Everything You Need to Know About Going to a Show at the Royal Opera House in Muscat
If you thought Oman was only about deserts, forts, and turquoise wadis... surprise!
Tucked right in the heart of Muscat is the magnificent Royal Opera House Muscat — a glittering palace of music, culture, and jaw-dropping architecture.
Whether you’re an opera aficionado or just in it for the glam night out, here’s your guide to making the most of your visit to Oman’s crown jewel of culture.
First Things First: What’s the Royal Opera House Muscat?
It’s not just an opera house — it’s a statement.
Commissioned by Sultan Qaboos, a passionate lover of music, the Royal Opera House Muscat (ROHM if you want to sound like a local) opened in 2011.
Today, it hosts everything from grand opera and ballet to world music concerts, jazz nights, and even Broadway shows. And yes, the building itself is a performance — gleaming white marble, intricate Arabesque woodwork, and chandeliers that look like they were plucked straight from a dream.
How to Get Tickets
Tickets are available online through the Royal Opera House website or directly at the venue’s box office.
Hot Tip: Big-name shows can sell out weeks in advance, especially during peak season (October to April).
Pricing: There’s usually a wide range — from affordable balcony seats to front-row center (bring your opera glasses and your inner diva).
Age limits: Some shows have age restrictions — double-check before booking if you’re planning a family night out!
What to Wear: Dress Code Decoded
Unlike that casual beach stroll, attending a show here is an occasion. And there’s an official dress code:
Men: Suit or smart national dress (dishdasha for Omanis).
Women: Elegant dresses, abayas, or smart evening wear.
Strictly No: Jeans, sneakers, t-shirts, shorts. (Save those for your wadi adventures.)
Translation: It’s your chance to shine. Think tasteful glamour, not Met Gala madness.
When to Arrive
Doors typically open 30–45 minutes before the performance starts.
Pro Tip: Arrive early to soak up the building’s beauty (and sneak a few glamorous selfies without the crowds).
Running Late? You might have to wait outside until a suitable break in the show — and trust us, standing there in stilettos is not as fun as it sounds.
Where to Eat Before (or After)
Feeling fancy? Make a night of it!
Dining at Opera Galleria: Right next to the Opera House, you’ll find a cluster of upscale restaurants and cafes serving everything from Omani fusion dishes to artisan coffee.
Nearby Fine Dining: Rozna, The Restaurant at The Chedi Muscat, and The Beach Restaurant are all stellar options if you want to level up your pre- or post-show experience.
Tip: Book ahead on show nights — you won’t be the only one with this brilliant idea.
Is Photography Allowed?
Quick snaps of the stunning lobby and architecture? Absolutely.
Photos and videos during the performance? Big no-no. (Turn that phone off and live the moment!)
What Kind of Shows Can You See?
A little bit of everything!
Expect a mix of:
Grand opera classics (think La Traviata and Carmen)
International ballet companies
Jazz legends and Arabic music icons
Cultural performances and musical theatre
Check their season calendar — there’s usually something for every kind of music lover (or curiosity-seeker).
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned culture connoisseur, an evening at the Royal Opera House Muscat is pure magic — a symphony of art, architecture, and Arabian elegance.
Dust off your fancy shoes, book those tickets, and prepare for a night you’ll be dreaming about long after the final curtain call.
Need help planning the perfect luxury evening in Muscat? Let us help curate your perfect experience!