Oman travel guide
Oman Tourism | Oman Guide
You're Going to Love Oman
Tucked away at the southeastern edge of the Middle East, Oman is an influential location at the mouth of the Persian Gulf. Locals are some of the most kind-hearted and hospitable people in the world, openly sharing their rich heritage and seafaring traditions. A strong movement since the 1970s has led the country to become one of the most progressive and embracing societies within the Arab region.
What to do in Oman
1. Discover the Nakhal Fort
Built around a large rock formation during the 19th century, the stunning castle displays antique guns and offers a spanning view across the Al-Batinah region.
2. Wander Across the Sharqiya Sands
The vast desert exhibits the lifestyles of the Bedouin people who nomadically shift across the Arabian Peninsula.
3. Witness the Cliffs of Jebel Shams
Jebel Shams is the highest mountain in Oman and has dramatic cliff faces that slope off to create a mystifying canyon.
4. Visit the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque
The impressive sandstone structure took six years to construct and can accommodate up to 20,000 worshippers at a time, featuring marvelous chandeliers and patterned carpets inside.
5. See a Show at the Royal Opera House Muscat
Undoubtedly Oman's premier venue for the performing arts, the opera house has hosted performances by iconic artists, such as Andrea Bocelli and Yo-Yo Ma.
When to visit Oman
Intense heat in the summer means that the winter months are more comfortable for tourists, with November to March sitting between 77-88°F.
How to Get to Oman
Entry requirements
Nationals of most countries from across the globe, including the European Union, Australia, the United States, and Canada, can apply for eVisas that are valid for 30 days before arriving. Citizens of neighboring Middle Eastern states, as well as Germany, Portugal, Japan, and South Korea, do not require visas for stays of less than 90 days.
Plane
Carriers including Oman Air, British Airways, Emirates, and Lufthansa operate direct international flights to Muscat Airport from cities such as Cairo, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Mumbai, Frankfurt, London, and Tehran. A 5h nonstop flight from Istanbul with Turkish Airlines can be purchased for approximately 108 OMR (280 USD).
Car
Popular crossings from the United Arab Emirates include the Hilli Border near Al Ain and Al Wajajah. Immigration officials will charge you approximately 5 OMR (13 USD) at the border while crossing from Yemen is more difficult and certainly not recommended for female travelers.
Bus
Direct buses link Dubai to Muscat in roughly 7h and tickets can be purchased for roughly 6 OMR (16 USD).
Boat
There are no scheduled ferries to Oman; however, cruise ships regularly dock in Muscat and regional services are available to Masirah Island, Shannah, and Khasab.
Popular airlines serving Oman
Where to stay in Oman
In addition to a variety of luxury and budget hotels, camping is allowed in most parts of the country. Muscat has developed as a world leader for boutique accommodation and has 5-star hotels by chains including Shangri-La and Sheraton.
Where to stay in popular areas of Oman
Most booked hotels in Oman
How to Get Around Oman
Public Transportation
Red and white local buses zip around Muscat and connect the major terminals to destinations that include the Royal Opera House, Mutrah Souq, and the National Museum. Fares are payable in cash to the driver and cost between 0.20-0.50 OMR (0.50-1.30 USD).
Bus
An extensive bus network operates throughout the entire country and includes stops in major cities as well as remote villages. Tourist destinations, such as Jalen Bani Bu Ali, can be reached with a one-way fare of roughly 3 OMR (8 USD).
Car
Roads in Oman are maintained to a high standard and there are several major arterials, such as the 4-lane highway between Muscat and Sur. Be mindful of wild animals, such as donkeys and goats, crossing the road in remote areas.
Plane
Domestic flights are available between Duqm, Khasab, Sohar, Salalah, and Muscat with airlines such as Oman Air and SalamAir. A direct 1h 30m service from Muscat to Salalah can be bought for as little as around 23 OMR (60 USD).
Best car hire deals in Oman
Compact
4 Adults, 2 Bags
AED 90/day
Full-size SUV
5 Adults, 2 Bags
AED 171/day
The Cost of Living in Oman
A 30-day prepaid sim card with 5GB of data can be conveniently purchased for roughly 15 OMR (39 USD) at the airport. A meal for one at an inexpensive restaurant costs approximately 2.50 OMR (6.50 USD) per person. Credit cards are widely accepted throughout the country and there are ATMs readily available in major centers.