Muscat

Muscat, the capital of Oman, has a character quite different from neighbouring capitals. There are few high-rise blocks and even the most functional building is required to reflect tradition with a dome or an arabesque window. The result of these building policies is an attractive, spotlessly clean and uniform city – not much different in essence from the ‘very elegant town with very fine houses’ that the Portuguese admiral Alfonso de Alburqueque observed as he sailed towards Muscat in the 16th century.Muscat means ‘safe anchorage’, and the sea continues to constitute a major part of the city: it brings people on cruise ships and goods in containers to the historic ports of Old Muscat and Muttrah. It contributes to the city’s economy through the onshore refinery near Qurum, and provides a livelihood for fishermen along the beaches of Shatti al-Qurm and Athaiba.Muscat is no stranger to hosting large events and has an enviable proven track record and established infrastructure to host prestigious meetings, national exhibitions and corporate events with a high standard of supporting services such as exhibition companies, destination and event management specialists to complete the picture.

Air Travel

Over 35 Airlines operating across the terminals of Muscat International Airport.

Time Zone

Muscat observes the Gulf Standard Time all the year (GMT+4)

Weather

The average daytime Temperature is 35.5°C and goes down to 29°C  at night.

Currency & Banking

Omani Riyals (OMR) is the official currency. International Cards are widely accepted, and ATMs can easily be located anywhere.

Language

The local language is Arabic. The official congress language is English.

Communications

The international dialing code is +968. For international calls, dial 00 + national code + area code + personal number.

Transportation

Delegates can comfortably commute using the Muscat public transport network.

Emergency

9999 for Police, 9999 for Ambulance, 999 for Fire Department

Power Plugs

Power sockets are Type G, rectangular, 3-pin socket.