Al Jalali and Al Mirani Forts

قلعة الجلالي والميراني

Twin Portuguese fortresses built in the 1580s that guard the harbour of Old Muscat from craggy cliffs. Their imposing setting above the sea makes for dramatic photographs.

Things to do

• Photograph the twin forts from the corniche — The dramatic clifftop silhouettes of Al Jalali and Al Mirani are best captured from the harbour road below in Old Muscat.
• Admire Al Alam Palace nearby — The ceremonial palace of Sultan Qaboos sits between the two forts and its colourful facade makes a striking foreground.
• Explore the Old Muscat gateway walls — Wander the restored city gates and watchtowers that once sealed the walled port town beneath the forts.
• Visit the National Museum of Oman — Just steps from the palace, it displays Omani heritage and maritime history connected to these Portuguese defences.
• Walk along the Muscat harbour front — Stroll the seafront promenade for views of dhows, the cliffs, and both fortresses rising above the water.
• Catch sunset over the fort cliffs — The golden light on the craggy rocks and stone walls creates the most dramatic photographs of the day.

Food to try

• Shuwa — Marinated lamb slow-cooked underground for a day, traditionally served on festive occasions across Oman.
• Omani halwa — A sticky, fragrant sweet made with rosewater, saffron and nuts, offered with kahwa as a gesture of hospitality.
• Kahwa and dates — Cardamom-spiced Omani coffee paired with dates is the customary welcome you can enjoy at cafes in Old Muscat.
• Grilled hammour — Fresh local reef fish caught from these very waters, often grilled and served with rice and lime.
• Mishkak — Skewers of spiced grilled meat sold at street stalls, a popular evening bite near the corniche.

Local customs & good to know

• Forts are not open to the public — Both Al Jalali and Al Mirani remain military and government sites, so admire and photograph them from outside only.
• Dress modestly in Old Muscat — Cover shoulders and knees out of respect, especially near the palace and when passing local residents.
• Avoid photographing officials or palace guards — Photography of the forts is fine, but do not point cameras at security personnel or restricted entrances.
• Visit during cooler months — Between October and April the weather is pleasant for walking the exposed clifftop and harbour areas.

Nearby

• Old Muscat — 0 km
• National Museum of Oman — 1 km
• Mutrah Corniche — 3 km
• Mutrah Souq — 3 km