Monday 06 / May / 2024
From the captivating, time-honoured architecture and narrow allies to the oceanic scent hanging in the air, Muttrah is a special part of the city that is in itself a celebration of history.
One of the oldest areas of Muscat (along with Old Muscat just down the road), this area was the traditional trading port of Oman, and the souq, though renovated and now equipped with Wi-Fi, still retains some of its ancient charm. The folklore around the name "Muttrah" is up for debate, with some saying that the name goes back to the port that was built nearby the corniche, and refers to an Arabic phrase that translates to “the ship has docked”. Others say it is a connotation to “put out goods," a nod to the souq.
The neighbourhood is tucked between the hills and the sea, concentrated along the ocean-front corniche from the Fish Roundabout to Riyam Park. This area is about 35 minutes south of the airport, with the neighbourhoods of Darsait, Ruwi, and Bustan, just on the other side of the mountains.
The hills surrounding the seafront area are filled with iconic sights, from the Muttrah fortresses, remnants of the Portuguese occupation, to the more recent landmark, the giant incense burner in Riyam Park.
One of the few parts of Oman that is truly walkable, the picturesque area is a popular destination for locals, expat, and tourists alike who come to enjoy the architecture of the old mosques, the shopping of the souq, the restaurants and shops facing the bay, and recreational activities like walking and biking along the wide paths. Hosting a population of approximately 150,124 (as of 2010), 47,487 of them are Omanis, and the remaining 102,637 are expats. Property Times had a chat with one local resident, Mazin Al Balushi, a bank worker who was born and raised in Muhelat Al Ghreefah.
He explained that his love of Muttrah stems from both its historical significance and from the wonderful mix of cultures crowding in its traditional souqs. He sees it as a precious jewel among Omani provinces, with the souq’s fascinating heritage feel to the new developments and upgrades happening along the waterfront, from modern Omani restaurants to a new hotel project underway at the old port. He broke down his hometown pride into five categories for us.
1. Diversity and Community
The mix of communities and culture is what makes Muttrah admirable and unique in comparison to other places, and it is characterised for being a welcoming neighbourhood, with love and understanding between locals and expatriates.
2. Tourist Attraction
It is a luxury to come home every day to a beautiful part of the city that people travel from all over the world to see, with historic landmarks, fortresses, mountain peaks, and ocean waves as your view.
3. European-style Walkability
Parking is an issue in Muttrah, but as the only part of the city that is truly walkable, residents can enjoy the opportunity to stroll to the market, coffee shops, restaurants, and along the waterfront.
4. Growth and Innovation
Al Wajiha Al Bahriya, the second largest project after the new airport, is a massive new commercial development taking place at the old port in Muttrah. Completion is expected within 10 years and will add value to the neighbourhood.
5. Traditional Luxury
Though many of the flats in Muttrah are as ancient as the souq, there are a growing number of high-end, renovated properties that have been modernised and updated, while still retaining a heritage feel.
