Mid-Range Travel Guide: Muscat

Accommodation

$60-140 per night

Mid-range hotels, boutique guesthouses, private rooms with en-suite bathrooms and air conditioning

Food & Dining

$25-50 per day

Mix of local restaurants and tourist-friendly establishments, hotel breakfast, occasional fine dining

Transportation

$15-35 per day

Private taxis, ride-sharing apps, occasional car rental, airport transfers

Activities

$30-70 per day

Paid attractions, guided tours, desert excursions, cultural experiences, water activities

Eat at local Omani restaurants and cafeterias instead of hotel restaurants - typically 60-80% cheaper

Use public buses and shared taxis instead of private taxis - can save 70-85% on transportation costs

Visit free attractions like Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Brazzaville waterfront, and public beaches

Shop at traditional souqs and local markets rather than shopping malls - generally 40-60% lower prices

Book accommodation outside the main tourist areas of Qurum and Shatti Al Qurum for 30-50% savings

Travel during shoulder seasons (March-April, October-November) for 20-40% lower accommodation rates

Prepare some meals yourself if staying in accommodations with kitchen facilities

Taking taxis everywhere instead of using public transport - can triple your transportation costs

Eating only in tourist areas and hotel restaurants - typically costs 100-200% more than local establishments

Not negotiating prices at traditional markets and for tours - missing potential 20-30% savings

Booking last-minute accommodation during peak season - can cost 50-100% more than advance bookings