According to forum posts, several car rental companies have been recommended by travelers in Muscat. Bahwan Tourism Car Rental and NAB are mentioned for their reliable service and good-quality vehicles. Travz Car Rental also receives positive feedback, noted for having no hidden charges and providing new cars.

Some travelers said that having an active internet connection for navigation is crucial when renting a car in Muscat. GPS packages are available for an additional fee, with one user mentioning a cost of $5 per day. Direct booking through car rental company websites, rather than third-party services, has also been advised to avoid extra fees.

According to forum posts, Muscat International Airport offers multiple lounges, including lounges where economy class travelers can pay for access. This provides options for resting and refreshment before flights.

Travelers have indicated that duty-free shopping is available at Muscat International Airport, but it is only accessible to international passengers.

Some travelers mentioned that Muscat International Airport has a range of toilets, which are useful for passengers needing to change clothes during transit, such as those preparing for religious pilgrimages.

Forum posts suggest that travelers with long layovers can access an airport hotel, which can be particularly useful for those needing to collect luggage and re-check it for subsequent flights.

According to forum posts, if travelers remain airside during their layover at Muscat Airport, they do not require a transit visa. This applies regardless of whether the layover is just a few hours or up to 10 hours.

For travelers wishing to leave the airport, the situation is more complex. Previously, a transit visa was available, but recent updates from travelers indicate that Oman no longer issues transit visas post-COVID. Travelers now need to secure a type of visa before leaving the airport, such as an e-visa, which requires certain nationality criteria to be met.

Specific nationality rules apply: for instance, Romanian travelers can receive a visa on arrival allowing a stay up to 14 days. Additionally, transit through Oman without a visa is allowed for up to 6 hours for passengers with onward tickets under certain conditions.

Some travelers have considered exploring Muscat independently using public transport and taxis. Popular options include visiting top attractions in Muscat, such as the Grand Mosque and Mutrah Souq.

According to forum posts, another option is to join group excursions to places like Wadi Shab and Bimmah Sinkhole, which can take about 8 hours. However, finding ad hoc groups for day trips might be challenging.

For many users, renting a car with a driver has been suggested to maximize time efficiently. This option allows for flexibility and the ability to cover multiple sites along major roads in Muscat during the layover period.

Travelers have called out opportunities to try local foods, for instance, at Bait Al Luban near Mutrah Souq, which offers traditional Omani dishes. This adds a cultural taste to the layover experience.

According to forum posts, for travelers seeking beach hotels in Muscat, Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah and the Qurum Beach area are highly recommended. Shangri-La's Barr Al Jissah Resort offers a compromise for various needs, while the Qurum Beach area, particularly recommended for those who like walking and dining out, hosts the InterContinental, which is praised for its location and amenities.

For those inquiring about budget-friendly options, some travelers have suggested staying in Muttrah for its proximity to budget hotels and local attractions like the Corniche and Souk. Additionally, for a luxurious stay, travelers have mentioned Jumeirah Muscat Bay and Al Bustan Palace, with the latter being closer to central Muscat and suitable for sightseeing.

For short stays or layovers, the Crowne Plaza Qurum Beach has been highlighted for its great pub and proximity to tourist sites. This could be ideal for travelers looking to make the most out of a brief visit.

According to forum posts, there are numerous currency exchange options available in Muscat. Travelers have mentioned specific places like Modern Exchange, Global Money Exchange, and Al Jaddeh Exchange as reliable spots to exchange currency.

Some travelers said that exchanging currency at the airport might result in less favorable rates compared to exchanges located outside the airport. It's recommended to bring USD for better exchange rates, as Canadian and Australian dollars may not fetch as good rates, especially in areas like Murtah.

For many users, using ATMs and paying by credit card is suggested as the most cost-effective and convenient way to manage finances while traveling in Muscat. This method helps avoid the poorer exchange rates and fees associated with physical currency exchanges.