Muscat

Muscat, or Maskat (pop. 30,000), capital of Oman. A major port and commercial center, it lies on the Gulf of Oman in southeast Arabia. The city has existed since ancient times. Two Portuguese forts testify to Portugal's occupation of Muscat (1508–1648). In 1741 it became Oman's capital. Muscat and its modern suburbs are known as the Capital Area.

See also: Oman.