About Muscat

Muscat blends old-world charm with a modern, coastal rhythm—think low-rise buildings, grand mosques, bustling souqs and tranquil bays. You’ll find beachside resorts with glossy spas, family-friendly escapes with all the bells and whistles, and stylish self-catering stays tucked into quiet corners. Whether you’re here for the history or the hammams, the city has something to suit every traveller—and some of the best places to stay in Muscat are perfectly placed to help you explore it all.

The best places to stay in Muscat

Some of our muscat collections

Muscat’s compact sprawl makes it easy to explore, no matter where you’re staying. Start with the Grand Mosque—an architectural marvel open to visitors and often within a short drive of many top hotels. Its intricate tilework and 21-tonne chandelier are worth the early morning visit. From here, head towards Mutrah Corniche, a sweeping waterfront lined with whitewashed buildings, elegant mosques and palm-shaded promenades. Nearby, Mutrah Souq is a classic Arabian bazaar where you can haggle for frankincense, Omani silver, and handwoven textiles—a must-see, especially when staying close to the old port area.

For history lovers, the Sultan’s Palace and the twin forts of Al Mirani and Al Jalali provide a stately backdrop to Old Muscat. While not all are open to the public, their exteriors are grand enough to impress, especially at dusk. The Bait Al Zubair museum, a short hop away, offers insight into Oman’s heritage, from weaponry to wedding dresses—ideal for a culturally curious traveller staying in the city centre.

If you’re based at a beach resort, you’ll likely be south of town, with easy access to snorkelling, dolphin-watching and private boat charters. These resorts often include world-class spas, multiple restaurants and kids' clubs—so it’s tempting not to leave at all. But do make time for the Royal Opera House: its modern marble-and-wood grandeur hosts everything from Arab orchestras to international ballet.

Food-wise, Muscat’s scene ranges from fine dining in five-star hotels to beachfront shacks serving grilled kingfish. There are upmarket spots for Arabic fusion, lively Indian canteens, and atmospheric rooftop lounges perfect for a sundowner with sea views. Plus many of our hotels have standout restaurants.

For day trips, consider a guided visit to Wadi Shab, where dramatic cliffs and emerald pools reward a short hike—most of our resorts and hotels will help organise transport. And if you’re in a villa or self-catering stay, the city’s modern malls and fresh food markets make it easy to stock up between excursions. Whether you're after culture, coast, or comfort, Muscat delivers.

Our pick of the best places to stay in Muscat provide luxury or simplicity within easy reach of all the sights.

For luxury

  • The Chedi is a luxurious, 21 acres beach resort with sophisticated furnishings and a contemporary feel. There are around 150 rooms and eight restaurants along with a fantastic pool and top of the range spa. There’s also a private beach.
  • The Al Husn has been inspired by royal Arabian palaces, so you can imagine that the hotel is equipped with every luxury you can think of! As well as superb accommodation, there's a private beach, nightclub, restaurants and bars plus activities galore.
  • A bold, contemporary choice with oceanfront flair, W Muscat brings playful design, lively social spaces, and a standout rooftop pool. It’s ideal for travellers seeking luxury with a side of energy—think DJs, spa treatments and sleek rooms with sunset views.
  • Elegant and expansive, the Kempinski combines refined European hospitality with beachside bliss. Expect polished service, excellent dining, and stylish rooms just minutes from the airport—perfect for a luxury stopover or relaxed long weekend.

For families

  • The excellent Al Waha was built with families in mind. It's a gorgeous beach resort just outside Muscat with fabulous facilities - enormous oasis pool with slides, mini golf, diving school, tennis courts and extensive spa. There's also a wide range of restaurants and bars. 

For a beach resort

  • The Al Bandar is a luxury beach resort just down the coast from Muscat. Its rooms and suites are contemporary classic in style and many boast private patios and sea views. There are a plethora of restaurants to choose from, plus beach bar and sea-based activities for all ages.
  • The Al Bustan Palace has long been a favourite Muscat beach resort, and has recently undergone extensive refurbishment. Set amid 200 acres right on the coast, it boasts classically elegant accommodation, a range of dining options, an enormous Six Senses spa, and extensive programme of activities for both young and old.

For an apartment or villa

  • If you've decided that a self catering property would be more suitable for your holiday, then we recommend you visit our online booking partner Booking.com where they have a wide selection for all tastes and budgets.

