Currency Museum, Muscat 🇴🇲

Step into the world of Omani economic history at the Currency Museum, located in the vibrant capital of Muscat. Inaugurated by the Central Bank of Oman in April 1999, this specialized institution offers you a fascinating look into the evolution of money and circulation across the Sultanate. As you explore the exhibits, you will discover the intricate story of currency used in Oman, stretching from pre-Islamic and early Islamic periods through modern times.

The collections highlight ancient minting practices, the fascinating era prior to the Saidi Rial—Oman's first national currency—and the transition to modern banknotes and coins. Among the key treasures you will see are one of the earliest Islamic silver dirhams, locally produced Baiza coins, and specimens of foreign imperial tender like the Maria Theresa thaler, which circulated in Oman from 1801 to 1970. You will also examine historical Gulf rupees issued by India and intriguing Islamic ashrafi.

A major highlight of your visit is seeing the rare Uman silver dirham, minted under the Umayyad Caliph Abd al-Malik ibn Marwan, recognized as one of the oldest coins ever minted in the Arabian Peninsula. You will also view commemorative coins celebrating Omani National Days.

What to see at Currency Museum, Muscat

• One of the oldest Arabian Peninsula coins, an Umayyad silver dirham named Uman
• Displays of early Islamic silver dirhams and traditional Islamic ashrafi
• Foreign historical tender including Maria Theresa thalers and Indian-issued Gulf rupees
• Exhibits detailing pre-Islamic minting and the era before the Saidi Rial
• Locally produced Baiza coins and special Omani National Day commemorative coins

Visiting tips

Look out for the rare Umayyad silver dirham named Uman, which represents one of the earliest examples of coin minting in the entire Arabian Peninsula.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning

How to get there & what’s nearby

Currency Museum, Muscat is easy to reach on Muscat’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Bait al Zubair Museum and Muscat Gate Museum. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Muscat travel guide.