Muscat: The Jewel of the Arabian Peninsula

• Helloمرحبا
  [marhaban]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wadaeana]
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [laa]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [min fadlik]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [aadhran]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kayfa haluk?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bikhayr. wa ant?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatahadath al'inglizia?]
• I don't understandلا أفهم
  [la afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأريد أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [uridu an ara alqaimah, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
  [ana la akul allahm]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [fi sahtik!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأريد أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [uridu an adfae, min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [alnajdah!]
• Go away!انصرف!
  [insarif!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [iatisil bialsuratu!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بالطبيب!
  [iatisil bialtabib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت الطريق
  [laqad dalalt altariq]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أريد أن أشتري...
  [uridu an ashtari...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتطلع
  [ana faqat atatallaa]
• How much is it?كم سعره؟
  [kam saeruh?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hatha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك خفض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuka khafd alsaeer?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam alsaaah?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [alsaaah alwahidah]
• Half past (10)العاشرة والنصف
  [alashirah walnusf]
• Morningصباح
  [sabah]
• Afternoonبعد الظهر
  [baad althuhr]
• Eveningمساء
  [masa]
• Yesterdayأمس
  [ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [alyawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنين
  [ithnayn]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalatha]
• 4أربعة
  [arbaah]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsah]
• 6ستة
  [sittah]
• 7سبعة
  [sabah]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamania]
• 9تسعة
  [tisah]
• 10عشرة
  [asharah]

• Where's a/the...?أين...
  [ayna...]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma huwa alaanwan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuka an tureeni (ala alkharitah)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى يأتي الحافلة التالية؟
  [mata yati alhafilat altaliat?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ....)
  [tazkirah (ila ....)]

Muscat's history dates back to antiquity, with evidence of habitation as early as 6,000 years ago. The city has long been a critical port due to its strategic location along ancient maritime trade routes. Known for its seafaring traditions, Muscat connected the Arabian Peninsula with the civilizations of the Indus Valley, Mesopotamia, and beyond. This rich maritime heritage is reflected in the Omani culture, where traditional dhow building and navigation techniques have been passed down through generations.

In the 7th century, Muscat embraced Islam, transforming the city's cultural and societal landscapes. The spread of Islam brought new architectural styles, educational institutions, and governance structures. Mosques began to dot the city's landscape, and Muscat became an essential center for Islamic learning and scholarship. This period also saw the beginning of Oman's association with the powerful Umayyad and Abbasid Caliphates.

In the early 16th century, the Portuguese, led by Afonso de Albuquerque, captured Muscat, establishing it as a key base for their Indian Ocean empire. The Portuguese constructed several forts, including the iconic Al Jalali and Al Mirani forts, which still stand today as reminders of this turbulent period. The occupation lasted until 1650, when the Omanis, under the leadership of Imam Sultan bin Saif, successfully expelled the Portuguese forces.

Following the expulsion of the Portuguese, the Ya'aruba dynasty rose to prominence, ushering in a golden age for Muscat and Oman. The Ya'aruba rulers focused on unifying the country and expanding their maritime empire. They established a formidable fleet, reclaiming Oman's dominance over the Indian Ocean trade routes. This period saw a flourishing of architecture, with the construction of grand mosques, palaces, and fortifications across Muscat.

In 1744, Ahmed bin Sa'id al-Busaidi founded the Al Said dynasty, which continues to rule Oman today. Under the Al Said rulers, Muscat solidified its position as the political and economic heart of the nation. The city saw significant urban development, with the construction of new markets, residential areas, and administrative buildings. The Al Said era also marked the beginning of diplomatic relations with European powers, further enhancing Muscat's global significance.

The early 20th century was marked by internal strife between the coastal Sultanate of Muscat and the interior Imamate of Oman. This conflict was resolved with the Treaty of Seeb in 1920, brokered by the British, which granted autonomy to the interior while recognizing the Sultan's authority over the coast. This treaty laid the groundwork for the modern state of Oman, with Muscat continuing to serve as its capital.

The modern history of Muscat began with the ascension of Sultan Qaboos bin Said in 1970. His reign initiated a period of rapid modernization and development, known as the Omani Renaissance. Muscat transformed into a bustling metropolis, with extensive infrastructure projects, educational reforms, and healthcare improvements. The city also embraced cultural preservation, maintaining its historical sites while integrating contemporary urban planning. Today, Muscat stands as a vibrant blend of tradition and modernity, reflecting Oman's rich history and dynamic future.

Muscat is served by Muscat International Airport (MCT), which is located about 32 kilometers from the city center. The airport is well-connected with major cities around the world. From the airport, you can take a taxi, rent a car, or use the airport shuttle services to reach your accommodation in the city. Alternatively, if you are traveling from within Oman, you can use intercity buses or drive to Muscat.

Muscat has a range of transportation options. Taxis are widely available and can be hailed on the street or booked via apps like OTaxi. Public buses operated by Mwasalat cover major routes and are an economical way to get around. Renting a car is also a popular option for tourists who wish to explore the city and its surroundings at their own pace. Be aware that driving is on the right side of the road, and traffic can be heavy during peak hours.

The official currency of Oman is the Omani Rial (OMR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are plentiful throughout Muscat, and currency exchange services are available at the airport, banks, and exchange bureaus.

Muscat is generally a safe city for tourists. However, like any urban area, it is wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar areas and be cautious with your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific areas known for high crime rates targeting tourists, but staying vigilant is always recommended.

In case of emergency, dial 9999 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Major hospitals in Muscat include the Royal Hospital, Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, and Khoula Hospital. Pharmacies are widespread and can provide over-the-counter medications for minor health issues. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in public places. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Women should cover their shoulders and knees, and men should avoid wearing shorts in public. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always dress modestly when visiting mosques, and women should cover their hair. Public Transport: Do be respectful and considerate of other passengers. Avoid eating and drinking on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a polite 'As-salamu alaykum' (peace be upon you) and respond with 'Wa alaykum as-salam' (and upon you be peace). A handshake is common among men, but men should wait for a woman to extend her hand first. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't eat or drink in public during daylight hours during Ramadan, as it is considered disrespectful.

To experience Muscat like a local, visit the Mutrah Souq, a traditional market where you can buy spices, textiles, and handicrafts. Take a stroll along the Mutrah Corniche for stunning views of the harbor and the old town. Engage with locals, as they are known for their hospitality and friendliness. Don't miss visiting the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, one of the largest and most beautiful mosques in the world. For a unique experience, explore the wadis (valleys) and beaches around Muscat, such as Wadi Shab and Qurum Beach.