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Oman (Middle East)

Advice for all destinations.

Read the information on the COVID-19: Health Considerations for Travel page for advice on travelling during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Vaccinations and malaria risk

Review both the Vaccination and Malaria sections on this page to find out if you may need vaccines and/or a malaria risk assessment before you travel to this country.

If you think you require vaccines and/or malaria risk assessment, you should make an appointment with a travel health professional:

• How to make an appointment with a travel health professional

A travel health risk assessment is also advisable for some people, even when vaccines or malaria tablets are not required.

• Do I need a travel health risk assessment?

Risk prevention advice 

Many of the health risks experienced by travellers cannot be prevented by vaccines and other measures need to be taken.

Always make sure you understand the wider risks at your destination and take precautions, including:

• food and water safety
• accident prevention
• avoiding insect bites
• preventing and treating animal bites
• respiratory hygiene
• hand hygiene

Our advice section gives detailed information on minimising specific health risks abroad:

• Travel Health Advice A-Z

Other health considerations

Make sure you have travel insurance before travel to cover healthcare abroad.

Find out if there are any restrictions you need to consider if you are travelling with medicines .

Know how to access healthcare at your destination: see the GOV.UK English speaking doctors and medical facilities: worldwide list

If you feel unwell on your return home from travelling abroad, always seek advice from a healthcare professional and let them know your travel history.

Vaccinations

• Confirm primary courses and boosters are up to date as recommended for life in Britain - including for example, seasonal flu vaccine (if indicated), MMR , vaccines required for occupational risk of exposure, lifestyle risks and underlying medical conditions.
• Courses or boosters usually advised: none.
• Other vaccines to consider: Hepatitis A; Hepatitis B; Rabies; Tetanus.
• Selectively advised vaccines - only for those individuals at highest risk: none.

Yellow fever vaccination certificate required for travellers aged 9 months or over arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission , with the addition of Rwanda and Tanzania in the African region; and for travellers having transited for more than 12 hours  through an airport of a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.

Notes on the diseases mentioned above

Risk is higher where personal hygiene and sanitation is poor.

Risk is higher for long stays, frequent travel and for children (exposed through cuts and scratches), those who may require medical treatment during travel.

• Tetanus :  spread through contamination of cuts, burns and wounds with tetanus spores. Spores are found in soil worldwide. A total of 5 doses of tetanus vaccine are recommended for life in the UK. Boosters are usually recommended in a country or situation where the correct treatment of an injury may not be readily available.

Malaria is a serious and sometimes fatal disease transmitted by mosquitoes.You cannot be vaccinated against malaria.

Malaria precautions

• Very limited malaria risk, normally following international importation. Local outbreaks were identified in the North Sharqiya region during 2010. Local cases were also reported during 2011.
• Avoid mosquito bites by covering up with clothing such as long sleeves and long trousers especially after sunset, using insect repellents on exposed skin and, when necessary, sleeping under a mosquito net.
• Antimalarials are not advised.
• If you have been travelling in a malarious area and develop a fever seek medical attention promptly. Remember malaria can develop even up to one year after exposure.

Other Health Risks

Altitude and travel, schistosomiasis.

There is a risk of exposure to coronavirus (COVID-19) in this country.

Please be aware that the risk of COVID-19 in this country may change at short notice and also consider your risk of exposure in any transit countries and from travelling itself. 

• The 'News' section on this page will advise if significant case increases or outbreaks have occurred in this country.

Prior to travel, you should:

• Check the latest government guidance on the FCDO Foreign travel advice and country specific pages for travel to this country and the rules for entering the UK on return.
• Ensure you are up to date with UK recommendations on COVID-19 vaccination.
• You can check this in the FAQ's.
• If you are at increased risk of severe COVID-19 you should carefully  consider your travel plans  and consider seeking medical advice prior to making any decisions.

For further information, see  Coronavirus disease (COVID-19)  and  COVID-19: Health Considerations for Travel  pages.

• 45 additional items in the news archive for this country

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©Westend61/Getty Images

From spectacular mountains, wind-blown deserts and a pristine coastline, Oman is the obvious choice for those seeking out the modern face of Arabia while still sensing its ancient soul.

Best Time to Visit

Best places to visit, your next trip starts here.

Go from dreaming to planning with trip planning options made to help you craft your ideal itinerary.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Mutrah Souq

Many people come to Mutrah Corniche just to visit the souq, which retains the chaotic interest of a traditional Arab market albeit housed under modern…

Jabreen Castle

Hajar Mountains

Rising without competition from the surrounding plain, Jabreen Castle is an impressive sight. Even if you have had a surfeit of fortifications, it's worth…

Grand Mosque

Quietly imposing from the outside, this glorious piece of modern Islamic architecture was a gift to the nation from Sultan Qaboos to mark his 30th year of…

Nakhal Fort

Built on the foundations of a pre-Islamic structure, the towers and entrance of this fort were constructed during the reign of Imam Said Bin Sultan in…

Al Baleed Archaeological Park

Well-labelled and atmospherically lit at night, the ancient ruins of Al Baleed belong to the 12th-century trading port of Zafar. Frankincense was shipped…

Jebel Samhan Viewpoint

The upper plateau of Jebel Samhan suddenly ends in a vertiginous drop more than 1000 meters to the coastal plain below. Barely a ledge interrupts the…

Wadi Ghul Viewpoint

Jebel Shams

The term 'Grand Canyon of Arabia' is wholly deserved for this quintessential feature of Oman's spectacular mountain scenery. A short path leads to the…

Rustaq Fort

Two cannons mark the interior courtyard of this enormous fort – the entrance alone signals its former importance. Built on top of pre-Islamic foundations,…

Top picks from our travel experts

The top things to do in oman are out of this world.

