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A Gift for life

Embark on a transformative journey through Oman, where discovery unveils hidden stories, wonder awakens the senses and exhilaration ignites the spirit, explore the ‘Gift for Life’ right here in Oman.

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History & Traditions

Oman's history tells stories of heroism, courage, wisdom..

Weather & Seasons

Oman’s high mountains enjoy an altogether different climate..

Arts & Culture

Oman is a thoroughly forward-looking nation, one proud of its distinctive..

Top Destinations

Muscat, the capital city of Oman lies sparkling white, topped with golden..

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Tour Operators in Oman

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Amid the ever-changing states of the Arabian Gulf, Oman offers a refreshing reminder of a seemingly bygone age. Overdevelopment has yet to blight its most spectacular landscapes and cultural traditions remain remarkably undiluted, making the sultanate one of the best places in the Gulf to experience traditional Arabia.

Where to go in Oman

Tailor-made travel itineraries for oman, created by local experts.

7 days  / from 1450 USD

Omani Road Trip

Take a road trip through the Mars-like terrain of the Arabian Peninsula, marvel at Muscat's Grand Mosque, get hands on Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve, experience imposing desert forts, all on this unique trip! Experience the magic of Oman with a self-drive trip through this stunning and varied country.

6 days  / from 1595 USD

The Great Outdoors of Oman

Immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Oman’s great outdoors: sleep under starry skies in the middle of the desert just as the native Bedouins do, hike around the crater of the Grand Canyon, watching as the light changes on the Jebel Shams Mountains, and swim in the Wadi Oasis.

5 days  / from 819 USD

Classic Oman

Few countries in the world can match Oman's geographical diversity, which boasts palm-fringed white sand beaches, verdant mountains, rolling golden sand dunes and turquoise-watered wadis (water-filled ravines). Experience them all with this unique trip.

12 days  / from 2840 USD

Omani Adventure: Deserts, Dunes and Turtle Watching

Explore this vast country of beautiful beaches, lonely deserts, rocky coastlines, prehistoric wildlife, huge sand dunes, Arabian culture, and luxury hotels with this exquisite package.

9 days  / from 2730 USD

Discovering Oman: from Muscat to Salalah

Oman offers a boundless and soulful destination, full of culture, ancient trade routes and incredible landscapes. Experience it all for yourself with this unique trip.

9 days  / from 2148 USD

A Grand Tour of Oman, from Muscat to Khasab

Discover Oman, packed with beautiful beaches, lonely deserts, rocky coastlines, undulating sand dunes, Arabian culture, and luxury hotels, on this unique trip.

6 days  / from 1026 USD

Marvels of Oman

Beautiful Oman has plenty of highlights to offer - Wahiba Sands, Nizwa Fort, Jebel Shams and much more. Spend your nights between nicely appointed hotels and desert camps and learn more about Omani culture and traditions from your private guide.

6 days  / from 960 USD

Oman Beach Holiday

Arabia is a place of legend and tales. With its enchanting deserts, and cultural cities, Oman offers the kind of adventure and culture that were once confined to the pages of exotic fairy tales.

5 days  / from 1500 USD

Essential Oman

See the essentials on this whirlwind trip to Oman. From compact Muscat city to desert dune bashing in a 4x4, there's plenty packed in. Experience Oman's famous mountain wadis, head to Turtle Beach for turtle watching, explore traditional fishing villages and get cultural at the historic Rustaq Fort.

7 days  / from 2152 USD

The Best of Oman

Oman is known for its wonderful hospitality and warm welcome. See the best of this lovely country on a compact tour that takes in the cultural capital Muscat with its atmospheric souks and palaces, as well as wild mountain wadis, therapeutic hot springs and an unforgettable night of desert camping.

8 days  / from 2068 USD

Nature Lovers' Oman

You might not think it, but Oman is a country bristling with natural beauty and fascinating wildlife. On this unique trip, you will go dolphin watching, snorkel in the Gulf of Oman, visit Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve, swim in the refreshing waters at Wadi Shab and visit a living museum!

7 days  / from 2320 USD

Wild Oman: Mountains & Deserts

Explore Oman's wild side on this adventure holiday covering the country's mountains, wadis and wide open desert plains. Visit Muscat at your leisure, then be prepared for the excitement of Snake Gorge, swimming at Wadi Bani Khalid, desert camping, historic Nizwa and much more.

Quiet stretches of coast are shaded with nodding palm trees and dotted with fishing boats. Mudbrick villages nestle amid sprawling date plantations or cling to the sides of remote valleys. Craggy chains of towering mountains are scored with precipitous canyons and rocky wadis, while the wind-blown dunes and gravel plains of the great inland deserts stretch away into the distance.

Of course, it’s not all savagely beautiful, sparsely populated landscapes. Oman has embraced the modern world, and in parts of the country the contemporary is very much in evidence, particularly in the low-key glitter and bustle of the capital, Muscat, and in the burgeoning cities of Salalah and Sohar.

Despite the trappings of modernity, however, much of the rest of the country retains a powerful sense of place and past. Busy souks continue to resound with the clamour of shoppers bargaining over frankincense, jewellery and food. Venerable forts and crumbling watchtowers still stand sentinel over towns they once protected, goats wander past huddles of ochre-coloured houses, and the white-robed Omanis themselves saunter quietly amid the palms.

Most visitors begin in Muscat , the nation’s sprawling modern capital. Much of the city now comprises a largely featureless suburban sprawl, though engaging reminders of times past persist in the lively commercial district of Muttrah and the historic quarter of Old Muscat, site of the sultan’s palace and a pair of hoary old Portuguese forts. The city also boasts an alluring selection of upmarket hotels – including some of the Gulf’s most memorably opulent Arabian-style establishments – with fabulously ornate decor, marvellous beaches, and a selection of the country’s finest restaurants and bars.

Inland from Muscat rise the spectacular mountains of the Western Hajar, centred on the beguiling regional capital of Nizwa , Oman’s most historic and personable town. Nizwa also provides a convenient base from which to explore the myriad attractions of the surrounding mountains, including the mighty Jebel Shams (the highest peak in Oman), the spectacular traditional villages of the Saiq Plateau and the exhilarating off-road drive down the vertiginous Wadi Bani Awf. Other highlights include the lovely traditional mudbrick town of Al Hamra and the even more picture-perfect village of Misfat al Abryeen. Slightly further afield lie two of the country’s most absorbing forts: monumental Bahla, the largest in Oman, and the more intimate Jabrin, whose perfectly preserved interiors offer a fascinating insight into life in old Oman.

North of Muscat in the shadow of the Western Hajar lies the coastal region of Al Batinah, fringed with a long swathe of sleepy, palm-fringed beaches. A series of low-key towns dots the coast, including lively Seeb, sleepier Barka (home to a couple more interesting forts) and sprawling Sohar, one of the country’s oldest cities, although few physical reminders of its long and illustrious past survive. The main attraction in Al Batinah is the day-long drive around the so-called Rustaq Loop, which winds inland in the shadow of the mountains via the majestic forts of Nakhal, Rustaq and Al Hazm, and provides access to some of Oman’s most beautiful wadis – including Wadi Abyad, Wadi Bani Kharous and Wadi Bani Auf – en route.

At the far northern end of Oman (and separated from the rest of the country by a wide swathe of UAE territory) lies the Musandam Peninsula . This is where you’ll find some of the sultanate’s most dramatic landscapes, with the Hajar mountains tumbling down into the ultramarine waters of the Arabian Gulf, creating a spectacular sequence of steep-sided khors (fjords), best seen during a leisurely dhow cruise. Most visitors base themselves in the modest regional capital of Khasab, which also provides a good base for forays up into the magnificent interior, centred on the craggy heights of the Jebel Harim.

South of Muscat lies Sharqiya region, providing a beguiling microcosm of Oman, with historic forts, dramatic mountain canyons, rolling dunes and turtle-nesting beaches. The still largely unspoiled coastline is a major draw, thanks to its generous swathes of pristine sand, the historic town of Sur and the turtle-watching beach at Ras al Jinz. Inland, Sharqiya is centred on the rugged Eastern Hajar mountains, cut through by some of the country’s most scenic wadis. On the far side of the mountains, most visitors head for the magnificent dunes of the Wahiba Sands, while it’s also worth visiting the old-fashioned towns of Ibra and Jalan Bani Bu Ali nearby, home to some of the country’s finest traditional mudbrick architecture.

Tucked away in the far southwestern corner of the country lies Dhofar , separated from the rest of Oman by almost a thousand kilometres of stony desert. At the centre of the region is the engaging subtropical city of Salalah, famous for its annual inundation by the monsoon rains of the khareef, during which the surrounding hills turn a lush green and cascades of water flow down the mountains, creating impromptu rivers, rock pools and waterfalls – one of Arabia’s most memorably improbable spectacles. The city also makes a convenient base for forays into the majestic Dhofar Mountains and the interminable sands of the Rub al Khali – Oman’s final frontier, stretching across northern Dhofar and on into Saudi Arabia.

Sultan Qaboos: father of the nation

You’ll not go far in Oman without seeing a picture of the country’s supreme ruler, Sultan Qaboos , whether framed in miniature above the counters of shops, cafés and hotels or emblazoned on supersized billboards towering above major highways. Coming to the throne in 1970 following the ousting of his father, the sultan has overseen the transformation of the backward and impoverished country he inherited into a prosperous modern state and is still held in almost religious reverence – even the tumultuous events of the Arab Spring in early 2011 (and their modest repercussions in Oman itself) failed to shake his universal popularity.

Top image © Gregory Zamell/Shutterstock

Travel advice for Oman

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Oman

• Culture and Etiquette in Oman
• Eating and drinking in Oman
• How to get to Oman
• Getting around Oman: Transportation Tips
• Sports and Outdoor activities in Oman
• Shopping tips for Oman
• Travel Tips Oman for planning and on the go
• Best time to visit Oman

The Rough Guides to Oman and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Find even more inspiration here

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written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 26.04.2021

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The Ultimate Oman Travel Guide

Updated October 2023,  The Ultimate Oman Travel Guide was originally written in April 2018

Oh Oman, the gem of the Arabian Peninsula. Easy to travel, overwhelmingly safe, absolutely beautiful sceneries, and a strong culture. Oman is often overlooked by most travelers to the region who typically head to more glitzy destinations like Dubai and Abu Dhabi. 

For those that have never visited a country in the Middle East, I highly recommend Oman as it’s clean, safe, friendly, and gorgeous. As many of you know, I traveled in  Yemen  and fell in love with the country in 2014 (and again in 2019 and 2020) which was what initially sparked my interest in visiting Oman.

The countries are drastically different, yet share many similarities, so for those interested in getting to Yemen (I get several emails about it per week), and have concerns about safety, I highly recommend travel in Oman for the time being.

If you’re starting to plan your Oman travels, I recommend picking up a copy of Bradt’s Oman guidebook .

Need Travel Insurance and Evacuation Services for Oman?

Start shopping for travel insurance plans over at  IATI Insurance . Readers of the Adventures of Nicole get a 5% discount off your plan.

The Adventures of Nicole partners with Global Rescue to offer the world’s leading medical evacuation and security advisory services. To travel with peace of mind, shop evacuation coverage at Global Rescue .

The currency of Oman is the Omani Rial. The current exchange rate is 1 OMR = $2.60 USD as of February 2024 .

The official language of Oman is Arabic. With that said English speaking travelers will have no problem getting around the country without knowledge of Arabic as many Omanis speak English quite well. Many road signs are written in English and Arabic.

The government of Oman doesn’t keep official stats on religion in the country. With that said most Omanis follow the Ibadi sect of Islam. The remaining population is mostly Muslim of Sunni or Shia sects with a small number of Hindus and Christians.

