Muscat is one of the few ancient cities in the Sultanate of Oman. Visitors coming to the Sultanate of Oman soon realise that Muscat Governorate with all its peculiarities convey an impression of aged goodness and benevolence.
As it is the capital of Oman, Muscat Governorate combines very beautiful cities and towns that combine careful modern planning and ancient items of value. The moment visitors leave Muscat International Airport, they will see Muscat Governorate’s modern roads and bustling streets, which are well designed for smooth flow of traffic. Although some roads are surrounded by commercial buildings, it is uncommon to see anything that interferes with the utter calm and unruffled repose of the place or causes loud noise and chaos.
The art of designing and building residential and commercial structures in Muscat Governorate reflects a modern architectural touch. Oman has long adhered to a fixed building practice which does not permit the construction of very tall buildings such as skyscrapers. Households in Muscat Governorate as well as the rest of Oman do not exceed two stories, combining the privacy of a home enjoying freedom from unauthorised intrusion with freedom from disturbance or turmoil of the surroundings and with residents affording and enjoying contentment and security.
As you drive through Sultan Qaboos Road, visitors come across Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Al Ghubra. The mosque is an Islamic architectural masterpiece, a supreme artistic achievement that reflects Oman’s long Islamic tradition. The mosque can be distinguished by its unique minarets and golden dome and serves as a hub for Islamic tolerance and Oman’s beacon for indulgence for beliefs and practices that calls for coexistence and tolerance with other Islamic schools of thought and religions differing from or conflicting with their own inclinations.
There are also beaches in Al Seeb, Qurum and Muttrah, representing seashore areas. Oman restricts any acts that would result in the pollution of beaches, ensuring that all beaches remain clean and tidy as well as free from dirt, filthy or soiling substances at all times. The beaches are characterised by tranquillity and cleanliness. Visitors would definitely take pleasure and satisfaction in walking without any interruption of their peace, quiet, or calm. Beaches also provide a safe place for families to get together and barbecue.
A visit to Muscat Governorate would not be complete without visiting the ancient city of Muttrah. The city has one of the oldest souqs (markets) in Oman.
Located on the corniche beach, which is a perfect place and ideal spot for relaxation, equilibrium and walking. Visitors may wander through the market's narrow alleys, Muttrah streets astir with shoppers, with winding courses and old paths, which make various meanders. Shops of all kinds can be found in Muttrah... from shops selling jewellery and artefacts to traditional clothing, all of these shops are characteristic of and resulting from Omanis particular institution, period, trend and individuals.
Visitors to Muttrah can buy Omani khanjars, intricately embroidered Omani attire, Omani incense, as well as dates and Omani sweets. In addition to a few museums, Muttrah fish market is another spot that is worth visiting. Muttrah is truly a city worth visiting!
Dr Musallam Al Ma'ani
The writer is Dean of Al Zahra College for Women, Sultanate of Oman
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