Travel information

  • Numerous air services arrive to Muscat International Airport, located only 15 - 20 minutes from the city (depending which part of Muscat you are staying). Taxis are abundant and generally use meters.
  • Best time to visit - Oman has a reliably warm climate and, as long as you avoid the scorching summer months between June and August, can be visited any time. The weather is at its most pleasant from October through to April,when temperatures are warm but cooler than the sweltering summer months.
  • If you plan to hire a car, we recommend you visit our online partner Rentalcars for the best prices.

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The best hotels in Muscat

Al Bandar Hotel

Muscat

A Five Star luxury resort in Muscat on the coast. Contemporary classic rooms and suites with private patios, sea-facing views and all the mod cons. Seven restaurants to choose from, pool, private beach and banquet halls. A great choice for a family holiday.

  • Beach Life
  • 5* Luxury
  • Views
  • Restaurant
from $190 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Al Bustan Palace

Muscat

Barefoot luxury with a private beach, a central lagoon, and premier restaurants. Elegant contemporary rooms and suites with all the mod cons, private balconies, sea-facing/lagoon views. Excellent spa facilities, diving spots, and pool areas. A superbly opulent beach holiday.

  • Foodies - One of the area's premier dining spots.
  • Beach Life
  • Wellbeing
  • Luxury
from $273 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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W Muscat

Muscat

A luxury hotel in Muscat’s lively Shatti Al Qurum Beach area, blending modern style with local flair. The vibrant decor creates an effortlessly chic vibe, from the trendy rooftop bar to the stunning pools. With top-tier dining and a full-service spa, it’s the ultimate urban escape.

  • Great walks - Stroll along Shatti Al Qurum's golden sands, where gentle waves meet palm-lined shores, ideal for morning walks or sunset views
  • Sights nearby - Discover Oman's rich heritage at the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, a masterpiece of Islamic architecture just a short drive away
  • Local markets - Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Mutrah Souq, where traditional Omani crafts and spices await your exploration
  • Watersports - Experience the thrill of water sports at Qurum Beach, including jet skiing, parasailing, and kayaking along the coastline
from $226 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Kempinski Hotel Muscat

Muscat

A five-star hotel in Muscat's vibrant Al Mouj, offering a blend of modern design and Omani charm. Its contemporary decor pairs perfectly with luxurious facilities, including 11 restaurants, a bowling alley, and a spa. With beaches, pools, and plenty of activities, it’s the ultimate urban retreat.

  • Local exploring - For those craving adventure, discover Muscat’s hidden gems like the Hajar Mountains and turquoise wadis, just a short drive away
  • Beach Life - Unwind on six kilometres of pristine coastline, with stunning views and endless water activities right at your doorstep
  • Sights nearby - Discover Muscat's rich heritage at the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, a masterpiece of Islamic architecture just 13km away
  • Other Activities - Embark on a thrilling desert safari with dune bashing and camel rides, immersing yourself in Oman's vast landscapes
from $288 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Al Husn Hotel

Muscat (Qantab)

A royal Arabian palace inspired hotel on a peninsula with its own private beach, nightclub, restaurants, cafes and bars. Luxury rooms and suites, contemporary in style, have their own private balconies and all the mod cons. A sophisticated beach holiday.

  • Beach Life
  • 5* Luxury
  • Views
  • Diving - 10 sites at the nearby island of Fahal and the wreck of the 84-metre vessel Al Munassir.
from $472 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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The Chedi, Muscat

Muscat ( Way No. 3215 .O. Box 964 Al Khuwair,)

Barefoot luxury in a 21 acre beach resort in Muscat. Classic contemporary rooms and suites with all the mod cons and sophisticated furnishings. Private beach, fantastic pool, eight restaurants to choose from, and a top of the range spa. Total pampering.

  • Foodies - Eight restaurants including Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, Asian and Indian.
  • Beach Life
  • Spa breaks
  • Wellbeing
from $466 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Al Waha Hotel

Muscat

A beach resort just outside Muscat with fantastic kids facilities. An enormous oasis pool with slides, diving school, tennis courts, and mini golf. Simple contemporary rooms with private balconies. Extensive spa, restaurant, cafes, and beach bars. Ideal for a family beach holiday.

  • Child friendly - The hotel has been created with families in mind.
  • Beach Life
  • Families
  • Family
from $1053 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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