Muscat is the capital and largest city of the Sultanate of Oman, located on the eastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula. It is a port city with a long history of trade and commerce, and has a rich cultural heritage. The city is known for its beautiful beaches, traditional markets, and historic landmarks such as the Grand Mosque and the Muttrah Souk. Muscat is also home to a number of museums and cultural centers, including the Omani Heritage Gallery and the Bait Al Zubair Museum. The city has a hot, dry climate and is surrounded by mountains, making it a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking and mountain biking.