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Country Facts
Capital
Muscat
Size
309,500 km2 (119,500 sq mi)
Time Zone
GMT+4
Population
5,281,538
Currency
Omani Rial
Oman
Oman, located on the southeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula, is a captivating destination known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Tourism in Oman is a blend of ancient traditions and modern attractions, making it an appealing destination for diverse travelers.
Reasons to visit Oman:
- Muscat: The capital city, known for its beautiful architecture, including the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world. Explore the Royal Opera House, the Bait Al Zubair Museum, and the bustling Muttrah Souq for traditional Omani handicrafts.
- Wadi Shab: A breathtaking oasis famous for its turquoise pools, waterfalls, and scenic hiking trails. It offers opportunities for swimming, picnicking, and exploring hidden caves.
- Nizwa Fort: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this historic fort dates back to the 17th century and features impressive architecture, a massive circular tower, and stunning views of the surrounding date palm oasis.
- Oman Desert: The Empty Quarter (Rub’ al Khali) offers vast stretches of golden sand dunes, perfect for desert safaris, camel rides, and stargazing. Wahiba Sands is another desert destination known for its stunning landscapes and Bedouin culture.
- Jebel Akhdar and Jebel Shams: The Green Mountain and the Grand Canyon of Oman offer breathtaking views, hiking opportunities, and cooler temperatures, making them popular spots for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Salalah: Located in the southern region, Salalah is famous for its lush landscapes, especially during the Khareef (monsoon) season from June to September, when the area transforms into a verdant paradise.
- Sur: A charming coastal town known for its traditional dhow-building industry, Sur is the gateway to the stunning Ras al Jinz Turtle Reserve, where visitors can witness nesting turtles.
- Musandam Peninsula: Known as the “Norway of Arabia,” this region features dramatic fjord-like landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and excellent opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and dolphin watching.
Cultural Experiences
- Traditional Cuisine: Enjoy Omani dishes such as shuwa (slow-cooked lamb), majboos (spiced rice with meat), and fresh seafood, often served in a traditional setting.
- Souqs and Markets: Explore local souqs to shop for spices, textiles, and traditional crafts. Muttrah Souq in Muscat is particularly famous for its vibrant atmosphere.
- Festivals and Events: Participate in cultural festivals like Oman’s National Day (November 18) and the Salalah Tourism Festival, which showcases local art, music, and food.
Travel Tips
- Dress Code: Oman is a conservative country, and modest dress is recommended. Women should wear long skirts or trousers and cover their shoulders. Men should also dress modestly.
- Transportation: Renting a car is a popular way to explore the country, offering flexibility to visit remote areas. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available in cities.
- Safety: Oman is known for its safety and hospitality. It’s a friendly destination for solo travelers and families alike.
With its blend of natural beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality, Oman offers an enriching travel experience for those seeking adventure and cultural immersion.
Preparing For A Trip To Oman?
Visa Information / Entry requirements to Oman
This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of Oman’s current rules for the most common types of travel.
The authorities in Oman set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Omani Embassy in the UK.
COVID-19 rules
There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Oman.
Passport validity requirements
To enter Oman, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive.
Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.
You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.
Dual nationals
Oman does not recognise dual nationality. If you hold both British and Omani passports, the Omani authorities may confiscate one of your passports.
Visa requirements
You can visit Oman for up to 14 days without a visa.
If you overstay or do not extend your visa or residency, the Omani authorities may fine and detain you. Fines can be up to 10 Omani rials a day, with a total maximum fine of 500 rials.
Applying for a visa
To stay longer than 14 days or for work, study or other reasons, you must have a visa. To avoid the risk of refusal, it’s better to apply for a visa online before you travel – you can select the ‘unsponsored visit visa’ option if you’re a tourist.
You can also get a visit visa on arrival at an airport in Oman.
Checks at border control
At Omani border control, you must be able to show:
- a ticket for return or onward travel
- proof of your accommodation – for example, a hotel booking
- proof of your travel health insurance
Vaccine requirements
You must have a certificate to prove you’ve had a yellow fever vaccination if you’re coming from Rwanda, Tanzania or a country listed as a transmission risk.
For full details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Oman guide.
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Tourism Health Information – Oman
Before you travel check that:
- your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
- you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation
This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.
Emergency medical number
Call 9999 and ask for an ambulance.
Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.
Vaccine recommendations and health risks
At least 8 weeks before your trip:
- check the latest vaccine recommendations for Oman
- see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page
See what health risks you’ll face in Oman, including:
- dengue
- Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus
Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Oman. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro.
Extreme heat has caused deaths in Oman due to dehydration and heat exhaustion.
Medication
The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.
Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.
Healthcare in Oman
The quality of healthcare facilities in Oman is similar to those in the UK.
British nationals must use the private healthcare system. Visitors who do not have travel insurance or the means to settle any charges may be stopped from leaving the country until the debt is paid. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation.
FCDO has a list of medical providers in Oman where some staff will speak English.
There is also guidance on healthcare if you’re living in Oman.
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Weather & When To Go To Oman
- Oman experiences a desert climate, with hot summers and mild winters. The weather can vary between the coastal areas, mountains, and deserts, offering different experiences throughout the year.
Seasons Overview:
- Summer (May – September):
- Extremely hot, particularly in the inland areas and deserts, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F).
- Coastal regions (Muscat, Salalah) are also hot, but the humidity makes it feel even warmer.
- Salalah in the south experiences the unique Khareef (monsoon) season from June to September, turning the region lush and green. This makes Salalah a popular destination in the otherwise hot summer.
- Winter (October – April):
- This is the best time to visit Oman, with mild and pleasant temperatures ranging from 17°C to 30°C (63°F to 86°F), making it ideal for outdoor activities like sightseeing, trekking, and desert camping.
- Muscat and the coastal regions are particularly comfortable during this period.
- The mountains, like Jebel Akhdar and Jebel Shams, offer cooler temperatures year-round, but winter provides the most enjoyable weather for hiking and exploring.
Best Time to Visit:
- October to April is the best time to visit Oman, offering comfortable weather for exploring cities, deserts, and mountains.
- June to September is a good time to visit Salalah during the Khareef season, when the region experiences monsoon rains and transforms into a green paradise, contrasting with the rest of the country’s dry heat.
- Summer (May – September):
Read More On Visas
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