General Information
Oman, officially known as the Sultanate of Oman, is a country located in the southeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula in Western Asia. Muscat is the capital city of Oman. The population is approximately 5 million people. Oman has a diverse economy, with oil and gas being the main industries. It also has a growing tourism sector, as well as agriculture and fishing industries. Omani culture is influenced by its Arab and Islamic heritage. Traditional clothing for men includes the dishdasha, while women wear the abaya and headscarf. Omani cuisine is also rich and varied, with dishes like shuwa (slow-cooked lamb) and halwa (a sweet dessert) being popular. Oman is an absolute monarchy, with Sultan Haitham bin Tariq Al Said as the current ruler. Islam is the predominant religion, with the majority being Ibadi Muslims, followed by Sunni and Shia Muslims. Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken, especially in business and tourism. Oman is also known for its efforts to preserve its natural environment and wildlife, with several nature reserves and protected areas across the country.
 
Geography
Overall, Oman's geography offers a diverse range of landscapes, from rugged mountains to expansive deserts to picturesque coastlines, making it a unique and fascinating destination. Oman is located on the southeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula in Western Asia. It is bordered by the United Arab Emirates to the northwest, Saudi Arabia to the west and southwest, and Yemen to the southwest. To the south and east, Oman has a coastline along the Arabian Sea, and to the north, it is bordered by the Gulf of Oman. The northern region of Oman is dominated by the Al Hajar Mountains, which run parallel to the coast. This mountain range includes Jebel Shams, the highest peak in Oman, rising to around 3,000 meters (9,800 feet) above sea level. The central part of Oman is characterized by desert terrain, including the vast expanse of the Rub' al Khali, or the Empty Quarter, which is one of the largest continuous sand deserts in the world. The coastal areas of Oman are dotted with numerous sandy beaches and rocky coves. The country's longest river, the Wadi Bani Khalid, flows through the eastern part of the country, creating lush oases amidst the arid landscape.
 
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Oman largely depends on the activities you plan to undertake and the regions you wish to explore. Generally, the most comfortable time to visit Oman is during the winter months, from November to March, when temperatures are milder and more pleasant for outdoor activities.
 
Winter (November to March): This is considered the best time to visit Oman, especially for outdoor activities such as sightseeing, trekking, and camping. Daytime temperatures are mild, ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), while nights can be cooler, especially in the mountains.
 
Spring (April and May): Spring is also a good time to visit Oman, with pleasant temperatures and blooming flowers adding to the beauty of the landscape. Temperatures start to rise towards the end of spring, so it's best to visit earlier in the season.
 
Summer (June to August): Summer in Oman is extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F) in many parts of the country. This can make outdoor activities uncomfortable and challenging. However, if you plan to visit the Dhofar region in the south, this is the best time to experience the Khareef (monsoon) season when the area becomes lush and green.
 
Autumn (September and October): Autumn is a transitional period in Oman, with temperatures starting to cool down from the summer heat. It's a good time to visit if you want to avoid the crowds of the peak tourist season and don't mind slightly warmer temperatures.
 
Dress Code
In Oman, the dress code is generally modest and conservative, especially in public places. Both men and women are expected to dress modestly to respect the local culture and traditions. You don't need to dress exactly like the locals, dressing modestly and avoiding clothing that is too revealing or offensive will help you to avoid any potential issues and show respect for the local culture.
 
Health & Safety
Oman is generally considered a safe country to visit, with a low crime rate compared to many other countries. Oman has modern medical facilities, especially in Muscat and other major cities. However, medical treatment can be expensive for non-residents, so it's a good idea to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.
There are no serious health risks in Oman (unless you include the country’s traffic). All the main cities in the country are equipped with modern hospitals and well-stocked pharmacies. Tap water is safe to drink, while even the country’s cheapest cafés maintain good standards of food hygiene. One possible health concern is the heat. Summer temperatures regularly climb into the forty-degree Celsius range, making sunburn, heatstroke and acute dehydration a real possibility, especially if combined with excessive alcohol consumption. Stay in the shade, and drink lots of water.
Bilharzia is another possible risk if swimming in rock pools in the mountains.
 
