Muscat

Oman's coastal capital occupies a dramatic setting between the Al Hajar mountains and the Gulf of Oman, with the historic core concentrated around a natural harbour flanked by Portuguese-built forts. The Mutrah Corniche curves past a busy fishing port and a traditional souk renowned for silver jewellery, frankincense, and antiques. Unlike many Gulf capitals, Muscat retains strict building height controls and a coherent low-rise architectural character in its older districts.