What To Wear In Oman

Conservative dress is recommended out of respect to the locals.

Women : Long trousers and shirts that at least cover the shoulders are recommended. Always carry a headscarf with you for the impromptu mosque visit. If you want to swim somewhere, swimming in clothing is what local women do. Of course, if staying at a western resort anything goes.

Men : Long trousers and covered shoulders are best. Make sure knees and shoulders are covered when entering mosques.

View this post on Instagram Some photos don’t need too many words, but if you have a spare 1000 read on … I’ve teamed up as a judge with @TravelexUK and @PenguinBooksUK as they hunt out the ‘Next Great Travel Writer’ – Do you have an awesome travel tale? Enter in the bio link and you could win £1500 + a mentoring session *UK/USA only #NGTW A post shared by Daniel James (@danflyingsolo) on Jan 22, 2017 at 1:51am PST

How Long To Visit Oman

1-2 weeks is a common amount of time to visit the country for travelers. 2 weeks is a good amount of time for those wanting to quickly explore both the north and south of the country. A month will offer you the flexibility to hit the highlights and see some off the beaten path destinations in Oman. 

Check out my one week in Oman itinerary and travel guide

When To Visit Oman

Oman can get unbearably hot in summer. It is not recommended to visit in June, July, and August. The best months for visiting are November-April.

Getting around in Oman is easiest by renting a car and self-driving. Driving in Oman is quite easy unless you want to go off the beaten path which will involve off-roading. For those wanting to explore the Wahiba Sands and the mountain roads of the country, you should rent a 4×4.

Compare car rental prices on Expedia

• It is illegal to drive around with a dirty car in Oman. Fines are 10 OMR, but usually police will just tell you to get it washed.
• There are speed cameras all over the place. Always try to stay at or under posted speed limits.
• Public buses connect most major cities in the country. Those wanting to travel by bus will have difficulty reaching most places of interest for visitors.
• You can get around in cities by taxi.

You can enter Oman by flight or by road.

Flights : Most international flights arrive in Muscat. There are a few international flights that arrive at Salalah Airport as well.

Road : There are several border crossings with the UAE which is how virtually all tourists arriving by road will come from.

There is a border crossing with Yemen in western Oman. It is difficult to get across, and you’ll need to arrange this trip well in advance and it is not unheard of for border officials will turn you around, even if you have a valid visa.

Travel to Yemen is not recommended right now for obvious reasons at this time. There are intrepid travelers that have managed to cross here more recently. Note that solo females travelers have been denied to cross this border in the past.

Oman does share a long border with Saudi Arabia. There are no official crossings and it’s not advisable to enter Saudi Arabia from Oman as it requires you to cross the Empty Quarter.

• Leave your drugs, guns, and porn at home- they’re all prohibited in Oman.
• You can bring in 2 liters of alcohol per person if flying into the country, though you cannot bring in alcohol if you enter the country by road.

Several countries are now eligible for an e-visa to enter Oman. You can apply for your e-visa  here . Most single entry, 30-day e-visas will cost 20 OMR.

There is a loophole to get into Oman for free without a visa, it’s called the  Dubai-Oman Common Visa . You will be eligible to travel in Oman for up to 21 days so long as you have a valid visa or stamp from the Dubai Airport in your passport and are one of the eligible nationalities.

You must travel directly from Dubai to Oman via Al-Wajajah land crossing, Muscat airport, or a seaport. It will not work with other border crossings or at other (Salalah) airports. Read more about to Dubai-Oman Common Visa  here .

Note that Israeli passport holders will be denied entry.

Omani food has a lot of Arabic influence from its neighbors, however, it is a lot less spicy. Thanks to Oman’s long coastline there’s plenty of seafood to eat.

The dates in Oman are among the best in the world and Omani halwa (a delicious sweet) is one of their best-known sweets. With that all said, Omani food is hard to come by in restaurants but if you look hard enough you’ll find it. Some local dishes to try are:

Otherwise, you’ll find dishes served up from other parts of the Arabian Peninsula, Lebanon, Turkey, India, and Pakistan. In bigger cities, you’ll be able to find the typical American fast-food restaurants.

Omani Qahwa ( coffee ) and sweetened shai ( tea ) accompany most meals.

Accommodation

This is where you’ll either blow your budget or save heaps. Most accommodations geared toward tourists are high-end and come with a high price tag. With that said you can find budget-friendly options around the country. Better yet- you can camp freely in many parts of Oman.

If you’re planning to free camp in Oman, don’t f*** it up for everyone else. Don’t leave waste behind ( human, rubbish, or otherwise ), and do not camp in places where it is prohibited such as Ras al-Jinz.

Use the search box below to find accommodations in Oman!

Things To Do In Oman

Oman is blessed with rugged mountains, massive sand dunes, stunning coastline, historic fortresses, and a vibrant culture.  Click here to check out my One Week In Oman Roadtrip Itinerary  for ideas. Here are just a few highlights of the country:

Bustling City Souks : Souks are a great place to head to get a taste of Omani culture, and get some shopping done as well. Spice souks are always a fave with the exotic smells filling the air. Nizwa Souk, Muttrah Souk in Old Muscat, and Ibri Souks are some of the most well-known and interesting ones.

Trekking In The Jebel Shams : Jebel Shams is a 3,009m peak situated in the Al-Hajar Mountain Range, located about 240km from Muscat. There are a number of treks that can be done in the area, and it’s spectacular at sunrise.

View this post on Instagram ‘Camping on top of Jebel Shams, the highest mountain in #Oman was an adventure in itself. Often referred to as the Grand Canyon of Arabia, this popular destination sits within the Al Hajar Mountains range. As soon as we arrived local campers called us to join them for fresh fruit, dates and coffee as goats milled around by the cliff edge precariously. The hospitality, warmth and kindness we experienced that day summarises the Omani people and culture to me; it was one of the safest and most welcoming countries I have visited.’ – @danflyingsolo, #lpInstaTakeover. #travel #BestinTravel A post shared by Lonely Planet (@lonelyplanet) on May 28, 2017 at 3:08am PDT

Cruise The Musandam Fjords : The word  fjord  doesn’t usually come to mind when you think of a country on the Arabian Peninsula. Sure enough, Oman has fjords! At the northern end of the Oman Peninsula, not far from the UAE exists such a place. Take a dhow boat and go explore the beautiful landscapes for a day or three.

Visit The Desolate Masirah Island : With a desolate interior and a rugged coastline, Masirah Island is begging to be explored. It’s only recently been open to tourists, and in the few short years, it’s attracted mainly kitesurfers. Reach the island by ferry from Shannah, check out the ferry schedule  here .

Get Historical At Fortresses & Ruins : If you manage to visit Oman without seeing a single fortress I’d be impressed, but more confused than anything else. There are heaps of historic fortresses scattered all over the country. Some well maintained, and some in ruin, but either way they’re completely fascinating. Some will have entrance fees while others do not.

Explore The Wadis : Oman is home to more wadis than you’ll know what to do with. To fill you in- wadi is the Arabic word for canyon. Some of Oman’s most beautiful wadis are filled with crystal clear turquoise water and the occasional palm tree oasis.

Experience The Hospitality That Knows No Bounds : I know I say this about many places in the Middle East and Central Asia, but I wouldn’t keep repeating it if it wasn’t true. Omani people are incredibly welcoming and friendly. From the group of coworkers out enjoying an afternoon at Wadi Ghul inviting us for qawa and snacks, the troop of friends having lunch on a beach who completely took over our tire change and sent us for a swim, halwa, tahini & date given to us Nizwa Souk, a keffiyeh wrapping lesson in the middle of a busy market, to those Bedouin ladies who stopped to make sure we were okay and to offer us sweet shai in the Wahiba Sands- Omanis will be the biggest and best-lasting impression of your trip.

Where To Go In Oman

Northern Oman

Delightfully authentic for a change from the over-the-top capital cities of its gulf neighbors. Muscat is the capital of Oman and likely your first stop in the country.

With a backdrop of rocky slopes and buildings required to reflect traditional Arabian architecture you really feel you’re in Arabia. Muscat is actually three towns that seem to have overgrown and connected over time.

The area referred to as Old Muscat is the walled city, home to the royal palaces. Mutrah, which is home to the famed Mutrah Souk and was originally a fishing village. And finally, Ruwi which is where commercial things go on, and is the main transport hub for the city.

With that said, Ruwi is a good area to head for cheaper eats and shopping.

Top sights recommend to visit in Muscat

• Sultan Qaboos Mosque
• Mutrah Souk
• Muscat Royal Opera House
• Al-Jalali Fort & Al-Mirani Fort
• Mohammed Al-Amin Mosque
• Sultan’s (Al-Alam) Palace
• Oman National Museum

Where To Sleep In Muscat

• Budget:  Mutrah Hotel |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Midrange:  Levatio Hotel Muscat |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Luxury:  Shangr-La Al-Husn Resort & Spa |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Muscat Tours

Check out this  half-day guided tour of Muscat . Want to see the city by night? Have a look at this  Muscat by Night tour . Want to see both Muscat and the surrounding areas such as Seeb and Quriyat?  Click here  to read about this full-day tour.

If you want to experience an Omani town without trailing too far from Muscat, head to Seeb. It’s about a 30 minute drive northwest of Muscat, not far from the airport. There isn’t much in way of attractions in Seeb, but for those looking to get a feel for Omani culture without much travel time, this is the place to go.

View this post on Instagram The past weekend I took over the @LonelyPlanet Instagram account to share some of my favourite times in #Oman – if you haven’t considered visiting head over and take a look, I think it will surprise you… Have you been? #BestInTravel #arabia #Mosque A post shared by Daniel James (@danflyingsolo) on May 30, 2017 at 2:06pm PDT

Recommended Sights In Seeb

• Al-Zulfa Mosque
• Seeb Beach & Cornich Park

Where To Sleep In Seeb

• Budget:  Muscat Royal Suites |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Midrange:  Remas Hotel Suites | Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Luxury:  There are no luxury hotels in Seeb, but you can head to Muscat for them.

A lovely little fishing village an hour’s drive headed east from Muscat. Quriyat was once an important Omani port but now is just a sleepy village. Makes for a great day trip from Muscat with a stop at Mazara to check out the Wadi Dayqat Dam. There are no accommodations in Quriyat.

Sights To See In Quriyat

• Quriyat Fort
• Quriyat Beach
• Quriyat Watchtower

Bandar Khayran

Bandar Khayran also makes for a good day trip from Muscat, or as a stop for those headed south along the coast. Comprised of a series of Khors ( inlets ) it’s a great place to check out beaches, snorkel, watch fisherman casting for catches, and watch the sandstone reflections in the water in the late afternoon. There are currently no accommodations in Bandar Khayran, there are places you could wild camp.

Bandar Khayran Tours

Take a day trip from  Muscat by boat to explore the Bandar Kharyan area  and to view wild dolphins.

The gateway to the Jebel Shams, Wadi Ghul, and Jebel Akhdar, and home to one of Oman’s best fortresses and souks. During the 6th and 7th centuries Nizwa was the capital of Oman.

Make sure to tour around the Nizwa Fort ( 0.500 OMR admission ) and make a lap around the Nizwa souk in search of antiques and delicious halwa.

What To See In Nizwa

Where to sleep in nizwa.

• Budget:  Bait al Aqr |  Booking.com  |  Agoda.com  |
• Midrange:  Nizwa Heritage Inn |  Booking.com  |  Agoda.com  |
• Luxury:  Sama Hotel Jabal Al Akhdar |  Booking.com  |

Tours In Nizwa

There are a number of tours in and around Nizwa, and even ones that include surrounding areas such as Jebel Shams, Bahla, and Jebel Akhdar.  Click here to shop tours to Nizwa .

