Muscat International Airport: the complete guide

Muscat International Airport (MCT) is Oman's main gateway and one of the most modern airports in the region. Its large passenger terminal opened in 2018, replacing the old terminal, and handles the vast majority of the country's air traffic: around 13 million passengers in 2025, including domestic flights.

The terminal

The terminal is a single, spacious building with a distinctive wave-shaped roof, designed to handle up to 20 million passengers a year in its first phase. Arrivals and departures are on separate levels, immigration is generally quick, and the duty-free area is large. Free Wi-Fi, prayer rooms, family facilities and lounges are available.

Airlines and destinations

• Oman Air, the national carrier, flies to the Gulf, Asia, Europe and Africa.
• SalamAir, the low-cost airline, connects Muscat with the region, South Asia, Iran and Africa, and flies domestically.
• Many foreign airlines serve Muscat, including Gulf, Asian, European and Turkish carriers.
• Domestic flights connect Muscat with Salalah, Khasab, Duqm and Sohar.

Getting to the city

The airport is in Seeb, about 10 minutes from Al Mouj and Muscat Hills, 20 to 25 minutes from Qurum and 30 to 40 minutes from Muttrah, Old Muscat and the eastern bays. Options are:

• Airport taxis at fixed rates from the official rank.
• Ride-hailing apps licensed in Oman.
• Mwasalat buses to the city centre and other cities.
• Car hire from companies in the arrivals hall.

Visas and arrival

Check whether you qualify for visa-free entry or need an eVisa before you fly. Arrival with the right documents, return ticket and hotel booking speeds up immigration. See our Oman visa guide for details.

Tips

• Allow extra time at peak hours on Thursday and Sunday evenings and around Eid.
• The airport is close to the Muscat Expressway, so traffic to most of the city is light outside rush hour.
• If you are buying property, homes in Al Mouj and Muscat Hills are among the closest to the terminal.

How R2LUX helps

Many of our clients travel often; homes near the airport are popular with them. Three listings are below.