In Muscat there are many modern supermarkets offering an ever-growing range of international and local products. Many of the imported processed items come from the UK, Holland, Spain, France, the US, Australia, New Zealand and the Far East. Imported fresh vegetables and fruit come from India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and the UAE among others. In recent years, Oman has started to produce mushrooms, bell peppers, tomatoes, broccoli etc. All Indian food and spices are readily available.

The supermarkets also stock seasonal food such as turkey, mince pies etc. or allow you to order these items.

Supermarkets are generally open from 7.30 a.m. to 9 p.m. everyday and some of the bigger ones even stay open 24 hours during the Holy month of Ramadhan. Most other shops, however, follow a split shift from 9.00 to 13.00 and 16.30 to 20.00 Monday to Thursday and 16.30 – 20.00 on Fridays (be aware that during Ramadhan, these times will vary).

There are two large Souks (markets) in Muttrah, one selling a wide range of items (spices, clothing, silver and gold), and the other is a fruit, vegetables and fresh fish market.  In addition large fruit and vegetable markets can be found in Wadi Al Kabir (near Ruwi) and in Ghubrah.

There are also several large, airconditioned shopping malls in and around the city. The largest ones are Muscat City Centre in Seeb, Qurum City Centre in Qurum and Markaz Al Bahja in Seeb.

Most specialist shops are located in Ruwi (the business district) and this is the place to go for anything you may need which you cannot obtain in the regular shops.