Muscat attractions

5 top sights, in our order of priority for a first visit.

1. 1Sultan Qaboos Grand MosqueMuseums & culture · Allow 1 h 30 minA grand mosque with a huge Persian carpet and chandelier, open to non-Muslim visitors in the morning.
2. 2Mutrah Souq & CornicheGuided tours · Allow 2 hA traditional market of frankincense, silver, textiles and spices, beside the waterfront corniche.
3. 3Wahiba Sands DesertOutdoors · Allow Full dayGolden dunes with Bedouin camps, dune bashing and stargazing, about three hours from Muscat.
4. 4Wadi ShabOutdoors · Allow 6 hA canyon with turquoise pools, a short hike and a swim to a hidden waterfall cave.
5. 5Dolphin Watching CruiseCruises · Allow 2 h 30 minA boat trip along the coast to see pods of dolphins and enjoy views of the cliffs.