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✓ Updated December 2025

Weather data and travel information verified current

Best Time to Visit Muscat, Oman: Jan or Feb 2025

Muscat, Oman travel destination - scenic view of Sunrise Over the Al Hajar Mountains from Jebel Shams during ideal visiting season
Image: Al Alam Palace.jpg viaWikimedia Commons

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Quick Answer:

For a truly tranquil experience in Muscat, Oman, aim for the winter months between October and April. During this period, the air is pleasantly mild, perfect for exploring the city's stunning architecture and wandering through the fragrant souks without the intense heat. Imagine strolling along the Corniche as gentle breezes carry the scent of frankincense, or witnessing the sky ablaze with golden sunsets over the Gulf of Oman. This season offers a serene escape, allowing you to fully appreciate the calm beauty and rich culture of this Arabian jewel.

Best Months to Visit:

JanFebDec

Airport Code

MCT

Coordinates

23.59°, 58.39°

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Top Things to Do

Sunrise Over the Al Hajar Mountains from Jebel Shams

Embark on an early morning journey to the 'Grand Canyon of Arabia' at Jebel Shams. Witness the sun paint the rugged peaks and deep gorges in hues of orange and gold, a truly awe-inspiring spectacle. Consider a guided hike along the Rim Trail for unparalleled views, but be sure to wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water.

Wander Through Muttrah Souq's Labyrinthine Alleys

Lose yourself in the intoxicating aromas of frankincense and spices as you navigate the bustling Muttrah Souq. Beyond the glittering khanjar daggers and pashminas, seek out the quieter corners where local artisans craft intricate silver jewelry. Engage with the friendly vendors; a little polite bargaining can lead to delightful discoveries and a more authentic interaction.

A Culinary Journey at Bait Al Zubair Museum Café

After exploring the rich Omani heritage at Bait Al Zubair, linger at its charming café. This hidden gem offers a taste of authentic Omani cuisine in a tranquil courtyard setting, a welcome respite from the city's heat. Don't miss the chance to try their traditional Omani coffee, often served with sweet dates.

Dolphin Watching Cruise from Marina Bandar Al Rowdha

Set sail from Marina Bandar Al Rowdha for an exhilarating morning or afternoon dolphin watching excursion. The waters off Muscat are teeming with pods of playful dolphins, and the boat trips offer a refreshing perspective of the coastline. Opt for a smaller boat for a more intimate encounter with these magnificent marine creatures.

See all 8 things to do →

💡 Travel Tip: For the best value on hotels during this season, check current rates on Trip.com.

Essential Travel Tips

culture

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites like the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. For women, this means covering your shoulders, arms, and legs, and wearing a headscarf. Men should also avoid shorts and sleeveless shirts. It shows respect and helps you blend in more seamlessly.

transport

While taxis are readily available, consider using the Mowasalat app for booking official taxis. It offers fixed fares and allows you to track your driver, which can be more reliable and transparent than hailing a cab on the street, especially for longer journeys.

money

Omani Rials (OMR) are the local currency, and while credit cards are widely accepted in hotels and larger shops, always have some cash on hand for smaller souk purchases or local eateries. ATMs are plentiful, but it's wise to withdraw a bit more at once to minimize fees.

food

Don't leave Muscat without trying Shuwa, a traditional Omani dish of slow-cooked lamb or goat marinated in spices and wrapped in banana leaves. For an authentic experience, head to a local restaurant in Muttrah or Ruwi, and be prepared for a rich, flavorful feast.

packing

Pack light, breathable clothing made of natural fabrics like cotton or linen, as Muscat can get very hot and humid, especially from May to September. Don't forget a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high SPF sunscreen to protect yourself from the intense sun.

safety

Muscat is a very safe city with low crime rates, but it's always smart to be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded souks. Keep your valuables secure and avoid walking alone in deserted areas late at night, though this is rarely an issue.

💡 Travel Tip: If you're planning your trip, it's worth checking flight prices on Trip.com before you decide.

Weather Details

Jan
1 days
Feb
1 days
Mar
2 days
Apr
1 days
May
0 days
Jun
0 days
Jul
0 days
Aug
0 days
Sep
0 days
Oct
0 days
Nov
1 days
Dec
2 days

Monthly Weather Data Table

MonthHigh (°C)Low (°C)High (°F)Low (°F)Rainfall (mm)Rain DaysDaylight (h)
Jan26°C17°C79°F63°F5mm
1 days
10.7h
Feb27°C18°C81°F64°F2mm
1 days
11.2h
Mar30°C21°C86°F70°F10mm
2 days
12.1h
Apr34°C24°C93°F75°F3mm
1 days
12.9h
May38°C28°C100°F82°F0mm
0 days
13.5h
Jun39°C30°C102°F86°F0mm
0 days
13.8h
Jul37°C30°C99°F86°F0mm
0 days
13.6h
Aug36°C29°C97°F84°F0mm
0 days
13.0h
Sep36°C28°C97°F82°F0mm
0 days
12.3h
Oct35°C25°C95°F77°F1mm
0 days
11.5h
Nov31°C21°C88°F70°F5mm
1 days
10.9h
Dec28°C18°C82°F64°F10mm
2 days
10.5h

