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- Capital: Muscat
- System: Absolute monarchy.
- Area: 309,500 square kilometers (119,498 square miles).
- Population: As of 2025, the estimated population is around 5.3 million people.
- Languages:Arabic
- Religion: Predominantly Sunni Islam, with Sharia law influencing daily life and governance.
Country Overview
Oman, officially known as the Sultanate of Oman, is a nation located on the south-eastern tip of the Arabian Peninsula. Its long coastline stretches along the Arabian Sea, the Gulf of Oman and the Persian Gulf, giving it both strategic importance and an enduring maritime heritage. Muscat, the capital, is a city of contrasts – with traditional souqs, ornate mosques, and modern shopping malls existing side by side. The country has a rich history of seafaring and trade, once forming an empire that stretched along East Africa’s coast. Today, Oman is renowned for its warm hospitality, stunning desert landscapes, mountains, wadis, and an unspoilt coastline.
Politically, Oman is an absolute monarchy led by the Sultan, who serves as head of state, prime minister, and commander of the armed forces. Despite being more traditional in governance, Oman has positioned itself as a mediator in international affairs, enjoying friendly relations with neighbouring Gulf states and beyond. Internally, Oman has been focusing on diversifying its economy under Vision 2040, reducing reliance on oil and developing sectors such as tourism, logistics, mining and renewable energy.
The people of Oman are known for their friendliness and deep sense of tradition, reflected in their dress, hospitality, and cultural practices. Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken in business and tourism settings. Islam is the dominant religion, with most Omanis adhering to the Ibadi branch, which is unique to Oman and emphasises tolerance and moderation. Visitors will find Oman to be one of the more relaxed destinations in the Gulf region, where traditional values and modern development balance in a calm and welcoming atmosphere.
USEFUL INFORMATION
Currency & banking
💰 Currency Overview
The official currency of Oman is the Omani Rial (OMR), which is pegged to the US dollar at a fixed rate, making it one of the world’s strongest currencies. It is subdivided into 1,000 baisa, and banknotes and coins are used in circulation. The Rial’s stability reflects Oman’s prudent economic management and its reliance on oil and gas revenues.
🪙 Denominations
The Omani Rial comes in notes of 1, 5, 10, 20 and 50 Rials, while smaller amounts are represented by baisa coins (5, 10, 25, 50, and 100 baisa). In practice, 100 baisa equals 0.1 Rial. Tourists will often find themselves using Rials for larger purchases such as hotels, restaurants, or tours, while baisa is useful for small items such as drinks, snacks, or bus fares. Notes are widely accepted, though exact change can sometimes be difficult, especially in rural areas.
💱 Currency Exchange
Currency exchange is widely available in Muscat and larger towns through banks, hotels, and licensed exchange offices. Exchange rates are stable due to the pegged nature of the Rial, and travellers can expect fair and transparent conversions. US dollars, euros, and pounds sterling are the most widely accepted currencies for exchange. It is advisable to keep receipts as they may be needed if you wish to exchange leftover Rials back before departure.
🏧 Credit Cards & ATMs
Credit cards such as Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted in hotels, shopping malls, and larger restaurants. Smaller shops, souqs, and rural guesthouses may prefer cash, so it is wise to carry some baisa and smaller Rial notes. ATMs are readily available in cities and larger towns, connected to international networks. Withdrawal fees depend on your home bank, but Omani banks typically charge a small fee. Travellers should inform their banks before travelling to avoid blocked transactions.
Tipping
💵 Tipping in Oman
🍽️ Restaurants
Tipping is not obligatory but is appreciated. In mid-range and high-end restaurants, 10% is common if service is not already included. In smaller local eateries, rounding up the bill or leaving small change is sufficient.
🏨 Hotels
In luxury hotels, staff such as porters and housekeeping staff are accustomed to tips of 1–2 Rials. For budget accommodation, tipping is not expected but always welcomed.
🚕 Taxis
Taxi fares in Oman are often negotiated before the journey rather than metered. It is not customary to tip taxi drivers, but rounding up the fare is appreciated.
🚐 Guides and Drivers
Tour guides and drivers supporting tourists often expect a tip, especially for full-day or multi-day tours. Around 5–10 Rials per day for a guide and 2–3 Rials for a driver is considered fair.
Communications
📡 Communication Advice
📶 Public WiFi
Public WiFi is available in some shopping malls, airports, and modern cafes in Muscat, but access outside the main cities can be limited. It is generally safe to use, though not always fast. A VPN is advisable for extra security.
🏨 Hotel WiFi
Most hotels provide WiFi for guests, though the speed and reliability may vary. High-end hotels usually offer strong connections, while budget hotels may only provide access in common areas such as lobbies.
