Oman travel tips for first-timers: what to know

Oman is a place where you can really get a sense of what Arabia is like without the high-rise buildings and tourist traps that you’ll find in other Gulf states. This beautiful country, home to the mountains of Jebel Akhdar and the vastness of Wahiba Sands, is understandably on so many travel bucket lists. If you're planning your trip, here’s a roundup of top Oman travel tips to help you make the most of your visit.

When is the best time to visit Oman?

The best time to visit Oman is between October and April. The weather during these months is much more comfortable, with warm but not unbearable temperatures. From November to February, you can expect daytime highs around 77-86°F (25-30°C), with cooler evenings that make it great for walking around the cities and hiking in the mountains. You’ll want to skip the summer months, though—May to September can get seriously hot, especially in the interior, where temperatures often climb over 104°F (40°C).

Is Oman expensive?

Oman is somewhere in the middle in terms of cost. It’s pricier than Jordan but more affordable than places like the UAE or Qatar. Luckily, you can find different types of experiences depending on your budget, so there’s a lot of flexibility. Looking at an example Oman itinerary can be helpful to see what you usually need to budget for.

• Budget (30-50 OMR / $80-130 per day): If you're on a tighter budget, you can stay in basic guesthouses, eat at small local restaurants, and use public transportation where it’s available. One thing to keep in mind is that tap water isn’t safe to drink, so you’ll need to buy bottled water, which can add up. But overall, it’s doable if you’re trying to keep costs low.
• Mid-range (50-120 OMR / $130-310 per day): For most travelers, this is a good range. With this budget, you can stay in comfortable 3-star hotels, rent a car (which is pretty much necessary for getting around), eat at decent local restaurants, and visit the top tourist spots. Having a car is key here—many places are spread out, and it makes getting around a lot easier.
• Luxury (120+ OMR / $310+ per day): If you’re looking to splurge, Oman has some nice luxury options. You can stay in 5-star resorts like Al Bustan Palace or Anantara, enjoy upscale meals, go on private tours, or even book a night in a luxury desert camp. These experiences mix the country’s traditional hospitality with modern amenities, giving you a really comfortable way to experience Oman.

Is Oman safe for travelers?

Oman is a very low-crime country and an easy place to feel at ease as a visitor. Most travelers experience no issues, and even petty theft is unusual. People tend to be genuinely friendly and often go out of their way to help, especially if you’re clearly unfamiliar with your surroundings.

The country’s been politically stable under Sultan Haitham bin Tariq, who took over in 2020, and that sense of calm is part of everyday life. Many women who’ve traveled solo in Oman report feeling safe, though it helps to dress modestly, especially outside of major cities or beach resorts.

The main things to watch out for aren’t crime-related —they’re environmental. Flash floods can happen quickly in wadis during the rainy season. Desert heat can catch you off guard, and mountain hikes can turn tricky if you’re not prepared. If you're planning outdoor activities, check the forecast, bring more water than you think you'll need, and let someone know where you're headed.

Understanding Oman's laws

Oman follows Islamic Sharia law, but it’s generally applied in a way that still allows some flexibility for visitors. That said, being respectful of local norms is important. Public behavior is expected to be fairly conservative — things like public displays of affection or drunk behavior won’t go over well and could get you into trouble

A few key things to keep in mind:

• Alcohol: You can drink in licensed hotel bars and restaurants. If you're living in Oman and you're not Muslim, you can apply for a license to drink at home.
• Photos: Avoid taking pictures of military sites, government buildings, or people without asking first.
• Clothing: Tourists aren’t held to a strict dress code, but covering shoulders and knees in public places is a good guideline, especially outside resort areas.
• Ramadan: During the holy month, eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours isn’t allowed — even for non-Muslims — so plan meals and snacks accordingly. 

Do you need a visa for Oman?

Most visitors do, but it’s a pretty smooth process. If you're from the US, UK, EU, Canada, or Australia, you can apply online through the Royal Oman Police website. You’ll choose between a 10-day visa (26 OMR) or a 30-day visa (52 OMR). It usually gets approved within a day, but applying about a week before your trip is a good idea just in case. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates and has a blank page for the visa.

