Built for the late Sultan Qaboos during his 50-year reign, Al Alam is mainly used to receive high-ranking guests such as foreign dignitaries and Queen Elizabeth II. Though the palace interior is off-limits, you can admire the exterior from Old Muscat’s harborfront.
Al Alam is typically included on all Muscat sightseeing tours, which often include a photo stop and round-trip transfers. Some tours combine the palace with city landmarks such as Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque and Old Muscat, while others go further afield to Wadi Shab and Nakhal. Hop-on hop-off buses stop nearby and evening tours gives you chance to admire the Al Alam at its most magical.