Muscat: In accordance with the Royal directives of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, HH Sayyid Bilarab bin Haitham Al Said presided over the inauguration of the "Royal Cars Museum" at Al Barakah Palace in the Wilayat of A’Seeb today.
The event was graced by members of the Royal Family, high-ranking government officials, and car enthusiasts.
Following the unveiling of the official opening plaque, HH Sayyid Bilarab and the guests viewed a visual presentation that illustrated the connection between the vehicles and the blessed journey of the renaissance, alongside stories represented in the museum's extensive collection of rare automobiles.
Subsequently, HH Sayyid Bilarab explored the museum's halls, observing notable collections of cars that belonged to the late Sultan Qaboos bin Said, the late Sultan Said bin Taimour, and Sayyid Tarik bin Taimour, as well as vehicles from His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, among others.
The museum has been opened to the public following the Royal decree of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, aiming to showcase the luxury represented by these vehicles, their variety, and the Royal attention they have received over the years, serving as a source of inspiration and attraction for enthusiasts.
The vision for the Royal Cars Museum was established with the primary goal of positioning the facility as a leading regional destination for vehicles associated with the renaissance.
The vision not only promotes the preservation of classic cars but also aims to position the Sultanate of Oman prominently on the global map of specialized museums that attract car enthusiasts both locally and internationally.
Established under the Royal directives of the late Sultan Qaboos bin Said, who had a deep passion for automobiles since the early 1970s, the museum has become a repository for the vintage cars of the two late sultans, alongside a collection of modern and rare vehicles acquired during that period. In 2012, a dedicated museum building was inaugurated to showcase these Royal cars, although access was initially restricted to guests of His Majesty.
Situated within the Al Barakah Palace in the Wilayat of A’Seeb, the Royal Cars Museum underscores the significance attributed to this establishment. Visitors can secure tickets for entry by making advance reservations through the official website (www.rcm.gov.om). Access to the museum is facilitated via the Safinat Gate in the northern Al Maabailah area, where guests are transported by bus to the museum.
The museum boasts a remarkable collection of distinctive cars, showcasing a variety of classes and models that exemplify the exquisite taste of the Sultanate of Oman. The classic cars span multiple eras, with some exceeding 130 years in age, yet they have maintained their historical integrity and value. This reflects the meticulous care taken to uphold the status and worth of these vehicles.
Among the museum's treasures is a steam car over 130 years old, along with limited-edition and classic vehicles of significant historical importance, including armored cars.
The museum features an impressive collection of sports cars, which includes the earliest models of electric vehicles, alongside rare automobiles from various countries.
Additionally, the Royal Cars Museum will welcome guests three days a week: Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday. Tickets for entry can be reserved via the museum’s official website at www.rcm.gov.om. Visitors must comply with the museum's regulations and policies, which can be found on the website. Reservations should be made in advance for the desired time slot, and guests are expected to arrive 30 minutes prior to their scheduled visit.