Muscat, Oman Month by Month: Complete Guide

Planning your trip to Muscat, Oman? Here's what to expect each month:

Jan in Muscat, Oman

⭐ Best Time

Weather

26°C°C / 79°F°F

1 days rainy days • 5mmmm

What to Expect

Winter season with cooler temperatures. Fewer tourists but some attractions may have limited hours.

Crowd Level

🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation

Quick Tip: Jan is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Feb in Muscat, Oman

⭐ Best Time

Weather

27°C°C / 81°F°F

1 days rainy days • 2mmmm

What to Expect

Late winter, beginning to warm up. Good for budget travelers seeking lower prices.

Crowd Level

🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation

Quick Tip: Feb is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Mar in Muscat, Oman

Weather

30°C°C / 86°F°F

2 days rainy days • 10mmmm

What to Expect

Spring begins, mild weather. Shoulder season with moderate crowds.

Crowd Level

🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation

Quick Tip: Mar offers a quieter experience with fewer tourists.

Apr in Muscat, Oman

Weather

34°C°C / 93°F°F

1 days rainy days • 3mmmm

What to Expect

Spring in full bloom. Pleasant temperatures and growing tourist activity.

Crowd Level

🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability

Quick Tip: Apr can be quite hot. Stay hydrated and plan indoor activities.

May in Muscat, Oman

Weather

38°C°C / 100°F°F

0 days rainy days • 0mmmm

What to Expect

Late spring, excellent weather. One of the best times to visit for most travelers.

Crowd Level

🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability

Quick Tip: May can be quite hot. Stay hydrated and plan indoor activities.

Jun in Muscat, Oman

Weather

39°C°C / 102°F°F

0 days rainy days • 0mmmm

What to Expect

Early summer, warm and sunny. Peak season begins, book accommodations early.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Jun can be quite hot. Stay hydrated and plan indoor activities.

Jul in Muscat, Oman

Weather

37°C°C / 99°F°F

0 days rainy days • 0mmmm

What to Expect

Peak summer season. Hot weather and highest tourist crowds. Most expensive time.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Jul can be quite hot. Stay hydrated and plan indoor activities.

Aug in Muscat, Oman

Weather

36°C°C / 97°F°F

0 days rainy days • 0mmmm

What to Expect

Peak summer continues. Very crowded but great weather for outdoor activities.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Aug can be quite hot. Stay hydrated and plan indoor activities.

Sep in Muscat, Oman

Weather

36°C°C / 97°F°F

0 days rainy days • 0mmmm

What to Expect

Early fall, shoulder season. Weather still good, crowds decreasing. Great value.

Crowd Level

🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability

Quick Tip: Sep can be quite hot. Stay hydrated and plan indoor activities.

Oct in Muscat, Oman

Weather

35°C°C / 95°F°F

0 days rainy days • 1mmmm

What to Expect

Fall season, mild temperatures. Lower crowds and good prices. Comfortable for sightseeing.

Crowd Level

🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability

Quick Tip: Oct can be quite hot. Stay hydrated and plan indoor activities.

Nov in Muscat, Oman

Weather

31°C°C / 88°F°F

1 days rainy days • 5mmmm

What to Expect

Late fall, cooler weather. Off-season begins, significant discounts available.

Crowd Level

🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation

Quick Tip: Nov can be quite hot. Stay hydrated and plan indoor activities.

Dec in Muscat, Oman

⭐ Best Time

Weather

28°C°C / 82°F°F

2 days rainy days • 10mmmm

What to Expect

Winter season, holiday atmosphere. Festive but can be cold. Mixed crowds.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Dec is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

All Things to Do in Muscat, Oman

Sunrise Over the Al Hajar Mountains from Jebel Shams

nature

Embark on an early morning journey to the 'Grand Canyon of Arabia' at Jebel Shams. Witness the sun paint the rugged peaks and deep gorges in hues of orange and gold, a truly awe-inspiring spectacle. Consider a guided hike along the Rim Trail for unparalleled views, but be sure to wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water.

