Openings and Closings in Muscat

Openings and Closings are happening constantly as Muscat develops. Two this week are of personal interest.

drilling starts in the wadi to Bandar Jissah

Closing shortly is my favourite (and probably many others) beach in Muscat; Bandar Jissah. 23 years of swimming in the bay – around the Island, up and down the peninsulas means that its really been a question of is ‘life a beach ‘ . It’s changed during that time – from a dirt track road access, to tarmac, with small snack bar, toilets etc . Gradually more families made use of it – till at weekends it was overflowing with people relaxing . But its biggest change is now unfolding – into one of Muscat’s innumerable private beach front developments Saraya Al Jissah .

If any one can suggest an alternative swimming beach – please let me know.

the new National Museum

The National Museum’s work is now under way in Muscat. Jasper Jacob, the designer, has been working on this for many years and has been a great companion on journeys through Oman for inspiration. The overall concept is in keeping with the new ‘Mall’ down to the Palace – and will feature halls on regions of Oman and hopefully a Coffee Shop and Gift Shop.

Ruwi’s wet roads add a sparkle to Oman

Wet Roads isn’t typical Arabia – but today after a few drops earlier in the afternoon Ruwi had a thunderstorm and glistening roads and streets were created.

A glistening road in Ruwi

Those few drops happened just as I finished swimming at Bandar Jissah, I only noticed as the car showed them up . Driving away I came upon these Donkeys. They were wandering through the wadi that goes into Bandar Jissah which must be Muscat’s most popular beach at the weekend. Just behind them is the famous Iron Age Cemetery at Bandar Jissah and its associated Iron Age Village .

Donkeys in Bandar Jissah's wadi

They are  the first little herd I have seen in the main area of Muscat for many years I suspect they will be spending a wet night in the wadi