A layover in Al Masna’ah is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Rustaq Airport sits just 30 minutes from the city center by local transport, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
Important Details Before You Go
A few things to sort out before you leave MNH:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Oman. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Al Masna’ah takes about 30 minutes by local transport. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
How to Get Into Al Masna’ah
You have two main options for getting from Rustaq Airport into town:
- local transport: About 30 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 50 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Exploring Al Masna’ah on a Layover
Two recommendations for your time in Al Masna’ah:
Start with Al Masna’ah Beach. You don’t need long to appreciate it — even a brief visit is refreshing. Then, if time allows, make your way to Al Masna’ah Fish Market. Great for picking up a quick snack or souvenir between flights.
If you’d rather stay inside MNH — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- MNH Airport Waiting Lounge
- Airport Convenience Store
Where to Grab a Meal
For food in Al Masna’ah, local travelers recommend Safa Al Bahar Restaurant. If you have time for a second stop, Al Majlis Restaurant is another popular pick.
Back at MNH, Airport Café & Snacks is the go-to. Quick Bites Counter rounds out your in-terminal options.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Al Masna’ah, budget roughly $40 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $20 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $10 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Bag Storage Near MNH
Specific locker facilities at MNH aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Al Masna’ah itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at MNH for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Al Masna’ah or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Rest Areas & Lounges
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at MNH.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Al Masna’ah with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Al Masna’ah may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.