Staying longer

If you want to stay beyond 30 days, you can extend your tourist visa once for another 30 days. This can be done either online or in person at a Royal Oman Police office. The extension costs 21 OMR.

If you’re planning to work or study in Oman, you’ll need to apply for a different visa through your employer or sponsor before arriving. Also, if you're a resident of a Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) country and work in certain professions, you may be able to get a visa on arrival, even if your passport normally requires one.

Cultural etiquette to know before visiting Oman

Omanis are generally warm and welcoming, but there are a few things to keep in mind to avoid unintentional disrespect. Always greet people with your right hand — the left hand is considered unclean. Men shouldn’t reach out to shake hands with Omani women unless the woman initiates.

If you’re invited to someone’s home, bring a small gift (something simple, not alcohol), take off your shoes before entering, and say yes to the coffee and dates — it’s polite to have at least three small cups before declining more. Ask before taking someone’s photo, especially women — and don’t take it personally if the answer is no.

Keep clothing modest outside of resorts — cover your shoulders and knees, regardless of gender. Public displays of affection are also frowned on. In Omani etiquette, trying out a few Arabic words is always appreciated, even if you are fluent, but people are pretty understanding if you make mistakes, as long as you’re respectful.

How to stay healthy while traveling in Oman

Oman’s pretty straightforward when it comes to health, but the heat can catch you off guard — especially from May through September. The biggest thing to watch out for is heat exhaustion. Drink plenty of water, wear loose, breathable clothes, and avoid long hikes or other intense activities during the hottest part of the day (roughly 11am to 3pm). Sunscreen is a must — go for something with high SPF and reapply often. And don’t drink the tap water. Stick to bottled or filtered water instead.

Travel insurance is worth sorting out before you go. If you’re heading into remote areas, make sure it covers emergency evacuation — some spots are hours away from the nearest hospital.

Pharmacies and medical care

You’ll find good medical care in Oman, especially in the cities. In Muscat, places like Muscat Private Hospital or Starcare are well-equipped, have English-speaking staff, and usually work with international insurance. Pharmacies are easy to find in urban areas, and many stay open late or even around the clock in bigger cities. Pharmacists are usually helpful and can give basic advice if you’re not feeling well.

That said, it’s still smart to bring any prescription medication you need, plus a copy of your prescription. Some medicines might not be available in more remote areas.

Are there any vaccinations needed for Oman?

There aren't any vaccinations required to enter Oman, but a few are commonly recommended by health professionals, especially if you'll be traveling around a lot:

• Hepatitis A and B
• Typhoid
• Tetanus-diphtheria
• MMR (measles, mumps, rubella)
• COVID-19 (check for the most up-to-date info)
• Rabies (mainly if you’re spending time outdoors or in rural areas)

Food and water safety

Food hygiene is generally good in Oman, especially at restaurants and hotels. If you’re tempted by street food — and you probably will be — just stick to stalls that are busy and look clean. It’s best to avoid raw or undercooked seafood, especially during red tide season.

Tap water isn’t safe to drink, but brushing your teeth with it is usually fine. For drinking, go with bottled water (make sure the seal is intact), and avoid ice unless you know it’s been made from clean water. Wash fruits and veggies with bottled water or peel them yourself. Most dairy products are pasteurized and safe to eat, but take it case by case if you’re buying from a small local producer.
 

Is Oman a good destination for families?

Oman is a great pick if you're traveling with kids and want more than just theme parks and playgrounds. People in Oman tend to really like children, so expect friendly smiles and helpful strangers almost everywhere you go. 

There’s a lot to do as a family: you can spot dolphins off the coast in Muscat, watch sea turtles hatch at Ras Al Jinz, camp under the stars in the Wahiba Sands, or check out the Children’s Museum in Qurum, which has hands-on exhibits.

Beach resorts usually come with kids’ clubs and pools, and desert camps often offer extras like camel rides and guided stargazing. The main thing to watch out for is the heat—summers can be brutal. 

Where to stay and getting around

If you're visiting with kids, the easiest option is to base yourself in one of the beachfront resorts in Muscat, Salalah, or Musandam.  Outside the big cities, desert camps and mountain lodges often have family tents or rooms with connecting doors. To get around, renting a car is pretty much essential when you’re traveling with children. You can usually request car seats, but do it ahead of time. Roads in Oman are generally great, though some drives can be long. 