Wadi Dawkah

This small reserve, 40km north of Salalah, protects a 5km grove of ancient frankincense trees and is listed by Unesco as part of the frankincense-related…

The site of one of the oldest souqs in the country, this extensive marketplace is dedicated mostly to fruit and vegetables, meat and fish, all of which…

Mutrah Corniche

Mutrah stretches along an attractive corniche of latticed buildings and mosques; it looks spectacular at sunset when the light casts shadows across the…

Corniche & Dhow Yards

The corniche affords a picturesque view across to the village of Ayjah. Dhows used to be led to safety by Ayjah’s three watchtowers, which mark the route…

Bait Al Radidah

Renovated but as yet closed to visitors, the attractive 17th-century fort is much photographed as it is perfectly framed against the massif of Jebel…

Built over 12 years in the 17th century by Sultan Bin Saif Al Yaruba, the first imam of the Yaruba dynasty, Nizwa Fort is famed for its distinctive 40m…

Wadi Darbat

A popular picnic site during the khareef and a great place to enjoy the jebel in any season, Wadi Darbat is a grassy plateau in the hills marked by Oman's…

Damaniyat Islands

These government-protected rocky islands, around an hour’s boat ride off the Batinah coast, are rich in marine life and make an exciting destination for…

Wadi Bani Khalid

Justly famed for its natural beauty, this wadi just north of the town of Al Kamil makes a rewarding (and well-signposted) diversion off the Muscat–Sur…

After many years of restoration, Bahla Fort, one of the largest in Oman, makes a grand sight looming over the sprawling modern settlement of Bahla. Built…

Bahla Potteries

All over Oman, terracotta pots with simple ribbed motifs decorate the entrances to smart villas and hotels. The potteries where these beloved vessels are…

Ras Al Jinz Beach

Between 8am and 1.30pm it's possible to enjoy the magical bay (the OR1 fee is payable at the Ras Al Jinz Reserve visitors centre) without an escort…

Jebel Shams Resort

Offering cosy stone cabins with bathrooms, verandas and heaters, plus some Arab tents popular with Omanis at weekends, this camp is so close to the canyon…

Wadi Bani Khalid Pools

Most people visiting Wadi Bani Khalid head for the springs that collect in a series of deep pools in the narrow end of the wadi. The pools have been…

Oman’s most spectacular bay ends in a set of sheer cliffs that reaches towards the Yemeni border. Immediately below the start of these cliffs the rock…

Balcony Walk

The most popular of several well-established routes on Jebel Shams, this 5km hike (in each direction) requires some nerve because of the 1000m drops but…

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

Best Things to Do

Oman is the third-largest country in the Arabian Peninsula, famed for its long coastline, high mountains and rugged canyons. Here are the top things to do.

Things to Know

Travelers to Oman will appreciate this for practical advice on social etiquette, safety, weather, cultural practices and more.

Transportation

Visitors can enjoy travel between and among the stunning landscapes of Oman by plane, boat and car. Here’s our guide to getting around the country.

Visa Requirements

Wondering if you need a visa to go to Oman? Here’s the lowdown on the latest visa rules to get you into this desert sultanate with the minimum of fuss.

Money and Costs

With some planning – and our expert guide – it’s not a challenge to enjoy the natural beauty and hospitality of Oman on a limited budget.

Best Road Trips

From coastal drives past fishing villages and white sand beaches to journeys to see historic forts, these are the best road trips in Oman.

Latest stories from Oman

Filter by interest:

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Oman and beyond

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Oman travel advice

Explore our complete guide to Oman with the latest travel advice for travellers and holidaymakers including official updates and local travel tips for Oman.

• Essential travel guide
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• Travel health
• Covid live updates
• Travel features
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Oman travel guide - essential info

Below is a beginner's guide to Oman with essential travel facts such as dominant language spoken, typical flight time from the UK and the local currency. You can also check whether visas are required and what plug adapter you need to pack.

Why visit Oman?

Considering a holiday to the Oman? Here are some of the very good reasons it makes such a wonderful holiday destination be it for beaches or culture to ensure you get the most out of your 2024/2025 escape.

Oman tourist information

✝ = requirements for UK travellers.

Recommended for Oman

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Oman weather

The Oman weather guide shows long term monthly averages for Muscat .

Oman destinations >>

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Check the latest travel advice on visiting Oman from official government sources (in english) from around the world including entry requirements and travel restrictions.

