Middle East
Oman
The Gulf's most relaxed and scenic country: mountains, wadis, forts, desert and empty coast. Best with a rental car since public transport is thin. Friendly and safe; modest dress expected.
- US travel advisoryLevel 3Reconsider travelDetails
- Visa10 of 198passports can visit visa-freeDetails
- CurrencyOMRUS$1 ≈ RO0.38Details
- Price level47%of US prices (World Bank PPP)Details
- English3/5Common in tourist areasDetails
- PlugsType G240 V, 50 HzDetails
- Emergency9999All emergencies 9999
- Tap waterFilter or boilDesalinated tap water is treated, but storage tanks vary; most people drink bottled or filtered water.Details
- LGBTQ+CriminalizedNo visible scene; discretion is essential.Details
- Internet96 MbpsMedian fixed broadband · mobile 170 MbpsDetails
- DrivingOn the rightHome photocard licences work for short visits (UK: six weeks); bring an IDP. Never drive into flooded wadis.
Where to go in Oman
3 places with full guides. Comfortable monthly budget for one person, rent included.
When to visit Oman
October–April for Muscat, the mountains and the desert. Dhofar (Salalah) is best in the July–September khareef monsoon, green and misty. May–September is very hot elsewhere.
Good to know
Entry
- Many nationalities can visit visa-free for short stays; others apply for an unsponsored visit visa on the ROP eVisa portal.
- Border officers may ask for a return ticket, hotel booking and travel health insurance.
- Passport must be valid six months; overstays cost up to OMR 10 a day.
- Some prescription and over-the-counter medicines are illegal; carry prescriptions and check before travel.
Laws visitors break by accident
- Drinking or being drunk in public, including on beaches, is illegal; drink-driving tolerance is zero.
- Unmarried couples sharing a hotel room is illegal under Omani law.
- Swearing or rude gestures, including in traffic, are criminal offences.
Etiquette
- Cover arms and legs below the knee; swimwear only on tourist beaches and pools.
- In Ramadan, don't eat, drink or smoke in public during fasting hours.
- Ask before photographing people; never photograph military or government sites.
- Accept offered coffee (kahwa) and dates; it's a core part of hospitality.
Tipping
Not expected; 5–10% in restaurants is appreciated, and many hotel bills include a service charge.
Neighbouring countries
Sources
- US State Department travel advisory
- UK FCDO travel advice: Oman
- Royal Oman Police eVisa
- Oman Ministry of Health
- World Bank open data
Country facts are researched by SoloSquare; advisory levels, crime, health and visa figures come from the sources listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.