Port Sultan Qaboos
A working commercial port offering scenic harbor views, a vibrant fish market, and a long boardwalk leading to Muscat's attractions.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temperatures, vibrant market
Port Sultan Qaboos
Best Time
Cooler temperatures, vibrant market
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A working commercial port offering scenic harbor views, a vibrant fish market, and a long boardwalk leading to Muscat's attractions.
"Enjoy picturesque views of the harbor and a long, clean boardwalk perfect for leisurely strolls."
🚢 Landing Card Reminder
Cruise passengers must return landing cards upon re-boarding to avoid fines. Keep it safe!
🚶♀️ Stroll the Boardwalk
The waterfront promenade is extensive and offers beautiful views for a long, relaxing walk.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Fish Market Buzz
Adjacent to the port
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the fish market, a sensory delight with fresh catches and local interactions.

Harbor Views & Boardwalk
Port Sultan Qaboos waterfront
Enjoy picturesque views of the harbor and a long, clean boardwalk perfect for leisurely strolls along the Gulf.

Proximity to Old Souk
Short walk from the port
Discover the charm of the old souk, a traditional Omani marketplace offering local crafts and goods.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Port Sultan Qaboos
Exploring Muscat's Waterfront
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Does Sultan Qaboos Ship allows tourists or visitors to visit inside?
🚢 Landing Card Reminder
Cruise passengers must return landing cards upon re-boarding to avoid fines. Keep it safe!
🚶♀️ Stroll the Boardwalk
The waterfront promenade is extensive and offers beautiful views for a long, relaxing walk.
Stop in Muscat during cruise
Hello! I am an American visiting Muscat for the first time today until the 28th – would love to hear some local's opinions on where to eat and shop
☕ Coffee & Views
There's a great coffee store near the port for a refreshing break with a view.
⏰ Plan Around Hours
Research opening times carefully, as some venues have limited hours due to cultural practices.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚢 Landing Card Reminder
Cruise passengers must return landing cards upon re-boarding to avoid fines. Keep it safe!
🚶♀️ Stroll the Boardwalk
The waterfront promenade is extensive and offers beautiful views for a long, relaxing walk.
☕ Coffee & Views
There's a great coffee store near the port for a refreshing break with a view.
⏰ Plan Around Hours
Research opening times carefully, as some venues have limited hours due to cultural practices.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Port Sultan Qaboos is appreciated for its scenic harbor views and the extensive, clean boardwalk perfect for strolls. Visitors enjoy the proximity to the vibrant fish market and the old souk, offering a glimpse into local life. However, it's noted as a working commercial port rather than a dedicated tourist terminal, requiring awareness of operational aspects and landing card procedures.
"Large fish market, several meat shops and a great coffee store. Nice view of the harbor and the start of the boardwalk/malecon. A wide sidewak for walking along the gulf. It goes on for several kms and will bring you to several parks, forts, and a very swimmable tiny beach east of town."
Arkk Smith
"Very clean city. I was not able to see everything because of cultural limitations on times different venues were open. Research and plan your trip careful if you have limited time."
Steven Ong
"Very beautiful view from the port , not far from the old sook and quite grand to have few ships at the same time very clean......5 min walk to Fish market.."
Krishan Sahal
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Port Sultan Qaboos is conveniently located near Muscat's city center. Taxis are readily available and are the most straightforward way to reach the port. The ride is usually short and affordable.
Yes, cruise ships dock at Port Sultan Qaboos. However, it's a commercial port, so passengers disembark at freight berths. You'll receive a landing card upon arrival.
Absolutely! The port area features a long, clean boardwalk that leads to parks and is a short walk from the old souk and the fish market.
Taxis are the primary mode of transport from the port. They can take you to various attractions within Muscat, including the souks and historical sites.
While there might be local bus routes, taxis are generally more convenient and widely used by visitors to reach Port Sultan Qaboos directly.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
For UK citizens, a visa is not required before arrival when visiting by cruise ship. However, rules can vary for other nationalities or if you are joining or leaving a ship in Oman.
The port area itself and the public boardwalk are generally free to access. There are no specific entry fees for these areas.
The duty-free shop at Port Sultan Qaboos is typically open from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Yes, if your shore leave is delayed, there is a fine of 10 Omani Riyals (approximately 30 USD).
