Radisson Collection Muscat, Hormuz Grand

Mutrah stretches along an attractive corniche of latticed buildings and mosque. It looks spectacular at sunset when the light casts shadows across the serrated crescent of mountains, while pavements, lights and fountains invite an evening stroll or a bike ride.

At the heart of Old Muscat is AlAlam Palace(“FlagPalace”), the most important of the six royal residences of the ruling monarch, Sultan Qaboos, which are dotted around Muscat, Salalah and Sohar. Built in 1972, the palace is Oman’s most flamboyant example of contemporary Islamic design, with two long wings centred on a colourful, cube-like central building, its flat, over hanging roof supported by extravagantly flared blue and gold columns

The gate Museum tells Oman’s long history, and focuses in particular on the history of the capital, Muscat.It also provides an explanation of the Falaj irrigation system Oman is famous for, in addition to Oman’s distinctive architecture, whether in the construction of niches in mosques, halls, doors or wooden arches.

Housed in an imposing new building in the heart of Old Muscat, the National Museum makes a fitting consort for the Sultan's Palace opposite. The emphasis of this contemporary museum is on quality rather than quantity, with space, light and height used to enhance the selective displays showcasing the heritage of Oman. Giant screens and high-tech devices bring the artifacts alive.