Muscat

Muscat is the capital and largest city of Oman, situated on the Gulf of Oman in the northeastern part of the country. It is the political, economic, and cultural center of Oman, hosting government ministries, the main international airport, and the country’s primary seaport.

Geography and climate: The city sits on a rocky coastline with the Qurum hills rising inland; it experiences a hot desert climate with high temperatures for most of the year and mild winters, while rainfall is scarce.

History and landmarks: The area has ancient roots as a maritime trading hub. In the 16th and 17th centuries it was fortified by the Portuguese, who built the forts of Al Jalali and Al Mirani overlooking the harbor. After the 1970 ascent of Sultan Qaboos, Muscat underwent rapid modernization. Notable sites include the Al Alam Palace, the nearby forts, the Muttrah Corniche and souq, the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, and the Royal Opera House Muscat.

Economy and transport: The economy is based on oil and gas, shipping, tourism, and public administration. The city is served by Muscat International Airport and the Port of Muscat, with related facilities nearby.

Demographics and culture: The population includes Omanis and expatriates from India, Africa, and Southeast Asia; Arabic is the official language, with English widely used in business. The culture features traditional markets, mosques, and museums.

Name and other uses: The term Muscat can also refer to Muscat grapes, a group of cultivars used for eating and winemaking, most famously muscat varieties. The city’s name is derived from Arabic and has historical variants such as Mascate in Portuguese.