Middle East
Money, cards and tipping in Oman
OMRRial
Money in Oman
Mixed: cards and cash Cards work in Muscat's malls, hotels, supermarkets and restaurants. Carry cash for villages, souqs, small eateries and mountain guesthouses. US$1 ≈ RO0.38 (03 Oct 2026).
Key facts
- Tipping: Not expected; 5–10% in restaurants is appreciated, and many hotel bills include a service charge.
- ATMs: ATMs in all towns but sparse in the interior; some charge foreign-card fees. Decline currency conversion.
- Paying by phone: Apple Pay and Google Pay work on contactless terminals in cities.
- Price level: about 47% of US prices (World Bank PPP).
Cash or card, by place
| Place | Cards | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Muscat | Mixed: cards and cash | Cards work in malls, hotels and restaurants. Carry cash for Muttrah Souq, small cafés and taxis. |
| Salalah | Mixed: cards and cash | Cards work in malls, hotels and bigger restaurants. Carry cash for souqs, roadside stalls and small cafés. |
| Nizwa | Mostly cash | Cash is needed for the souq, small cafés and mountain guesthouses. Cards work at bigger hotels and fuel stations. |
Quick answers
Do you tip in Oman?
Not expected; 5–10% in restaurants is appreciated, and many hotel bills include a service charge.
Is Oman cashless?
Mixed: cards and cash. Cards work in Muscat's malls, hotels, supermarkets and restaurants. Carry cash for villages, souqs, small eateries and mountain guesthouses.
What currency does Oman use?
The Rial (OMR). US$1 ≈ RO0.38 (03 Oct 2026).
Sources
- ExchangeRate-API open rates
- US State Department travel advisory
- UK FCDO travel advice: Oman
- Royal Oman Police eVisa
- Oman Ministry of Health
- World Bank open data
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