On 12 October 2011, the Royal Opera House Muscat was inaugurated — a landmark moment in the Sultanate's cultural history. The opening celebrated Oman's dedication to the performing arts and unveiled a world-class home for opera, ballet, and music in the heart of Muscat.
12 October 2011
A Landmark for Oman
ROHM
Opening Day
On 12 October 2011, the Royal Opera House Muscat was inaugurated — a landmark moment in the Sultanate's cultural history. The opening celebrated Oman's dedication to the performing arts and unveiled a world-class home for opera, ballet, and music in the heart of Muscat.
His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said opened the house before an audience of dignitaries, artists, and citizens. The evening marked the realisation of a national vision: to place Oman at the centre of the region's cultural life and to offer a permanent stage for the world's finest opera, ballet, and orchestral performances.
01
First in the Region
The Royal Opera House Muscat became the first purpose-built opera house in the Arabian Peninsula — a symbol of Oman's openness to world culture.
02
Opening Night
The inaugural performance was Giacomo Puccini's Turandot, staged in the main auditorium with international soloists and a full orchestra.
03
A Living Legacy
Since opening day, ROHM has welcomed millions of visitors for opera, ballet, concerts, tours, education, and community programmes.
The Inaugural Season
A House Built for Performance
Designed to reflect Omani architectural heritage while meeting the technical demands of international opera and ballet, the Royal Opera House Muscat combines a 1,100-seat auditorium, the House of Musical Arts, a music library, and exhibition spaces under one cultural campus in Shati Al Qurum.
From its first night, the house has hosted leading companies and artists from across the globe — establishing Muscat as a destination for audiences who expect the highest standards of production, acoustics, and hospitality.
"The opening of the Royal Opera House Muscat affirmed the Sultanate's belief that music and the arts belong at the heart of national life — inspiring generations to come."
12 October 2011 · Muscat, Sultanate of OmanExperience ROHM Today
Visit the House Opened in 2011
Guided Tours
Walk through the auditorium, backstage areas, and architectural landmarks on a guided house tour — Sat to Thu, 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM.
Book a TourSeason Performances
Experience the same main stage that opened with Turandot — now home to opera, ballet, and concerts each season.
View ProgrammeExhibition & Library
Explore the Exhibition of Musical Arts and the ROHM Music Library — continuing the educational mission begun on opening day.
Plan Your Visit