Jebel Shams, Wadi Ghul & The Al-Hajar Mountains

Jebel Shams is Oman’s Highest Mountain at 3,075 meters situated in the Al-Hajar Mountain Range. With that said, Jebel Shams isn’t well known for the peak itself, but the sometimes nerve-wracking views down into Wadi Ghul. Wadi Ghul is known as the Grand Canyon of Arabia.

Several treks can be done in the mountains and wadis, but do come prepared with enough water. Jebel Shams can be visited as a day trip from Nizwa or even Muscat, but it’s highly recommended to camp up here for a night especially for those wanting to catch the sunrise over the rugged landscape.

What To Do At Jebel Shams

• Purchase a locally made carpet

Where To Sleep In Jebel Shams

Sleeping up in Jebel Shams itself is not a cheap endeavor if looking to stay at a hotel. I highly recommend wild camping at Jebel Shams. Sama Heights Resort has a great lunch buffet available for a fee to those not staying there.

• Sama Heights Resort |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Jebel Shams Villa |  Booking.com  |  Agoda.com  |
• Jebel Shams Resort |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Sunrise Camp |  Booking,com  |  Hotels.com  |
• There are more and cheaper accommodation in nearby Al-Hamra,  shop rooms here

Jebel Shams Tours

For those not wanting to drive themselves and dedicate a night out in the mountains, you can take day tours to Jebel Shams from Muscat. Check out this Jebel Shams day tour  here .

Jebel Akhdar

The ‘Green Mountain’. This area isn’t known for the mountain itself but for the plateaus around it. With cooler weather and more rainfall its home to fruit gardens all over the upper and lower plateaus. You’re only allowed to make your way to Jebel Akhdar in a 4×4.

What To Do At Jebel Akhdar

• Diana’s View Point
• Wadi Bani Habib

Where To Sleep

• Budget:  Salassel Al-Jebel Al-Akhdar Guesthouse |  Booking.com  |  Agoda.com  |
• Midrange:  Jebel Akhdar Hotel |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Luxury:  Alilia Jebel Akhdar |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Tours To Jebel Akhdar

Click here  to book a tour of Jebel Akhdar and Nizwa in one day.

Bahla & Jabrin

Known for it’s fort of the same name and it’s pottery. The Bahla Fort is one of the best walled cities in the world to explore. You can combine a visit to Bahla with nearby Jabrin to explore the less impressive yet well preserved fort. Admission to both Bahla Fort and Jabrin Castle is 0.500 OMR.

What To Do In Bahla

• Shop For Pottery
• Visit The Old Souk
• Jabrin Castle

Where To Sleep in Bahla

• Budget:  Jibreen Hotel |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Midrange:  Bahla Hotel Apartments |  Booking.com  |  Agoda.com  |
• Luxury:  Go to Nizwa

Bat & Al-Ayn

Nearby to the Buraimi border crossing with the UAE and worthy of a stop for those entering or exiting Oman here. Bat and Al-Ayn are home to strange beehive tombs that dot the hilltops.

What To See in Bat & Al-Ayn

• Check out the beehive tombs
• Go off-roading to the nearby mountain villages

Search Al-Buraimi Hotels here

Musandam Peninsula

The Norway of Arabia because of its stunning Khors ( fjords or inlets ). Separated from the remainder of Oman by the UAE.

Khasab is the capital of the tiny province and exclave. Khasab is where you’ll want to base yourself for trips around the Musandam Peninsula. Be sure to explore the Khasab Fort, Khmazera Castle, and souk while back in the city.

What To See Around Khasab

• Khasab Fort
• Khasab Souk
• Khmazera Castle
• Organize dhow boats to explore the Khors

Where To Sleep In Khasab

• Midrange:  Khasab Hotel |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Luxury:  Atana Musandam Resort |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Khasab & Musandam Peninsula Tours

From city tours in Khasab to dhow boat trips around the khors, there’s probably a tour to suit just about everyone.  Click here  to check out Khasab city tours and dhow trips.

The Musandam Khors

Hop on a dhow boat or organize a tour of the Musandam Khors and explore this fascinating area. Visit the fishing villages with inhabitants so remote that they speak a dialect that those from Muscat cannot understand, eat freshly caught seafood cooked up on your dhow, and take in the amazing scenery.

What To See & Do In The Musandam Khors

• Visit Telegraph Island & Khor Ash-Sham
• Camp on the bay of Khor An-Najd
• Cruise the sea by dhow boat
• See wild dolphins
• Visit remote villages

Musandam Peninsula Tours

Check out this  2 day tour of the Musandam Khors  including a night on a dhow boat. Just looking for day tours? Shop dhow day trips from Khasab  here . You can also book a 4×4 day trip to Khor An-Najd as well as Jebel Harim  here .

Jebel Harim

A great day trip by 4×4 from Khasab to Jebel Harim, the ‘Mountain of Women’, littered iris and geranium flowers and views of the Rawdah Bowl Below.

Jebel Harim Tours

You can visit Jebel Harim along with the beautiful Khor An-Najd by 4×4 Day Tour,  click here to read more .

The believed home to Sinbad and Ahmed bin Majid- two very famous sailors. Most come to enjoy the sandy beaches and archeological fixtures such as the Sohar Castle.

What To Do In Sohar

• Sohar Castle
• Sohar Beach
• Fish Market

Where To Sleep In Sohar

• Budget:  Atlas Hotel Apartments |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Midrange:  Radisson Blu Sohar |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Luxury:  Crown Plaza Sohar |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

A popular day trip from Muscat as it’s only an hour’s drive from the city. Home to a nice sandy beach and a scattering of islands. Visiting the watchtower on Sawadi Island and snorkeling is what most who do visit come for.

What To Do In Sawadi

• Sawadi Beach
• Island hopping
• Sawadi Watchtower and Sawadi Island

Central Oman

Sur & ayjah.

Nice beaches, two castles, and a corniche are the attractions in Sur, just southeast of Muscat. It’s also a great base or jumping-off point for adventures into  Wadi Shab , Wadi Tiwi, Ras al-Jinz, and Ras al-Hadd.

Admission to castles is 0.500 OMR. Ayjah, which can be seen just across the water from the Sur Corniche is worth a trip to explore the tiny village’s fort and lighthouse. Ayjah and Sur are connected by Oman’s only suspension bridge.

What To See & Do In Sur

• The Corniche
• Sunaysilah Castle
• Ayjah Lighthouse
• Suspension Bridge

Where To Sleep In Sur

• Budget:  Al Jumhour Hotel Apartments |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Midrange:  Resort Sur Beach Holiday |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Luxury:  Head to Ras al Hadd, or back to Muscat

Bimmah Sinkhole (Hawiyat Najm Park)

Just off the highway as you make your way down the coast from Muscat to Sur.  Bimmah Sinkhole  is most definitely worthy of the stop.

Local legend says the sinkhole was created by a meteor strike- hence the local name of Hawiyat Najm, meaning falling star. But in reality, it’s believed to just be a depression that fills with seawater as the ocean is only 600m away and freshwater that collects in there.

Bimmah Sinkhole is incredibly beautiful with its crystal clear vibrant turquoise waters. It’s easy to access as Bimmah Sinkhole was designated a park and they’ve built a staircase down into it. If visiting in the more popular months ( November-March ), I recommend visiting early in the morning if you want to beat the other tourists to it.

You can visit Bimmah Sinkhole along with nearby Wadi Shab by day tour from Muscat for those not interested in making the journey on their own,  click here  to read more about the tour and book.

Plan your visit:  Everything you need to know to visit Bimmah Sinkhole

Steep canyon cliffs, turquoise pools, and even a secret waterfall await those who make the trip to  Wadi Shab , one of Oman’s easiest to reach and most beautiful destinations. Wadi Shab is located right off the Muscat-Sur Highway. From the parking lot under the highway bridge, you’ll need to take a boat across to the other side ( 1 OMR roundtrip ).

Once across, follow the path and prepare to be amazed. You will eventually reach the upper pools where you are allowed to swim. From here you can swim through a narrow slot a little further up the river to enter a giant cave where you can cliff dive into the waters below from the edge of a gushing waterfall.

• It is possible to hike even further to reach villages higher up the wadi.
• Camping and fires are not allowed in Wadi Shab.

Check out my  ultimate guide to Wadi Shab

Just a short distance from Wadi Shab, Wadi Tiwi is a must-see especially in the springtime when the bottom of the canyon is carpeted in lush green foliage. It’s preferred by locals for travelers to visit the 9 villages in the wadi on foot. A two day trek can be done from Wadi Tiwi to Wadi Bani Khalid.

Ras Al-Jinz & Ras Al-Hadd

Ras al-Jinz is the easternmost point of the Arabian Peninsula famous for the thousands of female green turtles that return to this beach year after year to lay their eggs.

Green turtles are endangered and Oman is dedicated to their conservation and has strict punishments for those that harm turtles or their eggs. I’ve learned that the only way to visit Ras al-Jinz for turtle viewing is by organized tour, however, when I visited Oman we were given permission by the men working at the reserve to go in search of turtles.

We did find a massive female laying eggs in the sand which was a great experience. The workers at the reserve even gave us a brief tour of their facilities and let us watch them at work ( finding baby turtles that were confused and heading away from the ocean and putting them in a small kiddy pool that they would take down to the water to set free into the ocean when it got too crowded ).

Ras al-Hadd is the nearby fishing village in which it is possible to camp ( camping is not permitted at Ras al-Jinz for obvious reasons ).

• If you do plan to come to Ras al-Jinz to see the turtles either don’t bring a flashlight/headlamp or bring a headlamp with the red light on it. The red light doesn’t stress and confuse the turtles, but the normal lights will.
• Turtles don’t come to the beach during the day, so the best time to see them is on a night tour.

What To Do In Ras al-Jinz

• Visit Ras al Jinz Turtle Reserve in search of the endangered green turtle
• Spend the night just back off the beach at the Ras al-Jinz Turtle Reserve Hotel

Where To Stay In Ras al-Jinz

• Ras al-Jinz Turtle Reserve , with rooms starting at 40 OMR per night

Where To Stay In Ras al-Hadd

• Budget:  Ras al-Hadd Guesthouse |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Luxury:  Turtle Beach Resort |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Ras al-Jinz Tours

Join a 4×4 tour down from Muscat and back to view the green turtles at Ras al-Jinz,  click here  to read more and to visit the booking page. A cheaper option is to book a visit to the reserve through your hotel in Sur or Ras al-Hadd.

A small fishing village with two beaches on either side of it that are nice for a picnic in the afternoon. Al Ashkara is the jumping-off point to the Wahiba Sands and also the main supply point for the communities that live out there.

One of the nearby beaches is where we stopped for lunch and to change a tire and a group of friends hanging out at the beach quickly took over the task.

Bani Bu Hassan & Ali

Worth a stop for those bound for the Wahiba Sands, Wadi Bani Khalid or Ibra from Al Ashkara or further south. Bani Bu Hassan and Bani Bu Ali sit side by side and are home to forts, ancient plantations, and watchtowers.

What To See In Bani Bu Hassan & Ali

• Bani Bu Ali Fort
• Bani Bu Hassan Fort
• Jami Al Hamoda Mosque
• Explore the plantations

Wahiba Sands (Sharqiya)

At the village of Al-Ghabbi on Highway 23 ( not far from Bani Bu Hassan & Ali and Ibra ) turn off and you’ll quickly arrive at the village of Al-Mintirib that sits right on the edge of  Wahiba Sands .

