Less than 30 years ago, the valley (Wadi Kabir) in which Ruwi lies was completely undeveloped. Today it is the bustling commercial district of Muscat, commonly referred to as the central business district.

Although Ruwi may not be a tourist hotspot, it is worth a wander around for the charming little shops and all the streetside restaurants selling excellent Arabic and Indian food at cheap prices.

A good point to begin your exploration of Ruwi is at the GTO Tower next to the main post office (almost in the centre of the CBD). On the south side you’ll find Sultan Qaboos Mosque on Al Jaame Street, as well as the central bus and taxi stations and the clock tower. On the northern side of the GTO Tower, the Bait Al Falaj (in the army base) houses the Sultan’s Armed Forces Museum. The National Museum can be found in Al Noor Street, in the north-west part of Ruwi. The Ruwi Souk (also known as Ruwi High Street) is the place to go for anything from souvenirs to diamond rings