Arriving at a new airport can be a little stressful, especially when you need to get to your hotel or the city center. Muscat International Airport (MCT) offers several transportation options that vary in price, comfort, and travel time. This information will help you choose the best way to get to your destination.
Official taxis are usually located at clearly marked stands near the terminal exit. Airport staff usually help passengers orient themselves and call a taxi. It is important to make sure the taxi driver uses the meter, or agree on a price in advance to avoid misunderstandings. Drivers usually speak English, but knowing a few basic phrases in Arabic can be helpful.
A private transfer is a convenient but more expensive option. Usually, the driver meets you in the arrivals hall with a sign with your name. When booking a private transfer, it is important to clarify the meeting point (usually near the exit from the arrivals area or near a specific gate), and also make sure that all taxes and fees are included in the price. The price for a private transfer is usually fixed and depends on the distance to your hotel.
Shared shuttles and shared taxis are a more economical option, but they may be less convenient as you will have to wait for enough passengers to board, or stop at other hotels along the way. This option is suitable if you are not in a hurry and want to save money. Information about schedules and prices can be found at the airport information kiosks.
Muscat has a bus network, but it may not be very convenient for tourists, especially if you are new to the city. Buses are usually crowded, and the schedule may be irregular. Trains or subways are currently unavailable in Muscat. If you decide to take the bus, make sure you have local currency to pay for the fare.
Travel time to the city center depends on traffic and time of day. During peak hours (usually from 7:00 to 9:00 and from 16:00 to 19:00) the journey may take longer. In general, the journey to the city center takes from 20 to 40 minutes, and to the nearest cities – from 45 minutes to 1.5 hours.
| Option | Travel Time (min) | Price (EUR) |
|---|---|---|
| Taxi | 20-40 | 15-30 |
| Private transfer | 25-45 | 30-60 |
| Shared shuttle | 40-60 | 10-20 |
| Bus | 60-90 | 2-5 |
Travel time and prices may vary depending on traffic and season.
Popular destinations from Muscat International Airport include downtown Muscat, Muttrah, Salalah and Nizwa. Plan your route in advance and allow for possible delays.
Official taxis are located at designated stands near the terminal exit.
A private transfer is an individual transport that needs to be booked in advance. The driver will meet you at the airport.
The cost of a taxi to the center of Muscat is usually from 15 to 30 euros, depending on traffic.
Currently, there are no trains or a metro in Muscat.
Yes, it is safe to use official taxis in Muscat. Make sure the driver uses the meter.
Contact the company that provided the transfer by the phone number indicated in your voucher.
Not all taxis accept cards. It is better to have cash with you.
It usually takes about 30-45 minutes to get to Muttrah from the airport.
Yes, there are information kiosks at the airport where you can get information about transport.
Booking a transfer in advance guarantees you a convenient and reliable transport.
The official currency of Oman is the Omani Rial, but euros are often accepted as well.