Al-Mintirib is the gateway to exploring the wild desert of Oman. Carefully follow the jeep tracks out of town and into the great abyss. There are a number of desert camps out here, but it’s entirely possible to camp on your own.

For those wanting to interact with Omani women, Wahiba Sands is your best bet as the local Bedouin women have a more outward role in their society than in other parts of the country. They are also expert drivers and often rescue tourists stuck in the sands.

Whether you camp on your own or you head out to a luxury camp, make sure you look up at night and catch the stars under the clear dark sky.

• It’s advisable to bring shovels and sand mats if you self drive, in case you get stuck out here.
• Make sure to have plenty of water if driving yourself out here.

What To Do In The Wahiba Sands

• Haul ass down desert jeep tracks and up and down through orange sand dunes
• Camp under the stars
• Keep your eyes peeled for camels and Arabian Oryx running around
• Meet Bedouin women and watch their driving skills

Read my guide to  spending the night in the Wahiba Sands

Where To Stay In The Wahiba Sands

• Desert Wonders Camp |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Arabian Oryx Camp |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Desert Bedoua House |  Booking.com  |  Agoda.com  |
• Safari Dunes Camp |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Tours To Wahiba Sands

Don’t want the stress of driving a 4×4 yourself through mountains of sand with the fear of getting stuck in the middle of nowhere? There are several tours offered to the Wahiba Sands ranging from day trips to overnight trips and more.  Click here  to browse different desert tours to the Wahiba Sands.

Wadi Bani Khalid

Beautiful emerald and turquoise pools await at Wadi Bani Khalid. You’ll wind high-up in the Eastern Hajar Mountains to eventually arrive at a parking lot.

From here it’s a short walk to the pools and a little further to Moqal Cave. This is about as touristy as it gets in Oman as well- there’s a restaurant at the lower pools and there is a concrete path there from the parking lot.

You can swim in the pools here, but you should swim in clothes like many Omanis here visit here do as well. For those not claustrophobic, continue along the trail past the restaurant ( the trail quickly turns to rocks ) and you can climb inside the cave. There are spots where you’ll find local boys cliff diving as well.

Tours To Wadi Bani Khalid

Some tours that visit from  Muscat to the Wahiba Sands include a stop at Wadi Bani Khalid . You can also self drive here, or contact local Omani tour agencies to arrange trips here.

Ibra is an ancient city, so old it predates the calling of the prophet. Ibra is also the gateway to the Wahiba ( Sharqiya ) region from the north. These two factors make a stop off here worthy of your time when traveling to or from the Wahiba Sands and beyond.

Try to arrange a visit on a Wednesday morning to see the local souk at its busiest and the women’s souk is active. The women’s souk is for women buyers and sellers to barter and trade, and men are not welcomed here.

Make sure and walk to the Old Ibra Village ( walk toward Al-Munisifeh from the souk area ) to explore ancient and crumbling buildings.

What To Do In Ibra

• Visit the souk, espeically on Wednesday mornings
• If you’re a woman, visit on Wednesday mornings to get a glimpse into local women’s lives at the Women’s Souk
• Wander crumbling mud-brick buildings in Old Ibra and Al-Musinifeh

Where To Sleep In Ibra

• Budget:  Al Sharqiyah Sand Hotel |  Booking.com  |  Agoda.com  |
• Midrange:  Tafadal |  Booking.com  |

Masirah Island

Come here for rugged coastlines and the wild interior that have been attracting kitesurfers out here for the last few years. Take a ferry over from Shannah to this desolate island out in the Indian Ocean.

Camping and exploring by 4×4 is the best way to experience Masirah Island.  Click here  to view the National Ferry Company of Oman’s schedule. There are a few hotels on the island now in the town of Half for those not wanting to camp.

What To Do On Masirah Island

• Visit the small town of Ras Al Hilf
• Explore the rugged coastline and search for dhow boat wreckages
• Find camels wandering around as you traverse the island

Where To Sleep On Masirah Island

• Midrange:  Maan Hotel Apartment |  Booking.com  |
• Higher End:  Masirah Island Resort |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Southern Oman

The capital of the Dhofar Region and famous for its frankincense.  Salalah  is a bit more colorful than other cities in Oman thanks to its ties to East Africa. Make sure to visit the beaches, pay a visit to Sultan Qaboos Mosque, and wander into the Museum of Frankincense Land.

What To See In Salalah

• Fruit Plantations
• Museum of Frankincense Land
• Al-Husn Souk
• Visit the nearby Al Fizayah & Al Mughsail Beaches

Plan your visit:  The Salalah Travel Guide

Where To Sleep In Salalah

• Midrange:  Belad Bont Resort|  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Midrange:  Salalah Gardens Hotel |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Luxury:  Crown Plaza Hotel Salalah |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Luxury:  Fanar Hotel |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Luxury:  Millennium Resort Salalah |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |
• Super Luxury:  Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Tours In Salalah

Take a half day Salalah City tour , or take a tour of  East Salalah to Taqah  and other sights, or a  tour west of Salalah  to head towards the Yemeni border and visit valleys of frankincense trees, visit the Mughsail Bay, and to the fishing village of Dhalkut.

This fishing village sits on the other side of a nice white sand beach from Salalah. Come here to visit Taqah Castle ( 0.500 OMR ).

Just a few kilometers east of Taqah sits a lovely little bay called Khor Rouri. You can sit and watch animals like flamingos and camels here. Khor Rouri was also an important port along the Frankincense trading route about 2,000 years ago. Little is left behind from those times aside from the Sumhuram Ruins ( 1 OMR to enter ).

You can reach Wadi Dharbat from Khor Rouri and visit its waterfall and lake.

Mughsail Bay

A drive 48km east of Salalah will bring you to the beautiful Mughsail Bay that trails off into giant cliffs that continue on to the east. Nearby the Marneef Cave is with a stop as well.

View this post on Instagram ‘The #Oman coastline is over 1600km long and touches three seas. Driving along the dry rugged coastline and climbing down rocks to empty beaches were common pit stops on my road trip. One morning, after a night spent camping on a beach, we woke early and visited another to watch sea turtles laying their eggs. By early evening we had arrived in the desert and were surrounded by camels. The diversity in wildlife for such a small country is one of the reasons Oman captured my heart.’ – @danflyingsolo, #lpInstaTakeover. #travel #BestinTravel A post shared by Lonely Planet (@lonelyplanet) on May 27, 2017 at 10:02am PDT

Oman Travel Budget

It’s not a secret that Oman is not the cheapest destination, but for those willing to get a little dirty and sleep under stars you can stretch your money a lot further here. With that said, the sky is the limit in Oman with its plethora of luxury resorts.

13 OMR/$35 USD Per Day

Splitting the cost of renting a 4×4 with a group of 4, camping each night and preparing most your own meals

27 OMR/$70USD Per Day

Staying in budget accommodation (2 persons), eating at low key restaurants, and car rental

60 OMR/$150 USD Per Day

Sleeping in midrange hotels, dining at a combination of cheap eateries and nice restaurants, and car rental

120 OMR/$300 USD Per Day

Taking guided tours, staying in resorts, and eating at upscale restaurants

Oman Packing List

Remember that respectful dress is the best for traveling in Oman. Pack light, breathable fabrics. For those planning to adventure in the mountains do bring some layers as it can get chilly out there in winter, especially at night. The Bradt Oman guidebook is a handy tool for travel planning.

Recommended Gear For Those Planning To Wild Camp, Trek, & Adventure In The Desert

• Inreach Explorer+
• Solar charger
• External battery pack
• Lightweight Tent
• Sleeping bag
• Hiking Boots
• Lightweight cooking camp set
• Water Purifier
• Trekking Poles
• Prescription & Over the counter medications
• Sand Plates

Internet & Mobile

Hotels in Oman will usually have wifi. If you’d like to buy a SIM card to stay connected they are easy and quick to purchase. Look for Omantel and Nawras shops and kiosks. Omantel has plans starting at 2 OMR and Nawras at 3 OMR.

Health & Safety

Oman is an incredibly safe country in regard to crime and violence. The most dangerous thing in the country is the heat.

• Always have some water with you, especially when venturing out into the desert or hiking in the mountains
• Don’t go off roading alone in case that you do get stuck and need help getting out. It’s best to travel in a convoy with others
• Take caution while driving. Oman does have a relatively high car accident fatality rate. Things to look out for are other drivers, camels in the road and falling asleep at the wheel
• Take maps and GPS if planning to off road through the desert and mountains, or trek in the peaks and wadis
• Always take sunscreen with you, the Omani sun is relentless

Important Notes

• Acts of aggression and insulting others are punishable in Oman. So no road rage exists here. One instance you’ll see this is when taking taxis in Muscat- if your driver gets cut off ( more than likely it’ll happen on your way in from the airport ), rather than honk and flip the offender off, they’ll drop their right hand down low near the shifter and slap it back and forth. This is the Omani f*** you.
• With Oman having outlawed insults and aggression, it’s led to the population being quite sensitive. What you may think of as a joke making fun of someone, a place, or so on may come off as very offensive. So definitely think before you blurt things out.
• Be prepared to be stared at. Omanis will stare at you, only because you’re foreign and they’re curious.
• Especially outside of the larger cities of Muscat and Salalah avoid smiling at members of the opposite gender as it is usually always perceived as flirting. Oman is still a fairly segregated country in regards to gender. I never had any issues when we were traveling the country speaking with men we met in various places, but I did visit Oman immediately after leaving Central Asia. After traveling Central Asia for over two months I had the co-ed interactions in the Islamic world down pretty well.
• Homosexuality is punishable in Oman, although not as severely as in neighboring countries. You could land yourself in jail for up to 3 years if caught in some sort of homosexual act. This doesn’t mean LGBT travelers cannot travel in Oman, but if you do so just make sure to not display affection in public. It’s easy enough to tell people you meet that you are friends if traveling with a romantic partner. Note that in Oman, like in much of the Middle East and Africa it’s not unusual for friends of the same gender to hold hands.

Have More Questions That Aren’t Answered In This Oman Travel Guide?

Ask in the comments below!

More Posts from Oman:

One Week in Oman: A Self-Drive, Budget Itinerary

Visiting Bimmah Sinkhole, Oman: Everything You Need To Know

12 Best Things To Do In Oman

What It Was Like To Camp In The Wahiba Sands, Oman

The Ultimate Guide To Visiting Wadi Shab, Oman

The Best Road Trips In The World

Salalah Travel Guide + 10 Things To Do In Salalah

Dubai-Oman Common Visa

The Yemen-Oman Border Crossing

Oman Tour: To The Empty Quarter & Dhofar

17 thoughts on “the ultimate oman travel guide”.

HEy Nicole! This guide is amazing – thank you so much!

Thank you for this wonderful article. It is new information for me.

Nicole, being a Local Omani, I am impress with your knowledage about Oman. No doubt, you’ve written an informtive, well-researched and impressive guide on Oman.

Thanks for this great blog! Your pictures give a great insight to the country. Which camera are you using?

Thanks, I mostly shoot on a Canon 5DSR and sometimes a 5DMIII

Impressive article, enjoyed reading it. Thanks for the info.

Thanks a lot, the article is so perfect

What a great article! We’re currently dreaming of going to Oman again – we’ve been there before and we love, love love it! Here’s to a year with loads of travel plans and new experiences!

Nice post. Thank you for sharing such informative information with us.

Hi, First, I would like to thank you for sharing the useful guide on Oman Tours. As Oman is the best destination for traveling & tours and has lots of amazing places to visit. As per my experience, Salalah is also a very good destination for spending holidays. I have read your blog and I found that your tips and guide will be very helpful for visitors.