• UK traveller advice for Oman - UK FCDO
• Irish traveller advice for Oman - Department of Foreign Affairs, Ireland
• Canadian travel advice for Oman - Government of Canada
• US travel advisories for Oman - US Department of State
• Safe travel advisories for Oman - Ministry of Foreign Affairs, New Zealand
• Smarter traveller advice for Oman - Department of Foreign Affairs, Australia

Learn more about the current safety and security risks from terrorism, natural disasters and more. Read about the local laws and customs to consider when travelling around Oman.

Note : UK FCDO - UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

FCDO travel advice

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Oman travel health

Find out more about staying safe when travelling to Oman with the latest guidance on required vaccinations and recommended medication to take with you.

• Vaccines & medicines for Oman - CDC
• Health & vaccinations for Oman - TravelHealthPro, NaTHNac
• How to stay safe & healthy in Oman - Fit for Travel, Public Health Scotland

Check out the general travel tips for staying safe and healthy in Oman, risks of preventable diseases and what to pack.

Note : CDC - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Oman covid live updates

Check the latest live updates on Covid-19 in Oman with the vaccination requirements, current available statistics and up-to-date travel advice from government agencies.

• Travellers' health for Oman - Ministry of Health, Sultanate of Oman
• Coronavirus timeline in Oman - Our World in Data

Oman travel features

Do you want to learn more about Oman? Read our latest features covering travel tips and insider destination guides on where to go and what to do in Oman.

Read our frequently asked questions about travelling to Oman including the current entry restrictions, covid rules, driving side, electrical plugs used and much more.

Are there entry restrictions to Oman due to Covid-19?

Oman is open for tourism from the UK. There are no special entry requirements for Oman. Check out Ministry of Health, Sultanate of Oman for more information.

Do I need to quarantine in the UK if I travel from Oman?

You do not need to quarantine on arrival in the UK from Oman. The UK no longer requires a passenger locator form, Covid-19 test or proof of vaccination.

What is the time difference between Oman and the UK?

The time difference between Oman and the UK is UK time+4 hours .

What is the main language spoken in Oman?

The main languages spoken in Oman are Arabic and English . Learn a language for Oman with Rosetta Stone * , Mondly * and Busuu * .

What is the currency in Oman?

The currency in Oman is the Omani Rial ( OMR ). Send money to Oman with XE Money Transfers * .

Which plugs are used in Oman?

Oman uses electrical plug type G (240 Volts) .

Which side of the road do they drive on in Oman?

They drive on the right side of the road in Oman. Find out more about driving in Oman with International Drivers Association * .

Transport options for Oman

Do you need a visa for Oman?

Yes, UK passport holders do need a visa to enter Oman. Check Oman visa requirements for all passport holders with VisaHQ * and iVisa.com * .

Travel advice by country

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One of the most enjoyable weekends I have spent and it was not just because of the beauty of Oman´s beaches, dunes and wadi but also because of perfect job...

Oman is well plugged into international air networks, either through the national carrier Oman Air or through other Gulf airlines such as Emirates, Qatar Airways and Etihad , meaning that it’s now possible to reach Muscat from most major air-hubs in Europe, North America and Australasia with only a single change of plane.

Flights from the UK and Ireland

Flights from the us and canada, flights from australia, new zealand and south africa, tailor-made travel itineraries for oman, created by local experts.

7 days  / from 1450 USD

Omani Road Trip

Take a road trip through the Mars-like terrain of the Arabian Peninsula, marvel at Muscat's Grand Mosque, get hands on Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve, experience imposing desert forts, all on this unique trip! Experience the magic of Oman with a self-drive trip through this stunning and varied country.

6 days  / from 1595 USD

The Great Outdoors of Oman

Immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Oman’s great outdoors: sleep under starry skies in the middle of the desert just as the native Bedouins do, hike around the crater of the Grand Canyon, watching as the light changes on the Jebel Shams Mountains, and swim in the Wadi Oasis.

5 days  / from 819 USD

Classic Oman

Few countries in the world can match Oman's geographical diversity, which boasts palm-fringed white sand beaches, verdant mountains, rolling golden sand dunes and turquoise-watered wadis (water-filled ravines). Experience them all with this unique trip.

Overland routes into the country are more limited. Oman shares land borders with the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Yemen, though at the time of writing it was only possible to enter the country via the UAE border posts listed. There are no regular international ferry routes into Oman, although the country is an increasingly popular stop on many cruise itineraries.

Oman Air is currently the only operator offering direct flights from London Heathrow to Muscat. There are numerous one-stop options with other Gulf carriers including Qatar Airways (via Doha), Etihad (via Abu Dhabi), Gulf Air (via Manama) and Emirates (via Dubai), while British Airways also fly via Abu Dhabi. Fares start at around £600; flying time is around 7hr 30min outbound, 8hr on the way back. Oman Air also operates codeshare flights with BMI to Muscat via Heathrow from Manchester, Edinburgh and Aberdeen. Travelling from Ireland , the easiest thing to do is to get yourself to Heathrow and pick up a flight from there. Oman Air and BMI operate codeshare flights from Belfast.