Best time: Oct-Apr

Wander Through Muttrah Souq's Labyrinthine Alleys

shopping

Lose yourself in the intoxicating aromas of frankincense and spices as you navigate the bustling Muttrah Souq. Beyond the glittering khanjar daggers and pashminas, seek out the quieter corners where local artisans craft intricate silver jewelry. Engage with the friendly vendors; a little polite bargaining can lead to delightful discoveries and a more authentic interaction.

A Culinary Journey at Bait Al Zubair Museum Café

food

After exploring the rich Omani heritage at Bait Al Zubair, linger at its charming café. This hidden gem offers a taste of authentic Omani cuisine in a tranquil courtyard setting, a welcome respite from the city's heat. Don't miss the chance to try their traditional Omani coffee, often served with sweet dates.

Dolphin Watching Cruise from Marina Bandar Al Rowdha

activity

Set sail from Marina Bandar Al Rowdha for an exhilarating morning or afternoon dolphin watching excursion. The waters off Muscat are teeming with pods of playful dolphins, and the boat trips offer a refreshing perspective of the coastline. Opt for a smaller boat for a more intimate encounter with these magnificent marine creatures.

Best time: Sep-May

Evening Stroll Along the Corniche

activity

As dusk settles, the Muscat Corniche transforms into a vibrant promenade. Locals gather to socialize, children play, and the air fills with the scent of grilled seafood from nearby eateries. Enjoy the cool evening breeze and admire the illuminated mosques and traditional dhows bobbing in the harbor.

Explore the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque at Dawn

attraction

Experience the architectural marvel of the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in the quietude of early morning, before the main crowds arrive. The intricate marble work, the colossal hand-knotted carpet, and the dazzling Swarovski crystal chandelier are best appreciated in the soft morning light. Remember to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, and women should bring a headscarf.

Best time: Oct-Apr

Discover the Ancient Forts of Nizwa (Day Trip)

cultural

Venture inland for a day trip to Nizwa, Oman's historic former capital, and immerse yourself in its formidable fort and bustling souq. Climb the imposing round tower of Nizwa Fort for panoramic views of the surrounding oasis and mountains. If visiting on a Friday, the goat market is a lively and unique cultural spectacle.

Best time: Oct-Apr

Kayaking Through the Fjords of Musandam (Overnight Trip)

nature

While technically a separate governorate, a trip to the Musandam Peninsula offers a dramatic contrast to Muscat. Embark on an overnight dhow cruise through the stunning 'fjords of Arabia', where dramatic cliffs plunge into turquoise waters. Snorkel in secluded bays and witness the raw, untouched beauty of this remote coastline.

Best time: Oct-Apr

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GoWithGuide Tours and Experiences

Getting Around Muscat, Oman

Oman National Transport Company (ONTC) Buses

These are the most budget-friendly way to get around Muscat, connecting major areas like Ruwi, Muttrah, and Qurum. They are reliable for longer distances within the city, though less frequent than taxis.

Cost:Fares typically range from 0.3 OMR to 1 OMR (approx. $0.80 - $2.60 USD) depending on the route.
Tip:Download the 'ONTC' app for route maps and schedules, though real-time tracking can be unreliable. Boarding at major hubs like Ruwi Bus Station is easiest. Avoid peak rush hours (7-9 AM and 4-6 PM) if possible, as buses can get crowded. Don't expect air conditioning on all buses, especially older models.

Taxis (Metered)

Metered taxis are readily available and a convenient option for door-to-door service. They are generally clean and drivers are usually helpful, making them suitable for most tourist needs.

Cost:Flagfall is around 1.5 OMR (approx. $3.90 USD), with subsequent kilometers charged at approximately 0.2 OMR (approx. $0.50 USD).
Tip:Always insist the driver uses the meter. If they refuse, find another taxi. Some drivers may try to negotiate a flat rate, which is often higher than the metered fare. Have your destination written in Arabic or clearly displayed on your phone to avoid misunderstandings. A common mistake is not confirming the meter is on before starting your journey.

Ride-Sharing Apps (e.g., Otaxi, Marhaba)

These apps offer a modern and often more predictable taxi experience, with transparent pricing and the ability to track your driver. They are a good alternative to traditional taxis, especially if you're uncomfortable negotiating fares.

Cost:Similar to metered taxis, but often with surge pricing during peak times. Expect around 1.5 - 2 OMR for short trips.
Tip:Download both Otaxi and Marhaba as availability can vary. Ensure your app is updated and you have a stable internet connection. Payment is usually via credit card linked to the app, which simplifies things for tourists. Be aware that some drivers may still prefer cash, so it's wise to have some small change on hand.

Car Rental

Renting a car provides the ultimate freedom and flexibility to explore Muscat and its surrounding areas at your own pace. This is ideal for day trips to places like Wadi Shab or Nizwa.