Thanks for the information even if I am planning to come to Oman. through e-visa this is very needful information

Nice post, Thanks for sharing!

Salalah is very beautiful tourist city and I loved to visit again

Salalah is a great place, greetings from Salalah.

Regards Beautiful Salalah Tours The best travel operator in Salalah

Thanks Salma, Salalah is just lovely. I’d love to return!

Hello lovely Nicki, I want to say you have a great article here about Oman. We offer desert tours in UAE and to the Musandam Peninsula from Dubai, hope to see you there one day Inshallah.

Thanks, I hope to be back one day too!

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Update January 10, 2024

Information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

• Travel Advisories |
• Contact Us |
• MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

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Before You Go

Learn About Your Destination

While Abroad

Emergencies

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Travel Advisory July 13, 2023

Oman - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution due to  terrorism  and  armed conflict . Some areas have increased risk.  Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do not travel to:

• The Yemen border area due to  terrorism  and  armed conflict .

Country Summary : Due to risks to civil aviation operating within the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman region, including Oman, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued an advisory Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) and/or a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR). For more information U.S. citizens should consult the  Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices .

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Oman.

If you decide to travel to Oman:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Oman.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.
• U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Yemen Border Area

Terrorist attacks and violence continue in Yemen. Crossing the border into Yemen can be dangerous, and U.S. citizens who attempt to cross the Oman-Yemen border, from either Oman or Yemen, may be detained by Omani authorities.

Visit our website for  High-Risk Travelers .

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

1 page per entry stamp

Yellow fever (when coming from an area with yellow fever outbreaks)

Amounts over 20,000 USD must be declared

Embassies and Consulates

U.S. Embassy Muscat

Jamiat A'Duwal Al Arabiya Street, Al Khuwair Area (Shatti Al-Qurum), Muscat Oman Telephone: +(968) 2464-3400 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(968) 2464-3400 Fax: +(968) 2464-3535 Email:  [email protected]

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

COVID-19 Requirements: There are no COVID-related entry requirements for U.S. citizens.

Please visit the  Embassy of Oman website  for the most current visa information.

Requirements for Entry:

• Passport valid for at least six months

Tourist Visas: 

• U.S. citizens should apply for tourist visas in advance via the  Royal Oman Police E-Visa website . Tourist visas are also available upon arrival at airports and land crossings.
• Visas are issued at Mazoonah and Sarfait (Oman-Yemen land borders) on a case-by-case basis.
• The current list of visa types and a schedule of fees are available at the  Royal Oman Police website .
• Have proof of adequate funds and an onward/return ticket.

Penalties for expired passports or visas include fines and/or imprisonment.

Avoid Travel to Yemen:  We strongly advise U.S. citizens against travel to Yemen. Crossing the Yemen-Oman border can be dangerous, and U.S. citizens who do so are routinely detained by Omani authorities. The Department of State and U.S. embassies abroad will not facilitate entry of U.S. citizens into Yemen. See Our  Travel Advisory for Yemen  for further information.

Oman does not recognize dual nationality. Omani authorities may confiscate your U.S. passport if you have Oman/U.S. dual nationality. Should this happen, contact the U.S. Embassy. This does not constitute loss of U.S. citizenship.

Children of Omani fathers automatically acquire Omani citizenship at birth and must enter and exit Oman on their Omani passports.

Omani/U.S. dual nationals are subject to all Omani laws, including those placing special obligations on citizens of Oman.

Expect considerable delays if your U.S. passport is lost or stolen. The Royal Oman Police require entry verification upon departure. If your passport containing your entry stamp is lost or stolen, a police report may be required to exit Oman using a replacement passport. For further details, see the  Royal Oman Police website .

Yellow fever vaccinations are required if you are coming from a country with yellow fever outbreaks.

Some HIV/AIDS entry restrictions exist for visitors and foreign residents of Oman. HIV/AIDS testing is required upon arrival for people on work or immigrant visas. Oman does not accept U.S. HIV/AIDS testing. Verify this information with the  Embassy of Oman  before traveling.

Customs Regulations:

• Pornographic materials and firearms are prohibited.
• Muslim travelers are forbidden to bring in alcohol. Oman does not require visitors to identify with a religion.
• Non-Muslim travelers can bring in two bottles of alcohol bought at a duty-free shop.

Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction  and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

Terrorism:  Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad.  Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds.  Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as: 

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.) 
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists 
• Places of worship 
• Schools 
• Parks 
• Shopping malls and markets 
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)  

For more information, see our Terrorism page. 

MARAD Report:  According to the United States Maritime Administration (MARAD), U.S. flag vessels in the Gulf of Oman, North Arabian Sea, Gulf of Aden, and the Bab el Mandeb regions face an elevated risk of attacks by violent extremists.

U.S. flag vessels should report suspicious activity to:

• COMUSNAVCENT battle watch captain at 011-973-1785-3879
• U.S. Coast Guard National Response Center at 1-800-424-8802 (toll-free), 202-267-2675, or 202-267-4477 (TDD).

Crime : There is minimal street crime in Oman, and violent crime is rare.

See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information on scams.

Victims of Crime:  U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance. Report crimes to the local police at 9999.  Emergency hotlines are mostly Arabic-speaking.  The U.S. Embassy has received reports from U.S. citizens who were unable to receive assistance due to language barriers.  Contact the U.S. Embassy at +968 2464-3400.  Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion 
• Provide a list of local attorneys
• Provide information on  victim’s compensation programs in the United States
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• Replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance.  The law in Oman does not specifically address domestic violence.  However, charges may be brought under other statutes.  Victims of domestic violence may file a complaint with the police, and reports indicate that police respond promptly and professionally.  The government operates a domestic violence hotline and a shelter for victims.

For additional information please see Oman’s Penal Code and our Human Rights Report for Oman .

Dial 1100 to reach the government-operated domestic violence hotline.

Tourism : The tourism industry is generally well-regulated and rules with regard to best practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage, and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned.  Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the U.S., regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice website.

Arrest Notification : If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. Omani authorities typically do not permit foreigners accused of crimes to leave the country while cases are open.

See our  webpage  for further information.

Carry your passport at all times, or you could be detained.

It is illegal to photograph certain buildings.

Alcohol and Drugs:  You may be arrested for possession of alcohol or driving under the influence. Drinking is permitted in some international hotels, bars, homes, and some restaurants.

Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs include lengthy jail sentences and heavy fines.  Some prescription medications, such as narcotics, available in the United States may be illegal in Oman.  Travelers should check the Oman Ministry of Health’s Medications and Travel webpage before importing prescription medications.

Motor Vehicle Violations:  Traffic laws are strictly enforced and carry heavy penalties. Remote traffic cameras are extensively used to monitor speeding and stop light infractions.

Immigration officials, airports and other ports of entry and exit have ready access to information on traffic offenses, and violators cannot depart Oman unless all fines have been paid in full.

Personal Defamation Charges:

• Using vulgar language or hand gestures can lead to personal defamation charges. 
• An accusation alone, regardless of who files it, can initiate a legal process.
• U.S. citizens can usually resolve these cases with a formal apology and payment of damages to the aggrieved party.

Cultural Heritage Items:  To avoid prosecution, check first with Omani authorities before taking “cultural heritage items” such as archaeological artifacts, meteorites, or stones. 

Notary Services:  All foreign public documents (Birth, Marriage, Death, Divorce, academic records, etc.) need to be apostilled for use in Oman. The U.S. Embassy in Oman cannot apostille any documents issued in the U.S. See  our website  for designated authorities in the United States. That can issue an apostille.

Employment in Oman:  Although a common practice, it is illegal for Omani employers to retain your passport. Such retention could grant undue leverage to your employer in case of a dispute. U.S. passports are the property of the U.S. government.

The U.S. Embassy cannot intervene in labor disputes. At the beginning of any employment, obtain a contract that clearly states the terms of employment. Try to resolve disputes privately with your employer. If this fails, consult our  list of lawyers .

Dress Code : Be sensitive to Islamic culture and do not wear sleeveless shirts, halter-tops, or shorts. Only wear athletic clothing in public when engaged in sports activities.

Currency : U.S. bills printed before 2006 are often not accepted. Local currency is easily available from ATMs or currency exchange counters.

Faith-Based Travelers:  See our following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports
• Human Rights Report – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTQI+ Travelers:  Consensual same-sex sexual conduct is illegal and subject to a jail term of six months to three years. See our  LGBTQI+ Travel Information page  and section 6 of our  Human Rights report  for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities:  The law in Oman prohibits discrimination against persons with physical, intellectual, or mental disabilities   Expect accessibility to be limited in older buildings (including government buildings and schools), public transportation, and general infrastructure, and more common in newer medical facilities and public buildings in cities. Outside of urban areas, access is greatly reduced.  Handicapped parking spaces are scarce.

Omanis will generally try to accommodate reasonable requests for assistance.

Students : See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:   See our travel tips for  Women Travelers . 

COVID-19 Testing:   For general PCR testing and exiting Oman, various health clinics in Oman offer PCR tests with results within 72 hours as well as 24-hour and 3–6-hour options.  PCR tests are at the expense of the individual/traveler.  Prices vary by clinic and range from 20 – 40 OMR; surcharges often apply for expedited result processing within 24 hours or less.  Drive up testing, walk-in tests, and tests by appointment are all available in Oman.  Test result delivery varies by clinic: e-mail, text, and physical message are commonly used to communicate results.

COVID-19 Vaccines:   The COVID-19 vaccine is available for U.S. citizens to receive in Oman. Please refer to the  Omani Ministry of Health  for additional information on vaccination registration.

Visit the FDA's website to learn more about FDA-approved vaccines in the United States.

For emergency services in Oman, dial 9999.  Emergency hotlines are mostly Arabic-speaking.  The U.S. Embassy has received reports from U.S. citizens who were unable to receive assistance due to language barriers.

Response times for ambulance services vary.  Injured or seriously ill travelers should take a taxi or private vehicle to the nearest major hospital rather than wait for an ambulance.

Modern medical facilities and Western-style pharmacies are available. Local medical treatment varies from average to inadequate, depending on location.

Hospital emergency treatment is available.

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas.  Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See  our webpage  for more information on insurance overseas.  Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the Government of Oman to ensure the medication is legal in Oman.

Vaccinations : Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Air Quality:  Visit  AirNow Department of State  for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a  list of doctors and hospitals .  We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions:  Road conditions in cities and along major highways are good. Road conditions in rural areas range from good to poor. During rare instances of rain, roads are prone to flash flooding.

Travel between cities can be dangerous due to poor lighting, wandering livestock, and speeding drivers.

Public Transportation:  Public transportation is generally safe, although vehicles may swerve to pick up passengers without warning.

Traffic Violations:

The following traffic violations may result in jail sentences, fines, and/or deportation:

• driving without a license
• running a red light
• driving under the influence of alcohol
• failure to wear a seat belt
• talking on cell phones while driving (hands-free technology is allowed)
• excessive speeding or overtaking another vehicle
• failure to maintain a clean car

When involved in a traffic violation, cooperate with police officers and do not attempt to negotiate payment.

If you are involved in a traffic accident that involves injuries, death, or material damage to vehicles, do not move your vehicle until the police give you permission. Moving your car may be interpreted as an admission of guilt. For minor traffic accidents with no damage or injuries, you may move your vehicle to the side of the road.

Traffic Guidelines:

• Traffic circles are common. The driver already in the circle always has priority.
• Drivers flashing high beams are signaling that they want to pass.
• Do not turn right on a red traffic signal.

