Oman Travel Guide

Continent: Asia
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Oman Travel Essentials

Ideal Duration: 5-7 days for exploring main attractions; 10-14 days for a comprehensive visit

Currency: Omani Rial (OMR)

Best Time: October to April (Winter/Spring) Read More

Accommodation Cost (per night in USD): Dorm bed: Not common, mostly budget options available
Budget: $40-80
Mid-range: $100-200
Luxury: $250 and above

Budget for Food & Drinks (per day in USD): Budget: $10-20
Mid-range: $30-50

Visa Policy for Indians: E-visa or Visa on Arrival

Visa Policy for Other Nationals: E-visa or Visa on Arrival for many countries

Getting In Oman: Muscat International Airport (MCT) Read More

Getting Around Oman: Taxis, rental cars, buses, and domestic flights for longer distances Read More

"Gateway to the Charming Arab World"

Oman Tourism

Oman is an Arab country located on the southeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula. Though there is no diversity in religion here, you will find a variety of tranquil landscapes and sceneries. The beauty of the emerald beaches, the rich Arab history in the ancient forts, the lush green mountains, unique wildlife and endless deserts will give you an Arabian adventure unlike any other country in the Gulf Coast. You will find local bazaars or souks filled with handicrafts and the most famous item of Oman, Frankincense. Kind-hearted, helpful and law-abiding people add up to make this country a must-visit place.

The Sultanate is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, including the rugged Hajar Mountains, the vast Wahiba Sands desert, and the pristine beaches along the Arabian Sea. Each region offers unique opportunities for adventure and exploration, from hiking and climbing in the mountains to dune bashing and camel trekking in the desert. The coastal areas, with their crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, are perfect for scuba diving, fishing, kitesurfing, and relaxing by the sea.

Oman's rich history is evident in its numerous forts and castles. Nizwa Fort, with its imposing architecture and panoramic views, and Bahla Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, are among the most popular. Oman's vibrant culture is also experienced through its bustling souqs and traditional markets. The Mutrah Souq in Muscat is a sensory delight, while the culinary scene in Oman is equally enticing.

Beyond its natural beauty and historical treasures, Oman is known for its warm hospitality and the genuine friendliness of its people. The Omani culture places a strong emphasis on welcoming visitors, making every traveler feel at home. It is common for visitors to be invited for Omani dates and coffee by locals. Oman has embraced modernization while retaining its culture and heritage, making it a perfect travel destination for those seeking an authentic Arabic experience.

Must Know Before You Travel to Oman

  • VAT Refund for Tourists: Oman has a VAT refund scheme on luxury goods for tourists. Purchase goods from stores with a "VAT REFUND FOR TOURISTS" sign and present the goods with original tax invoices at the customs counter at the airport while departing. The value of good should be atleast OMR 25 (excluding VAT).
  • WiFi: Wi-Fi is available in hotels and Western-style cafes but is difficult to find in more rural areas.
  • Carry Cash: Cards are accepted almost everywhere but carry cash when travelling to more remote areas.
  • Public Transportation: There is limited public transportation in Oman. Buses only connect the main cities and towns. Renting a car is the best way of getting around.

Best time to visit Oman

The best time to visit Oman is from October to March, when the weather is warm (17°C to 35°C) and comfortable for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Oman has a subtropical dry desert climate with low annual rainfall. Rain is rare, typically occurring only as short, sharp showers in January and Febr... (Read More)

Holidify's opinion on Travel to Oman

What's Great about Travelling to Oman?

Clean roads. Hygienic and peaceful country. Safe place. Rich in historical monuments. Scenic beauty. Kind and altruistic people. A variety of tourists spots. Perfect for a family holiday.

What's Not So Great about Travelling to Oman?

Frequent flash floods. Scorching heat. Reckless driving on the highways. Too many restrictions. No cultural diversity.

Who should Travel to Oman?

Architecture lovers. Nature fanatics. Wildlife enthusiasts. Nice place for couples. Perfect for water sports lovers.

