Riyam Park and Incense Burner

Riyam Park is a hillside public park on Al Riyam Street in Muttrah, Muscat, best known for its giant stone incense burner, or mabkhara, which stands on the ridge above Muttrah bay and has become a symbol of the city. The monument is a large white-and-stone sculpture in the shape of a traditional incense burner, referencing Oman's long frankincense trade. The park around it has paved paths, lawns, benches and picnic spots, and from the viewing terraces visitors see Muttrah harbour, the Corniche, dhows in the bay and the ridge-top forts. The park is free and typically open daily from about 8:00AM to 10:00PM, and a visit takes around 45 minutes. Sunset is the favoured time, when the burner and the bay are lit by low light and the heat has eased, and families fill the lawns in the evening. Midday is hot with little shade, so early morning or late afternoon is more comfortable. Photographers can frame the burner against the sky from below, or use it as a foreground with the harbour behind. The park is a short taxi ride of about five minutes from Muttrah Souq, and roadside parking is available at the base. Walking from the Corniche involves a climb. Visitors should respect families using the park, keep litter to bins and note that hours may vary, so checking locally is sensible. The site pairs well with Muttrah Fort, the souq and an evening walk on the Corniche.