The port itself does not typically sell tickets for attractions. It's best to check the individual opening hours and ticketing procedures for nearby souks or forts.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Port Sultan Qaboos offers a lively fish market, a pleasant boardwalk for walking, and is a gateway to the old souk and nearby parks. It's a great spot to experience local life.
Yes, the harbor views, the bustling fish market, and the waterfront promenade offer excellent opportunities for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset.
There's a duty-free shop within the port gates offering Wi-Fi. Nearby, the old souk provides a traditional shopping experience for crafts and local goods.
While the port itself might have limited dining, there's a great coffee store mentioned, and the proximity to the old souk means you'll find food options nearby.
It's a commercial port with a lively atmosphere, especially around the fish market. The boardwalk offers a more relaxed experience with beautiful sea views.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The area around Port Sultan Qaboos is known for its fish market, and you're a short walk from the old souk, which offers various local Omani dishes and snacks.
While specific restaurant names aren't always highlighted, exploring the old souk will lead you to authentic eateries. A good coffee store is also noted for a break.
You can expect fresh seafood from the fish market and traditional Omani cuisine when exploring the nearby old souk.
While you can buy fresh fish at the market, dedicated eating establishments directly within the market might be limited. It's more about the experience of the market itself.
Traditional Omani cuisine often includes rice dishes and vegetable preparations. Exploring the souk's eateries should offer some vegetarian choices.
📸 📸 Photography
The harbor with its ships, the lively fish market, and the expansive boardwalk offering sea views are prime photography locations.
Mornings offer vibrant activity at the fish market, while late afternoons provide beautiful golden hour light along the boardwalk.
Generally, yes, you can photograph the ships from the public areas. However, be mindful of any restricted zones or security personnel.
While generally permissible, it's always wise to be discreet when photographing people, especially in local markets, and to avoid sensitive port infrastructure.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is useful for capturing both wide harbor shots and details in the market. A wide-angle lens can be great for the boardwalk.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting the nearby parks accessible from the boardwalk for a more relaxed family outing. Pack snacks and water, as dedicated family facilities might be limited directly within the port. The proximity to the old souk also offers a chance for families to explore local crafts, though keeping a close eye on children in crowded areas is advised.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Opting for taxis strategically or understanding local bus routes can help manage transportation expenses. While there's a duty-free shop, focusing on local eateries in the souk will likely be more budget-friendly than tourist-oriented cafes. Remember to carry small change for any impromptu purchases.
🚢 Cruise Ship Passengers
Take advantage of the duty-free shop for any last-minute purchases. Plan your shore excursions or independent exploration around the ship's schedule and be mindful of the port's operational nature. The port's proximity to the city makes it a convenient starting point for exploring Muscat.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Port Sultan Qaboos as a Working Port
While it's a functional port, the surrounding area has been developed to offer amenities for visitors. The port is situated close to Muscat's city center, making it accessible for exploration. A duty-free shop with Wi-Fi is available within the port gates, providing a convenient spot for passengers.
It's important for visitors to be aware of the port's operational nature and to plan their activities accordingly, respecting any security measures or restricted areas. The port's commercial activity contributes to the vibrant local economy and offers a unique glimpse into Oman's maritime trade.
Exploring the Waterfront Promenade
The promenade connects the port area to various points of interest, including several parks and even a small, swimmable beach located to the east of the main port. It's a fantastic way to experience Muscat's clean coastline and get a feel for the city's relaxed atmosphere. The walk offers picturesque vistas of the harbor, with ships coming and going, adding to the maritime charm.
This waterfront is ideal for capturing scenic photos, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. It's a refreshing contrast to the bustling activity of the port itself, offering a tranquil space for reflection and enjoyment of the coastal scenery.
The Vibrant Fish Market Experience
Visitors can observe a wide variety of fresh seafood, from local fish species to other marine delicacies. While it's primarily a wholesale market, the energy and sights are captivating. It's a great spot to understand the local fishing culture and perhaps even sample some incredibly fresh seafood if opportunities arise.
The market's proximity to the port underscores the importance of the sea to Muscat's economy and daily life. The sights, sounds, and smells of the fish market offer a genuine glimpse into the heart of this coastal community.
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