The flight from North America to Oman is a long journey with myriad different route options. It’s possible to get to Muscat with just one change of plane travelling from New York or Toronto (with Emirates or Etihad via Dubai or Abu Dhabi respectively), Washington ( Qatar Airways via Doha), Chicago ( Etihad ), Houston (Emirates and Qatar Airways ), and Los Angeles and San Francisco (both Emirates).

From Canada, you could fly from Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver and other destinations to London with either British Airways or Air Canada, and then pick up a direct flight to Muscat with Oman Air, or go via Abu Dhabi with BA. Flying times from the east coast to Muscat can be as little as sixteen to seventeen hours depending on connections, although other flights can take anything up to 24 hours. From the west coast you’re looking at a minimum flight time of eighteen to twenty hours, possibly quite a bit longer. Fares from both coasts are around US$1300–1400.

There are various one-stop routes from Australia to Oman. One option is to aim for a major Asian air-hub and pick up a direct flight with Oman Air (who currently operate nonstop flights to Muscat from Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Colombo, Mumbai and Delhi, among quite a few other places in Asia). Other one-stop routes include travelling via Dubai with Emirates from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth, or via Abu Dhabi with Etihad from Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane. Fares are around A$2000, with flying times averaging around thirty hours.

From New Zealand , it’s easiest to travel to either Bangkok (with Thai Airways), Singapore (Singapore Airlines) or Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia Airlines) and pick up an Oman Air flight to Muscat from there – or alternatively to follow one of the routes via Australia described above. Fares start at around $2700, with flying times from around 33 hours.

From South Africa , the simplest way of getting to Oman is to catch a direct South African Airways flight from Johannesburg, Cape Town or Durban to Dubai, and pick up a connection there. Alternatively, you could fly to Dar es Salaam, from where Oman Air operates direct flights to Muscat. Fares start from around R8000. Another romantic, if slightly more time-consuming, option is to fly to Dar es Salaam and then make your way over to Zanzibar , from where direct Oman Air flights leave for Muscat, allowing you to combine a visit to Oman and its most important former colony in a single visit.

Oman Air’s “Visit Oman Air Pass” (VOAP) may prove useful if you’re combining a visit to Oman with one to the UAE or other countries in the Gulf. The pass offers discounted airfares (at a fixed $100/flight, or “sector”, as it’s described) from Muscat to various regional cities including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Ras al Khaimah, Bahrain, Doha, Kuwait City and Damman when bought in conjunction with a flight to Oman from London or other points outside the Gulf. The scheme is also valid for domestic flights to Khasab and Salalah, but at $100 per journey these actually work out more expensive than standard fares – although this may change in future.

Oman shares land borders with the UAE, Yemen and Saudi Arabia, although at present it’s only possible to enter the country overland from the UAE , either via Buraimi/Al Ain, Khatmat Milahah or Hatta. There’s also a border between the UAE and the Musandam peninsula at Tibat. Border formalities at all four posts are straightforward, and citzens of most European, North American and Australasian countries can buy a visa on the spot. The whole process shouldn’t usually take more than fifteen to thirty minutes, although you might have to wait considerably longer during weekends and local holidays.

Agents and operators

Signing up for a tour of Oman – either tailor-made in your own car or 4WD, or as part of a larger group – takes the hassle out of organizing transport around the country, and can also get you some good deals on rates at better hotels. On the downside, travelling around in a group inevitably neuters your experience of the country, while the itineraries offered by most agents are boringly predictable – although booking a tailor-made package should at least enable you to customize your itinerary to suit your particular interests. Many foreign operators offer tours of the country while there’s also a decent selection of operators in Oman itself.

If you just want some kind of discounted flight-plus-hotel package deal, Destination Oman ( w www.destoman.com), Dream Oman ( w www.dreamoman.com ) and Travel Oman ( w www.omantravel.co.uk ) all have a decent selection of offers.

Tour operators outside Oman

Abercrombie & Kent UK t 0845 618 2203, w www.abercrombiekent.co.uk ; US t 800 554 7016, w www.abercrombiekent.com . Upmarket, tailor-made tours focusing on Muscat, Musandam, Nizwa, Salalah and the Wahiba Sands.

Destination Oman t 0844 482 1672, w www.destinationoman.co.uk. Range of basic tours (5–7 days) plus flight-and-hotel packages to Muscat.

Kuoni t 01306 747002, w www.kuoni.co.uk . Range of short tours including “Highlights of Oman” (6 days), combined tours of Oman (or just Muscat) and Dubai (8 days), plus various one- or two-day excursions focusing on themes such as forts, wildlife, the desert, and frankincense in Salalah.

North South Travel UK t 01245 608291, w www.northsouthtravel.co.uk . Friendly, competitive travel agency, offering discounted fares worldwide. Profits are used to support projects in the developing world, especially the promotion of sustainable tourism.

Oman Bike Tours w www.omanbiketours.com . German company offering exhilarating off-road motorbike trips from its camp in Wadi Bani Auf.

