Muscat International Airport
Today, we are going to take a trip to Oman and introduce you to Muscat International Airport. As the capital of Oman, Muscat welcomes numerous travelers each year who visit the country for business, leisure, and more. In this article, we will discuss the history, details, and facilities of Muscat Airport. Join us with Eli Gasht.
Muscat International Airport, with IATA code MCT and ICAO code OOMS, is the main airport of Oman and is located 32 kilometers from the old Muscat area. Oman Air, the national carrier, uses this airport as its primary hub and operates numerous flights to various destinations in Asia, Africa, and Europe. The airport began its operations in 1973 under the name Seeb International Airport, replacing a smaller airport that was located in the village of Bait Al Falaj. However, in 2008, the name was officially changed to Muscat International Airport. Currently, famous and international airlines such as Air Arabia, Emirates, Etihad, Kish Air, KLM, Oman Air, Qatar Airways, Swiss International Air Lines, Thai Airways, and Turkish Airlines operate regular flights at this airport.
Official Name: Muscat International Airport
IATA Code: MCT
ICAO Code: OOMS
Number of Terminals: 2
Website: www.omanairports.co.om
Muscat Airport Services
New Terminal of Muscat Airport
Currently, Muscat Airport has two passenger terminals known as Terminal 1 (New Terminal) and Terminal 2 (Old Terminal). Phase one of the new terminal opened on March 20, 2018, and with its modern and advanced facilities, it has increased the airport’s capacity to 20 million passengers per year. In the near future, phases two and three will also open, further increasing the airport’s capacity to 24 and 48 million passengers per year. The new terminal, covering an area of 580,000 square meters, includes 118 check-in gates, 10 baggage claim sections, 82 visa and immigration counters, 45 boarding gates, and a new control tower with a height of 97 meters. The new terminal is located between the old and new runways and can accommodate large aircraft such as the Airbus A380 and Boeing 747s.
Muscat Airport Transportation
Airport Transportation Options
Bus: Most major hotels offer special bus services to and from Muscat Airport, transporting their guests between the hotel and the airport. However, public buses also run from Sultan Qaboos Street and stop a short distance from the airport terminals. Using the bus, you can reach the city center in 20-25 minutes. If you do not have a lot of luggage and prefer an economical way to get to your hotel and the city center, you can use the bus.
Hotel Shuttle: As mentioned above, many major hotels in Muscat offer special shuttle services for their guests. To ensure that your hotel offers this service, be sure to contact the hotel reception before your arrival to make the necessary arrangements. Some of the well-known hotels that offer shuttle services include The Chedi Muscat, Eastin Residences Muscat, Majan Continental Hotel, and Remas Hotel Suites.
Taxi: For travelers with a lot of luggage who want a comfortable ride to their hotel, taxis are a popular option. Although taxis are more expensive than buses, they offer convenience and comfort, making them popular among foreign tourists. Taxi order desks are available at both terminals, and you can get a taxi by visiting them. If you are traveling with children, worried about getting lost in the city, or want a quick and easy ride to your hotel, use a taxi. With a taxi, you can reach your hotel and the city center from Muscat Airport in 25 minutes.
Car Rental: If you are traveling to Muscat with 3-4 people and want more freedom and independence, renting a car is a great option. Domestic and international car rental companies have offices at Muscat Airport, offering various car rental services to travelers. The offices of these companies are located in the arrivals hall, and you can compare prices and services to choose the best option. Well-known international companies such as Budget, Europcar, Hertz, and Thrifty are among the famous car rental companies.
Airport Hotels: If your flight is delayed or you need to stay at the airport for several hours for any reason, you can use the airport hotels. Several hotels inside or near Muscat Airport offer comfortable and convenient accommodation for travelers.
Aerotel: This hotel is located inside the airport on the 5th floor. It offers king-size beds and numerous amenities to travelers and can be booked for a 6-hour period. After 6 hours, an additional charge is added per hour.
Holiday Inn Muscat Al Seeb: Although this hotel is not located inside the airport, it is only 8 minutes away and is considered an airport hotel option. Free transportation services shuttle guests between the hotel and the airport.
To book these hotels, go to the Muscat Hotel Booking page.
Airport Facilities
Financial Services: Numerous ATMs in both terminals support various currencies. Additionally, currency exchange offices are available at the airport for exchanging money.
Food and Beverage: If you need to spend a few hours at the airport, you will not have any problems with food and beverages. Muscat Airport has numerous cafes, restaurants, and food outlets in the arrival and departure halls, offering traditional foods, fast food, snacks, and beverages.
Shopping: Duty-free shops are some of the best options for shopping at Muscat Airport. These shops are located in the departure and arrival sections of both terminals and offer various products such as perfumes and cigarettes without tax charges.
Luggage Services: Trolleys for carrying luggage are available throughout the airport and are free to use. Additionally, porter services are available for elderly passengers or those who cannot push the trolleys themselves. If you lose your luggage or belongings, you can visit the lost and found office at the airport services center.
Children’s Play Area: Traveling with young children can be challenging. Fortunately, Muscat Airport has a designated play area for children, where you can take your child to play and burn off some energy before the flight.
Medical Services: The airport clinic offers emergency and outpatient treatments to travelers. This clinic operates 24/7, providing medical services and first aid to travelers free of charge.
Special Facilities for Disabled Passengers: Muscat Airport is fully designed to meet the needs of disabled passengers and those using wheelchairs. Various elevators and escalators are available throughout the airport, connecting different floors. If you need additional services and assistance, such as an assistant, it is better to contact the airline issuing your ticket in advance and make the necessary arrangements.
Parking: The airport parking area offers both short-term and long-term parking options for travelers. Since the parking area is a bit far from the terminals, a free shuttle service transports passengers between the airport and the parking lot.
