A Portuguese-era fort on the western side of Muscat harbour, built in the 1580s and reopened to visitors in 2025 after restoration, with ramparts and views over Al Alam Palace and the bay.
Al Mirani Fort is a Portuguese-era fort on the western side of Muscat harbour in Old Muscat, built in the 1580s and facing Al Jalali Fort across the bay with Al Alam Palace between them. It was reopened to visitors in 2025 after restoration, which makes it one of the few Muscat forts where foreign visitors can go inside. Entry is ticketed, and the fee and weekly schedule vary, so checking the ticketing page before visiting is advisable. Visitors can walk the ramparts, explore the courtyards and towers, and look out over Al Alam Palace, the harbour and the surrounding hills, with the palace and Al Jalali Fort providing the classic Muscat photograph. The fort is usually open daily from about 8:00AM, and a visit takes around an hour. Early morning is the best time, as the stone ramparts have little shade and heat builds quickly. Midday brings the largest tour groups and the strongest sun. Sturdy shoes are useful on uneven stone steps, and bringing water is sensible. Typical photography spots include the upper walls looking across to the palace plaza, the cannon positions and the harbour edge. Some areas can be closed for conservation work or official events, so access may differ from day to day. Children under about six are generally free. The fort is reached by taxi from Muttrah in about 10 minutes, or on foot from the Al Alam Palace plaza, and it combines naturally with the National Museum, Bait Al Zubair Museum and the Omani French Museum.
| Admission | Adult Ticketed for foreign visitors; fee varies, check the ticketing page · Child Children under 6 generally free |
|---|---|
| Hours | Daily from approx 8:00AM; closing time and weekly schedule vary, check the ticketing page before visiting |
| Typical visit | 1 hour |
| Best time | Early morning before the heat |
| Getting there | Taxi from Muttrah about 10 minutes (OMR 2-3, approx $5-8); walk from Al Alam Palace plaza |
| Address | Al Alam Street, Old Muscat, Muscat, Oman |
Location
Al Alam Street, Old Muscat, Muscat, Oman
23.6169, 58.5953 View on map
Highlights
- Ramparts with views over Al Alam Palace and the harbour
- Restored 1580s Portuguese fortification
- Rare chance to enter a Muscat fort
- Classic view across the bay to Al Jalali Fort
- Short walk from Old Muscat museums
Tips for visiting
- Check the ticketing page for current fees and opening days
- Go early before heat and tour groups
- Wear sturdy shoes for uneven stone steps
- Bring water; shade is limited on the ramparts
- Allow about one hour
- Combine with Al Alam Palace and nearby museums
When to visit
Early morning between October and April offers cooler air and quieter ramparts.
Accessibility
The fort has uneven stone surfaces, steps and ramps, so access is limited for wheelchair users. Visitors with mobility needs should check conditions before visiting.
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Frequently asked questions
Is Al Mirani Fort open to visitors?
Yes. It reopened in 2025 after restoration and is ticketed for foreign visitors, with schedules that vary.
How long does a visit take?
About one hour is typical for the ramparts and courtyards.
Is it worth it for kids?
Many children enjoy the ramparts and towers, though steps and drops need supervision. Children under about six are generally free.
Is photography allowed?
Photography is generally allowed in public areas of the fort, including the ramparts.