Out of all Oman attractions, my favorite is the Al Alam Palace. Pronounced Qasr al-Alam in Arabic, its name actually means “Palace of The Flag.” Fittingly so, as this was built to become the royal residence of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos, the ruler of Oman since July of 1970.
Photo: Tristan Schmurr, Flickr
Naturally, visitors are not allowed to enter the palace, which must be gorgeous inside! What’s interesting is that His Majesty doesn’t live here (most of the time) and Al Alam Palace is commonly used for “official functions” and to host welcome receptions for special guests instead.
gardens nearby Qasr Al Alam, Oman (Photo: Tristan Schmurr, Flickr)
Photo: Tristan Schmurr, Flickr
Albeit a limited Omani attraction, you must drop by the Al Alam Palace during your visit to the sultanate. Its beautiful colors, facade, and somewhat quirky design are worth it! Oh, and don’t forget to walk along the sixteenth-century Mirani and Jalali Forts nearby 
Qasr Al Alam surrounding plaza (Photo: Michael Gaylard, Flickr)
Photo: Tristan Schmurr, Flickr
Qasr Al Alam at night. Gorgeous! (Photo: Salim Al-Harthy, Flickr)
Have you been to Al Alam Palace in Muscat? Is it on your travel bucket list?
March 30, 2012 at 11:40 am
I was only in Al Ain in Oman — just popped over the border from the other Al Ain in the UAE — would love to get to Muscat one day though!