Shatti Al Qurum Beach, Muscat

Shatti Al Qurum is the continuation of Qurum Beach to the west, in front of one of Muscat's most upmarket neighbourhoods. Embassies, villas, beach hotels and the Royal Opera House are all close by.

What to do

• Stroll the sand in the evening when Omani families come out.
• Use the beach clubs and pools of the hotels with a day pass.
• Visit the Royal Opera House Muscat and the Opera Galleria shops and restaurants.

Tips

The public beach is free. Hotel beaches have their own rules and more relaxed dress codes. Parking can be tight on weekend evenings.

Beach safety and etiquette

Swim only where it is safe: there are few lifeguards, and currents can be strong, especially during the summer monsoon (June to September) when red flags close many beaches. Dress modestly away from hotel beaches, take your rubbish home and never drive on turtle nesting beaches.

Living by the sea

Many of Oman's freehold communities sit on the coast. R2LUX sells beachfront and sea-view homes where foreigners can own; three current listings are below.