Royal Opera House Muscat: performances, tours and tips

The Royal Opera House Muscat, opened in 2011 in Shatti Al Qurum, was the first opera house in the Gulf. Its white stone building, carved wood interiors and gardens make it a destination even without a performance.

The programme

Each season brings international opera, ballet, orchestras, jazz, Arabic music and family shows, as well as Omani performers. Tickets are sold online and at the box office; popular performances sell out early.

Tours

Guided tours of the auditorium and public spaces are offered on many days when there are no rehearsals; check the schedule before visiting.

Dress code

For performances, smart dress is expected: men in suits or the Omani dishdasha, women in formal or modest evening wear. Children below a certain age are not admitted to many performances.

Opera Galleria

Next door, the Opera Galleria has restaurants, cafés and boutiques, a pleasant place for dinner before or after a show.

Tips

• Arrive early to enjoy the building and gardens.
• Combine with an evening walk on Shatti Al Qurum beach.

Staying near and owning a home

Most visitors explore Oman from a base in Muscat. If you are thinking of buying, R2LUX sells homes in the communities where foreigners can own; three current listings are below.