Essentials for parents

Oman’s climate and terrain can be tough if you’re not prepared, so pack accordingly. Sunscreen, hats, and long-sleeved UV swimwear are musts. A portable sunshade or canopy will be a lifesaver at the beach since there’s rarely much natural shade. You’ll find diapers and formula easily in Muscat and other cities, but once you’re off the beaten path, it's best to bring your own supply. A clip-on high chair is a good idea too—many restaurants don’t have them.
 

What are the best places to visit in Oman?

Oman is located in the southeastern corner of the Arabian Peninsula and has a surprising range of landscapes. The country covers 119,500 square miles (309,500 square kilometers), with coastal plains that rise up into the Al Hajar Mountains in the north, reaching heights of 9,843 feet (3,000 meters) at Jebel Shams. 

From there, the land gives way to gravel deserts and the sweeping dunes of Wahiba Sands. In the south, the khareef season brings monsoon rains to Dhofar, transforming the usually dry landscape into lush, green hills. Oman’s coastline stretches for 1,964 miles (3,165 kilometers), with beaches and fjord-like inlets, especially in Musandam. Here are some of the very best places to visit in Oman.

Cities

Each city has its own identity, yet they seem to share a commitment to cleanliness, heritage preservation, and an authentic, unhurried vibe that sets them apart from other cities in the region.

• Muscat: The capital’s a good starting point. Start with the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque — it’s huge, peaceful, and that Swarovski chandelier is wild in the best way. After that, wander through Mutrah Souq for frankincense and silver (yes, it still smells amazing). If you’re up early, check out the fish market near Mutrah, where local fishermen haul in their catch.
• Nizwa: Nizwa feels more traditional. It’s known for its big round fort — easy to spot — and a great Friday livestock market. That market’s kind of wild in the best way: people walk goats and cows in circles while everyone watches and bids. You’ve got to get there early (around 7am) if you want to see the action. The souq next to it sells Omani daggers, dates, and pottery, and there are plenty of snacks if you’re hungry.
• Salalah: Down south, Salalah has a different climate altogether. From July to September, the monsoon (khareef) season makes everything green — it’s kind of surreal to see misty hills in the Middle East. You can check out frankincense trees at Wadi Dawkah, hang out at Al Mughsail Beach, or visit the tomb of Prophet Job.
   

Beaches and islands

Oman's coastline has some of the best and most unspoiled beaches in the region, especially compared to nearby countries. 

• Muscat Coastline (Al Bahja to Yiti): The coastline near Muscat has some easy-to-reach beaches. Qurum Beach is popular and has bathrooms and cafes nearby, while Yiti is quieter with more dramatic cliffs. Mornings are the best time to go — especially if you want to swim or maybe spot dolphins. 
• Musandam Peninsula (Khasab): Musandam’s pretty remote, but the scenery makes it worth the trip. The coastline looks like fjords — steep cliffs and clear water. People usually explore by dhow (those old wooden boats), which makes it easy to reach places like Telegraph Island or Lima Bay. You can swim or snorkel right off the boat. 
• Masirah Island (Ash Sharqiyah): Masirah is quiet and windy and feels a bit off the map. It’s known for nesting sea turtles and wide beaches where you’ll barely see anyone else. Swimming’s a bit rough on the east side, but the west is calmer and has some nice sunset views over the mountains on the mainland.

Nature and adventure

Oman’s landscapes make it a great spot for outdoor adventures, with easy access to wilderness areas that don’t require expert skills. 

