Muscat Street – A Cultural Crossroad in the Shadow of Masjid Sultan, Singapore

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At first glance, Muscat Street may appear to be just a short stretch nestled beside the majestic Masjid Sultan in Kampong Glam, Singapore. But spend a few minutes walking along its cobbled pathway, and you’ll discover that this modest street is rich with culture, color, and stories, from Turkish lamps to street art, from Islamic heritage to aromatic cuisine.

Named after the capital of Oman, Muscat Street is a tribute to the long-standing relationship between Singapore and the Middle East, and it has evolved into a vibrant pedestrian zone that blends tradition with modern-day charm.

Muscat Street
Muscat Street


A Historic Name with Middle Eastern Ties

Muscat Street was revitalized and renamed in 2009 to commemorate the diplomatic ties between Singapore and Oman. As part of this renewal, the street was beautified with mosaic art, palm trees, and paved tiles, giving it an architectural character that pays homage to Arab and Islamic design traditions.

The street forms a grand axis leading to the entrance of Masjid Sultan, creating a symbolic and visual connection between faith, community, and trade.

Muscat Street
Muscat Street


Masjid Sultan as the Backdrop

Standing proudly at one end of Muscat Street is Masjid Sultan, with its golden dome and Indo-Saracenic grandeur. The mosque gives the street a spiritual and historical anchor, and many visitors pause here to take iconic photos with the mosque in the background framed by the street’s palm-lined path and mosaic details.

During Islamic festivals like Hari Raya, Muscat Street transforms into a bustling bazaar zone with lights, stalls, and cultural performances.

Muscat Street
Muscat Street


Turkish Bazaars and Street-side Shops

What truly brings Muscat Street alive are its shops and eateries. Despite its short length, it offers a surprisingly diverse experience:

  • Turkish and Middle Eastern Shops:
    Browse through stores selling handmade Turkish ceramics, mosaic lamps, glassware, silk scarves, and Arabian perfumes. The richly colored items on display spill out onto the walkway, enticing passersby.

  • Street-side Souvenir Shops:
    You’ll also find Singapore-themed trinkets, Malay batik clothing, and Islamic calligraphy art, all in a more relaxed setting than the larger malls.

  • Cafés and Snack Corners:
    Tucked between retail stores are shisha lounges, Turkish coffee spots, and halal dessert counters. These casual eateries offer everything from kunafa and baklava to falafel wraps and cardamom tea, perfect for travelers looking to sample a bite of the Middle East in Southeast Asia.

Muscat Street
Muscat Street


Murals and Street Art

Muscat Street isn’t just about shopping; it's also a canvas for art and cultural storytelling. Along the side alleys and building walls, you'll find murals that depict:

  • Scenes of old Kampong Glam, including traders, seafarers, and local residents

  • Islamic motifs and traditional Arabic calligraphy

  • Artworks inspired by Malay-Muslim identity and heritage

These murals, often created in collaboration with local and regional artists, turn the walk through Muscat Street into a mini outdoor gallery, ideal for photographers and street art lovers.

Muscat Street
Muscat Street


📍 Visitor Information

  • Location: Muscat Street, off North Bridge Road, Kampong Glam, Singapore

  • Nearest MRT: Bugis Station (East-West Line / Downtown Line) – 5–7 min walk

  • Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon or early evening for soft lighting and open shops

  • Entry Fee: Free (public street and open access)

  • Nearby Attractions:

    • Masjid Sultan

    • Arab Street and Haji Lane

    • Malay Heritage Centre

    • Bussorah Street

Muscat Street may be small in scale, but it is immense in cultural expression. It offers visitors a brief yet rich walk through the flavors, colors, sounds, and spirit of Singapore’s Arab and Malay-Muslim heritage. From Turkish bazaars to artistic murals, this street weaves together the past and present in a way that is both immersive and unforgettable.

So, whether you’re visiting Masjid Sultan, exploring Kampong Glam, or simply looking for a place that blends culture with craftsmanship, make sure Muscat Street is on your walking trail.

Happy travelling. 

You might also enjoy reading on Indian Columbus:

Location: Singapore

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