Muscat is the capital of Oman, a low-rise coastal city of white buildings set between the Gulf of Oman and the rugged Hajar Mountains. Its old harbour district of Mutrah, the vast Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, the Royal Opera House and a string of quiet beaches make it one of the Gulf's most relaxed and culturally rooted capitals.
Family activities
Engaging experiences for travellers of every age.
Dolphin watching and snorkelling boat trip
A boat trip from Marina Bandar Al Rowdha along the rocky Muscat coast to see pods of dolphins, with a snorkelling stop. Listed morning departures run about 10AM-1PM; transfers and food are extra.
Duration: 3 hours
National Museum of Oman
A large, air-conditioned museum in Old Muscat covering Oman's maritime trade, frankincense, forts, and daily life, with multimedia galleries that hold the attention of school-age children.
Duration: 2-3 hours
Muttrah Corniche and Souq walk
A flat waterfront promenade with the Muttrah Fort above, ending in the covered Muttrah Souq with its frankincense, lanterns, and sweets. Best after 5PM when the heat eases.
Duration: 2-3 hours
Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
Open to non-Muslim visitors in the morning (roughly 8:30AM-11AM Saturday to Thursday). Everyone covers shoulders and knees and women wear a headscarf; children are welcome if able to stay quiet.
Duration: 1-1.5 hours
Qurum Beach and Al Qurum Natural Park
A long sand beach with calm swimming in winter and a nearby landscaped park with lawns, a lake, and playgrounds.
Duration: Half day
Oman Children's Museum
A hands-on science and culture centre on Sultan Qaboos Street near Qurum Natural Park, with interactive exhibits on sound, space, and the human body.
Duration: 2 hours
Bimmah Sinkhole (Hawiyat Najm Park)
A turquoise sinkhole with steps down to the water about 1.5 hours east of Muscat on the coastal Quriyat road, popular for a family swim in modest swimwear.
Duration: Half day including the drive
Royal Opera House Muscat family performances
The Royal Opera House in Shati Al Qurum hosts concerts and family-friendly shows in the October-May season; smart dress is required and the building can be seen in daytime from the gardens.
Duration: 2-3 hours
Family-friendly hotels
Accommodation designed with families in mind.
Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa
A three-hotel resort (Al Waha, Al Husn, Al Bandar) on a private bay south-east of Muscat with several pools, beaches, and children's programmes.
Family features: Kids' club, private beach, multiple pools, family rooms, water sports
Grand Hyatt Muscat
Large hotel in the Shatti Al Qurum district close to Qurum Beach, the Royal Opera House, and malls.
Family features: Pools, family rooms, restaurants, close to beach and shops
Al Bustan Palace, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel
A palace-style beachfront resort at Qantab with a private beach, landscaped gardens, and pools.
Family features: Private beach, pools, kids' activities, family suites
Dining with kids
Eating out as a family.
Omani and Gulf restaurants are very welcoming to children; many malls have family sections and play areas
Shawarma, grilled chicken, fresh juices, and plain rice dishes are easy choices for young children
Omani halwa and dates are common sweet treats; check ingredients for nut allergies
Lunch is a main meal; evenings are the best time for outdoor dining as the heat eases
Dining out during Ramadan: daytime eating in public is not allowed; plan meals in hotels or after sunset
Family travel tips
Practical advice for stress-free family trips.
Children aged 3 and under must use a child seat in vehicles; ask taxis or app services for one when booking or bring a portable seat
Between May and September plan outdoor time for before 9AM or after 5PM and use pools and indoor attractions at midday
Pack sun hats, SPF 50 sunscreen, and refillable water bottles; use bottled water for children
The family-friendly season is November to March when daytime highs are 25-30 degrees Celsius
Dress modestly in public, including children when visiting mosques and souqs