Driving License Requirements:

• Short-term visitors with a U.S. driver’s license may drive rental vehicles, but not privately registered cars.
• Residents must have an Omani driver's license.
• To obtain an Omani license, you must take a vision test and either have a U.S. license (with proof of being licensed for at least two years) or take a driving test.

Car Insurance:

• Insure rental cars against death, injury, and loss or damage.

Residents may insure their vehicles outside the Sultanate; however, third party liability insurance must be purchased locally.  For all traffic-related emergencies, call the Royal Oman Police at 9999. Have an Arabic speaker call when giving directions to a location, since English-speaking operators are not always available.

See our  Road Safety page  or the  Royal Oman Police website  for further information.

Aviation Safety Oversight:  As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Oman, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the Government of Oman’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. See the  FAA’s safety assessment page  for further information.

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to Oman should also check for  U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website  and the  NGA broadcast warnings .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Oman . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

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The top things to do in Oman are out of this world

Jan 2, 2022 • 11 min read

Oman is a land of desert adventures and surprises © Westend61 / Getty

Oman is the third-largest country in the Arabian Peninsula, famed for its endless miles of coastline, high mountain ranges, rugged canyons, lush oases and vast deserts. It's also noted for the warm welcome given to visitors.

With its remarkable diversity of landscapes, Oman has been attracting intrepid travelers for years, but the relaxing of visa rules has opened this desert sultanate up to a wider audience. Beyond Oman’s natural beauty, you’ll find strong traditions, rich heritage and cities that blend history and tradition with a modern outlook.

Looking for an epic adventure? Here are the top experiences in Oman that you shouldn’t miss.

Stroll the Mutrah Corniche in Muscat

Oman’s capital, Muscat , is probably the closest you'll come to stepping back in time on the Arabian Peninsula. While its glitzy neighbors Dubai and Riyadh are known for their glass-and-chrome-laden skyscrapers, tall buildings are prohibited by law in this historic port city. Instead, you'll find whitewashed, lowrise buildings with unobstructed views of the jagged Hajar Mountains that flank the city to the south.

A walk along the Mutrah Corniche – the wide promenade that stretches alongside the Gulf of Oman on the northern edge of Muscat – is an excellent way to get a feel for the city’s scenic waterfront. On the way, you can explore the stalls at the Mutrah Souq , pause for cups of the sweet cardamom tea known as karak chai and marvel at the striking Masjid Al Rasool Al Adham, a blue-domed Shia mosque from the 15th century. 

Be humbled by Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

Oman’s soaring mosques are notable exceptions to the country’s “no tall buildings'' laws. In the heart of Muscat, surrounded by manicured gardens and a network of intricate archways, Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque and its 91m (300ft) minaret dominate the city skyline.

The mosque opened in 2001 to commemorate the 30-year rule of Sultan Qaboos Bin Said Al Said, the ruler who propelled Oman into modernity after the discovery of extensive oil reserves in the 1970s. The Grand Mosque used to be home to the world’s largest Swarovski chandelier and the world’s largest hand-woven carpet, but these titles were recently snatched by the chandelier and carpet at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi .

Snorkel with whale sharks in the Damaniyat Islands

Just a short drive and boat trip away from Muscat, Damaniyat is a chain of nine uninhabited islands just off the Gulf coast. Dotted with calm, shallow coves and pristine beaches, the islands host a stunning array of wildlife both above and below the water.

Sea turtles, sharks, migratory birds and ancient coral reefs all thrive at Damaniyat, making this protected archipelago a prime spot for snorkeling and scuba diving. September to November is the peak season for spotting whale sharks – an unforgettable encounter.

Stop for fresh fish in Qurayyat

The small fishing village of Qurayyat is a must-stop on the way to the eastern coastal city of Sur to experience the fishing culture of the Omani coast. Year-round, fishermen land a vast array of fish from the Gulf and the Arabian Sea, including grouper, snapper, yellowfin tuna and mackerel. 

The busy fish market in the village center is the place to look over the catch of the day, and any fish you buy can be grilled at a nearby roadside cafe. Travelers may soon have more reasons to make an extended stopover in Qurayyat, as an ambitious development project aims to add new restaurants and hotels to the waterfront.

Float in the Bimmah sinkhole

One of Oman’s most beautiful natural sights, the Bimmah sinkhole plunges to 65ft (20m), creating a serene spot for swimming and cliff-diving just inland from the shore on the way to Sur. Some locals credit the sinkhole’s origins to a meteorite strike in the area, but geologists believe this underground channel formed through the more down-to-earth process of erosion as water ate away the limestone bedrock.

Freshwater mixing with the salty waters of the Arabian Sea gives Bimmah its stunning turquoise shade. Getting a free pedicure from the army of Garra Rufa fish that inhabit the sinkhole is an added benefit.

Discover the history of boatmaking in Sur

Oman’s rich seafaring traditions date back to at least the 3rd century BCE – Sumerian records mention Omani ships transporting copper from the kingdom's ancient capital, Sohar, to markets in Mesopotamia. Historians have speculated that the famed voyager, Sinbad the Sailor, could have hailed from Oman, but even if Sinbad was just a legend, there's ample evidence that Omani explorers crisscrossed the busy waters of the Indian Ocean for the better part of two millennia.

At the height of its glory, the Omani trading empire stretched from modern-day Pakistan to Zanzibar , and the coastal town of Sur was the epicenter of its slave and spice trade, supplying the sultanate with long wooden boats called dhows. The tradition of dhow-building is still very much alive in Sur’s dhow-making shipyards and visitors can drop by to see the boat-makers in action.

Watch turtles hatching at Ras Al Jinz

Witnessing sea turtles nesting and hatchlings emerging on Oman's remote beaches is an experience not to be missed. Five of the seven sea turtle species can be found in Oman, and the endangered green turtle comes to nest on the beaches of Ras Al Jinz , the easternmost point of the Arabian Peninsula and one of the largest turtle nesting sites in the Indian Ocean.

While turtles visit Omani waters year-round, summertime is when these giant turtles emerge from the sea to dig their nests in the sand. A few months later, tiny hatchlings crawl back to the water, making the most perilous journey of their lifetimes. Turtle-watching at Ras Al Jinz is a wonderful family activity, enhanced by a stay at the Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve , an eco-lodge with tented accommodation and a scientific center devoted to marine research.

Have a swim and a picnic in Wadi Bani Khalid

Etched into the eastern flank of the Hajar Mountains, Wadi Bani Khalid is one of Oman’s most picturesque wadis (ravines). A veritable oasis, this shallow valley is famed for its emerald waters, abundant waterfalls, spectacular rock formations, lush vegetation and colorful villages.

Unlike most other river valleys in the Sultanate, Wadi Bani Khalid and its natural splash pools have a constant flow of water, making this an extremely popular picnic and swimming spot year-round, particularly at weekends and holidays. Hiking to the farthest pools of the wadi offers a more private experience.

Haggle for halwa at Nizwa's Friday market

Nizwa is Oman’s ancient capital and its most vibrant cultural center, and the Friday cattle market by the walls of Nizwa Fort is a local institution. The market operates much as it did centuries ago, when buyers and sellers from surrounding villages congregated under a circular tent to trade cattle, goats, sheep, camels and the latest gossip.

By mid-morning, the cattle market gives way to the bustling Nizwa Souq where you can find treats like Omani halwa, a staple dessert made with saffron, cardamom, rose water and nuts. It's also a good place to shop for a khanjar, the curved ceremonial dagger worn by many Omani men.

Find traditional pottery in Bahla

The clay-rich soil of Bahla transformed this desert outpost into Oman’s main center for the production of pottery in ancient times. Earthenware has been discovered here dating back to the 4th millennium BCE. The traditional art of pottery making is dwindling today, but a few workshops remain in the backstreets of Bahla’s bazaar district, where you can bargain for pots made for keeping water, honey, dates and coffee.

Go fort-hopping in Al Dakhiliyah

Surrounded by the dramatic Hajar Mountains in the north and empty desert terrain in the south, the Al Dakhiliyah region in northern Oman played an important role in the country’s history. Successive rulers built fortified outposts here to protect trading links from the coast to the interior plains and highlands.

Today, the time-worn remnants of centuries past pepper the region. The Unesco-listed Bahla Fort , whimsical Jabreen Castle , popular Nizwa Fort and the more obscure Bait Al Radidah fortress are all within convenient driving distance of Muscat, 

Hike Oman’s Grand Canyon

If you have time to see only one natural wonder in Oman, make it Wadi Ghul , often described as Oman’s Grand Canyon. There are spectacular views into Wadi Ghul from 3009m (9833ft) Jebel Shams , Oman’s highest peak, which towers over the western Hajar Mountains.

There are multiple trekking paths, including a demanding multi-day hike to the top of Jebel Shams. Less ambitious but still daunting, the Balcony Walk is a 9.6km (6-mile) round trip hike to an abandoned village that offers dizzying views into the deep ravine below. Post-hike, the Jebel Shams Resort is a good spot to relax and steady the nerves.

Explore the mud village of Misfat Al Abreyeen

The mountain village of Misfat Al Abreyeen on the western slopes of the Hajar Mountains is so tiny that no cars are allowed to enter its narrow alleyways. Mudbrick homes huddle together on giant boulders and irrigation canals known as aflaj crisscross the multi-leveled streets, watering lush terraces of dates, pomegranates, bananas and other crops.

Unlike many other villages in Oman, Misfat Al Abreyeen is still inhabited, offering a fascinating glimpse of Oman's traditional system of desert agriculture. For a special treat, stay at the Misfah Old House , a traditional guesthouse where guests sleep on mattresses and pillows spread on the floor and eat meals provided by local families.

Learn about ancient irrigation systems in Jebel Akhdar

Jebel Akhdar (Green Mountain) is a remote area in the central Hajar Mountains, where arid outcrops rise to an expansive plateau. Because of its high elevation, Jebel Akhdar receives enough precipitation to support a green oasis, giving the plateau its name.

A 5000-year-old system of aflaj irrigation channels brings water to verdant terraces bearing pomegranates, apricots, peaches, figs, almonds and saffron. Perhaps the most prized crop in Jebel Akhdar is the Damask rose, harvested in March and April and distilled to make world-famous Omani rosewater.

Stay with the Bedouin in Sharqiya Sands

Covering nearly 10,360 sq km (4000 sq miles) of desert, Sharqiya Sands (formerly known as Wahiba) is the perfect spot for a family adventure. Rising as high as 100m (300ft), its shifting sand dunes are a playground for off-roading, and a popular place for young Omanis to show off their driving prowess.

For a change of pace, the region’s Bedouin camps present an opportunity to get to know the culture of Oman's desert-dwelling nomads, before it gets replaced by the comforts of modern living. Women here take a more active role in tourism than in other parts of Oman, welcoming travelers to their desert tents, where they paint henna tattoos and share treats of halwa and coffee with visitors.

Explore the Land of Frankincense in Salalah

In the Omani desert, summer temperatures soar above 45°C (113°F), but the wild frontier region of Dhofar transforms into a tropical idyll with the arrival of the annual khareef monsoon. From June to September, moist winds from the Arabian Sea bring cooling rains and pleasant temperatures to this remote region on the border with Yemen.

The region’s capital Salalah is flanked by the stunning Mughsail Beach on one side and the grassy canyon of Wadi Darbat on the other. Nearby, ancient frankincense groves at Wadi Dawkah are part of the Unesco-protected Land of Frankincense ; local people still harvest the prized tree resin that put this area at the center of ancient trade routes.

Try the national dish of Oman

A fragrant combination of rice and spiced lamb or goat meat, shuwa is as quintessentially Omani as dates and halwa. Slow-cooked over a fire pit for as long as two days, this communal meal is prepared for holidays, festivals and other celebrations, and it's a must-try if you're in Oman at the right time.

