Public transportation almost nil in Muscat? Stark contrast from Kuala Lumpur, what would be the reasons?

Oman seems much more richer (in terms of Per Capita Income) than Malaysia yet they have very nice public transportation system. Both Muslim countries. Muscat is car centric. Mwasalat operates public buses but that is a joke. I will be staying at Crowne Plaza OCEC approx 88 min walk from airport (no bus will go there). To take bus for going anywhere in the town, I have to walk 88 min back to airport lol.

I am coming for a week and although I drive a car, not confident of hiring one as we drive on the left and to accustom with Omani rules will take time. Taxis seem expensive? I don't know what to do. Muscat seems a huge turn off.