Currency and Money
The currency of Oman is the Omani Rial, abbreviated as OMR. The currency is further divided into 1,000 baisa. Banknotes come in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, and 50 rials, while coins come in denominations of 5, 10, 25, 50, and 100 baisa.
 
It's advisable to exchange currency at banks or exchange offices, as hotels and airports may offer less favorable rates. US dollars are widely accepted for exchange. Major credit cards such as Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. However, smaller establishments may only accept cash. ATMs are readily available in cities and towns across Oman, and many accept international cards. However, it's a good idea to inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with using your card abroad.
 
It's always a good idea to carry a mix of cash and cards, and to have some local currency on hand for smaller purchases or places that do not accept cards.
 
Tipping
Tipping in Oman is not a strict requirement, but it is appreciated for good service. Here are some guidelines for tipping in Oman:
 
Restaurants: Some restaurants may include a service charge in the bill, especially in tourist areas. If a service charge is not included, a tip of around 5-10% of the total bill is customary for good service.
Hotels: It's common to tip hotel staff, such as bellhops and housekeeping, around 1-2 OMR per service. If you receive exceptional service, you can tip more.
Taxis: Tipping taxi drivers is not expected, but you can round up the fare to the nearest Omani Rial as a gesture of appreciation.
Tour Guides and Drivers: For guided tours, it's customary to tip the guide and driver if you are satisfied with their service. A tip of around 5-10 OMR per day for the guide and 3-5 OMR per day for the driver is common.
Other Services: For other services, such as porters, spa services, or car washes, a small tip is appreciated but not expected. Use your discretion based on the level of service.
 
Photography
Photography in Oman is generally allowed and can be a rewarding experience, as the country offers stunning landscapes, historic sites, and vibrant culture to capture. It's important to be respectful of local customs and regulations. Always ask for permission when photographing people, respect photography restrictions in certain areas, and enjoy capturing the beauty of Oman responsibly.
 
Internet Access
Internet access in Oman is widely available, and the country has a relatively well-developed telecommunications infrastructure.
 
Purchasing a local SIM card is a convenient way to access mobile data while in Oman. SIM cards are available from Oman's main telecom providers, such as Omantel and Ooredoo. You will need to present your passport to purchase a SIM card, and top-up cards are available for adding credit to your account. Many hotels, restaurants, cafes, and shopping malls in Oman offer free Wi-Fi for customers. While the quality and speed of Wi-Fi can vary, it's a convenient way to stay connected while on the go.
 
Staying connected in Oman is relatively easy, with options for mobile data, Wi-Fi, and internet cafes available in most urban areas. It's a good idea to plan ahead and choose the option that best suits your needs and budget.
 
Alcohol
Oman is a predominantly Muslim country, and alcohol consumption is not a part of Islamic culture. Visitors should be respectful of local customs and refrain from public displays of drunkenness or disorderly behavior. In Oman, the consumption and sale of alcohol are regulated by law, and the country has strict regulations regarding alcohol.
 
Alcohol is available for purchase in licensed bars, clubs, and restaurants that are attached to international hotels. These establishments are the only places where alcohol can be legally purchased and consumed. It is important for visitors to be aware of and respect the country's regulations regarding its consumption and sale. It is advisable to enjoy alcohol responsibly and in accordance with local laws and customs.
 
Climate 
Oman has a diverse climate, with different regions experiencing varying weather patterns. The country generally has a hot desert climate, with high temperatures and low rainfall. Climate is characterized by its hot and dry conditions, especially in the desert regions. It's important for travelers to be prepared for the high temperatures, especially during the summer months, and to take precautions to stay hydrated and protect themselves from the sun.
 
