History of Muscat in Timeline

Muscat is the capital and largest city of Oman, with a population of 1.72 million in 2022. Historically a key port for trade between the East and West since the 1st century CE, it has been ruled by various powers, including indigenous tribes, Persians, Portuguese, and Ottomans. In the 18th century, Muscat held considerable regional military influence, extending to East Africa and Zanzibar. The city attracted diverse foreign traders and settlers. Following Qaboos bin Said's accession in 1970, Muscat underwent rapid development, evolving into a multi-ethnic society with a vibrant economy. Muscat is now classified as a Beta-level Global City.

1962: Petroleum Development Oman Central to Muscat's Economy

Since at least 1962, Petroleum Development Oman has been central to Muscat's economy. It is the country's second largest employer.

April 26, 1966: Failed Assassination Attempt on Said bin Taimur

On April 26, 1966, there was a failed assassination attempt on Sultan Said bin Taimur, which led to his further isolation. He moved his residence from Muscat to Salalah amidst the ongoing conflict.

July 23, 1970: Qaboos bin Said's Coup d'état

On July 23, 1970, Qaboos bin Said, son of the Sultan, staged a bloodless coup d'état in the Salalah palace with British assistance, taking over as ruler.

1970: Rapid Infrastructural Development

Beginning in 1970, after Qaboos bin Said became the Sultan of Oman, Muscat saw rapid infrastructural development, a vibrant economy, and became a multi-ethnic society.

1976: First Five-Year Development Plan

In 1976, the first five-year development plan emphasized infrastructural development of Muscat, providing new opportunities for trade and tourism in the 1980s–1990s and attracting migrants from around the region.

1988: Establishment of Muscat Securities Market

In 1988, the Muscat Securities Market was established in the Central Business District of Muscat.

1993: Illiteracy Rate Recorded During the 1993 Census

During the 1993 census, the illiteracy rate was recorded as 18%.

2003: 2003 Census Results

According to the 2003 census by the Oman Ministry of National Economy, Muscat's population was over 630,000, making it the second largest governorate in Oman, accounting for 27% of the total population. Omanis constituted 60% of the population.

June 6, 2007: Cyclone Gonu Hits Muscat

On June 6, 2007, Cyclone Gonu struck Muscat, causing extensive damage to property, infrastructure, and commercial activity.

June 2007: Cyclone Gonu

In June 2007, Cyclone Gonu affected Muscat with damaging winds and rainfall amounts exceeding 100 millimetres (4 inches) in a single day.

June 2010: Cyclone Phet

In June 2010, Cyclone Phet impacted Muscat with damaging winds and rainfall exceeding 100 millimetres or 4 inches in a single day.

October 14, 2011: Opening of the Opera House

On October 14, 2011, the opera house in Muscat was opened.

November 2015: Revamping of Public Transportation

Since November 2015, Public transportation in Muscat has been revamped with a bus network connecting most important parts of the city with a fleet of modern Mwasalat buses procured from VDL of the Netherlands and MAN of Germany that have free Wi-Fi.

March 2016: Shipwreck Identification

In March 2016, archaeologists identified a shipwreck off Al-Hallaniyah Island believed to be that of the Esmeralda from Vasco da Gama's 1502–1503 fleet.

2017: Unveiling of the Mushaf Muscat

In 2017, the Sultanate of Oman unveiled the Mushaf Muscat, an interactive calligraphic Quran following a brief from the Omani Ministry of Endowments and Religious Affairs.

2019: Opening of Al Araimi Boulevard

During 2019, Al Araimi Boulevard was opened in the Mabela area of Muscat.

2020: Opening of Mall of Muscat

During 2020, the Mall of Muscat was opened in the Mabela area of Muscat, housing the Oman Aquarium.

2021: Opening of Mall of Oman

In the Summer of 2021, Mall of Oman opened, the largest shopping mall in Oman, housing over 100 stores including Snow Oman, Vox Cinemas, an arcade called Magic Planet and various food chains.

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2022: Muscat Governorate Population

In 2022, the population of the Muscat Governorate was reported to be 1.72 million, according to the National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI).

May 2025: Inauguration of Al Khuwair Square Flagpole

On May 22, 2025, the Al Khuwair Square Flagpole was inaugurated as the 13th tallest flagpole in the world, standing at 126 metres (the equivalent of a 40-storey building).