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Exchanging Money in Oman

Oman has plenty of ATMs throughout the country including the airport and opulent hotels. There are various banks including Central Bank of Oman and HSBC Bank where you can exchange your currency. Banks are the safest option for such transactions since they offer a better exchange rate. It is advisable not to exchange currency at airport or hotels since they offer terrible exchange rates.

Nightlife in Oman

Nightlife in Oman is not extravagant since people there are strict about drinking and clubbing. There are various bars and restaurants, and some have live music also, but, you need to have a license to enter bars or pubs particularly in Muscat. Also, drinking may cost you an arm and a leg in Oman. Therefore, people prefer to hang out with friends over coffee or fruit juice in local cafes which are comparatively cheaper. Long drives or shopping are also common during late hours.

Shopping in Oman

Markets in Oman offer a wide range of handicrafts as well as natural products. Bargaining is also common here. Oman boasts of highly priced frankincense, a natural product which is widely available but, the best market to shop for this is Muttrah Souk in Muscat. Bukhoor and Myrrh are popular local aromatic which is worth buying. The most alluring souvenir is the khanjar, traditional curved dagger. Other items which entice tourists are perfumes, Bedu jewellery, Omani pottery and Indian handicrafts too. Some popular markets where you can head out are Nizwa Souk, Muttrah Souk, Salalah, Muscat City Centre and Muscat Grand Mall.

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Festivals of Oman

There are various festivals celebrated in Oman with vim and vigour. Since Oman is an Arabic country, most of the festivals belong to Muslims. The excitement, togetherness, energy and ecstasy reach to another level in the country. You will also learn about history, culture and tradition of the Islamic world. While the Grand Muscat Festival is celebrated in the capital city of Muscat, the other main events like Eid al Fitr, Eid al Adha, Ramadan and National Day are observed throughout the country.

Hygiene in Oman

When it comes to hygiene, Oman is quite safe and less polluted. Tap water is drinkable everywhere. However, stay away from stray and feral animals as they might be suffering from rabies. It is hot in Oman throughout the year. Excessive heat and lack of water may cause dehydration. There are no prescribed vaccinations for visiting Oman but, contaminated water may cause diseases. Therefore, it is advisable to carry hepatitis or typhoid shots. Also, carry basic medicines in a kit.

Customs of Oman

  • Do not offer alcohol to a local unless you are sure that he drinks. Avoid drinking and smoking during the festive season.
  • While entering a mosque, you are expected to remove your shoes and also cover your head with a handkerchief or any cloth.
  • Arabic countries are highly conservative about dress. Women should avoid wearing short dresses because in Arab regions, local women have to cover their whole body from head to toe while stepping out. Also, women are not allowed to sit in the car's front seat with their husbands.
  • Maintain your composure when in public. Avoid shouting or raising your voice as it is considered offensive.

Tips for visiting Oman

Tipping in restaurants is not common. Be careful while driving as reckless drivers are abundant in Oman. Check the weather before visiting Oman. Heavy rainfall can cause a sudden flood as flash floods are very frequent. Carry a lot of water with you especially while exploring deserts. Do not disobey the laws since it can lead to severe legal consequences.

Food of Oman

Rice, vegetables, fish and chicken are the staple Omani food. Soups and curries are also very popular. Various spices are commonly used in all dishes. Omanis prefer to keep their dishes less spicy. Due to the proximity the Arabian Sea, Muscat is quite known for its lip smacking sea food. People generally prefer to have a heavy meal during the daytime, and the dinner is usually lighter. The most common dishes and beverages are laban(salty butter milk drink), kahwa(Omani coffee), biryani, kabouli, mishkak, shuwa and lokhemat.

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onlineevisa

3 years ago
Be it due to some official business trip or a study trip, you can always find your own thing to do in Oman. Oman is a place you?ll never run out of things to do in. With a bunch of helpful and kind p (Read More)eople, you can be assured about Oman being one of the safest in the world. Places to visit in Oman is something you will never stop seei

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