Royal Opera House Muscat

The Opera House Photo #1 of 3 Established by Royal Decree, Royal Opera House Muscat is an influential arts and culture platform that enhances Oman's international reputation and reinforces its niche offerings. The organization serves as a laboratory for creativity and intellectual exchanges; and its high-tech venue pays tribute to and presents diverse artistic and cultural expressions from the Sultanate, the region, and the world. Photo copyright Royal Opera House Muscat.

Opera Carmen

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Overview

From this perspective and in order to promote the Sultanate's cultural heritage and artistic engagement, Royal Directives were issued to develop a set of structures to broaden people's participation in cultural life. Royal Opera House Muscat has emerged as the leading open house for arts and culture in the country. It was initially conceived in 2001 as the house for musical arts and its development over a decade underwent several changes reflecting the modernist vision of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos and other requirements that enabled the Royal Court Affairs, with the assistance of various technical experts, to build what is now viewed as a milestone in the evolution of an Omani architectural style.

The newly completed building is a fusion of Omani tradition and modernity. The construction of this iconic and majestic Royal Opera House Muscat building with stunning handmade ornaments, including the sophistication of its rich interior, is in many ways an embodiment of such complexity and multiplicity of references witnessed in Omani architecture.

As part of the Royal Opera House Muscat's commitment to support Omani traditional handicrafts and local talents, "The Omani Artisan House" of the Public Authority for Craft Industries (PACI), will also open its doors at the "Opera Galleria" to promote and sell outstanding traditional products made by Omani hands from across the Sultanate. This is in addition to the opening of the first boutique for the highly-acclaimed Omani fashion designer, "Nawal Al Hooti", and the first store for exquisite Omani gifts designed by "Asmaa Al Kharusi".

The "Opera Galleria" is perfect both for patrons attending the performances as well as the general public. The shops of the "Opera Galleria" will have working hours from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm. The restaurants and cafés will operate daily from 8:00 am to 12:00 am midnight throughout the year, during weekends and public holidays. Visitors will be offered easy access to the "Opera Galleria" through a special vehicle entrance and near-by parking lot.