• Jebel Akhdar (Al Hajarns): This mountain’s known for its terraces and small villages — great if you like cooler weather and hiking. There’s a trail that links old villages like Al Aqr and Sayq, with a mix of cliffs, farms, and winding paths. Come in April for the rose harvest or in October for fresh pomegranates. The W6 trail gives you a more challenging hike with wide valley views.
• Wahiba Sands (Sharqiyah Sands): If you want to see dunes stretching out in every direction, this is the place. The area around Al Wasil is easy to reach and has some of the tallest dunes. People go for dune drives, sandboarding, or just to camp overnight. After rain, you’ll sometimes see flowers in spring — kind of unexpected in a desert. Night skies are clear, and the early mornings are calm and cool.
• Wadi Shab (Ash Sharqiyah): This wadi’s one of the more popular hikes, and for good reason. A short boat ride across the river starts the trail, which winds through palm trees and rocky paths before reaching a series of pools. The final pool leads into a narrow cave with a waterfall inside — you’ll need to swim to get there. The first pools are easy for most people, but you’ll need to be a confident swimmer to reach the cave.
• Jebel Shams (Al Hajar Mountains): This is Oman’s highest peak and home to what’s often called the “Grand Canyon of Arabia.” The Balcony Walk follows the rim of a huge gorge with steep drop-offs — not great if you’re scared of heights, but the views are incredible. The hike to the abandoned village of As Sab takes around 3–4 hours and isn’t too tough if you’re moderately fit.
   

Historic and religious sites

Oman’s architectural history goes back 5,000 years, with structures that show the country’s importance along ancient trade routes.

• Bahla Fort (Ad Dakhiliyah): This huge mudbrick fort is surrounded by old legends — some people say djinn used to live here. It’s been restored in parts, and walking through the maze of rooms and towers gives you a feel for what life was like centuries ago.
• Nizwa Fort (Ad Dakhiliyah): This is one of the most visited spots in Oman, and it’s easy to see why. The round tower is massive, and inside you’ll find displays of traditional weapons and Omani life. There are little windows and traps used to defend against invaders — including one for pouring boiling date syrup. 
• Jabrin Castle (Ad Dakhiliyah): More refined than the forts, Jabrin was a palace where scholars studied. The ceilings are painted, and the woodwork is detailed — it feels more like a place people actually lived in, not just defended. It also had an observatory used to track prayer times. 
• Al Hamoda Mosque (Ibra): This mosque isn’t as well-known but worth a stop if you’re nearby. It’s got low minarets, a peaceful courtyard, and hand-carved wooden doors. Built in the early 1700s, it’s one of the few older mosques that non-Muslims can usually enter outside of prayer times. 

How long to spend in Oman?

If you're heading to Oman for the first time, 7 to 10 days is a good amount of time. You won’t see everything, but you’ll get a feel for the place without racing through it. You’ll have time for Muscat, a couple days in the mountains, a night or two in the desert, and a stop in Nizwa. There's also room to slow down and enjoy the coastline, which is one of the best parts of traveling here.

The distances between places are bigger than they look on a map, and the roads—especially in the mountains and desert—aren’t always quick. Trying to squeeze it all into a short trip doesn’t really work. 

If you’re planning a week, it’s better to focus on one region. Most people stick to northern Oman — Muscat, the mountains, and the desert — or head south to Salalah. Trying to do both ends of the country in that time just means a lot of transit.

If you only have 4 or 5 days, try Muscat plus one nearby spot, like the mountains or the desert. Then come back another time for the rest — it’s a country worth revisiting.

What’s the best way to plan an Oman itinerary?

Wondering how to plan a trip to Oman? If you’re struggling to get started planning your Oman itinerary, start with a few things you know you want to see. No need to plan everything yet, just list what you're drawn to — desert camping, swimming in wadis, old forts, coastal drives, whatever it is. This helps figure out what’s realistic based on distance and time. A couple of must-sees is a great starting point — you can fill in the rest around them.

Consider the driving distances

Oman’s more spread out than it seems. It’s around 1.5 hours from Muscat to Nizwa, about 2 hours from Nizwa to Jebel Shams, and nearly 3 hours to the Wahiba Sands. Roads in the mountains wind a lot, and driving in the desert is slower. That said, the drives are part of the trip.

Factor in travel time

You can fly from Muscat to Salalah in about an hour or to Khasab in under an hour — which saves a ton of time. Otherwise, most people rent a car and drive. There isn’t much public transport outside Muscat, and shared taxis between towns don’t run on a fixed schedule. Some travelers hire a driver for the mountain areas (like Jebel Akhdar, which needs 4WD), then drive themselves elsewhere. Either way, give yourself a buffer.

Can I drive in Oman?

Yes, and it’s actually a great way to get around Oman. Highways are in good condition, signs are in English and Arabic, and once you’re out of Muscat, traffic is pretty light. You’ll need a 4WD for the mountains and desert, but otherwise a standard rental works fine. Gas is cheap, but fill up when you can — stations get sparse in remote areas.