Families serve it on one large platter and eat with their hands, encircling the shuwa as they help themselves. More than just a dish, shuwa is a symbol of Omani hospitality; to be invited to a family’s shuwa meal is one of the highest honors a guest can receive.

Safety recommendations and restrictions during a pandemic can change rapidly. Lonely Planet recommends that travelers always check with local authorities for up-to-date guidance before traveling during Covid-19 .

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Places To Visit in Oman

Here are the top 17 tourist places in oman.

1 out of 17 Places to visit in Oman 17 Tourist attractions

Muscat, the capital of Oman, has served as an integral trading link between the east and the west and still remains a major stop for cruises and trade vessels. The city has maintained its old charm with even the newer structures having Arabian details. Not to mention the emerald blue ...

Best Time: October to March

2 out of 17 Places to visit in Oman 20 Tourist attractions

Home to the Sultan of Oman, Salalah is a beautiful city with rich culture, history and magnificent beaches! Famous for its Arabian Peninsula and unique climate, this town is full of lush mountains and greenery that comes alive during the monsoon season. Its stunning beaches offer many...

Best Time: Late June to September

3 out of 17 Places to visit in Oman 11 Tourist attractions

Among the highest and most majestic mountains of Oman, lies the historic city of Nizwa. Known as "The Pearl of Islam", the conservative yet open nature of Nizwa makes it the second-largest tourist destination in Oman! The ancient city was once the hub for trade, education, religion and art. Sur...

Best Time: December to March

4. Wadi Darbat

4 out of 17 Places to visit in Oman 3 Tourist attractions

A beautiful scenic spot for all nature lovers, Wadi Darbat, has picturesque hills surrounding it and a beautiful waterfall. Wadi Darbat is a splendid lush green valley with the surrounding hills having small caves which people can hike up! It's the perfect spot for a little family picnic or a f...

Best Time: June to August

Oman Travel Packages

Compare quotes from upto 3 travel agents for free

Arabian Adventure in Oman: Muscat & Wahiba Sands with Camp Stay

Classic oman package: muscat with wahiba sands & wadi bani khalid excursion, dubai and oman tour package, discover oman: 3 nights muscat package with dolphin watching, mesmerizing muscat, wahiba & jebel akhdar tour package, 4 nights oman exploration tour package.

5 out of 17 Places to visit in Oman 6 Tourist attractions

Rumoured to be the home of the famous sailers Ahmed bin Majid and mythical character Sinbad, Sohar is the perfect blend of culture and contemporary societies. The city has huge malls and skyscrapers, some of the most gorgeous beaches in Oman and souqs and monuments that are full ...

Best Time: October to February

6. Musandam

6 out of 17 Places to visit in Oman

Musandam is rich with modern architecture as well as serene beaches. It is a much-loved destination for scuba divers because of the clear waters and the amazing facilities at the destination. This Omani peninsula is bordered by rugged mountains and turquoise water bodies and guarded b...

Best Time: November-March

7 out of 17 Places to visit in Oman

The first-ever Omani town to be declared as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Bahla is a small Oasis settlement situated in the Dakhliya region of Oman. Although the settlement is constituted of traditional vernacular houses, the fortification wall, a market, the Falaj system and a mosque, it ...

Best Time: October to March

8 out of 17 Places to visit in Oman 10 Tourist attractions

Sur is a city that is best known for the craftsmanship associated with boats or traditional 'Dhows'. Shipbuilding, particularly building wooden ships is a trade that is a part of Sur’s rich heritage. Sur is the second wealthiest city in Oman, with a population of around 120,000 residents. Sur i...

Best Time: October to April

9 out of 17 Places to visit in Oman 3 Tourist attractions

Home to Jebel Harim or the 'Mountain of Women', sandy beaches, beautiful corals and a Portuguese fortress, the city of Khasab is a quiet town oozing with history. Tourists can enjoy a cruise through the 'Fjords of Musandam' and swim in the turquoise seas. Or, if they prefer, snorkel and explore...

Best Time: November to March

10. Wadi Shab

10 out of 17 Places to visit in Oman 3 Tourist attractions

The beautiful Wadi Shab is an extremely famous outdoor destination for locals and tourists in Oman. The beautiful wadi is packed during the peak season of November to March because it surrounded by picturesque hills, date palms and the gorgeous waterfall inside one of the caves in the moun...

Best Time: Late February to early April

Best tourist destinations in Oman

Cities in Oman

Beaches in Salalah

11. Wahiba Sands

11 out of 17 Places to visit in Oman 4 Tourist attractions

Found when taking a diversion on the road between Sur and Muscat, the mighty Wahiba Sands also known as The Sharqiya Sands is home to the bedouins, exciting sand sports and night camping in Oman. 

12. Masirah Island

12 out of 17 Places to visit in Oman 5 Tourist attractions

Being the largest island in Oman as well as the most relaxing destination for a weekend getaway,  Masirah Island is filled with stunning beaches and exciting water sports. The island has a population of about 12,000 people and was only recently open for tourism. This island is known as a "...

Best Time: November to April

13 out of 17 Places to visit in Oman

Situated on the Omani coast, Barka is a vibrant beachside city in the Al-Batinah region. What makes this town unique is their age-old tradition of bull-fighting and their famous Omani Halwa. A 40-minute drive from Muscat, Barka provides the perfect day trip and is a favourite resort destin...

Best Time: December to February

14 out of 17 Places to visit in Oman

The Oasis town of Ibri is situated in the northern Al Dhahirah region of Oman and just 2.5 hours from Muscat. Usually, the town is treated as a friendly stopover between Saudi Arabia and the UAE. But the treasure of Ibri lies in its heritage as it is the base for visiting many UNESCO Heritage sites....

Best Time: September to May

15. Al Suwaiq

15 out of 17 Places to visit in Oman

Al Suwaiq means 'market' in Arabic. The town is also recognized as one of the Wilayats (also the largest Wilayat) of Al Batinah North governorate. Here, people get to see the mountains, the valleys and the plains along with the coast all located at short distances from each other. Each year, a consi...

16. Misfat Al Abriyeen

16 out of 17 Places to visit in Oman

If you are looking for a truly unique and awe-inspiring trip to Oman, visit the ancient, gorgeous and charming village of Misfat Al Abryeen. Alighted high on the mountains of Jebel Shams is mesmerising village whose inhabitants have transformed the terrain to a fertile oasis by the strength of their...

17. Al Hoota Caves

17 out of 17 Places to visit in Oman

Located at the foot of the grand Jebel Shams mountain, Al Hoota Cave is almost 2 million years old and the only show cave in the Arabian Peninsula that is 4.5 kilometers long. With a wonderful ecosystem consisting of bats, anthropoids, snails and mollusks, the cave is very well protected and preserv...

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FAQs on Oman

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List of Airports in Oman

Sightseeing

Cities in Oman You Must Visit

Beaches & Islands

Beaches in Oman

Art & Culture

Languages in Oman - What Languages Are Spoken in the Sultanate of Oman?

Online Visa for Oman - Oman Visa Information for a Convenient Travel Experience

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Beautiful Wadis in Oman

Renting A Car In Oman - A Complete Guide

Safety in Oman - All You Need to Know Before Visiting The Gulf Country

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Ministries and Entities

Royal oman police, telecommunications regulatory authority, environment authority, ministry of commerce ,industry and investment promotion, ministry of agriculture ,fisheries wealth & water, ministry of health, ministry of labour, ministry of transport , communications and it, tax authority, oman chamber of commerce and industry, ministry of finance, foreign ministry, ministry of heritage and tourism, ministry of energy and minerals, ministry of information, governorate of dhofar, civil aviation authority, oman post and asyad express, ministry of culture, sports & youth, public establishment for industrial estates, public authority for special economic zones and free zones, oman authority for academic accreditation and quality assurance of education, ministry of justice & legal affairs, oman medical specialty board, public authority for social insurance, national records and archives authority, ministry of housing and urban planning, national center for statistics and information, ministry of higher education, research & innovatin, ministry of awqaf (endowments) & religious affairs, sultan qaboos university, civil service employees pension fund, state audit institutation, muscat governorate, capital market authority, central bank of oman, general secretarait of the tender board, ministry of social development, civil defence and ambulance authority, consumer protection authority, council of administrative affairs for the judiciary, oman public prosecution, ministry of education, administrative judicature court, ministry of interior, authority for smes development, governorate of musandam, authority for public services regulation, the university of technology and applied sciences, oman credit and financial information center (mala'a), portal statistics, available services, government e-tenders through (esnad)2022, online services.

General Information

Having a baby.

• Issuing a birth certificate
• Issuing a birth certificate/damaged/damaged

Going to School

• The service of obtaining a seat in higher education institutions inside and outside the Sultanate of Oman
• Awareness request/professional advice
• Enter the options of the tenth grade students for the subjects
• Issuing a certificate/ academic qualification
• Request a 12 -year completion certificate
• Registration request for regular students
• Request to register new students in the first grade
• Request to continue studying for glorious students
• A request for certification and equation of a study qualification

Living in Oman

• ID Issue/New
• ID card version/renewal
• Issuing personal cards lost/damaged
• Issuing a registration proof form
• Correct the restrictions of civil status
• Reporting the ID loss
• New voter registration service
• Remote vote
• Electronic voting
• Votel registration service

Getting a Job

• Submitting a job complaints
• Nomination on job opportunities
• Apply for job opportunities (recruitment)
• A new job researcher registration
• Create and update the CV
• Advanced jobs
• Activating the search for work
• Registration in vacant government jobs
• Training coupled with operation
• Business training

Starting a Business

• Beneficiary System
• Create a new trade record, a limited responsibility company
• Project financing request
• Request for entrepreneurship card
• Request to embrace a project
• Request to obtain land for the right
• Create a commercial record of an individual merchant
• Creating a new commercial record of a solidarity company
• Create a commercial record of one person company
• Create a commercial business record

Owning a Vehicle

• Issuing a new driver's license
• Renewing driving licenses
• Issuing a driving license instead of a lost allowance
• Renew a vehicle license
• Recording a new vehicle
• Issuing a driver's learning license
• Traffic violations service service
• Renewing a permit to reserve public positions

Getting a House

• Request to extract a royal bond instead of a lost allowance
• Building license issuance
• Request a piece of residential land (choose your land)
• Request a residential loan
• Register a lease contract
• Request residential help
• Request to prove and register the king
• Request to obtain a certificate of completing a building
• Documenting a new rental contract
• Request delivery services for an existing building
• The registration of the divorce incident
• The registration of the marriage incident
• Request to open a self -project for social security families and their like
• Request for a temporary housing assistance
• Request for assistance to furnish analgesic for the individual or the family
• Social security request
• Submit aid request (educational, health, in -kind)
• Submit the request for marriage (the youth category of youth integration homes, incubating families, unknown father)
• Request for marriage counseling service (lectures - training courses - seminars)
• Request for a family consulting service (office)
• Asking for a living
• Request to obtain the pension value
• The end of the previous service reward for those enrolled in the authorities whose systems allow the exchange of subscriptions
• Exclusive to the end of service dues
• Request to issue a retired card
• Request to pay a reward for those enrolled in the bodies subject to the retirement fund for the Royal Tiles Court
• Conducting a social research for the state of the heirs of retirees from retirement funds
• Request to join the period of legalization
• Request to amend the insured data basic
• Include the period of actual service
• Investor visa
• Investor visa renewal request
• Obtaining an investor residence
• Investment license application
• Request to register a commercial agency
• Create a new commercial registry company recommendation
• The investor's joining visa

