The Governorate of Muscat

The Governorate of Muscat is the country’s political, economic and administrative heartland, the location of the capital city – Muscat – as well as the seat of government and the nerve centre of the state’s administrative apparatus. It is also a vibrant hub of local and international economic, commercial and tourist activity.

The Governorate of Muscat is situated on the Oman Sea at the southern end of the Batinah coast. It borders on the Eastern Hajar mountains and the Sharqiyah region to the east, the Batinah region to the west and the Dakhiliyah region to the south. According to 2007 estimates, it has a population of 785,515.

Muscat, with the Al Alam Palace on the right

Muscat Governorate has six wilayats – Muscat, Mutrah, Bausher, Seeb, al Amerat and Quriyat. Each of these is administered by a wali appointed by the Governor of Muscat. The governorate is responsible for providing essential public services within its administrative borders.

The governorate’s affairs are administered by the Minister of State and Governor of Muscat, who is appointed by His Majesty the Sultan. Muscat Municipality’s Municipal Council also plays a vital role in this connection.