Book essentials first

There are direct flights to Muscat from cities like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha, London, Frankfurt, and Bangkok. If you book 3–4 months ahead, you’ll usually get better rates. Avoid major Islamic holidays if you can — flights and hotels can fill up fast. A lot of travelers fly into Muscat and out of Salalah (or the other way around) to skip the long drive back.

Accommodation in Oman ranges from big hotels in Muscat and Salalah to small guesthouses in the mountains and desert camps in Wahiba Sands. Mid-range spots tend to book up quickly, especially between October and April, so try to sort those out a couple of months ahead. If you’ve got your eye on a special place — like a remote mountain lodge or a well-known desert camp — it’s smart to book 4–6 months in advance.

How to slow travel in Oman?

Oman is a good place to take things slow — the heat in some ways demands it. Instead of moving around every day, it helps to spend a few days in one spot. You could stay in Muscat for a week and do day trips, then head into the mountains for a couple of nights.

In villages like Misfat Al Abriyeen, homestays have started becoming more common. You might end up helping harvest dates or learning how to bake flatbread with a local family. Staying longer like this makes it easier to connect with people and understand what daily life is like, rather than just snapping a few photos and moving on.

Local experiences

If you’re interested in learning more about the culture, there are a lot of ways to get involved that go beyond sightseeing. Many traditions are still part of daily life, and some families and communities welcome visitors to join in.

In Sur, you can see wooden dhows being built the traditional way. At Hamed Al Bahri’s workshop, his family has been making boats for generations. You can watch the shipwrights work and even sit down for lunch with them to hear about the old maritime trade routes.

During date season (August to September), Misfat Al Abriyeen gets busy with harvesting. Local farmers still climb the palms using woven loops, and some will show you how it’s done. You’ll learn about different types of dates and what they’re used for, then share a meal made with what you just picked.

In the village of Tanuf, near Nizwa, women’s cooperatives run hands-on workshops in basket weaving and pottery. They guide you through the process while chatting about life in the village. These sessions also help support the local economy.
 

How to handle money and payments in Oman?

The Omani Rial (OMR) is a strong currency—1 OMR is about $2.60 USD—so things might look cheaper than they actually are. ATMs are easy to find in cities and towns, but if you’re heading to the mountains, desert, or smaller villages, take out cash beforehand. Most ATMs accept foreign cards and give rials.

Credit cards work at hotels, malls, and chain restaurants, but cash is still used in smaller places, especially markets and local cafés. It’s also a good idea to tell your bank you're traveling so your card doesn’t get blocked.

Bargaining is common in markets but not in regular stores. Start low—maybe around 50 to 60% of the asking price—and keep it friendly. Tipping isn’t a big thing in Oman, but rounding up taxi fares or leaving 10% in restaurants is appreciated if service isn’t already added. For hotel staff, 1–2 rials is fine.

What are the most common scams?

Oman is one of those places where scams aren’t a big issue. Most people are respectful and helpful, and serious crime is rare. That said, it’s still good to be aware.
In busy tourist areas like Mutrah Souq, you might meet unofficial “guides” who start giving you a tour without asking—then expect a big tip. Just agree on a price first, or go with someone who has official ID.

Some shops in the souks sell imported items that they claim are handmade in Oman. Local crafts are usually better made and have designs specific to the region, so take a close look if that’s important to you.
 

How to travel responsibly and ethically in Oman?

Traveling responsibly in Oman means being aware of your impact while still enjoying the country’s landscapes and traditions. One easy place to start is where you stay. Instead of booking international chains, look for local places like Misfat Old House in Al Hamra or Sama Wadi Shab Camp, which is community-run. When you stay at places like these, the money goes directly to Omani families.

Water is a big issue in Oman—there’s not a lot of it to go around. Take short showers, reuse your towels, and bring a refillable bottle with a filter instead of buying plastic ones. If you’re heading out to the mountains or desert, stick to marked trails and don’t leave trash behind.

Supporting women in Oman can be as simple as choosing where you shop. Groups like the Women’s Association of Sidab sell handmade textiles, and you’ll find traditional food made by women at places like Al Dhakhira in Muscat’s Souq Al Haffa. These kinds of businesses give women more financial independence in a country where job options can be limited.

