The Secrets of Oman – Your Comprehensive Guide to Travelling One of The Peninsulas Best Kept Destinations

Oman is a beautiful country located in the Arabian Peninsula, known for its rich culture, friendly locals, and breathtaking landscapes. From pristine beaches and desert landscapes to bustling cities and ancient architecture, Oman has something to offer for every kind of traveler. In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about visiting Oman, including dress codes, entry requirements, COVID-19 regulations, currency exchange, pricing, alcohol laws, public transportation, peak seasons, weather conditions, nightlife, and shopping.

Dress Code for Tourists

Oman is a conservative country, and it is important to respect the local culture by dressing appropriately. However, the policy for tourists are a slightly more lenient for going out and about. You can wear short sleeves and skirts, but do bear in mind to avoid revealing outfits as they are still frowned upon. Beachwear and revealing clothing can be worn at the beach or pool areas where they are more acceptable.

When visiting a mosque or any other religious site, men must wear long pants and long sleeves as wearing shorts and short sleeves shirts may deny you entry particularly in the Grand Mosque, and women must follow a full hijab when going inside: cover their hair, arms, and legs. It is also important to note that shoes must be removed before entering a mosque (socks optional).

What Can I Wear to the Beach?

Visitors can wear swimwear at the beach or pool areas. However, it is recommended to wear a cover-up or a t-shirt and shorts when leaving the beach. It is important to note that topless sunbathing is not allowed in Oman.

Here are some of the top beach destinations in Oman:

Qurum Beach: Located in the heart of Muscat, Qurum Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Oman. It has crystal-clear waters and soft white sand, and it is a great place to relax and watch the sunset.

Al Bustan Beach: This secluded beach is located in a picturesque bay and is surrounded by rocky cliffs. It is a popular spot for snorkeling and scuba diving, as the waters are teeming with marine life.

Al Mughsail Beach: Located in Salalah, Al Mughsail Beach is known for its dramatic scenery and stunning rock formations. The beach is surrounded by rugged cliffs, and during high tide, waves crash against the cliffs, creating a spectacular display of water.

Bandar Al-Khairan Beach: This secluded beach is located in a protected cove and is accessible only by boat. It is a great place to relax and enjoy the crystal-clear waters, and there are plenty of opportunities for snorkeling and swimming.

Ras Al Jinz Beach: This beach is located near the Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve, and it is a great place to see the endangered green turtles. The beach is pristine, and visitors can watch the turtles come ashore to lay their eggs.

COVID-19 Regulations

As of 2023, COVID-19 restrictions are lifted and tourists are free to travel in Oman without any masks. You no longer have to present your vaccination records or need testing prior to your arrival. You may need to review your country’s policy of return as you may have a COVID-19 policy depending on your country of origin.

Currency Exchange

The Omani rial is the official currency of Oman. Visitors can exchange currency at banks or exchange bureaus, which can be found at airports, shopping malls, and tourist areas. It is recommended to exchange currency at banks for the best rates. ATMs are also widely available throughout the country.

Tthe exchange rate for Omani rial (OMR) compared to US dollars (USD) and UK pounds (GBP) was:

1 OMR = 2.60 USD
1 OMR = 1.89 GBP
1 OMR = 2.42 Euro

Prices indicative as of March 2023

However, exchange rates can fluctuate over time, and it is always a good idea to check the current rates before traveling to Oman. Visitors can exchange currency at banks or exchange bureaus, which can be found at airports, shopping malls, and tourist areas. It is recommended to exchange currency at banks for the best rates. ATMs are also widely available throughout the country.

General Pricing of Goods and Services

Oman is known to be a bit more expensive than other countries in the region, but it still offers good value for money. The cost of goods and services varies depending on the location and type of establishment. Accommodation and food in tourist areas tend to be more expensive than in other parts of the country.

To give you an idea of the general pricing in Oman, here are some examples:

A meal at a mid-range restaurant: 5-10 OMR per person
A bottle of water: 0.2 OMR
A taxi ride within the city: 1-2 OMR
Admission to a tourist attraction: 1-5 OMR

Alcohol Laws

Alcohol is available in Oman but is strictly regulated. Previously, non-Muslims can purchase alcohol from licensed establishments, such as hotels and bars, but cannot drink in public places. Most of the places have closed down other than the 5 star hotel bars.

It is also illegal to drink and drive, and penalties for breaking this law are severe.

Visitors are allowed to bring in a maximum of four bottles of alcohol and 1 cases of beer per person to be purchased from the duty free shops, provided they declare it at customs upon arrival. It is important to note that alcohol is limited for purchase at the airport duty free and the bars as of writing this email.

