Layover Diaries: Muscat in a Day – Mosque, Souq & Corniche

This blog continues my Layover Diaries series, where I turn long stopovers during my Umrah+ journey into mini adventures.

So far, I’ve explored:

1. Abu Dhabi — 6 Hours at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque & Beyond
2. Cairo — Pyramids & Koshary: Your 7-Hour Layover Guide

Now comes Muscat, Oman, my final stop before heading home.

Flight Details (via Trip.com Multi-City Search)

3rd Leg: Istanbul → Kuala Lumpur via Muscat

• Nov 18, 18:20: Depart IST Istanbul Airport
• Nov 19, 00:20: Arrive MCT Muscat International Airport
  Oman Air WY821
• Transfer in Muscat: 21h 15m
  (No need to collect & re-check baggage)
• Nov 19, 21:35: Depart MCT Muscat Airport
• Nov 20, 08:10: Arrive KUL Kuala Lumpur Intl. T1
  Oman Air WY821

👉 This gave me almost a full day in Muscat.

My Transit Plan

Midnight Arrival (00:20)

• Muscat Airport is modern and passenger-friendly. While there isn’t a fully dedicated “sleeping pod” facility, travelers often nap comfortably in quiet corners, lounges, or rest zones. Some choose to book an airport hotel room for a few hours of proper rest.
• My plan: rest a few hours in the terminal, keep essentials in my hand-carry, then freshen up.

Fajr & Breakfast (05:00 – 08:00)

• Head to the nearest mosque or Muscat Airport prayer room for Subuh prayer.
• Breakfast options are available inside the airport or nearby cafés.

Day Tour (10:00 – 17:00)

Mutrah Souq (2 hours): Wander through Oman's oldest market; shop for frankincense, silver jewelry and textiles. 👉 Book this From Muscat Shared Tour: Half Day City of Muscat at Trip.com

Return to Airport (17:00 – 18:00)
Allow enough time to clear security and relax before boarding the 21:35 flight back to Kuala Lumpur.

Practical Tips

• Visa: Oman requires an eVisa for most nationalities (usually quick to apply online). Some travelers may qualify for visa-free or visa-on-arrival depending on passport.
• Currency: The Omani Rial (OMR) is one of the strongest currencies in the world. 1 OMR ≈ RM12 (rates vary). Even small purchases like snacks or a taxi ride can feel expensive, so budget accordingly. Pro tip: book tours and transport online in advance (Trip.com / Klook) to lock in better prices and avoid surprises.

• Transport: Pre-book a half-day tour or car with driver (Trip.com, Klook, or local operators). Public transport is limited.
• Food: Halal is standard in Oman; try grilled seafood or biryani for lunch.
• Prayer Facilities: Mosques are everywhere — especially handy near Mutrah Souq and along the Corniche.
• Essentials: Keep fresh clothes, toiletries, and power bank in your hand-carry for comfort during the long layover.

Currency Snapshot: Spending in Muscat

The Omani Rial (OMR) is strong — 1 OMR ≈ RM12. Here’s what your Ringgit buys in Muscat:

• 🥤 Bottled water / soft drink: 0.30–0.50 OMR (≈ RM4–6)
• ☕ Coffee at café: 1–1.5 OMR (≈ RM12–18)
• 🍛 Local meal (biryani, grilled fish, kebab): 2–3 OMR (≈ RM24–36)
• 🚕 Taxi ride (short distance in city): 2–4 OMR (≈ RM24–48)
• 🎟️ Half-day guided city tour: 20–30 OMR (≈ RM240–360)

💡 Tip: Book tours or transfers online via Trip.com  in MYR to avoid exchange rate shocks and enjoy transparent pricing.

Why I Loved This Layover

• Longest layover of my trip = plenty of time to rest + explore.
• A peaceful finale after Abu Dhabi’s grandeur and Cairo’s chaos.
• Muscat felt like a hidden gem — clean, calm and very welcoming.

✈️ Disclaimer: Flight schedules, routes and prices mentioned in this post are based on searches at the time of writing and may no longer be available. Airlines frequently update their fares and layover durations. This guide is intended for educational and informational purposes only — to inspire you to explore layovers as part of your UmrahPlus or travel journey. Always confirm current details directly on Trip.com or with your chosen airline before booking.