One of the compulsory stops on any guided tour, so you will likely see it when visiting Muscat. It's interesting architecture, but not particularly impressive; the government buildings across the street, and the Portuguese fort in the background, are much more grandiose. Nevertheless, worth a short stop.

A must place to visit in muscat. Palace is located opposite to the national museum of oman. You can not enter the palace. but can have a look from outside. There is no charges to visit. Located in muttrah. Catch the bus from ruwi bus station and get down at al alam palace bus station.

Also known as "The Sultans Palace", this site is not open to the public. However, it is worth visiting this lovely little gem. Behind a large palatial gate, it's appearance is very unique. Like a jewel box it appears to be in immaculate condition sitting on a manicured lawn filled with mounds of flowers. The picture is completed by the fortresses standing watch on the surrounding hillsides. A parking garage and several lots are within a block.

The Alam Palace is one of the residences of the Sultan. He has adopted the English system, where you can tell by the flag on top if he's in residence or not. You can only take some pictures at and through the metal front gate - no ordinary people allowed. The surrounding area is probably of more interest : ministerial and military buildings and a lovely little bay in front. I happened to see a number of small sharks in the water.

You can't actually go inside but are free to walk around the grounds anytime you want with some nice big open plazas and grand buildings to view. Bus No 4 from Ruwi bus station has Al Alam Palace as the last stop and will drop you at the main gate for 0.3 OMR cash to the driver. Nice place to wander for an hour or so.