About oman

Oman is a year-round destination, but the ideal time for exploration is during the *winter months, from October to April*. During this period, the weather is perfectly pleasant for outdoor adventures, with sunny days and cool evenings. This is the best time for desert camping, hiking in the mountains, and exploring the cities. The summer months (May to September) are extremely hot and humid, perfect for those seeking indoor cultural experiences or visiting the cooler highlands of Salalah, which experiences its unique Khareef (monsoon) season from June to September.

Yes, most nationalities require a visa — but the good news is, the process is very simple! Citizens of many countries (including the US, UK, Canada, EU, Japan, and Australia) can easily obtain an eVisa online before travel through the official Royal Oman Police portal. Tourist visas are typically valid for 30 days. Some nationalities are also eligible for a visa on arrival.

Additionally, citizens of certain countries — such as Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the UK, the USA, Canada, Australia, Japan, and a few others — can enter Oman visa-free for up to 14 days for tourism purposes. After 14 days, a visa is required.

Always check the latest requirements from official government sources before your trip, as visa policies may change..

Absolutely yes. Oman is renowned for being one of the safest and most stable countries in the region. Crime rates are very low, and Omani people are incredibly hospitable and helpful. Women traveling alone generally feel very safe and are treated with respect. As with travel anywhere, it’s wise to exercise standard precautions, but Oman is an excellent choice for solo travelers, families, and everyone in between.

Oman’s official currency is the Omani Rial (OMR). 1 Rial = 1,000 Baisa (similar to cents or pence). You’ll often see prices in both Rial and Baisa — for example, 500 Baisa = 0.5 Rial.

ATMs are widely available across cities, towns, and even in many rural areas. Most international credit and debit cards are accepted, and cash withdrawals in Omani Rial are usually easy and safe.

While Arabic is the official language, English is widely spoken, especially in the tourism industry, hotels, and shops. In major cities, you will have no problem communicating. In remote villages, you might find fewer English speakers, but Omani people are so friendly that they will always find a way to help you—a smile is a universal language!

Renting a car is highly recommended and is one of the best ways to explore Oman’s vast and stunning landscapes at your own pace. The road network is modern and well-maintained, and driving is generally calm and safe. An international driving permit is required along with your national license. For exploring mountains (like Jebel Akhdar or Jebel Shams) or venturing into the desert, a 4WD vehicle is essential.

However, exploring with a local guide allows you to discover hidden gems, avoid getting lost, and make the most of your time. With a guide, you’ll learn more about Omani culture and nature—and spend less time navigating and more time enjoying the experience.

Your Omani bucket list should include:

• Muscat: The stunning Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, the Royal Opera House, and the bustling Muttrah Souq.
• The Desert: A night under the stars in the Wahiba Sands (Sharqiya Sands).
• The Mountains: The breathtaking views from Jebel Shams (the “Grand Canyon of Oman”) and the lush, terraced gardens of Jebel Akhdar.
• The Coast: The stunning fjords of Musandam Peninsula and the turtle nesting sanctuary at Ras al Jinz.

Oman is an adventure playground!

• Hiking & Camping: World-class trails in the Hajar Mountains and countless spots for wild camping.
• Diving & Snorkeling: Pristine coral reefs and unique sites like the Daymaniyat Islands.
  Dolphin Watching: Almost guaranteed sightings on boat trips from Muscat and Musandam.
• Canyoning & Wadi Bashing: Swim in the turquoise pools of Wadi Shab and explore the canyon of Wadi Bani Khalid.

Yes! Oman has countless beautiful public beaches. More uniquely, swimming in its wadis (dry river valleys with permanent pools) is a highlight. Wadi Shab and Wadi Bani Khalid are famous for their stunning, swimmable pools. Always check local conditions and be cautious of flash floods after rain.

Your taste buds are in for a treat! Don’t miss:

• Shuwa: A celebratory dish of spiced meat slow-cooked for days in an underground oven.
• Majboos: A flavorful rice dish similar to biryani, with meat or fish.
• Halwa: A sweet, gelatinous dessert made with rosewater, nuts, and spices.
• Kahwa: Omani coffee, a bitter, cardamom-infused drink often served with dates.

Yes, you are encouraged to visit traditional villages like Misfat al Abriyeen or Balad Sayt. Wild camping is generally permitted and is a fantastic experience. The rule is simple: leave no trace. Be respectful, set up camp discreetly, avoid private land, and take all your rubbish with you.

Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and cafes. For better connectivity, we highly recommend getting a local tourist SIM card. Providers like Omantel and Ooredoo have kiosks at Muscat International Airport and in malls. Data packages are affordable and offer excellent coverage, even in many remote areas.

Alcohol is regulated. It is available in licensed hotel restaurants and bars. It is illegal to drink in public. Non-Muslim residents can apply for a permit to purchase alcohol from dedicated shops. Tourists cannot buy alcohol from supermarkets. Drunken behavior in public is a serious offense.

• Avoid public displays of affection.
• Do not photograph people, especially women, without their explicit permission.
• Always use your right hand for eating, greeting, and giving/receiving items.
• Dress modestly at all times in public.
• Be respectful during prayer times; avoid loud music or behavior near mosques.

Yes, Omani hospitality is legendary. You will often be greeted with smiles and curiosity. A simple greeting of “As-salamu alaykum” (peace be upon you) goes a long way. Always be respectful of people’s privacy and property.

Absolutely! This is one of the best ways to experience authentic Omani culture. Explore the *Muttrah Souq* in Muscat or the *Nizwa Souq* for its famous Friday cattle market. Many old houses in towns like Nizwa, Bahla, and Ibri have been restored and are open to the public as museums.

Oman shares land borders with *The United Arab Emirates (UAE), Saudi Arabia, and Yemen.* It also has a vital maritime border with *Iran.* The Musandam Peninsula is an Omani exclave separated from the mainland by the UAE.

Oman covers a vast area of approximately *309,500 square kilometers (119,500 square miles)*, making it the third-largest country in the Arabian Peninsula.

Yes, for administrative purposes, Oman is divided into 11 governorates:
1. Muscat
2. Dhofar
3. Musandam
4. Al Buraimi
5. Al Dakhiliyah
6. Al Dhahirah
7. Al Batinah North
8. Al Batinah South
9. Al Sharqiyah North
10. Al Sharqiyah South
11. Al Wusta

The capital city is *Muscat*, a beautiful and clean city that stretches along the coast between the Hajar Mountains and the Arabian Sea. It is the political, economic, and cultural heart of the Sultanate.

The international dialing code for Oman is +968

The Omani flag has three horizontal stripes (*white, red, and green*) with a vertical red bar on the left side containing the national emblem.

The national emblem of Oman is a *Khanjar dagger* inside its sheath, superimposed on two crossed swords. It is a symbol of strength and heritage and features prominently on the flag, the currency, and official buildings.

On Roads: Roads are excellent. Be aware of sudden stops, wandering camels, and occasional speeding drivers. Avoid driving off-road without a 4WD.
In Wadis: NEVER drive into a wadi if it has been raining or if rain is forecast upstream. Flash floods are extremely dangerous. Check weather reports diligently.
In Sand (e.g., Wahiba Sands): Deflate your tires! Reducing tire pressure to around 15-18 PSI is crucial for gaining traction on soft sand. Use a 4WD low-range gear. Maintain momentum but avoid sharp turns. Carry a shovel, tow rope, and plenty of water. It’s best to go with a guide or a second vehicle if you’re inexperienced