Muscat International Airport (MCT) to Muscat
An official airport taxi or a ride-hailing app car is the easiest way to your hotel, about 25–40 minutes. Mwasalat public buses are much cheaper but slower and less direct.
Muscat is a long, spread-out city; hotels in Qurum or Al Khuwair are closer to the airport than Mutrah or Old Muscat.
Best for most people: Taxi. Official airport taxis are metered, available around the clock and go directly to your hotel.
All the options
| How | Time | How often | Price* | Hours | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| taxi Official airport taxis from the rank outside Arrivals | about 25–40 min | about OMR 8–15 depending on area | 24 h | Metered; confirm the meter is running. | |
| ride-hailing Local ride-hailing apps such as Otaxi from the designated pickup zone | about 25–40 min | often slightly cheaper than airport taxis | 24 h | Availability can vary; download the app before arrival. | |
| bus Mwasalat public buses from the airport to Ruwi and other parts of the city | about 45–75 min | every 30–60 min | about OMR 0.5–1 | mainly day and evening; check timetable | Cheap; you may need a change or a short taxi ride at the other end. |
| car hire Rental desks in the arrivals hall | about 25–40 min | varies | 24 h desks for major firms | Popular for exploring Oman beyond Muscat. |
*Approximate 2026 prices and times. Services change: check the operator before you fly, especially for late arrivals.
Sort it before you land
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Tips
- Many visitors rent a car at the airport, as Oman's sights are spread across the country.
- Mutrah and Old Muscat are at the far eastern end of the city; allow up to 40 minutes.
- Carry some Omani rials; small taxis may prefer cash.
- Dress modestly when arriving if you plan to go straight to souks or mosques.
Common questions
How much is a taxi from Muscat airport to Mutrah?
Official airport taxis usually charge about OMR 12–15 to Mutrah or Old Muscat, and less for closer areas such as Qurum or Al Khuwair. Taxis are metered and wait outside Arrivals. App-based rides can be a little cheaper.
Is there a bus from Muscat airport?
Yes, Mwasalat runs public buses from the airport to Ruwi and other parts of the city. Fares are low, under OMR 1, but journeys are slower and may need a change. Check the current timetable on Mwasalat's website or app.
How long does it take from the airport to the city?
By car it takes about 25 minutes to Qurum and 35–40 minutes to Mutrah or Old Muscat. By bus allow an hour or more. Traffic is generally light, but rush hours can add time.
Should I rent a car at Muscat airport?
If you plan to visit places such as Nizwa, Wahiba Sands or Wadi Shab, renting a car is often the most practical choice. Roads are good and well signposted. For a city-only stay, taxis and apps are usually enough.
Compiled by TonyPlan from airport and transport-operator information and travel knowledge; updated 2026-10-05. Anything we could not confirm is marked as approximate.