Public Transportation

Public transportation in Oman is limited, especially outside the major cities. The most common mode of transportation for tourists is by car. Renting a car is easy and affordable, and it allows you to explore the country at your own pace. International driving licenses are accepted in Oman, and driving is on the right-hand side of the road.

Taxis are also widely available in Oman, and they are a convenient way to get around the city. It is recommended to negotiate the fare before getting into the taxi, as they do not use meters. Additionally, there are local buses and minibusses that operate in the city, but they can be crowded and uncomfortable.

Peak Seasons and Weather

The best time to visit Oman varies depending on the region you plan to visit. In the north, which includes Muscat and the surrounding areas, the peak tourist season is between September and February, when the weather is cool and pleasant. The temperatures during this time range from 15°C to 25°C, making it an ideal time to explore the city and engage in outdoor activities. However, prices tend to be higher during this peak season.

In the south, which includes Salalah and the surrounding areas, the peak tourist season is between May and July, when the Khareef (monsoon) season brings cool temperatures and heavy rainfall. The lush greenery and waterfalls make this a unique time to visit the region, and it is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. However, it is important to note that during this time, some roads and attractions may be closed due to the heavy rainfall.

The summer months, between April and October, are extremely hot and humid throughout Oman, with temperatures reaching up to 45°C. This is not the ideal time to visit Oman, especially if you plan on outdoor activities. It is recommended to visit during the cooler months to fully enjoy all that the country has to offer.

Which Cities are Good for a Night Out?

Muscat, the capital city of Oman, is home to a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. Some of the popular spots in Muscat include the Grand Hyatt Muscat, which features live music and DJ nights, the Radisson Blu Hotel, which has a rooftop lounge and bar, and the Intercontinental Muscat, which boasts a beachfront bar and restaurant. Most bars and clubs in Muscat close around midnight, although some may stay open later on weekends. Visitors should bring a valid ID when visiting bars and clubs in Oman, as it is a legal requirement.

Salalah, located in the southern region of Oman, also has a lively nightlife, with many restaurants and cafes that stay open late. Some of the popular spots in Salalah include Al Fanar Restaurant and Cafe, which features traditional Omani food and live music, and the Crowne Plaza Resort Salalah, which has a beachfront bar and lounge. Most restaurants and cafes in Salalah close around midnight, although some may stay open later. Visitors are not required to bring an ID when visiting restaurants and cafes in Oman.

By knowing the opening and closing times of the various nightlife spots in Oman and being prepared with a valid ID when necessary, visitors can fully enjoy the country’s vibrant nightlife scene.

When Do Most Shops Close?

In Oman, the opening and closing times of bars, shops, and malls can vary depending on the location and day of the week. However, in general, most shops and malls are open from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, seven days a week. Some shops and malls may have shorter hours on Fridays, which is the weekend in Oman.

Bars and clubs in Oman typically close around midnight, although some may stay open later on weekends. It is important to note that alcohol is only served in licensed establishments in Oman, and visitors are required to bring a valid ID when visiting these establishments.

It is always a good idea to check the opening and closing times of specific shops, malls, and bars before visiting, as these can vary depending on the location and time of year. Additionally, during the holy month of Ramadan, many businesses may have adjusted opening hours to accommodate for fasting and prayer times. Visitors should check with local establishments or their hotel for more information on Ramadan hours.

Traveling during Ramadan in Oman

Ramadan is the holy month of fasting for Muslims around the world. During this time, Muslims fast from dawn until dusk and engage in extra prayers and charitable acts. For tourists traveling to Oman during Ramadan, it is important to be aware of the customs and traditions surrounding the holy month.
Firstly, it is important to note that during Ramadan, many businesses in Oman have adjusted opening hours to accommodate for fasting and prayer times. Restaurants and cafes may be closed during the day, and many shops and malls may have shorter opening hours. It is important to plan accordingly and check the opening hours of specific establishments before visiting.

Tourists should also be aware that eating, drinking, and smoking in public during daylight hours is strictly prohibited during Ramadan. This includes inside cars and other private vehicles that can be seen from the outside. It is important to show respect for the local customs and traditions by refraining from eating or drinking in public during the day.

Conclusion

Oman is a beautiful country that offers a unique travel experience. From its rich culture and friendly locals to its stunning landscapes and ancient architecture, Oman has something to offer for every kind of traveler. By following this guide, you will be well-prepared for your trip to Oman, and you will be able to fully appreciate all that this country has to offer.