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About MCT
Muscat International Airport (MCT) is the main gateway to the Sultanate of Oman, located about 32 km from the capital Muscat's city center. The airport was completely rebuilt and reopened in March 2018 with a stunning new terminal inspired by traditional Omani architecture, featuring a facade evocative of frankincense incense burners. The modern terminal has a capacity of 20 million passengers per year and serves as the hub for Oman Air and SalamAir. Muscat airport is known for its calm atmosphere and warm Omani hospitality.
Terminals
Main Terminal
The new terminal opened in March 2018, replacing the old airport. Its design is inspired by traditional Omani architecture with a contemporary twist — the facade features geometric patterns reminiscent of frankincense burners. The terminal has three concourses connected by automated people movers, an indoor garden courtyard, and extensive duty-free shopping.
Minimum Connection Times (MCT)
Airlines at MCT
Oman Air
Main Terminal Hub
SalamAir
Main Terminal Hub
Air Arabia
Air India
AirSial
AIS Airlines
Badr Airlines
Biman
Showing 8 of 28 airlines. View all airlines →
Getting There & Away
Taxis, ride-hailing (OTaxi, Careem), hotel shuttles, Mwasalat public buses, airport shuttle
Taxi
$18-30
25-40 min to city center
Public Transport
$1-2
40-60 min to city center
Parking at MCT
Modern multi-story car park adjacent to the terminal with covered walkway access. Short-term and long-term sections available....
Short-Term Parking
Long-Term Parking
Airport Lounges
Oman Air First & Business Class Lounge
Main Terminal
Oman Air's flagship lounge featuring elegant Omani design with frankincense-scented rooms, à la carte dining, a full bar, spa treatments, shower suites, and private rest rooms. Widely considered one of the best business lounges in the Middle East.
Primeclass Lounge
Main Terminal
Spacious independent lounge with views of the runway. Offers a hot and cold buffet, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, shower facilities, and comfortable seating areas.
Al Khareef Lounge
Main Terminal
Named after the Khareef monsoon season in Dhofar, this lounge offers a tranquil retreat with Arabic coffee, dates, hot meals, and rest areas. Good value alternative to the premium Oman Air lounge.
Where to Stay
Transit Hotels (Airside)
Aerotel Muscat
Airside, accessible without immigration clearance
Transit hotel inside the secure area of the terminal. Rooms bookable by the hour with shower, bed, TV, and Wi-Fi. Perfect for layovers without needing a visa.
Nearby Hotels
Hilton Garden Inn Muscat Al Khuwair
Al Khuwair area, 10 minutes from airport
Modern hotel conveniently located between the airport and the city center. Features restaurant, pool, and fitness center. Free airport shuttle available on request.
Food & Dining
Burger King
Fast Food/American
Main Terminal (Airside)
Standard Burger King menu with flame-grilled burgers, fries, and beverages. Reliable and fast option available 24/7.
24/7
D'Arcy's Kitchen
International/British
Main Terminal (Airside)
Popular British-style café serving all-day breakfasts, sandwiches, salads, and hot meals. Fresh-baked goods and proper coffee.
6:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Kargeen Café
Omani/Middle Eastern
Main Terminal (Landside)
Authentic Omani café chain serving traditional Omani dishes, shuwa, halwa dessert, Arabic coffee, and international items. Beautifully decorated with traditional Omani design elements.
7:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Car Rental
Europcar
Arrivals Hall, Ground Floor
Counter in arrivals hall. Excellent road network in Oman makes driving easy. 4WD recommended if you plan to visit wadis or off-road areas.
Hertz
Arrivals Hall, Ground Floor
Full range of vehicles from compact to SUV. One-way rentals to Salalah possible with some companies.
Dollar/Thrifty
Arrivals Hall, Ground Floor
Budget-friendly option. Book online for better rates. Fuel is cheap in Oman. International license accepted alongside home country license.
What to Do During a Layover
Explore the City
These activities require leaving the airport. Make sure you have valid visa and enough time before your next flight.
Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
One of the most magnificent mosques in the world, featuring the second-largest hand-woven carpet and a massive Swarovski crystal chandelier. Open to non-Muslim visitors Saturday-Thursday mornings. Modest dress required. 20 minutes from airport.
Muttrah Souq & Corniche
Visit Oman's most atmospheric traditional market with labyrinthine alleys filled with frankincense, spices, silver jewelry, and textiles. The adjacent corniche offers beautiful harbor views. About 30 minutes from the airport.
Royal Opera House Muscat
Stunning contemporary Omani architecture housing a world-class opera and performance venue. Guided tours available during non-performance days. Features beautiful gardens and a cultural arts center.
Practical Information
WiFi & Connectivity
- Free WiFi: Yes (Unlimited)
- Speed Rating: ●●●●○
- Power Outlets: Type G (UK), USB charging stations
- SIM Cards: Available for purchase
Services
- Left Luggage: $5-10/day
- Showers: Free in lounges
- Medical Services: Available
- Prayer Rooms: Available
Family Facilities
- Children's Play Areas
- Nursing Rooms
- Family Restrooms
Money & Currency
- Currency: Omani Rial (OMR)
- Exchange: Exchange counters in arrivals and departures halls
- Hours: 24/7
The Omani Rial is a high-value currency (1 OMR ≈ 2.6 USD). ATMs in the arrivals hall work with most international cards.
Smoking Areas
Designated smoking rooms airside in the departures area
Insider Tips
The new terminal is beautifully designed and easy to navigate. Oman offers e-visas and visa on arrival for many nationalities. The airport is in Seeb, quite far from Muscat's Old Town — plan for 30+ minutes travel time. OTaxi app is the official Oman taxi app and offers fixed metered rates.
Facilities & Contact
Airport Facilities
Free Wi-Fi, prayer rooms, duty-free shopping, currency exchange, medical center, children play area, smoking rooms, left luggage, SIM card kiosks, VIP services, art exhibitions, garden courtyard
Official Website
Phone
+968-2435-3555
Traveler Reviews
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Compare with Nearby Airports
See how MCT compares to other major airports in the region.
Muscat International Airport
Muscat, Oman
Dubai International Airport
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Abu Dhabi International Airport
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates