3-Day Muscat Itinerary: Cultural Gems, Shopping Malls, and Dimaniyat Islands Adventure

Day 1: Heritage & Culture

Muscat, Oman on May 18, 2025

9:00am

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

Start your day by visiting the majestic Sultan Qaboos Mosque, a masterpiece of Islamic architecture and one of Oman’s holiest places. The mosque is open from 8:00am to 11:00am for non-Muslim visitors and is a must-see for its stunning chandeliers and beautiful gardens.
OMR0, 1h30m

11:00am

Breakfast at Kargeen Caffe

Enjoy a traditional Omani and Middle Eastern breakfast at Kargeen Caffe, located close to the mosque, featuring fresh bread, hummus, and mint tea in a charming courtyard setting.
OMR4, 1h

12:30pm

Mutrah Souq

Explore the historic Mutrah Souq, a vibrant market filled with spices, Omani silver jewellery, textiles, and handicrafts. It’s perfect for souvenir shopping and soaking in local culture. The souq is best visited before late afternoon when it tends to get quieter.
Free (shopping costs vary), 2h

3:00pm

Lunch at Bait Al Luban

Have lunch at Bait Al Luban, an upscale restaurant overlooking Mutrah Corniche, specialising in Omani and Arabic cuisine, including fresh seafood and aromatic rice dishes.
OMR8, 1h30m

5:00pm

Mutrah Corniche Walk

Take a relaxing stroll along the Mutrah Corniche to enjoy sea views and watch the sunset, a perfect way to end your first day.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at The Beach Restaurant, The Chedi Muscat

Dine at The Beach Restaurant for beachfront dining featuring international and Omani fare in a luxurious setting. Reservations recommended.
OMR20, 2h

Day 2: Shopping & Modern Muscat

Muscat, Oman on May 19, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Bandari Kitchen

Begin with a hearty breakfast at Bandari Kitchen, known for its delicious Omani and Iranian-influenced dishes like khubz and laban.
OMR3, 1h

10:00am

Muscat Grand Mall

Visit Muscat Grand Mall, the largest shopping mall in Oman, featuring numerous international brands, a cinema, and food court. An ideal spot for shopping and entertainment.
Free entry, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Pavo Real

Enjoy a vibrant Mexican lunch at Pavo Real inside Muscat Grand Mall, known for its flavourful dishes and colourful atmosphere.
OMR6, 1h

2:00pm

City Centre Muscat

Head to City Centre Muscat, another top shopping destination with a wide array of international stores, a traditional souq-inspired section, and entertainment facilities.
Free entry, 2h

5:00pm

Coffee at Gloria Jean's Coffees

Take a coffee break at Gloria Jean's Coffees in City Centre, a perfect spot to rest and people-watch.
OMR1.5, 30m

7:00pm

Dinner at The Restaurant at The Chedi Muscat

Enjoy an elegant dinner featuring international and Asian cuisine, paired with a sophisticated ambiance at The Chedi Muscat’s main restaurant.
OMR25, 2h

Day 3: Island & Nature

Dimaniyat Islands, Oman on May 20, 2025

7:00am

Dimaniyat Islands Boat Tour

Set off early for a full-day boat tour to the Dimaniyat Islands, a pristine nature reserve known for crystal-clear waters, snorkelling, birdwatching, and vibrant marine life. Tours typically start around 7:00am and last until late afternoon; pre-booking is advised.
OMR30, 8h

12:00pm

Snorkelling and Beach Time

Spend midday snorkelling in coral reefs teeming with colourful fish or relaxing on the powdery white sand beaches of the islands.
Included in tour, 3h

4:00pm

Return to Muscat

Head back to Muscat by boat, enjoying the coastal views along the way.
Included in tour, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Jahal Arabians

Relax with traditional Omani cuisine in a welcoming local setting at Jahal Arabians, known for its grilled meats and hospitality.
OMR7, 1h30m