Growing Business

• Update commercial registry data
• Submit a new license application/renewal/update/cancellation
• Transfer ownership of a commercial record
• Commercial mortgage update
• The renewal of the commercial register
• Request to update a commercial agency data
• Restructuring of companies
• Register a foreign company branch
• Registration of a commercial representation office

Activities and Permits

• Request for license to use the Omani quality mark
• Submit a new industrial license request/renewal/update/cancellation
• Registration of contracts for patent exploitation -(individuals -companies)
• Registration of compulsory licensing - individuals /companies
• Issuing a permit certificate for restricted products
• Approval of a permit to import products restricted through the customs statement system
• Registration/renewal of license authorities for the conformity evaluation certificates
• Registration/renewal of licensing inspection offices in accordance with the international standard ISO 17020
• Issuing the tax certificate
• Issuing a tax residence certificate
• Issuing a tax clearance certificate
• Issuing the discount tax certificate from the source
• Registration in the selective tax
• Registration in value -added tax
• Issuing the tax card
• Providing tax decisions
• Registration in income tax
• Update personal data
• Register users in the statement system
• Request to amend the customs statement
• Request to cancel the customs statement
• Request to provide customs guarantees
• Create a statement clearing quick mail shipments
• Preparation clearance
• Individual user registration in a statement system
• Customs a customs statement
• Customs declaration
• Request to re -name a user in the statement system
• Issuing a study visa
• Applications for enrollment for graduate students
• Request a message to facilitate the task of a researcher
• A request to register a student in government schools is not good at the Arabic language, speaking and writing
• Requesting the equation of academic certificates issued from outside the Sultanate or international certificates from international schools within the Sultanate for the purpose of completing university study or for the purpose of work
• Request to register students coming from outside the Sultanate
• Facilitate the task of a researcher or provide data for research purposes at Sultan Qaboos University
• Request for issuance/renovation of the study visa for graduate students
• Request a travel ticket for expatriate scholarship students
• Request for reservation for housing for expatriate students
• Issuing accommodation cards
• A guaranteed tourist visit visa
• Relative enrollment visa
• A multi -trips visit visa
• Request a visa for residents in the countries of the Council
• Issuing accommodation cards damaged/lost
• Issuing the residence card/renewal
• Extending a visit to residents of the GCC countries
• Issuing a foreign residence proof certificate
• Action contract visa
• Temporary work visa
• House worker visa
• Request to renew a work visa
• Registration of the work contract for a non -Amanite workforce
• Extending a contract to work
• Change the employer (sponsor)
• Issuing a permit to reserve public positions
• A request to own a property for citizens of the Gulf Cooperation Council countries in the Sultanate
• A request to own a property in one of the tourist complexes
• Renewing the lease contract
• Cancel the lease contract

National Digital Economy Program

Eparticipation, emerging technologies, policies and strategies, sustainable development, regional online gateways, whole of government, company information, the unified government services catalogue.

Popular services (most Used)

Pay traffic fines.

Through this service citizens and residents can inquire about traffic fines and payment online

Booking hospital appointment

Allows you to manage your appointments from hospitals, polyclinics and health centers run by MOH across Oman

Applying for a Visa

Visiting Oman for business or tourism! this service helps you to obtain different kinds of visas

Utilities Bills

This service helps you to easily view and pay your utilities bills online, also you can view the tariff rates

The Secretariat General for Taxation carries out the jurisdictions determined thereto by the laws, regulations, and decisions issued to implement them.  

Register a business

This service will help you to create new commercial registration online so simple and fast

Birth and Death Registration

This service allows reporting the birth and death of Omanis in the Sultanate or abroad as well as foreigners in the country

Life events (Citizen)

Having a child.

All services related to childcare.

Services related to education and research.

All services that benefit the citizens and residents of Oman.

Getting a job

Services related to employment and career development.

All you need to start a business and invest in Oman.

A guide to transportation Services in Oman.

Utilities services and what you need to own a house in Oman.

Services related to starting a family in Oman.

All you need to know to plan for your retirement

361 Services

Transport & communications, 479 services, child & family, 63 services, 1028 services, business & finance, 69 services, 277 services, education & research, 92 services, religious affairs, 133 services, housing & planning, 691 services, safety & security, foreign affairs, 74 services, shura (parliament), 86 services, environment, 25 services, anti-corruption, 301 services, local & municipality, 222 services, health and sports, 244 services, 233 services, citizenship & residency, 230 services, water-electricity-sanitation, 284 services, agriculture & fisheries, 208 services, social service, eid al fiter holiday, the third national conference on agriculture and fisheries research, international conference on research and innovation in support of economic and digital transformation in oman: enabling vision 2040, comex: oman’s official technology show, eid al-adha holiday, hijri new year holiday, breast cancer awareness month, ofsec: oman fire, safety & security event, edutrac oman, omani women's day, oman youth day, omani tree day, national day, international day of persons with disabilities, armed forces day, birth of the prophet muhammad holiday, electronic signature via pki, 2022, epayment transactions through omanet, 2022, entities providing data through the national integration platform, e-investigation sessions through burhan system, omani mobile apps.

Copyright © 2023 Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information - Technology

• HM Sultan Haitham

May his soul rest in peace

Oman Vision 2040

Omani media, renewed renaissance.

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• Sunday : 24 - March - 2024
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His Majesty

Sultan haitham bin tariq.

HM Sultan Haitham bin Tariq is the Head and President of the country. He is the ultimate superlative authority and the Supreme Commander of the armed forces. The Sultan is inviolable and non-touchable. His respect is a duty and his command is an obligation. He is a symbol of national unity and the one who watches over its care and protection.

His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tariq - may God protect him - assumed the throne in the Sultanate of Oman on January 11, 2020.

The Royal Speech

Speeches of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin tariq – May God protect him.

Wise Policies

His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tariq - may God protect him - is leading the renewing Omani renaissance process with confident and steady steps.

Photo Library

Various photos of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin tariq – May God protect him.

Sultan Qaboos bin Said - May his soul rest in peace

He is Sultan Qaboos bin Said bin Taimur bin Faisal bin Turki bin Said bin Sultan bin Ahmed bin Saeed Al Said - may God rest his soul in peace.

He was born on the seventeenth of Shawwal 1359, corresponding to November 18, 1940, in Salalah in the Dhofar Governorate of the Sultanate of Oman. He died on January 10, 2020. He is the eighth Sultan of Oman in the straight successive lineage of the Al Bou Said family, which was founded by Imam Ahmed bin Said in 1741.

The people have the utmost respect and appreciation for him. He was able to bring together all segments of Omani society in a one developed country.

Sultan Qaboos - may God rest his soul - began the first stages of his education in the Sultanate of Oman, then his father, Sultan Said bin Taimur, sent him in September 1958 to (England) to continue his education, where he spent two years in a private educational institution in (Suffolk).

Then in 1960, he joined Sandhurst Royal Military Academy as a candidate officer. He graduated from Sandhurst Royal Military Academy after two years to join one of the British infantry battalions operating at that time in West Germany, namely (1st Battalion - Cameroonian Scottish Rifles). He spent six months as a trainee in the art of leadership. After completing military studies within the British unit in Germany, he joined the study of local government systems, and completed specialized courses in administration affairs. Later, he undertook a cultural tour around the world. In 1964, he returned to the Sultanate of Oman, and spent most of his time learning more about Islamic law and his country’s civilization and history.

السيرة الذاتية

الأوسمة الفخرية, الإسهام الثقافي والحضاري, مكتبة الصور, the map of the sultanate of oman.

This map was issued by the National Survey Authority of the Ministry of Defence. It is the authority with jurisdiction in the Sultanate of Oman to monitor the production of geographical data and approve and review the Sultanate’s maps before publishing them. It is also responsible for supervising all geographical activities and providing maps, data, information, services and expertise wherever possible.

Map Picture

The Royal Orders of Sultan Qaboos bin Said, may God rest his soul in peace, stipulated that the future Oman vision 2040 shall be completely mastery prepared, and highly perceive formulated in light of broad social consensus and with the participation of the various segments of community. It shall emphasis on the economic and social reality and anticipate the future objectively. Oman vision 2040 is to be a reliable guide and an essential reference for planning works in the next two decades.

Topics and priorities

Initiatives, vision document.

The journey of the Ministry of Information began with the first steps of the blessed renaissance process, in recognition of Sultan Qaboos, may his soul rest in peace, for the role of media in the process of construction and development. The first Ministry of Information was established in 1970, and from that date until today the Ministry has worked to establish and develop the media system in the Sultanate.

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• Testimonials about Oman
• Achievements Of Oman

Picture Library

Publications library, multimedia library.

Oman Petroleum & Energy Expo

• After 28 Day , 10 Hour

Oman Sustainability Week

• After 34 Day , 10 Hour

Oman Perfume Show

• After 71 Day , 23 Hour

First autologous kidney transplant successfully performed in Oman

Royal Hospital pays great attention to research culture

Omani research team succeeds in extracting cancer-fighting nanoemulsion from frankincense oil

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Tourist arrivals into Oman to surpass 5-million mark in 2024

MUSCAT: Affirming the positive outlook surrounding Oman’s rapidly rebounding tourism sector, a new report by BMI, a Fitch Solutions company, has projected tourism arrivals to surge by 24.7% year-on-year in 2024 to breach the 5-million mark for the first time.

This compares with a figure of 4.3 million arrivals in 2023, the report noted, citing data published by the National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI).

“We forecast Oman’s arrivals to grow by 24.7% y-o-y in 2024 to a total of 5.3 million. The 2024 arrivals levels will be a new high, building on the most recent historic peak in 2023. Arrivals will continue to expand over the remainder of our medium-term forecast period (2024-2028) to reach a projected 10.8 million by 2028. Our forecasted arrivals growth trajectory for Oman indicates that the market will achieve its target of 11.0 million tourists by 2040,” BMI stated in its latest report on the Sultanate of Oman.

According to the market research firm, arrivals from the GCC states totalled around 1.6 million in 2023, followed by an estimated 610,000 visitors from India. Germany came next with a figure of 150,000, while Mainland China accounted for 118,000 arrivals.

Significantly, Oman’s longer-term goal of targeting a peak of 11 million tourists annually by 2040 — a key goal of the country’s Vision 2040 Strategy — appears to be within reach, BMI notes.

“Our projected medium-term (2024-2028) arrivals growth trajectory indicates that the country will be on track to achieve this target. We forecast Oman’s arrivals growth to be robust over the medium term, growing by an annual average of 20.4% y-o-y between 2024-2028, to reach 10.8 million arrivals in 2028. Increased arrivals over the medium term will be driven by key source markets across the GCC, as well as Asia-Pacific and European markets.”

The report however cautions that weaker global economic growth can pose a potential “downside risk” for arrivals into Oman, particularly from the Asia Pacific and European markets during 2024. High living costs and tighter credit conditions are likely to constrain discretionary spending in these markets, with the result that travellers may choose short and medium-haul travel, while skipping long-haul destinations, such as Oman, it warns.

Nonetheless, the overall outlook for the industry continues to be bright, says BMI. “We expect Oman’s tourism sector to remain resilient, particularly over the medium-to-long term. Oman is easily accessible for travellers from its key source markets across the GCC due to regional proximity and strong transport links. Low barriers to entry to Oman will be supported by high household disposable incomes across markets in the region. This will drive demand for experiential products and services such as travel and hospitality.”

Importantly, Oman also represents an attractive market for tourists eyeing luxury holiday options, BMI points out. However, it would need to “compete” with a number of GCC markets that are also currently expanding their tourism product offerings as part of a wider economic diversification push in those countries, it stresses.

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