📱 Mobile Networks & SIM Cards
Oman has good mobile coverage, with operators such as Omantel and Ooredoo offering prepaid SIM cards for tourists. SIM cards can be purchased at the airport or in city shops, and packages include data, local calls, and international calling options. Identification (passport) is required for purchase.
Getting around
🚖 Getting Around Oman
🚗 Car Hire
Hiring a car is one of the best ways to explore Oman, especially for its deserts, mountains, and remote beaches. Roads are generally in good condition, though driving standards can vary. A 4×4 is recommended for mountain roads and wadis.
🚌 Buses
Public buses run between major towns and cities, operated by Mwasalat. They are affordable and modern, though they may not reach more remote destinations.
🚕 Taxis
Taxis are widely available in Muscat and other towns. Fares should be agreed before setting off, as most taxis do not use meters. Airport taxis have fixed rates.
✈️ Domestic Flights
Oman Air operates domestic flights linking Muscat with Salalah and other regional centres, useful given the distances involved.
🚐 Shared Taxis & Minibuses
Shared taxis and minibuses operate between towns, offering a more affordable but less comfortable way to travel. They usually leave when full, so schedules can be flexible.
Health advice
🏥 Health Advice for Tourists
💉 Suggested Vaccines
| Vaccine | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Hepatitis A | Recommended for most travellers |
| Hepatitis B | For extended stays or medical procedures |
| Typhoid | Especially if travelling to rural areas |
| Tetanus | Ensure up-to-date booster |
| Rabies | For extended outdoor activities or remote areas |
🦠 Diseases
Oman has a generally low risk of infectious diseases. Malaria is not present in most regions, though mosquito precautions are still advisable. Water is generally safe in urban areas, but bottled water is recommended in rural locations.
🏨 Healthcare Standards
Healthcare in Oman is of a high standard, especially in Muscat where both public and private hospitals offer excellent services. Rural facilities may be more limited, so travel insurance with medical evacuation cover is advisable.
🧾 Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance covering medical care, evacuation, and theft is highly recommended. Medical care can be expensive without insurance.
Safety
🛡️ Safety Advice for Tourists
🚓 Crime
Oman is one of the safest countries in the Middle East, with very low crime rates. Petty theft is rare, though basic precautions with valuables are still advisable.
⚠️ General Safety
Driving in mountains and wadis requires caution, especially after rain when flash floods can occur. The desert can be harsh, so adequate water, fuel, and guidance are essential.
📜 Local Laws
Oman is socially conservative. Public displays of affection should be avoided, and modest dress is expected in rural areas and religious sites. Alcohol is only available in licensed hotels and restaurants. Drug offences carry severe penalties.
☎️ Emergency Numbers
| Service | Number |
|---|---|
| Police | 9999 |
| Ambulance | 9999 |
| Fire | 9999 |
Climate
🌤️ Climate Advice for Tourists
🌸 Spring (March–May)
Temperatures rise, averaging 25–35°C. This is a pleasant time to visit, with wildflowers blooming in the mountains.
☀️ Summer (June–September)
Coastal regions become very hot, often above 40°C, with high humidity. The Dhofar region, however, experiences the khareef (monsoon), creating green landscapes around Salalah.
🍂 Autumn (October–November)
Temperatures ease to 25–30°C, making it one of the best times for outdoor activities and cultural exploration.
❄️ Winter (December–February)
Cooler weather prevails, with daytime temperatures around 20–25°C. This is peak tourist season, perfect for exploring deserts and mountains.
🎒 Packing Tips
Lightweight clothing is recommended, with modest attire for cultural sites. A light jacket is useful in winter evenings and mountain areas. Sun protection, hats, and reusable water bottles are essential.
📊 Climate Summary
| Season | Avg Temp | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | 25–35°C | Warm, dry, flowers in bloom |
| Summer | 35–45°C | Very hot, humid, khareef in Dhofar |
| Autumn | 25–30°C | Pleasant, dry |
| Winter | 20–25°C | Mild, ideal for travel |
Visa information
🛂 Visa Information for Tourists
📑 Visa Types
Most tourists require a visa to enter Oman. The most common is the eVisa, which can be obtained online for single-entry stays of 10 or 30 days. Multiple-entry visas are also available for frequent visitors. Some nationalities are eligible for visa-free entry or visas on arrival.
🌐 Useful Links
Official visa applications can be made through the Royal Oman Police eVisa website: https://evisa.rop.gov.om
Electrical
Which power plugs and sockets are used in Oman?
Oman uses power outlets and plugs of type G. All power sockets in Oman provide a standard voltage of 220V with a standard frequency of 60Hz.
Type G – From British origin, mainly used in the United Kingdom, Ireland, Malta, Malaysia and Singapore, but also in quite a few other countries. No other plug types fit into an outlet of type G.
