Hello, from an Oman local! You may or may not have read a lot of guides on things to do in Oman, what to do in Oman, or unique things in Oman and so on and so worth, written by tourists or travelers who visit the country for a week, 10 days, okay for a month. But this guide is not just any article on Oman travel tips you will find on the internet.
I’m Rahma and I’m a local of Oman! My parents landed on this beautiful land many years back and I opened my eyes in this Jewel of Arabia. I have spent my entire life here and still continues to live in Oman. This Oman destination guide written by me has my best local advice on visiting Oman, covering topics such as what to do in Oman, is Oman safe to travel, is Oman worth visiting and so on from a local’s perspective, which is way different and more insightful than any tourist’s perception on the country.
I have traveled to every nook and corner of Oman and know what to do in Oman beyond the usual things and places to visit in Oman that are on the tourist radar.
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Oman At A Glance
Home to picturesque golden sand beaches, rocky mountains, and widespread golden deserts; Oman is a little gem in the Arabian Peninsula offering everything to the travelers. Extremely rich in heritage and cultural values, Oman is perhaps the only country in the Arabian Gulf that is attached to its traditional roots and Bedouin values. Staying in Oman for all of my life, I have known the country inside and out and I have used my knowledge and experience in Oman to put together this travel guide on Oman travel tips, highlighting the best of what you can see and do in this wonderful country.
Oman Travel Quick Information
Currency: Omani Rial (OMR)
Do I Need Visa For Oman?
Oman Visa: Nationals from the US, UK, and EU countries can get a visa on arrival in Oman. Please check the E-Visa advice on Royal Oman Police visa regulations for more information.
Is Oman Safe To Travel?
Safety: Oman is one of the safest countries to travel to in the Middle East. Omanis are very hospitable and welcoming people. The crime rate in the country is nearly non-existent. However, it is always recommended to be safe than sorry while traveling to a new country with travel insurance. I recommend going with Safety Wings Travel Insurance for their best travel insurance coverage and incredibly low prices.
If you’re a Solo Woman Traveling To Oman, then please read a complete guide on Solo Female Travel To Oman
Do People Speak English In Oman?
Language: Arabic is the national language of Oman, however, English is widely spoken and understood in all the big cities. You won’t have any problems communicating in English while in Muscat, however, it wouldn’t be the same in the other parts of the country. Feel free to seek help from anyone who speaks English and Arabic. Omanis are usually very kind and ready to help. Learning a few words and phrases in Arabic before your Oman travel would make your life a whole lot better!
Is Public Transport Services Available In Oman?
Transportation: When looking for answers for what to do in Oman, transportation is the one thing that needs to be figured out first and foremost. Transportation in Oman is not great, to be honest. However, the best mode of transfer within Muscat is using the Mwasalat Bus Service. The bus schedule and rates can be found here. The slightly expensive mode of transport in Muscat is using the Mwasalat cabs. These are metered cabs similar to Uber. Download the Mwasalat Taxi App to avail this service. These services are currently only available in Muscat. The intercity transfer is also covered by Mwasalat Bus Service or you can also opt for taking a local flight to Salalah, Sohar, and Khasab from Muscat.
In the rest of the country, the only mode of transport is the orange taxis, which are shared cabs and the ride rates are determined at the discretion of the driver. The rates can be really high for the tourists, so always bargain and finalize a fixed price before entering the cab. An ideal option, in this case, is to rent a car and drive around on one of the best road networks in the world.
If you are an International Driving License holder then my best recommendation to you would be to rent a car and explore all the things to do in Oman at your own convenience. Oman has one of the best road network infrastructure in the world with very cheap petrol prices. Renting a car in Oman is very simple and besides being the cheapest way to move around in Oman, it also offers flexibility and ease.
Which Festivals Are Celebrated In Oman?
Festivals and Celebrations: While it is always better to travel around countries during the shoulder season or non-festive season, however, it is sometimes good to experience a new and different vibe of a place and to know how the locals celebrate their festivals. Oman celebrates two religious festivals Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Adha each year. The date of these festivals is determined by the Islamic calendar, which varies every year.
The national festival celebrated in Oman is the National Day of Oman that falls on the 18th of November. It is the birthday of the ruling king of Oman. The Omanis celebrate the national day with full zeal and enthusiasm. It is almost a week-long celebration that sees cars decorated with the Omani flags, fireworks on the National Day, a sort of a street party, and car rally in the designated areas around the cities. It is something to definitely experience during your Oman travel.
How Is The Internet Connection In Oman?
Oman has 4G internet connection everywhere in all the major cities. Even in places such as Jebal Shams which 3000m above the sea level, and the Wahiba Sands desert, the internet connection is seemingly good. Free WiFi can be easily found at all the major tourist places and malls.