Responsible Travel t 01273 600030, w www.responsibletravel.com/holidays/oman . Refreshingly different – and socially responsible – tour operator offering an excellent selection of unusual and ethical tours across Oman. These range from mainstream country tours through to camping, hiking, camel-trekking and Empty Quarter safaris, as well as the chance to work on local conservation projects.

Shaw Travel t 01635 47055, w www.shawtravel.co.uk . Upmarket tailor-made tours, plus a range of one-day tours including off-road mountain and desert trips and dolphin- and birdwatching.

STA Travel UK t 0871 2300 040, US t 1800 781 4040, Australia t 134 782, New Zealand t 0800 474 400, South Africa t 0861 781 781; w www.statravel.co.uk . Worldwide specialists in independent travel; also does student IDs, travel insurance, car rental, rail passes and more. Good discounts for students and under-26s.

Trailfinders UK t 0845 058 5858, Ireland t 01 677 7888, Australia t 1300 780 212; w www.trailfinders.com . One of the best-informed and most efficient agents for independent travellers.

Travel CUTS Canada t 1866 246 9762, US t 1800 592 2887; w www.travelcuts.com . Canadian youth and student travel firm.

The Ultimate Travel Company t 020 7386 4646, w www.theultimatetravelcompany.co.uk . Two countrywide tours (11–12 days) of Oman, plus tailor-made tours, including trips into the Empty Quarter.

USIT Ireland t 01 602 1906, Northern Ireland t 028 9032 7111; w www.usit.ie . Ireland’s main student and youth travel specialists.

Voyages Jules Verne t 0845 166 7033, w www.vjv.com . Reliable group tours: choose from “Muscat & Beyond” (6 days), with day-trips from the capital, and “Frankincense & Fortresses” (7 days), divided between Muscat and Salalah.

Tour operators in Oman

Arabesque Travel w www.arabesque.travel . Long-established local company under mixed Omani–British ownership offering a range of day and overnight trips from Muscat and Salalah, including wadi, fort, wildlife and Empty Quarter tours.

Gulf Leisure w www.gulfleisure.com . Good range of adventure tours. On land there are desert safaris, wadi- and dune-bashing, mountain-biking, climbing, trekking and canyoning, while water-based activities include game-fishing, diving and glass-bottom boat tours.

Mark Tours t 2478 2727, w www.marktoursoman.com . One of the largest local travel agents offering an excellent selection of one-day and overnight tours (including trips to places like Wadi Abyad, Wadi Shatan, Bat and As Suleif which aren’t covered by other operators), as well as customized camping trips. They can also arrange car hire, or 4WDs with guide-driver.

Muscat Diving & Adventure Centre t 2454 3002, w www.holiday-in-oman.com . Oman’s leading adventure specialists, with a big range of energetic outdoor activities on land and sea, including canyoning, caving, mountain-biking, climbing, trekking and diving, along with more mainstream cultural tours and self-drive itineraries.

Zahara Tours t 2440 0844, w www.zaharatours.com . Reputable local travel agents offering a wide range of one-day tours from Muscat, plus a few longer trips (2–10 days). They can also arrange car hire.

The Rough Guides to Oman and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Travel advice for Oman

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Oman

• Culture and Etiquette in Oman
• Eating and drinking in Oman
• Getting around Oman: Transportation Tips
• Sports and Outdoor activities in Oman
• Shopping tips for Oman
• Travel Tips Oman for planning and on the go
• Best time to visit Oman

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Oman travel guide

What to do, where to stay and why you’ll love it.

T he Sultanate of Oman might be the closest thing to the traditional notion of “Arabia”. Its capital, Muscat, with its whitewashed buildings and minarets, the call to prayer echoing off the nearby Hajar mountains, is an Islamic city of years gone by, with a languid, unhurried vibe.

Nearby, be transported to another world with a trip to the rippling sand dunes of the Sharqiya Sands (formerly known as Wahiba Sands), or the vast canyons of Jebel Shams, while the famed dive sites of the Musandam peninsula have been drawing in scuba divers from around the world for decades.

Each destination is vastly different, yet retains a strong link to the past through the preservation of the country’s rich heritage, observed in its traditional architecture, souks and restaurants. Tradition is still held in high regard in Oman; unlike some of its more westernised neighbours, visitors are still encouraged to dress appropriately, especially in its more conservative areas. It is one of the few countries that has remained relatively untouched by mass tourism — with gravel roads and wild landscapes desperate to be explored.

You won’t find an abundance of colour and cities teeming with life here (the domes and arabesque windows of Muscat are almost uniform in their whites and browns), but vibrancy is found in communities, in nooks and alleys. Experience it in the labyrinthine lanes of Muttrah Souk, Muscat, the remote communities hidden among the rocky mountain ranges or at a roadside food stall near Al-Mughsail beach in Salalah, a city in the green south. Most importantly, at certain times of the year parts of the country can be completely at odds with each other — it will be dry and 45C in Muscat and pouring with rain in Salalah. For a desert climate, it’s unlike anywhere else in the world.

