Muscat Transportation – Taxi, Train, Bus & Airport Tips

Muscat Transportation

Muscat is the capital of Oman, and is not only the largest metropolitan area in the nation but also the seat of government. There are many ways to get around Muscat, with transportation options via taxi and bus.

Airport

Muscat International Airport, formerly known as Seeb Airport, is the main airport in Oman and the hub for Oman Air. It is a small airport, though it is under expansion. All passengers disembark from their flights on the tarmac before taking buses to the reception hall. Foreign visitors should follow the signs to the visa counter to get their entrance paperwork upon arrival. From there, you must make a brief visit to immigration to receive your visa receipt. It’s not unusual for customs officials to ask you about details of your journey, including how long you intend to stay and the name of the hotel you’ll be staying at.

Oman Air connects Muscat to distant parts of the world. The inflight service is considered above average, there is an LCD display on each seat, and there is a wide selection of movies to choose from. There are also free toiletry packs containing toothbrushes, toothpaste, and socks.

Taxi

Traveling within Muscat can be a bit of a challenge because the city is spread out between mountains. Taxis are generally available and don’t run by meters, so make sure you ask your hotel to estimate how much it will cost to reach your destination.

Abu Hamed al Balushi is a recommended taxi company that features prompt service and GPS systems that make getting around much easier. If you’re ordering a taxi from a hotel or other accommodations, you may want to ask the receptionist to make the phone call, as there are occasional language barriers.

Bus

Buses connect Muscat to distant cities and to locations within the city as well. The Oman National Bus Company will take you to destinations as distant as Dubai. Within the city, the local bus transportation is quite affordable, though the quality of the ride varies from bus to bus.

Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about transportation in Muscat.