To remain connected throughout your trip to Oman – Get your Tep Wireless Portable pocket-size WiFi now!
Oman Travel Trip Planning
What Is The Best Time To Visit Oman?
Oman is a country that can be visited all year long. However, while planning what to do in Oman, it is important to note that the summer months in Oman can be extremely hot to enjoy any outdoor activities. The best time to plan your Oman travel is during winter (November to March) when the temperature is pleasantly moderate (18-25°C). The temperature drops more in the mountains and in the deserts during this time. April to July is extremely hot and venturing out in the summer heat for longer periods of time can have adhered effects on the health. August to October is slight ‘less warm’; however, humidity at this time is very high.
Related: 6 Amazing Ways To Spend Winter In Oman
Is Oman An Expensive Country?
Rough Budget: As in every country, you can travel around for as cheap or as expensive as you want. Accommodation and transportation will make your major expenses during Oman travel. There are many fancy restaurants to eat from in the cities, however, plenty of fast-food options are also available for budget travelers. Coming to the accommodation, Oman is a ‘no hostel’ country, meaning you only have boutique hotels and hotel apartments to rely on if you’re traveling on a budget. If you’re visiting Oman with kids, then plan a bigger budget on accommodation beforehand. Keep reading along to learn more about the best places to stay in Oman.
Many travelers visiting Oman like to explore the beauty of the country by doing a Road Trip. For more motivation on that – check this 2 weeks self-drive Road Trip Itinerary
What To Wear In Oman?
Oman is a pretty warm country and even the winters in Oman are not that cold. Irrespective of whichever time of the year you plan for your Oman travel, do pack swimsuits and hiking wear as no Oman travel is complete without swimming in the Arabian Sea or hiking in Oman. It is advisable to pack mostly light clothes. A light jacket would suffice to spend the winter in Oman. For women, it is advisable to carry a headscarf for visiting mosques or other religious sites in Oman.
Can You Drink Alcohol In Oman?
As Oman is a Muslim country, Alcohol is not sold and it cannot be consumed publicly. Only licensed bars and restaurants are eligible in the country to sell alcohol. If found consuming alcohol in public can result into hefty fines and short-term jail in Oman.
Important Things To Know Before Visiting Oman
- As Oman is a Muslim country, therefore, it is advisable to dress modestly as a sign of respect towards the local values. Women are advised to wear shoulder to knee length long dresses in public to avoid being frowned up by the locals.
- For visiting the mosques and religious sites, men and women both should wear ankle-length trousers and women should also wear a headscarf. It is not required anywhere else otherwise.
- Public display of affection is a serious offense that can end you in jail, so refrain from doing it.
- Omanis are generally very polite and courteous, but it is recommended to always seek permission before taking a photo with the locals. It is better to avoid photographing local women as they may find it offensive or flirty.
What To Do In Oman? Complete Activities List
As I said, Oman is a country that has everything to offer to a traveler. The landscape of Oman is very diverse with tons of outdoor adventures to do. Here are the best activities to do while your Oman travel.
Oman Travel Tourism Map
Below is the region-wise distributed Tourism Map of Oman.
Things To Do In Oman – A Region Wise Distribution
Musandam Peninsula
The Musandam Peninsula is one of the most unique places to visit in Oman. It is a mountainous region with the UAE and the Arabian Sea separating from the rest of the country. A visa is not required to visit Musandam, as physically disconnected, it is still a part of Oman. The main towns to visit in Musandam are Khasab and Dibba. The only way to reach Musandam is by taking a flight from Muscat or Salalah or by ferry. The National Ferries Company runs trips from Muscat to Khasab thrice a week. Check the NFC Schedule and weather conditions prior to planning your trip to Musandam.
The best things to do in Musandam include all sorts of water activities from diving and snorkeling to wake-boarding and jet skiing.
Looking for where to stay in Musandam. Compare the prices of the best places to stay in Khasab, here.
Al Batinah Governorate
The Batinah Governorate is the last region in Oman which connects with the border of UAE. The main city of Sohar in Al Batinah Governorate is just a short 2hrs away from Muscat. The best things to do in Al Batinah include visiting Al Nakhal and Rustaq fort, Wadi Hooqain, Barka Souq, and the Grand Mall in Sohar city.
Looking for where to stay in Al Batinah? Compare the prices of best places to stay in Sohar here
Muscat Governorate
The capital city of Muscat in Oman is the epicenter of all the cultural and as well as modern places, activities, and architecture in Oman. For everyone wondering what to do in Oman, Muscat itself offers everything from shopping, cultural experiences, nightlife and nature. To know more about it, read my detailed guides on things to do in Muscat.
