National Museum of Oman

At this roundabout, you’re surrounded by several of Muscat’s most important buildings. On your right stands the National Museum of Oman, the country’s main cultural institution. Opened in 2016, this large museum tells the story of Oman through galleries devoted to its geography, the sea and maritime trade, traditional irrigation systems known as aflaj, as well as frankincense, Islam, the Omani empire and the modern era. Its architecture combines clean, contemporary lines with clear references to traditional Omani design, using courtyards, shaded galleries and local stone. Directly in front of you is the Ministry of Finance, one of the key institutions of the Omani state, responsible for the national budget, public finances and economic policy. Housed in a subdued, monumental building, it reflects Muscat’s role as the administrative and economic heart of the sultanate. To your left stands the Diwan of the Royal Court, an ancient and central institution of Omani power. The Diwan coordinates between the sovereign, the ministries and major state affairs, and also oversees royal and protocol matters. Together, these buildings show how Muscat brings together cultural heritage, national identity and the political life of the sultanate in a single place.