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In Oman, life is best enjoyed slowly and quietly, so tourists take their cue from the locals. Wandering the streets of Muscat is rich in rewards, and most will head straight for the seaside enclave of Mutrah to get started. Take in the whitewashed buildings and minarets from the corniche, best viewed at sunset as the light illuminates the craggy mountains, and wander along the seafront to Mutrah Fort, which was built by the Portuguese in the 1580s. No trip to Muscat is complete without visiting the chaotic, serpentine alleys of Mutrah souk, which has retained the old-world charm of an Arab market and is the best place to haggle over traditional Omani handicrafts. The magnificent Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is an exemplary piece of Islamic architecture (just make sure you’re dressed appropriately, as this is a place of worship) and although it’s closed to the public, a quick stop in front of the vibrant colonnades of the Sultan’s Palace will complete a heritage tour of Muscat.

Day trips or multiday jaunts from the capital are easy and plentiful with a four-wheel-drive: head south to the Sharqiya Sands* , an ocean of undulating, colour-changing dunes for dune bashing and camel rides, or head north to dive the sunken reef of the Musandam peninsula, home to one of the widest bio-diversities of marine life in the world. Inland from Muscat, the constantly flowing stream (an anomaly in the desert) of Wadi Bani Khalid, with its imposing boulders and large pools, is a great spot to cool off in summer. If you’re feeling extra-adventurous, head for Oman’s highest peak, Jebel Shams* , with spectacular views into Wadi Ghul, known as the Grand Canyon of Arabia.

Where to stay

Mass tourism still hasn’t found a foothold in Oman; good if you’re looking for a quieter getaway with fewer crowds, not so good if you’re looking for reams of choice in accommodation. Luckily, the addition in recent years of large international chains such as W and Kempinski means there’s enough choice to suit most tastes and budgets.

The capital is the place to seek out the in-your-face, go-big-or-go-home luxury stays to tell the children about, with a vast selection of palatial beachfront resorts with spectacular views over the Gulf of Oman to choose from. If you’re looking for something unique, venture into the Hajar mountains and soak in the alpine air from one of Jabal Akhdar’s five-star or boutique hotels, while learning about traditional Omani culture from excursions into nearby villages. For the quintessential desert experience, try a camp for days spent exploring the never-ending sand dunes and nights around the campfire.

Six Senses Zighy Bay* , in a private enclave in the northern reaches of Oman, is unparalleled for luxury. In Salalah, choose from eco-friendly cabins on stilts or island vibes at upscale seafront getaways lined with palm trees, private pools and an air of tranquillity.

If you’re visiting in monsoon (khareef) season, from June to September, make time for Salalah. The desert landscape transforms into a green oasis for a few short months, with lush trees enshrouding the countryside and the usually dry wadis brimming with water, giving way to waterfalls. Visit Al-Husn Souk to pick up some frankincense and myrrh as souvenirs.

For culture, the month-long Muscat Festival takes place in the first quarter of the year, usually in February, and transforms the capital into something of an open-air carnival, with stage shows, culinary and cultural events and fireworks. It’s a good crash course in Omani culture.

For lovers of marine life, don’t miss the chance to witness the pilgrimage of thousands of baby turtles, taking their first steps to freedom. April to August is peak turtle nesting season in Oman, when approximately 20,000 turtles come to lay their eggs on its eastern beaches. One of the best places to witness this spectacle is the fishing village of Ras Al Jinz, which is the biggest turtle reserve in the Indian Ocean.

Best time to visit

Peak season in Oman runs roughly from October to April, when daily temperatures are at their most mild (17C to 35C) and humidity is low. Rainfall is scarce (apart from Salalah’s monsoons), so days will almost certainly be sunny and cloudless. Temperatures start to rise in May, and by mid-June it simply isn’t pleasant to be outdoors during daylight hours, so it’s best to avoid the scorching summer months. However, if your dates are fixed, June to September can be enjoyed in Salalah during the spectacular monsoon season, or in the mountains, where temperatures tend to sit several degrees lower than elsewhere.

Is it safe to travel to Oman? The crime rate across the Gulf is low and Oman is no exception. Women should feel safe to walk alone at night and valuables can be left on restaurant tables without fear of them being nicked. However, if you want to avoid unsolicited stares, dress appropriately by covering shoulders and legs. Oman remains a conservative country and it’s a small price to pay for access to a nation still relatively untouched by mass tourism.

How many days do I need in Oman? To experience the full spectrum — Muscat, the mountains, a day trip or two into the desert — set yourself aside at least a week. Wandering the alleys of Muscat deserves at least a couple of days, while the Hajar mountains, Sharqiya Sands and nearby wadis can be experienced as day trips or over a prolonged road trip.

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Inspired to visit Oman but yet to book your trip? Here are the best packages from British Airways* and Expedia *.

• Discover holidays to Muscat* • Discover holidays to Salalah* • Discover tours in Oman*

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Update April 12, 2024

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Oman Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 13, 2023, oman - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution due to  terrorism  and  armed conflict . Some areas have increased risk.  Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do not travel to:

• The Yemen border area due to  terrorism  and  armed conflict .

