Muscat is the capital city of Oman on the coast of the Gulf of Oman. To visit, you need an Oman visa. Muscat is special because it mixes old history with modern life. As you walk the streets, you will see ancient forts, castles, a grand mosque, and a beautiful palace. These places tell the story of Oman’s past and culture. Even if you are a kid in 6th grade, you can enjoy these attractions easily. Let’s find out why these historical places in and around Muscat are so amazing!
Historical Places In & Near Muscat
Nizwa Fort – Nizwa
- Built in the 17th century by Sultan Al Ya’ruba to protect Nizwa city
- It is strong and round. The tower is about 30 meters tall. There are small holes for popping cannons, many doors, staircases, rooms, and halls.
- Inside is a museum with old tools and objects. From the top, you see lovely views of the town and mountains.
- Location: Nizwa, Oman
- Timings: 8 am to 8 pm (Friday shorter hours)
Bahla Fort – Bahla
- A UNESCO World Heritage Site from around the 12th–15th centuries, built by the Bani Nebhan tribe.
- The fort is huge, with thick walls made from mud bricks and big towers. There’s even a 13 km old wall.
- It is famous for its size, and some people say ghost stories happen at night!
- Location: Bahla, about 200 km from Muscat.
- Timings: 8 am to 7 pm daily
Jabreen Castle – near Bahla
- Built in the mid‑17th century by Imam Bil‑Arab Bin Sultan. It served as a home, school, and government seat.
- The castle is full of beautiful rooms, painted ceilings, a library, and even a small mosque.
- Location: 5 km from Bahla, near Nizwa in Ad Dakhiliyah region.
- Timings: 9 am to 4 pm Saturday–Thursday; Friday 8–11 am
Al Alam Palace – Old Muscat
- This is the ceremonial palace of the Sultan of Oman. It was built in 1972 between the Jalali and Mirani forts.
- You cannot enter inside, but from the outside it’s bright with blue and gold, and has tall columns. It’s very popular for pictures.
- Location: Old Muscat, between Jalali and Mirani Forts.
- Open Times: You can view and walk near it any time
Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque – Muscat
- Opened in 2001, it is the largest mosque in Oman, built to celebrate 30 years of Sultan Qaboos’s rule.
- It fits up to 20,000 people and features a huge dome, five tall minarets, one gigantic chandelier, and the second-largest hand-woven carpet in the world.
- Non‑Muslim visitors can go inside from 8 am to 11 am Saturday to Thursday. It’s closed to tourists on Fridays. Muslims can visit any time outside visiting hours.
- Entry is free, though recently some places mention a managed fee, but official sources say no fee.
- Dress Code:
- Men: long pants and sleeves
- Women: long dress, loose clothes, pants or skirt to ankle, headscarf
- Fun Things to See: enormous Persian carpet, big chandelier, carved mosaics, quiet gardens, and a peaceful walk around
- Location: Al Ghubrah/Bawshar district, about 12–13 km from airport, reachable by taxi, car, or bus lines A1, 1, 8, 12 (stop named Al Maha about a 13‑min walk)
Conclusion
Muscat and its nearby towns have many wonderful historical places. From strong forts like Nizwa and Bahla, to the beautiful Jabreen Castle, to the colorful Al Alam Palace, and the stunning Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque — each place tells Oman’s grand story. They are easy for kids to understand and love. If you or your family plan a trip to Muscat, be sure to add these places to your list. You will feel like stepping into history while enjoying the beauty and Muscat historical places.
FAQs for Young Readers
1. Why are these places important?
These places show how Oman’s kings and people built forts and buildings a long time ago to protect, learn, and pray. They show how proud Omanis are of their culture.
2. Can kids visit all these places?
Yes! Kids below 12 often pay less or enter free (like in Nizwa Fort). Just follow the rules and go with an adult.
3. Is there any cost to see the mosque?
No, visiting the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is free for tourists. Some discuss fees, but official updates say there is no charge for non‑Muslims.
4. Can non‑Muslims go into the mosque?
Yes. Visitors who are not Muslim can enter from 8 am to 11 am, Saturday through Thursday. On Fridays the mosque is closed to tourists but stays open for worshippers.
5. What clothes should we wear in the mosque?
- Men: long pants and a shirt with sleeves
- Women: clothes that cover arms, legs, and hair (headscarf)
- Loose and modest clothes only. Loose abayas and scarves are available to rent at the mosque gate.
6. What’s the best time to visit the mosque?
Go early at 8 am on a weekday (Saturday–Thursday). It’s less crowded, cooler, and peaceful
