Muttrah: the souq, the corniche and Muscat's historic port

Muttrah is the old trading port of Muscat, set in a bay between mountains. Its corniche, souq and harbour are the most photographed part of the capital and the heart of any visit.

Character

The corniche curves for about three kilometres around the bay, lined with old merchant houses, mosques and a promenade busy every evening. Behind it, Muttrah Souq is a maze of lanes selling frankincense, silver, textiles, spices and souvenirs. Muttrah Fort, built by the Portuguese, watches over the harbour from a rock.

The port

Port Sultan Qaboos has been turned from a cargo port into a tourism and cruise port, with plans for waterfront hotels, homes and leisure. The new fish market at the end of the corniche is a striking modern building.

Living there

Muttrah is dense and historic, with older homes on the hillsides and limited parking. Residents love its atmosphere and the views; new waterfront projects are adding modern homes with views over the bay.

Can foreigners buy?

Only in approved projects. Al Yazan on the Muttrah waterfront is one example of a new project marketed to foreign buyers.

How R2LUX helps

We sell Muttrah waterfront homes and explain their ownership terms. Current listings are below.