermen bring in tuna, barracuda and local fish while the sun rises behind the mountains. Go before 06:00 for the best atmosphere and buy directly from the boat. This is the Oman no travel brochure shows you.

Flights and transport from the Netherlands

KLM flies 4 times a week non-stop from Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS) to Muscat International Airport (MCT) in approximately 7 hours 40. Departure from Eindhoven is not available for Muscat. Return flights typically 700 to 1100 euros, cheaper outside the peak season of December-January. From the airport, taxis are the easiest option to the city centre, fares around 6 to 10 OMR. A rental car is strongly recommended for day trips to Wadi Shab and Bimmah Sinkhole; public transport is limited. Book via DiscoverCars for a rental car in Muscat, typically 25 to 45 OMR per day including insurance.

Visa: Dutch nationals need an e-visa for Oman, available through the official eVisa portal. Cost approximately 20 OMR (47 euros), valid 30 days. Apply at least 48 hours before departure.

How much does a trip to Muscat cost?

Currency is the Omani Rial (OMR); 1 euro is approximately 0.44 OMR. Budget hotels 25 to 60 dollars per night, mid-range hotels 80 to 180 dollars. Meals at local restaurants are very affordable: mezze and bread 2 to 3 OMR, full meal 5 to 8 OMR. A 7-night trip including return flight, hotel and activities realistically costs 1200 to 1800 euros per person.