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Oman is a safe, culturally rich Middle Eastern country with welcoming people, stunning deserts, wadis, mountains and coastline. Prepare for conservative customs, a warm climate, and simple entry rules to enjoy a respectful, comfortable trip.

Visa & entry requirements

• Most nationalities require a visa; Oman offers eVisa/visa-on-arrival for many countries. Apply at https://evisa.rop.gov.om or check your embassy.
• Passport should be valid for at least 6 months from arrival.
• Proof of onward travel or accommodation may be asked.
• COVID-19 restrictions: check current requirements before travel (tests/vaccination rules may change).

Best time to visit

• October to April: peak season — milder temperatures (20–30°C), ideal for sightseeing, desert and mountain activities.
• May to September: very hot (often >40°C in lowlands); travel to mountains (Jabal Akhdar, Jebel Shams) for cooler weather or plan coastal/beach stays with caution.

Safety

• Oman is one of the safest countries in the region: low violent crime and welcoming locals.
• Standard precautions: watch belongings in crowded places, avoid isolated areas at night, keep copies of documents.
• Road safety: driving can be hazardous at night on rural roads (animals, unlit stretches). Hire 4x4 for off-road/desert and mountain tracks.
• Follow local laws: drug offenses carry severe penalties.

Local customs & etiquette

• Conservative Muslim country: dress modestly—shoulders and knees covered for women and men in towns. Swimwear okay at private hotel pools/beaches; avoid topless sunbathing.
• Public displays of affection are frowned upon.
• Always ask before photographing people, especially women; avoid taking pictures of military/police installations.
• Handshakes: common between men; wait for a woman to offer her hand. Use the right hand for giving/receiving items.
• Ramadan: during Ramadan, avoid eating/drinking/smoking in public during daylight hours out of respect.

Currency & money

• Omani Rial (OMR) is the currency. It has a high value (1 OMR ≈ 2.6–2.7 USD—check current rate).
• Credit cards widely accepted in cities and tourist areas; carry cash for small shops, taxis and remote areas.
• ATMs available in cities; notify your bank of travel to avoid card blocks.

Transportation

• International airports: Muscat (MCT) is main gateway.
• Car hire: recommended for flexibility. Roads in cities and main highways are good; mountain and desert routes may require a 4x4.
• Taxis: metered taxis in Muscat and larger towns; ride-hailing apps (e.g., OTaxi in some areas) and private transfers are available. Agree fare for non-metered taxis.
• Public transport: limited; intercity buses exist but are less convenient than driving. Domestic flights connect to Musandam/Salalah in some cases.

Must-know tips & local insights

• Language: Arabic is official; English widely spoken in tourism and business. Learning a few Arabic phrases is appreciated.
• Power: 240V, 50Hz; plug types G are common—bring an adapter.
• Tipping: small tip is appreciated (5–10% at restaurants if service not included).
• Water: tap water in Muscat is generally treated and considered safe by many locals, but bottled water is commonly used by travelers.
• Dress for heat: light, breathable fabrics; sunscreen, hat, and plenty of water.
• Respect nature: stick to marked tracks in wadis and mountains; do not camp in protected or private areas without permission.
• Cultural sites: remove shoes when entering mosques; women should carry a scarf if planning to visit. Non-Muslims can visit some mosques (Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Muscat has visiting hours and a dress code).
• Connectivity: good mobile coverage in cities, patchy in remote desert/mountains—download maps offline and inform someone if heading to remote areas.

Highlights to consider

• Muscat: Royal Opera House, Mutrah Corniche & souq, Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque.
• Wahiba Sands: desert camping and dune driving.
• Jebel Akhdar & Jebel Shams: trekking, mountain villages, ‘Grand Canyon of Arabia’.
• Wadis: Wadi Shab, Wadi Bani Khalid for swimming and scenic hikes.
• Coastal: Salalah (monsoon khareef season June–September brings greenery) and Musandam for fjord-like cruising.

Final practical checklist

• Passport (6+ months), eVisa/printout, travel insurance, local currency/credit card, suitable clothing, sun protection, refillable water bottle, copies of bookings, offline maps, phone charger/adapter.

Enjoy Oman respectfully, and you’ll be rewarded with warm hospitality and dramatic landscapes.