Oman / Muscat / The City

A city, among the most important on the Sea of Arabia, having held this status and position from the 11th century AD up to its occupation by the Portuguese.", wrote Omani historian, Sheikh Salem bin Hamoud al Siabi. Muscat is divided into six wilayats and is Oman's financial and trade centre. Hamad bin Said took Muscat as Oman's capital from Rustaq between 1779 - 1792 and this has never since been contested. The shining prosperous city of today has amongst its successes: a major port, Mina Qaboos; Seeb International Airport and international airline Oman Air; its own stock market, the Muscat Securities Market; a TV and radio network, Oman TV and Radio; state-of-the-art hospitals; and superior educational establishments.

However, this has not always been the case and prior to Sultan Qaboos' accession to the throne, the Oman of the early 20th century to 1970 told a very different story.

Curfews were imposed on Muscat's denizens and everyone had to be within the city walls by sunset, when the cannons would fire their summons. Trades were carried out using antiquated tools and methods and cars were practically non-existent, as the road network was nothing but dirt tracks. Most people walked everywhere and a journey from Muscat City to Ruwi could take up to four hours.

Today, under the leadership of His Majesty, Sultan Qaboos, Muscat has improved beyond recognition, but has never lost its pride in its heritage and culture. The capital area is a prime example of intelligent and aesthetic development, blending the ancient and modern.

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