Amongst the ancient cities of Oman, Muscat, the capital, stands out, sprawled as it is between the mountains and the Arabian Gulf. Maybe it is because Muscat does not have that slightly artificial feel which typifies so much the rest of the region. Muscat, Mutrah and Ruwi are the capital's core districts. 

Muscat's stunning beauty owes much to dazzlingly white buildings that retain a strictly traditional appearance. It is in the cities that the ancient souks are to be found, subtly different to those of, say, North Africa, with cattle-sellers and storytellers competing for attention with bargains in gold, silver and turquoise jewellery. Muscat offers the visitor a unique opportunity to witness a modern commercial centre existing in harmony with its traditional culture. With its natural harbour, Muscat means 'Anchorage' and lies in a natural volcanic bowl.