Looking for where to stay in Muscat? Compare the prices of the best places to stay in Muscat, here.
Al Dakhiliya Governorate
Al Dakhiliya is one of the oldest regions of Oman which is also home to one of Oman’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the Bahla Fort. The main town of Nizwa in Al Dakhiliya is the cultural melting pot of the country with the prime tourist locations such as the Nizwa Souq, Nizwa Goat Market, and the Nizwa Fort. Other popular tourist destinations in Al Dakhiliya are Jebal Shams (the highest mountain in Arabian Peninsula), Jebal Akhdar, Misfat AL Arbaeen, Al Hoota Cave, Wadi Tanuf and Bilad Sayt.
Looking for where to stay in Al Dakhiliya? Compare the prices of the best places to stay in Nizwa here
Ad Dhahirah Governorate
Ad Dhahirah Governorate is one of the least visited governorates in Oman. Ibri is the main city in Ad Dhahirah governorate which is around 3hrs drive away from Muscat. Some of the most prominent places to visit in this governorate are Ibri castle, Jebal Misht, and Jebal Kawr.
As Sharqiyah Governorate
The most popular tourist destination in Oman after Muscat is the As Sharqiyah Governorate. Sur is the main city of this governorate. Home to the golden sand desert of the Wahiba Sands and the famous Bimmah Sinkhole, As Sharqiyah offers the best natural sites in Oman. Among the many places to visit in this region, the most popular ones are Wahiba Sands Desert, Bimmah Sinkhole, Wadi Shab, Wadi Tiwi, Pebbles Beach, Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve, and Masirah Island. To read about my stay at a desert camp in Wahiba Sands desert, check my desert camp review.
Looking for where to stay in As Sharqiyah? Compare the prices of the best places to stay in Sur here
Wusta
Wusta is the least developed governorate in Oman and therefore, do not have any tourist infrastructure. One of the most important economic activities is the construction of the Duqm Port in Wusta, which is Oman’s biggest economic project currently.
Dhofar
Deep down in the south of the country, the governorate of Dhofar links Oman with Yemen and the Indian ocean. The history of the Dhofar region dates back to the centuries ago and still the remains of the old civilizations can be found in the region. Salalah is the main city in Dhofar and the second-largest city in Oman after Muscat. To know more about it, read my detailed guides on things to do in Salalah.
- Salalah Tourist Attractions – A Complete Salalah Tourist Guide
- How To Celebrate Khareef In Salalah – A Photo Guide
Looking where to stay in Salalah? Compare the prices of the best places to stay in Salalah here
Things To Experience In Oman
Visit the Lonely Beaches of Oman
Oman has a vast 3000km coastline linking the Arabian Sea in the north and the Indian Ocean in the south. As Oman has not been hit by tourism yet, there are wide stretches of long pristine and lonely beaches waiting to be explored.
Here is my complete guide on The Best Beaches To Visit In Oman:
Explore The Underwater Life of Oman
When it comes to what to do in Oman, no one really thinks about the diverse marine life that Oman has to offer. Very little people know that Oman is home to the best marine life in the Middle East. The Omani water is extremely diverse that offers a whole different diving experience to the divers. Either you’re an avid diver or just a beginner; there are plenty of diving and snorkeling sites in Oman. If you’re lucky, you might be getting a chance to swim with the whales!
Check out my ultimate guide on The Best Diving Spots In Oman:
Hike The Rocky Terrains of Oman
Oman is home to the highest peak in the Arabian Peninsula. The rocky terrains of the country offer plenty of great hiking routes all over Oman. From hiking to a mountain village and the green mountain, here are all The Amazing Hiking Trials In Oman.
Read my guide on the hiking trails in Oman:
Take A Dip In The Turquoise Water Wadis
Wadi in Arabic means a natural water spring which is formed between the mountains. Oman is one of those countries in the Middle East with the highest number of such naturally formed turquoise water wadis, which offers unique hiking and swimming opportunities. If you’re lucky, you might as well run into a waterfall at a wadi too!
For more on wadis, read my complete article on the Best Wadis to Visit in Oman:
Whether you’re just on a layover in Oman or a month-long trip, Oman travel will never disappoint you in any way. Oman is still a lesser known and lesser visited destination so explore this ‘Jewel of Arabia’ to enjoy an unforgettable Arabian experience.
Inspired? Pin It!
What a thorough & comprehensive blog about Oman. You really cover everything a traveler would want/need to know here. I’m pinning & saving this article to share w/ anyone who mentions Oman or Middle East travel.
