The Al Alam Palace is a palace located in Old Muscat, Oman. It was used as a ceremonial palace by Sultan Qaboos bin Said Al Said.
History of Al Alam Palace
Al Alam Palace, one of the six residences of the sultan, holds a rich history spanning over 200 years, attributed to Imam Sultan bin Ahmed, the 7th direct great-grandfather of Sultan Haitham. Originally built as a royal residence, the existing palace showcases a striking facade adorned in gold and blue, reconstructed in 1972. While the inner grounds remain restricted, visitors are permitted to approach the gates and capture photographs
Surrounded by the 16th-century Mirani and Jalali Forts erected by the Portuguese, Al Alam Palace serves as a venue for official functions and hosts distinguished guests. Notably, in January 2012, the sultan welcomed Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands during her state visit to Oman at this historic palace.
Featuring a distinctive gold and blue facade reminiscent of a scene from Disney cartoons, the palace stands out as a unique architectural gem in the capital. Its trumpet-shaped flaring columns further enhance its distinctiveness, contributing to its iconic status.
Approaching the palace complex reveals a meticulously curated setting, with a long pedestrianized boulevard flanked by arcade colonnades. The area boasts lavish use of polished marble adorning every surface, creating an awe-inspiring atmosphere. Adjacent to the palace, notable government buildings such as the Ministry of Finance add to the architectural splendor of the surroundings.