Public transportation in Oman consists of buses, there isn’t a metro or trains. Public transportation is a more recent development in Muscat and as such it is difficult to rely on to be able to get around to all the places you want to go.

Distances between major attractions like the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Mutrah Souk, and Al Alam Palace are significant, and public transport options are limited. As such, most people rely on cars to get around.

Transportation Options in Muscat
1. Renting a Car
If you’re comfortable driving abroad, renting a car is a good way to get around.

Things to know
◦ Roads in Muscat are well-maintained, and signage is clear (in both Arabic and English).
◦ Parking is generally easy to find and free in most places.
◦ A car makes it easy to venture beyond Muscat, like taking a day trip to Wadi Shab or Nakhal Fort.
◦ You’ll need an international driving permit (IDP) if your license isn’t in English or Arabic.
◦ Opt for a GPS or use offline maps—Google Maps works well in Muscat.

2. Taxis
Taxis are a convenient way to get around, it is best to download one of the apps such as Otaxi. We do not have Uber or equivalent here so its the next best option and the fares are pretty reasonable. If you take a street taxi make sure to discuss the rate, they are supposed to have meters but sometimes don’t put them on so be sure to ask.

3. Public Buses
Muscat’s public bus system, run by Mwasalat, is affordable and safe but limited in coverage.

◦ Buses are air-conditioned and cost only a fraction of what taxis do.
◦ They’re great for traveling between major hubs, like the airport to Ruwi or Al Seeb to Mutrah.
◦ Routes don’t cover all tourist attractions, so you’ll still need another mode of transport to get around fully.

4. Walking and Cycling
While walking is enjoyable in some parts of Muscat, like the Mutrah Corniche or Qurum Beach area, it’s not practical for getting between attractions.

◦ Explore Mutrah Souk and Corniche on foot—it’s the best way to soak in the atmosphere.
◦ Stroll along Qurum Beach for a relaxing evening.
◦ There are limited cycling paths in Muscat, but some hotels offer bike rentals if you’re exploring nearby areas.

5. Private Tours and Transfers
For those who prefer hassle-free travel, private tours or pre-arranged transfers are a great option.

◦ Best for short visits where time is limited.
◦ Travelers who prefer door-to-door service.

My Recommendation
If you’re in Muscat for several days and are comfortable driving, I recommend renting a car—it’s the easiest and most flexible option especially for taking day trips. Use taxis or buses for shorter trips if you’re not comfortable driving. For specific areas like Mutrah or Qurum, walking is ideal.