Electricity
In Oman, the standard voltage is 240 volts AC, 50Hz. The country uses the British-style three-pin socket (Type G), so if you're traveling from a country that uses a different type of plug, you may need an adapter. It's a good idea to bring a universal adapter if you're unsure about the plug types used in Oman.
 
Most hotels and accommodations in Oman will provide adapters for guests, but it's always best to be prepared. Additionally, some upscale hotels may offer both 110-volt and 240-volt outlets to accommodate a wider range of devices.
 
Hotels’ Check in / Check out time and Room Types
The general check-in time in Oman is 14:00-15:00 and check out time is 12:00. Request for early check-in and/or late check-out, depends on the availability of the hotel and it is not guaranteed. Additional charges will be made according to hotel’s rules and policies. Double room, twin bedded and single room are available to most hotels. For triple sharing, it is either double or twin room with 1 extra roll away bed or a sofa bed.
 
Domestic Flights
In Oman, international flights are primarily serviced through Muscat International Airport (MCT), which is the largest airport in the country. Muscat International Airport offers a range of facilities for passengers, including lounges, restaurants, shops, and car rental services. The airport is also undergoing expansion and renovation to accommodate growing passenger numbers.
 
The airport offers a wide range of international flights to destinations across Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, as well as some direct flights to North America. In addition to Oman Air, several other international airlines operate flights to and from Muscat International Airport, including major carriers such as Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Turkish Airlines. Oman Air and SalamAir operate domestic flights within Oman, connecting major cities such as Muscat, Salalah, Sohar, and Duqm. These domestic flights offer a convenient way to travel between different regions of the country.
 
Muscat International Airport serves as a major gateway to Oman, offering a range of international and domestic flights for travelers visiting the country.
 
Holidays in Oman
Oman celebrates several holidays throughout the year, including religious and national holidays.
 
National Day: Oman's National Day is celebrated on November 18th each year, commemorating the country's independence from Portugal in 1650. The holiday is marked by parades, fireworks, and cultural events across the country.
 
Renaissance Day: Renaissance Day is celebrated on July 23rd each year, commemorating the day Sultan Qaboos bin Said took power in 1970. The holiday is a celebration of Oman's modern renaissance and the progress made under Sultan Qaboos' rule.
 
Islamic Holidays: Oman also celebrates Islamic holidays, including Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting, while Eid al-Adha commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God.
 
Muscat Festival: The Muscat Festival is one of Oman's largest cultural celebrations, held annually in January and February. The festival features a wide range of events, including traditional Omani music and dance performances, art exhibitions, food stalls, and fireworks displays.
 
Salalah Tourism Festival: Held during the Khareef (monsoon) season in Salalah, usually from July to September, this festival celebrates the region's lush greenery and cooler temperatures. The festival features cultural performances, exhibitions, and outdoor activities.
 
Responsible Travel
Responsible travel in Oman involves being mindful of the environment, culture, and local communities.
 
-Respect Local Customs: Oman is a conservative country with strong cultural values. Respect local customs, dress modestly, and seek permission before taking photos, especially of people.
-Support Local Communities: Stay in locally owned accommodations, eat at local restaurants, and purchase souvenirs from local artisans to support the local economy.
-Protect the Environment: Respect wildlife and natural habitats. Dispose of waste properly and minimize plastic usage. Consider joining eco-friendly tours and activities.
-Learn About the Culture: Take the time to learn about Omani culture, history, and traditions. Engage with locals respectfully and be open to new experiences.
-Travel Responsibly: Use public transportation or carpool, when possible, to reduce carbon emissions. Choose accommodations and tour operators that prioritize sustainability and responsible practices.
-Leave No Trace: Leave natural and cultural sites as you found them. Avoid littering and take any trash with you when you leave.
-Check travel advisories and the latest security information from your government's travel website before your trip.
 
By practicing responsible travel in Oman, you can help preserve its natural beauty and cultural heritage for future generations to enjoy.