Throwback to 1973 When Oman’s First Double Road Was Opened

Take a trip down memory lane to 1973, when Oman got its very first double road! The Muttrah Corniche Road in Old Muscat was a total game-changer, connecting the city to the sparkling coastline and making travel a whole lot smoother. Before this, the sea and land were basically besties—no barriers, just open views and sandy feet.

Oman opened its first double road in 1973

Back in 1973, the grand opening of the Muttrah Corniche Road was a big deal. The event was led by His Majesty the Late Sultan Qaboos bin Said, who officially cut the ribbon and set the wheels of progress in motion. The ceremony was full of Omani tradition, with dignitaries lining up along the brand-new road, the sea glimmering in the background, and a shiny plaque marking the occasion.

Road construction transformed Old Muscat

Building this road was no small feat! The video flashes back to black and white scenes of earth-movers, trucks, and road rollers working hard to lay down the foundation. Before 1970, paved roads in Oman were a rare sight, but by 1977, the country had made huge strides in both paved and unpaved roads. The Muttrah Corniche Road was the first of its kind, setting the stage for modern infrastructure across the Sultanate.

The Corniche became a lively hub

Once the road opened, the Corniche quickly turned into a buzzing spot for cars, pedestrians, and anyone wanting a seaside stroll. The transformation was real—gone were the days of the sea meeting the ground with no barriers. Today, the Corniche is a symbol of how far Oman has come, blending old-school charm with modern vibes. Talk about a serious upgrade!

Read next: Omani Hospitality: A Tourist’s Heartwarming Surprise

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