Travel Oman: Walking along Muttrah Corniche

One of the oldest and most iconic locations in Muscat, the Muttrah Corniche has retained its old-world charm while still moving forward with the times. Walking along the Corniche, as you feel the sea breeze waft across you and inhale the sharp, salty smells of the ocean, it isn’t uncommon to see both those who live in the country as well as tourists flock to Muttrah Souq. If you’re looking for a taste of Oman, one that encompasses both the old and the new, then the Muttrah Souq is probably the best place to start.
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A peek into history
In earlier times, Omani sailors piloting traditional wooden dhows would set sail to faraway lands, giving Oman’s people a name as a seafaring race. The sea has always been a source of great economic value for Oman and continues to be so to this day. Until very recently, Mina Sultan Qaboos was the country’s primary port.
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What to see
The Corniche acts as the conduit between Port Sultan Qaboos and the old, walled city of Muscat, which is home to Al Alam Palace, one of the official residences of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said. Muttrah Souq, one of the country’s oldest bazaars, sells both traditional Omani goods as well as modern-day wares. Mina Sultan Qaboos is being redeveloped as a waterfront property as part of the country’s tourism development drive and is also where cruise ships stop when they arrive in Muscat.