Thematic museums

There are several interesting themed museums in Oman that are well worth a visit. They are almost exclusively scattered around the city of Muscat.

Oil and Gas Exhibition Centre - Muscat

Muscat, Mina Al-Fahal district, to the right of the main gate 2 of PDO (Petroleum Development Oman Ltd.), closed during Ramadan, otherwise open Saturday to Wednesday from 7am to 12pm and from 1pm to 3.45pm, Thursday 8am to 12pm. At the Qurum roundabout towards Qurum, go under Qurum Heights Road and take the first left (Seih Al Maleh Street). There are no signs! This street leads directly to the main gate 2 of PDO. The history of oil production in the Sultanate of Oman and the associated technical processes are clearly explained here using multimedia displays.

►Link to the Oil and Gas Exhibition Centre

Natural History Museum - Muscat

Muscat, Al-Khuwair neighbourhood, in the building of the Ministry of National Heritage and Culture, open Saturday to Thursday 9:30-13:30 and 17-19. At the Al-Khuwair roundabout, head towards »Shatti Al Qurum«, then follow the »Ministries« signs.
Overview of the geology, flora and fauna and landscapes of Oman; many exhibits, some in dioramas; interesting section on whales and dolphins.

Omani-French Museum - Muscat

In the district of "historic Muscat" in Bait Fransa, Saturday to Wednesday 8 am to 1.30 pm, Thursday 9 am to 1 pm, also open from 4 pm to 6 pm from 1 October to 31 March. Through the large city gate (bab kabir), then to the right, in the now restored former French embassy building. Collection of historical artefacts from the (not exactly abundant) joint Omani-French past. Historical building fabric worth seeing.

The Sultan's Armed Forces Museum - Muscat

Military History Museum in Muscat, Bait al-Falaj district (near Ruwi), former garrison and royal residence, only open on Saturdays and Wednesdays from 8.30 am to 12.30 pm. Collection of historical weapons and uniforms; documentation on the Imamate uprisings and the Dhofar War. As with all military facilities, photography is prohibited here as well.