What the Council of Oman Is
The Council of Oman, also known as Majlis Oman, is a bicameral legislative body in Muscat. It comprises the elected Shura Council and the appointed State Council, reflecting the Sultanate’s combination of traditional consultation and modern governance. The Council is in Muscat’s governmental district, near landmarks including Al Alam Palace.
The Council’s architectural complex blends traditional Omani motifs with contemporary design. Designed by Moller Architects, its fort-inspired buildings, courtyards and intricate patterns make it both a working institution and an architectural attraction (arc-magazine.com; mollerarchitects.com).
History and Governance
Oman’s political tradition of consultation dates back to the 8th century, when the Ibadi Imamate used a shura system involving religious scholars and tribal elders. Over time, power shifted between centralized sultanates and decentralized imamates, fostering negotiation and consensus (Manara Magazine).
The Al Bu Said dynasty was established in 1744. Oman’s modern state took shape in the mid-20th century, particularly during the reign of Sultan Qaboos bin Said, who came to power after 1970. The bicameral Council of Oman was established in 1997 (Manara Magazine).
The Council consists of:
- State Council (Majlis al-Dawla) An appointed upper house, whose members are selected by the Sultan from various professional backgrounds.
- Shura Council (Majlis al-Shura) An elected lower house, whose members are chosen by Omani citizens through direct elections.
The Council reviews, amends and proposes legislation, oversees government policies and provides a platform for public participation. Proposals may come from the government or the Shura Council. Both chambers review drafts and resolve differences before proposals are submitted to the Sultan (The Arabian Stories).
What to See
Majlis Oman
The complex combines Omani fort-inspired architecture with contemporary functionality. Its exterior uses local stone and geometric Islamic motifs. The layout includes three main blocks—the joint assembly, Shura Council and State Council—as well as committee rooms, a library and ceremonial plazas (arc-magazine.com; mollerarchitects.com; visualenergy.org).
The exterior grounds and landscaped promenades offer views of the complex. The building is especially photogenic at dusk, when it is lit against Muscat’s mountains (bigbustours.com).
Muscat’s Historical and Cultural Attractions
Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
- Hours Sunday–Thursday, 8:00–11:00 AM; closed Fridays and public holidays.
- Entry Free.
- Dress Modest attire is required. Women must cover their hair, arms and legs; men must wear long trousers and sleeved shirts.
- Highlights The second-largest handwoven Persian carpet, a Swarovski chandelier and tranquil gardens.
- Accessibility Wheelchair-friendly.
Royal Opera House Muscat
Tickets can be purchased online or at the box office. Tours are available when no performances are scheduled. Amenities include fine dining and boutique shopping (GoKiteTours).
Muttrah Souq
- Hours Daily, 9:00 AM–10:00 PM.
- Experience Traditional goods, lively evenings and customary bargaining.
Al Alam Palace and Old Muscat
Al Alam Palace can be viewed from outside, and its gardens are open during daylight. Al Jalali and Al Mirani forts are also viewable from outside. Old Muscat walking tours are available (OmaniBest).
Bait Al Zubair Museum
- Hours Saturday–Thursday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM.
- Exhibits Omani costumes, weaponry, jewelry and a traditional village.
- Entry A modest fee; guided tours are available on request.
National Museum of Oman
- Hours Daily, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM.
- Entry Fee varies; audio guides are available.
- Exhibits Artifacts from prehistory to the modern era.
Waterfronts, Parks and Forts
- Muttrah Corniche Open 24/7. Shops and restaurants are open during the day and evening. Attractions include harbor views, traditional dhows and sunset strolls (Oman Wanderlust).
- Qurum Beach and Qurum Natural Park Early morning or late afternoon are suggested visiting times. Activities include relaxation, picnics and walking trails (WeWillNomad).
- Al Jalali and Al Mirani forts Closed to the public but viewable from outside.
- Sultan’s Armed Forces Museum Located in Bait Al Falaj Fort and open daily, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM (Oman Wanderlust).
Practical Visiting Information
Council Hours, Entry and Access
The Council is not a standard tourist attraction. Visits are by prior appointment, generally on weekdays, Sunday–Thursday, 8:00 AM–2:00 PM. It occasionally opens to visitors during national events and for educational tours.
Entry is free, but visitors must arrange access through official channels in advance. Walk-ins and on-the-spot ticketing are not available. The exterior grounds and landscaped promenades are open Sunday–Thursday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM; the interior is not open to the general public. Tickets are not required for the exterior, and guided tours inside are not generally available. Group visits and educational delegations may arrange tours in advance.
Visitors must bring valid identification and expect security screening. Photography is permitted outside in designated areas; photography inside is restricted, so ask permission.
The Council is accessible for visitors with disabilities, with ramps and accessible restrooms. Outdoor areas are wheelchair-friendly. Comfortable footwear and sun protection are recommended for the grounds.
Dress and Conduct
Modest, formal attire is required at the Council. Men should wear long trousers and collared shirts; women should wear long skirts or trousers and cover their shoulders. Headscarves for non-Muslim women are appreciated (allaboutoman.com; fm.gov.om).
The Council hosts public lectures and outreach programs to promote civic awareness. Check its official website or local tourism offices for event schedules.
Travel Tips and Suggested Itineraries
- Dress Wear modest clothing; dress requirements are stricter at religious sites (Oman Wanderlust).
- Best time to visit November–March, for pleasant weather (Travellers Worldwide).
- Transport Taxis and rental cars are recommended; some districts are walkable.
- Cuisine Try Omani shuwa, majboos and halwa (WeWillNomad).
- Etiquette Avoid public displays of affection, ask before photographing, avoid government and military sites, greet officials politely, respect local customs and follow guide instructions (Matias Travel).
- Planning Use official websites and mobile apps like Audiala for updated visiting hours, event notifications and travel tips.
Suggested itineraries:
- One day Grand Mosque, Muttrah Souq, Corniche, Al Alam Palace exterior and Bait Al Zubair Museum.
- Three days Add the Royal Opera House, National Museum, Qurum Beach and Old Muscat’s forts (Matias Travel).
Nearby Places
The Council’s location makes it possible to visit Al Alam Palace, Muttrah Corniche and Souq, and the National Museum of Oman. Other sites that can be combined with a visit to Majlis Oman include Al Jalali and Al Mirani forts and the Royal Opera House Muscat. The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Bait Al Zubair Museum, Qurum Beach and Qurum Natural Park are also among Muscat’s historical and cultural attractions (Matias Travel; OmaniBest).
FAQs
How can I visit the Council of Oman?
Arrange a visit in advance through official channels. Walk-ins are not accepted (fm.gov.om).
Are tours available?
Tours for groups and educational delegations are available by prior arrangement. Guided tours inside are not generally available.
Is there a fee?
Visits are free but require advance approval.
Is the Council building accessible?
Yes. It has wheelchair ramps and accessible restrooms, and its outdoor areas are wheelchair-friendly.