Country Summary : Due to risks to civil aviation operating within the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman region, including Oman, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued an advisory Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) and/or a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR). For more information U.S. citizens should consult the  Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices .

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Oman.

If you decide to travel to Oman:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Oman.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.
• U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Yemen Border Area

Terrorist attacks and violence continue in Yemen. Crossing the border into Yemen can be dangerous, and U.S. citizens who attempt to cross the Oman-Yemen border, from either Oman or Yemen, may be detained by Omani authorities.

Visit our website for  High-Risk Travelers .

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Oman Travel Advice

Getting there.

Oman Air offer daily direct flights between London Heathrow and Muscat. British Airways also have a regular service from London Heathrow to Muscat although this flight does touch down once en-route in Abu Dhabi. Emirates via Dubai or Qatar Airways via Doha are the best indirect options.

Flying times from UK

A direct flight from the UK to Oman takes around 7 hours.

Oman is +4 hours ahead of GMT.

Visa requirements

All British Citizens travelling to Oman must obtain a valid Omani e-visa prior to arrival in the country. The visa can only be acquired online direct from the Royal Oman Police portal. Full details of the Omani e-visa are available on  evisa.rop.gov.om . Please note that if travelling as a tourist you can apply for an unsponsored visa.

Do's and don'ts

Women should wear loose clothing that covers their arms and shoulders. Skirts should reach below the knee but trousers are preferable.

Women should cover their hair and should carry a shawl to cover up in conservative areas. Keep beachwear for the beach.

Men should wear trousers but thigh length shorts are acceptable.

Be prepared to discuss your country and other personal details like your age, marital status, children and work. Omanis also like to talk about why you are visiting Oman and what you think of their country.

Always ask permission before entering a mosque.

The currency used in Oman is the Omani Rial (OMR) which is divided into 1,000 basia. Coins and notes are used and each have two faces, one written in Arabic script and the other in Roman script. Pound Sterling is easily exchanged in Oman and this can be done in hotels, banks and bureau de change outlets. Larger shops and restaurants accept bank cards like Visa, MasterCard and American Express but cash will be needed in souks or when purchasing smaller items. ATMs are reliable and can be found throughout the country.

Tipping is not expected but if you wish to leave a tip then 10% should be given in restaurants. A guideline for tipping your drivers and guides will be advised prior to travel.

Food and drink

There is a wide variety of different types of food on offer in Oman from Arabic and Indian to European and other international dishes. Food in Oman tends to be a little less spicy than typical Arabian food, however, it is well flavoured with marinades, herbs and spices. Garlic and lime are also used and expect large portions. Chicken, fish and mutton are common ingredients. Some typical dishes include Shuwa, meat seasoned with herbs and spices and cooked in underground clay ovens for up to two days, Maqbous, a saffron flavoured dish with red or white meat served mixed with rice, Lokhemat, cardamom flavoured flour and yeast balls with a lime and cardamom syrup and Halwa which is similar to Turkish delight and sometimes flavoured with nuts, rose water or chocolate. Rice accompanies most meals and is served in various ways, sometimes steamed, often mixed with meats and vegetables. Breads can be plain or seasoned with sesame, thyme, garlic or dates.

The most popular drink in Oman is Khawa – a strong, bitter coffee which is made from freshly ground coffee beans and cardamom powder. It is served in tiny cups without handles and without milk or sugar, however dates and nuts often accompany coffee. Serving and drinking coffee is an Omani tradition of hospitality. Fruit juices such as mango, orange or pomegranate are also mixed and served in long glasses. A yoghurt-based drink known as Laban is also common and is made from yoghurt and buttermilk.

Holidays, festivals and celebrations

Events which are celebrated in Oman are mostly centred on Muslim festivals and feasts, with dates changing each year. A few of the most well-known include Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr which marks the end of Ramadan and Eid al-Adha. National Day celebrates the birthday of Sultan Qaboos on the 18th November and formal celebrations include camel racing, traditional dancing and fireworks. The Omani flag and images of the Sultan are erected all over the country.

Oman is most famous for scents and fragrances, with natural products, such as frankincense and myrrh, as well as perfumes and Bulkhoor. Bulkhoor is made from perfumed wood chips soaked in oil that contains musk, frankincense, oud and sandalwood. Frankincense and other products are burned on charcoal in specially designed burners which are made from wood and metal or brightly coloured pottery burners. You can buy the boxes of small charcoal briquettes from pretty much anywhere on which to burn the fragrances like incense. As well as perfumes and oils, Oman has some incredible handcrafting traditions including metal work, pottery, clothing and walking sticks. You can find an amazing range of traditional Arabian products from curved daggers known as ‘Khanjars’ to beautiful and elaborate Bedu Jewellery. You can find most of these items in ‘souks’ – a market or bazaar and one of the most famous is the legendary Muttrah Souk in Muscat. Prices aren’t fixed and so bartering is common and expected.