Thank you so much, Shelley. This is so kind of you 🙂
Your photos are beautiful! Oman has been somewhere I have wanted to visit for a while, but couldn’t find a good guide to plan a trip, but this is what I need!! It is super comprehensive and provides all of the necessary information to plan a trip. Thank you SO much for sharing!
Thanks for all of the great tips on visiting Oman!
You’ve opened my eyes to Oman!! It looks wonderful 😊
I always love reading travel guides written by locals, I feel like they’re always filled with such valuable information, and this is no exception! I had no idea you could go hiking in Oman – I’ll definitely have to add it to my hiking bucket-list!
It’s unusual to have such long and beautiful beaches that haven’t been ruined by tourism. And I’m assuming that they aren’t victims of lots of littering and plastic? Such rugged and beautiful landscape… thanks for sharing.
Yes, gladly Oman has not been hit by over-tourism as of now and I hope it remains the same. The government has made a lot of efforts to prevent littering on the beaches. Every beach in Oman is extremely pristine
Oman looks so incredible! It’s been close to the top of my list for about a year now. It seems a bit like a hidden gem. Would you say that it’s still a bit untouched by tourism? If so, that would be my favorite type of place to go. I like that you detail what the internet connection is like, important info for a digital nomad like myself! I’d love to hunker down there for a month or so.
Yes, it is safe to say Oman is untouched by over-tourism. You will only find some tourists not a lot in some of the most prime tourist spots, that too in Muscat city only and a few very popular places outside Muscat.
Oman sounds absolutely beautiful! This guide is so helpful. I would especially love to visit the lonely beaches, since it gets so warm in Oman. Adding this to my list!
Who knew there was so much underwater life in Oman! Now it is on the top of my bucket list once things open back up 🙂
Love your blog and the way that you are sharing information is awesome. For me, Oman is the only destination to plan for short holidays. I spent my last vacations in Oman with my husband and that was a fantastic experience. Thanks for sharing valuable information. Keep share more.
Thank you, Jenna. I am happy to know you have been to Oman and liked it 🙂
I love that it is such a comprehensive guide! Thank you! I can’t wait to visit!!
[…] By Rahma at The Sane Adventurer […]
I’ve heard that Oman is a beautiful country to visit! I didn’t know that it had such a low crime rate. Thanks for the super detailed guide. Saving it for when I hopefully one day can add Oman to my list
That’s great Genie! I look forward to seeing you visiting Oman soon
What a helpful and comprehensive guide! From stating the facts right from the get-go to informing travelers about a non-existence of hostels, its obvious that you know the country inside and out. I am going to be pinning this post for future use!
Thank you, Izzy! Great to know you found my guide useful
Oman sounds like an interesting country to visit for a taste of a different culture, couple that with gorgeous beaches and you’ve got a winner!
This is a great guide for anyone planning a trip to Oman. I did not know that Oman is home to the best marine life in the Middle East and I am really intrigued to know more on it. Lovely post 🙂
Thank you so much Ketki!
I had no idea that Oman was so beautiful and had so much to do. Thanks for sharing all of this information
Great post! I’ve never been but seeing travel tips like this does make it more temping to visit. First I just need to save! Hiking would definitely be on my list to do.
That’s great Zoe! Oman’s terrains are the best for hiking. Hope to see you visiting Oman soon
I didn’t realize Oman had such lovely beaches. Visiting a lonely beach and hiking some of the rough interior terrain will definitely be on my itinerary if I visit.
My sister went to Oman last year and she loved it. Like you mentioned, she confirmed that the country was very safe and the Omanis were very hospitable and welcoming people. The taxi my sister and her husband booked during their stay even took them to his house for dinner!
She mentioned that travelling solo might be a little difficult so I will be reading you article on that as I would love to visit.
Glad to hear your sister had a great experience in Oman. Traveling solo to Oman is actually not that difficult. Please give a read to my article about solo traveling to Oman, I am sure it will help you in planning your trip, Mayi 🙂
Great post full of lots of useful information! I didn’t know Oman had so much coastline, hopefully it will stay an undiscovered gem for a whiles.
I never knew there was so much exploring to do in Oman! Thank you for including the Oman Tourism Map as well, nice little touch. This is a very comprehensive post and I’m very intrigued by Oman now – it’s made its way onto my bucket list for sure!!
Oman looks amazing! To be honest Id never heard of this place before! Doesn’t seem to get a lot of tourists either which is a good thing! Also good to hear it’s safe for travel.
Looks like a wonderful place. Regretting that I did not select it for a short term assigment offered earlier this year. Amazingly well written article and looks like Oman is a wonderful place.