Despite being on the coast, the weather in Muscat can be unbearably hot. The best time to visit is between December and March, when the more temperate winter season provides humane temperatures. February is the coolest month. The rest of the year temperatures can be well over 100°F (38°C). Sudden rain can cause flash floods, although precipitation is unusual.

Buses are the best and cheapest way to get around in Muscat. Modern buses travel major roads with specific bus stops. For more out of the way destinations, Baiza buses are common and zigzag through the back roads effectively, although the buses themselves are sometimes a bit dilapidated. Taxies are widely available and an easy way to get to and from the airport. Insist that the driver uses their meter unless there isn't one, in which case agree on a price before getting into the car. Taxis are expensive but convenient when you can't find a bus or don't want to wait in the sun. There is no subway or railway in Muscat and some travellers decide to rent a car and drive themselves around.

The official language of Oman is Arabic, but English is widely spoken. Hotel staff often also speak German and French.

The currency of Oman is the Omani Rial (OMR) divided into 1, 000 baisa. Notes come in denominations of 50, 20, 10, 5 and 1 rials, and 500, 250, 200 and 100 baiza. Foreign currency and travellers cheques can be exchanged at banks, exchange bureaux, hotels and at the airport. Outside banking hours, moneychangers operate between 4pm and 7pm in the evenings and at weekends. US Dollars are recommended. American Express, MasterCard and Visa credit cards are readily accepted in large shops and hotels and by an increasing number of traders in the souq. Most banks in cities and towns have ATMs.

Shopping in Muscat is a rewarding experience for travellers, with a range of goods available from local souqs(markets) and shopping centres. It is acceptable to ask for a discounts or a 'last price' from independent outlets, while supermarkets and shopping centres or malls display fixed prices. Most shops are open from 9am to 1pm and from 4pm to 9pm, Saturday through Thursday; the Sultan Centre is open 24 hours a day. The Muscat city centre is the primary shopping hub, and nearby Muttrah is also quite popular. Best buys include folk art and craft such as kelims(carpets), wall hangings and pottery, while frankincense and myrrh are also very sought after Omani souvenirs. Silver and gold jewellery and accessories (priced by weight) are also a good buy. Muscat shopping centres include the Muscat City Centre mall, the Sultan Centre and the Al-Zakher Centre, hosting big-name brands such as Zara and Gap, as well as computer shops, book stores and furniture shops. The best souqto visit is the one in Muttrah, where bargaining is expected.

Local time is GMT +4.