Cost:Daily rates can range from 15 OMR to 30 OMR (approx. $39 - $78 USD) for an economy car, excluding fuel and insurance.
Tip:An International Driving Permit (IDP) is usually required along with your home country license. Roads are generally well-maintained, but driving can be fast-paced. Familiarize yourself with local road signs and speed limits. Parking can be challenging in busy souqs or older parts of Muttrah; look for designated parking areas. Avoid driving during sandstorms if possible.

Hotel Shuttles and Private Transfers

Many hotels offer shuttle services to key attractions or private transfer options. This is a comfortable and hassle-free way to get around, especially if you're staying at a resort.

Cost:Varies greatly by hotel and distance. Hotel shuttles might be complimentary or a small fee (e.g., 2-5 OMR), while private transfers can cost 20 OMR+ (approx. $52+ USD) for longer distances.
Tip:Inquire about shuttle schedules and destinations upon check-in. For private transfers, book in advance through your hotel concierge. This is a good option for airport transfers or if you have a lot of luggage. A common mistake is assuming hotel shuttles go everywhere; confirm their routes and times.

💡 Travel Tip: This season usually means better deals — check what's available on Trip.com.

Similar Destinations

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the absolute best time to visit Muscat, and what should I pack for it?

For the most comfortable experience, aim for the cooler months between October and April. The heat and humidity can be intense otherwise! Pack light, breathable clothing like cotton and linen, but always include a light scarf or shawl for women to cover shoulders when visiting mosques or more traditional areas. Don't forget sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses – the Omani sun is no joke!

Beyond the Grand Mosque, what are some must-see cultural experiences in Muscat?

You absolutely must wander through the Muttrah Souq, not just for souvenirs but to soak in the atmosphere – the scent of frankincense is intoxicating! Also, consider visiting the Bait Al Zubair Museum for a deeper dive into Omani heritage, and take a stroll along the Corniche, especially in the late afternoon as the city lights begin to twinkle.

How easy is it to get around Muscat, and what's the best way to explore?

Renting a car is definitely the most convenient way to explore Muscat at your own pace, especially if you plan to venture out to places like Wadi Shab or the Bimmah Sinkhole. Taxis are readily available and relatively affordable, but agree on the fare beforehand or ensure the meter is used. For shorter distances within areas like Ruwi or Muttrah, walking is pleasant, but be mindful of the heat.

Are there any local customs I should be particularly aware of as a visitor?

Oman is known for its hospitality, but it's important to be respectful of local traditions. Dress modestly, especially outside of tourist resorts – covering shoulders and knees is a good rule of thumb for both men and women. Public displays of affection are frowned upon, and it's polite to use your right hand for eating or exchanging items. Always ask permission before photographing people, particularly women.

I'm looking for something a bit off the beaten path. Any hidden gems in or around Muscat?

For a truly unique experience, head to the Al Hoota Cave, one of the most impressive natural caves in the Arabian Peninsula. If you have a 4x4, a drive into the Al Hajar Mountains to explore some of the smaller villages can be incredibly rewarding, offering stunning views and a glimpse into traditional Omani life away from the coast.

What's the deal with currency and tipping in Muscat?

The local currency is the Omani Rial (OMR). While credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, larger shops, and restaurants, it's always wise to have some cash on hand for smaller vendors, taxis, and the souqs. Tipping isn't mandatory, but it's appreciated for good service; rounding up the bill or leaving around 10% in restaurants is customary.

What is the cheapest month to visit Muscat, Oman?

The cheapest months to visit Muscat, Oman are typically May and Jun during the off-season. You can save 30-40% on hotels and flights compared to peak summer months. While weather may not be ideal, you'll enjoy fewer crowds and significant savings.

How many days do you need in Muscat, Oman?

We recommend spending 3-5 days in Muscat, Oman to see the main attractions without feeling rushed. This gives you time to explore the top sights, experience local culture, and take a day trip if desired. Budget travelers might do 2-3 days, while those wanting a deeper experience should plan for a week.

What should I avoid in Muscat, Oman?

Avoid visiting Muscat, Oman during May if possible, when weather conditions are less favorable. Also, be cautious of tourist traps in heavily visited areas - research attractions beforehand and consider booking skip-the-line tickets for popular sites.

Is Muscat, Oman expensive to visit?

Muscat, Oman can be enjoyed on various budgets. Daily costs typically range from $50-80 for budget travelers, $100-200 for mid-range visitors, and $250+ for luxury experiences. Prices are highest during Jan and lowest during off-season months. Book accommodations early to secure better rates.

What is Muscat, Oman famous for?

Muscat, Oman is famous for its unique attractions, rich culture, and memorable experiences. The destination is best known for its architectural landmarks, local cuisine, and vibrant atmosphere. Visit during Jan or Feb for the best experience.

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