What food should I try in Oman?

Omani food pulls from a mix of influences—Arabian, Persian, Indian, and East African—but still keeps its own identity. You’ll see a lot of slow-cooked meats, fish, rice, and dates, with spices like cardamom, saffron, and dried lime (loomi). The flavors are layered and rich without being overly spicy.

Meals usually start with dates and Omani coffee, called kahwa. It’s light, spiced with cardamom, and served in small handleless cups. People often eat with their right hand, but using a spoon or fork is also common now.

• Shuwa (Central Oman): Shuwa is a celebration dish—meat (usually goat or lamb) rubbed with spices, wrapped in banana leaves, and cooked in an underground pit for a day or two. The result is incredibly tender meat with deep, smoky flavor. If you’re around during Eid in a place like Nizwa, you might get a chance to try it the traditional way.
• Mashuai (Coastal regions): This one’s all about kingfish, roasted whole and served over lemon rice. The marinade usually includes tamarind, garlic, and green chilies, so it’s tangy with a little heat. 
• Harees (Nationwide, especially during Ramadan): This dish is a kind of wheat and meat porridge that’s slow-cooked until everything blends together. It’s usually made with chicken and topped with ghee and cinnamon. You’ll see it most often during Ramadan—it’s filling, comforting, and not too heavy.
• Kahwa and Dates (Nationwide): More than just a snack, this is a part of Omani hospitality. The coffee is flavored with cardamom and sometimes rosewater, and it’s always served with dates. There are lots of varieties, but the Al Manaei dates from Bahla are especially popular for their caramel flavor.
• Mishkak (Street food, especially in Muscat): These are grilled meat skewers you’ll see all over, especially in the evenings. The meat—chicken, beef, or lamb—is marinated in lime, garlic, cumin, and mild chili, then cooked over charcoal. 
• Halwa Omani (Nationwide, best in Nizwa): Omani halwa is a thick, gelatinous dessert made from sugar, rosewater, saffron, and nuts. It takes hours to make and has a chewy, almost sticky texture. The version in Nizwa iis still made the old-fashioned way, using copper pots over wood fires. You can usually watch the process if you stop by.
   

Do I need a SIM card in Oman? How do I stay connected?

If you want to stay connected while traveling around Oman, a local SIM card makes things way easier. The 4G coverage is solid in cities and along highways, but once you head into the mountains or out to the desert, the signal can drop off fast. 

Most travelers grab a local SIM for maps, translation apps, and staying in touch. Omantel and Ooredoo are the two main providers, and you’ll find tourist SIM deals at the airport or in mall phone shops. A basic 7-day package usually costs around 7 OMR ($18) for 7GB of data. Just make sure to bring your passport—it’s required to buy one.

If you’d rather skip swapping SIM cards, both providers now support eSIMs, and international options like Airalo work well too. Handy if your phone supports it.

Wi-Fi is decent in most hotels, cafes, and restaurants in towns and cities, but it’s hit or miss in rural spots. Most places offer it for free, but don’t expect strong speeds everywhere—especially at desert camps or up in the mountains.

Visiting wadis in Oman

Oman's wadis are stunning, but they can be dangerous if you’re not careful. Even if the weather looks fine where you are, rain in the surrounding mountains can trigger flash floods without much warning. 

Always check the forecast—not just locally, but for the whole mountain area. Ask locals about recent conditions before heading in, and if there’s any sign of rain, it’s best to skip it for the day. Bring proper footwear too. The rocks can be slick, and flip-flops won’t cut it—water shoes or grippy sandals are a much better bet.
 

Weekends and opening times

Oman’s official weekend is Friday and Saturday, but a lot of private businesses stick to a Sunday–Thursday schedule. That means crowds vary depending on where you go and when. Fridays tend to draw more locals to popular spots, while Saturdays are a mix of locals and tourists. If you’re hoping to avoid crowds, try visiting big-ticket sites like Nizwa Fort or Wadi Shab sometime between Monday and Wednesday.

Keep in mind that many smaller museums and heritage sites shut down during prayer times and may have shorter hours in the afternoon—especially in the hotter months. Always double-check opening hours before heading out, just to be safe.