About this experience
You will get acquainted with the majestic architecture of the main mosque of Oman, the Royal Opera House, and the Al Alam Palace. You will learn how Sultan Qaboos managed to bring the country out of the Middle Ages, creating a prosperous modern state. And, of course, immerse yourself in the world of Arabian treasures at the colorful Muttrah Souq.
What to expect
Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
The excursion will start with a visit to the main functioning mosque in Oman. You will hear the history of the monument construction, built in the early 2000s. Explore the interior made of gray and white marble, traditional ornaments, and gilded mosaics on the domes. Special attention will be paid to the exquisite Swarovski chandeliers and the second largest single-piece carpet in the world, which took 600 craftswomen 4 years to complete.
Royal Opera House
Next, you will head to the center of music and culture in the country - the Royal Opera House Muscat. Another wonder of the East - another creation of Sultan Qaboos. We will talk in detail about the architecture of the building - a combination of Arabic elements with classical medieval architecture in a modern execution. As well as the advanced equipment of the concert hall and outstanding Omani musicians.
Traditional Market of Oman and Muttrah Fort
What Eastern city is complete without a colorful market? Of course, our program includes a visit to the old Muttrah bazaar. Here you will have enough time to wander through authentic trading alleys and browse typical souvenirs of the Arab world - incense, antique weapons, products made of sandalwood, essential oils, ceramics, handmade jewelry, and aromatic Omani coffee. After that, I will take you to the iconic Muttrah Fort, where I will tell you about the Portuguese occupation at the end of the 16th century and the struggle with the Omani army.
Al Alam Palace
In the end, you will explore the magnificent Al Alam Palace of Sultan Qaboos on the square named after him. For more than two hundred years, it has been the residence of the rulers of Oman and the main symbol of the country. I will tell you about how the appearance of the palace changed on its way to its current style, harmoniously combining Arabic and Indian architectural traditions. And, of course, you will learn about the role of the current sultan in the significant transformation of Oman from a medieval backward state into a prosperous modern country.
Organizational Details
- I will conduct the tour for you or another professional guide from our team. The tour at the Royal Opera House is conducted by their staff in English.
- Transportation is included in the cost of the tour.
- Opera tickets are additionally paid (13$ per person).
- It is possible to conduct the tour on a minibus for a group of 5-11 people - $500 per group, and for a group of 12-20 people - $1000 per group.
Requirements for visiting the mosque
- Men should be in trousers or jeans, but not in shorts.
- Women should wear trousers and a blouse covering elbows, as well as have a head covering (scarf). We can also provide hijabs for the duration of the mosque visit.
- There are no requirements for footwear.
