Muscat is the capital and largest city of Oman.
It is also the seat of government and largest city in the Governorate of
Muscat. The metropolitan area spans approximately 1500 km² and includes
six wilayats. Known since the early 1st century CE as an important trading port
between the west and the east, Muscat was ruled by various indigenous tribes as
well as foreign powers such as the Persians and the Portuguese Empire at
various points in its history. A regional military power in the 18th century,
Muscat's influence extended as far as East Africa and Zanzibar. As an important
port-town in the Gulf of Oman, Muscat attracted foreign tradesmen and settlers
such as the Persians, the Balochis and Gujaratis. Since the ascension of Qaboos
bin Said as Sultan of Oman in 1970, Muscat has experienced rapid infrastructural
development that has led to the growth of a vibrant economy and a multi-ethnic
society.
The rocky Western Al Hajar Mountains dominate
the landscape of Muscat. The city lies on the Arabian Sea along the Gulf of
Oman and is in the proximity of the strategic Straits of Hormuz. Low-lying
white buildings typify most of Muscat's urban landscape, while the
port-district of Muttrah, with its corniche and harbour, form the north-eastern
periphery of the city. Muscat's economy is dominated by trade, petroleum and
porting.