Oman in Stijl

One of the Middle East’s mellowest and most sublime destinations, Oman has endless charms to offer the visitor: a rich heritage reflected in its ancient mosques and historical sites, incredible dive sites, beautiful sandy beaches and an exotic Arabian culture. It is set on the Arabian Peninsula, featuring a magnificent landscape of vast desert, endless coastlines and undulating dunes. Highlights include: the elegant, evocative capital of Muscat; the friendly port town of Sur; the charming mountain settlement of Misfat Al Abryeen; the prehistoric tombs bordering the Western Hajar; diving around the Daymaniyat Islands Marine Reserve; and watching hundreds of green turtles emerging from the ocean at Ras Al Jinz to lay eggs.

Currency 

Local currency: Omani Rial 
Symbol: ر.ع. 
ISO code: OMR 
Subunit: Baisa 
Banknotes: 1, 5, 10, 20, 50 Rial 
Coins: 5, 10, 25, 50, 100 Baisa 

Banking 

Card Transactions: Yes 
ATMs: Yes 
Mastercard: Yes 
Visa: Yes 
American Express: Yes 
Diner’s club: No 

Banking Hours: 
Weekdays: 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM 
Weekends: Closed 
Public Holidays: Yes 
Foreign exchange services: Yes 

Air: 

Main airlines: Oman Air, SalamAir 
International Airports: Muscat International Airport 
Domestic Airports: Salalah Airport, Sohar Airport 

Road: 

Driving on the: Right 
Tar roads: Yes 
Gravel roads: Limited 
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes 
Car hire available: Yes 
Taxis: Yes 
E-hailing services: Yes 

Bus: 

Inter-city bus services: Yes 
Local city bus networks: Limited 

Rail: 

Railway system: No 
Subway System: No 

Water: 

Ferries: No 
Water taxis: Yes 
Leisure cruises: Yes 

Food and water safety: 

Can you drink the tap water: No 
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes 
Ice: Yes 
Meat: Yes 
Street food: Yes 

Local cuisine: 

Omani cuisine is rich in flavors influenced by Arabic, Persian, Indian, and African cultures. Staple foods include rice, fish, and meat dishes like shuwa (slow-cooked lamb or goat). Dates and coffee hold cultural significance. Popular drinks include tea and laban (buttermilk). 
Tipping: 10% 

Annual rainfall: Varies by region 
Average temperature: 25°C 

Summer: 

Average highs: 35°C 
Average lows: 25°C 

Winter: 

Average highs: 25°C 
Average lows: 15°C 

Best time to visit: 

The best time to visit Oman is during the winter months (November to March) when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities. 

Spring and Summer 

Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes 
Lightweight warm clothes: No 

Winter and Autumn 

Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended 
Heavyweight clothing and boots: No 

General 

Umbrella and raincoat: Yes 
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: No 
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes 
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes 
Walking shoes: Yes 
Casual: Yes 
Smart-casual attire: Yes 

Internet cafes: Limited 
Accommodation options: Yes 
Restaurants: Yes 
Cafes: Yes 
Shopping malls: Yes 
Public parks: Yes 
Libraries: Limited