Suggested reading

The Rough Guide to Oman is an excellent book and contains up to date travel information on the country. For a personal perspective try Rory Allen’s ‘Oman – Under Arabian Skies’ which describes his experiences in Oman in an easy to read, humorous narrative. Other interesting books include the classic ‘Arabian Sands’, by Wilfred Thesiger, ‘Oman: Stories from a Modern Arab Country’, by Stig Pors Nielsen and ‘A History of Modern Oman’, by Jeremy Jones.

Your doctor is the best person to advise you on staying healthy whilst abroad but current recommended vaccinations are Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Tetanus and Diphtheria. Yellow Fever is compulsory, but only if you have visited an affected Yellow Fever area within 5 days prior to your arrival. In some instances anti-malarial tablets may also be needed. For current information on health advice you may wish to visit the Medical Advisory Services for Travellers Abroad (MASTA) Web Site on www.masta.org .  The NHS ‘Fit for Travel’ website ( www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk ) is also a useful resource.

Travel advice

For current information on Oman the best resource is the Foreign and Commonwealth Office ( www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice ) which is a comprehensive resource and updated regularly. We would also recommend visiting the Safer Tourism Foundation website ( safertourism.org.uk ) before you travel and will be happy to address any questions or concerns you may have.

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Middle East: Is it safe to travel to holiday destinations as tension escalates?

Are you going to Turkey, Egypt or Israel on holiday? The Foreign Office has warned travellers to several countries to monitor advice after an Iranian attack on Israel pushed tension in the Middle East up another notch.

Thursday 18 April 2024 08:13, UK

Tension in the Middle East has ratcheted up again after Iran's attack on Israel, as the world waits to see how Benjamin Netanyahu's government will respond. 

With the threat of widening conflict, people due to travel through or over the Middle East may be asking if their plans may be impacted.

On Saturday, flight data showed dozens of journeys that would have travelled over the Middle East turned back after Iran fired more than 300 drones and missiles into Israel .

Here is what airlines are saying and the latest safety advice to travellers.

EasyJet scraps Tel Aviv flights

EasyJet has suspended all flights to Tel Aviv over safety concerns.

The budget airline told Sky News it has grounded its flights until 27 October at the earliest "as a result of the continued evolving situation" in the region.

Wizz Air customers could see schedule changes

Wizz Air cancelled flights to Tel Aviv on Sunday 14 and Monday 15 April before resuming its schedule.

But it said customers could experience schedule changes as it closely monitors the situation.

British Airways operating as normal

British Airways - which operates four daily return flights per week between Heathrow and Tel Aviv - said its flights were continuing to operate as planned, but it too was monitoring the situation.

Is it safe to travel to Turkey?

Turkey is a popular holiday destination for people from the UK with the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism saying that last year 3.16 million Britons made the journey there, according to Travel Weekly.

Yet, it borders a number of countries that the Foreign Office advises against travel to.

The vast majority of the country is considered generally safe for tourists, with some exceptions.

The Foreign Office advises against all travel within 10km of the border with Syria , and all but essential travel to the Sirnak and Hakkari provinces.

Is it safe to travel to Israel?

Some parts of Israel are considered "red zones" by the Foreign Office, with the government advising against all travel there.

For the rest of the country - including East Jerusalem and Tel Aviv - the advice is to travel only if it is essential.

Tourist Israel says around 220,000 Britons usually go to the country every year and the Foreign Office is advising against travel close to the border with Gaza, within 5km of the border with Lebanon and within 500m of the border with Syria.

You can see the full updated list of "red zones" on the Foreign Office advice pages.

Occupied Palestinian territories

The Foreign Office advises against all travel to Gaza and the West Bank.

Don't travel to Iran, Iraq, Yemen, Lebanon or Syria - Foreign Office

The Foreign Office advises against all travel to Iran, Syria, Lebanon and Yemen.

It advises against all travel to Iraq except to the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI), where it advises against all but "essential travel".

Can I safely go on holiday in Egypt?

The main tourist areas in Egypt are generally considered safe, including the capital Cairo, cities along the Nile and Red Sea resorts.

Over 1.5 million British Nationals visit Egypt every year, according to analysts Gitnux, and the areas the Foreign Office warns not to travel to include the Governorate of North Sinai, where the Rafah crossing to Gaza is located, and within 20km of the border with Libya.

Read more: Are we heading for World War Three? Experts give their verdicts What are Iran's military capabilities - and where could it strike?

Keep up with all the latest news from the UK and around the world by following Sky News

Check advice on other Middle East states before you travel

Following Iran's attack on Israel, the Foreign Office issued a warning relating to several countries in the surrounding area, telling travellers to check for the latest information.

Included in this are popular destinations like Dubai (visited by more than a million Britons last year according to Travel Weekly) and Marrakech.

"On 13 April 2024 Iran carried out military action against Israel. Monitor this travel advice and other media as the situation is changing fast," the FCDO said in a statement.

The countries covered by the warning include Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Morocco, Tunisia, Saudi Arabia, Algeria, Bahrain, Kuwait, Libya, Jordan and Oman.

Anywhere else of concern?

Cyprus is near the region and has a large UK airbase but, as yet, there is no change in travel advice to the popular country.

Related Topics

• Israel-Hamas war
• Middle East