🇴🇲 Your Authentic 3-Day Oman Itinerary

At the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, you can explore independently, but joining one of the free guided tours offered by the mosque’s volunteers can greatly enhance your experience. They provide fascinating insights into Islamic architecture, the features of the mosque, and the principles of the Islamic faith in a friendly and open manner. Remember that the mosque has specific visiting times for non-Muslims (usually 8:30 AM to 11 AM, Saturday to Thursday), so planning your morning around this is essential.

In the afternoon, after viewing the Al Alam Palace and the Jalali and Mirani forts from the outside (they are not open to the public), visit the nearby Bait Al Zubair Museum. This privately owned museum offers a fantastic and well-curated collection of Omani artifacts, including traditional dress, jewelry, weaponry, and household items. It provides excellent context for the history of Old Muscat and Omani culture in general, all within a beautifully restored traditional house. It’s a much more intimate experience than a larger national museum.

For Young Travelers: After the cultural sights, head to the Shatti Al Qurum area. This neighborhood has a long, pleasant beach promenade lined with trendy cafes and restaurants. It’s a great place to relax, people-watch, and see the modern, youthful side of Muscat. In the evening, you could catch a performance at the stunning Royal Opera House Muscat (be sure to check the schedule and book in advance), which showcases both Omani and international artists.

For Seniors: The Grand Mosque is large but has flat, marble surfaces and is very accessible. Electric carts are sometimes available for transport around the exterior grounds. Old Muscat is best explored with a car and driver, allowing you to see the main sights like the palace and forts with minimal walking in the heat. A visit to the Bait Al Zubair museum is an excellent, low-impact cultural activity. For dinner, choose a restaurant with easy access and comfortable seating.

For Families: While the Grand Mosque requires quiet reverence, children are welcome and will be awed by its scale and beauty. In the afternoon, a visit to the Children’s Museum or the Natural History Museum could be a fun and educational alternative to the more traditional museums. A walk along the Muttrah Corniche in the late afternoon, watching the dhows and ships in the harbor, is a lovely activity for the whole family, often accompanied by a refreshing lemon-mint drink.

For Travelers with Disabilities: The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is fully wheelchair accessible, with ramps and accessible restrooms. Old Muscat and the exterior of the palace can be viewed from a vehicle. The Bait Al Zubair Museum is also largely accessible. Many of the modern hotels in Muscat have excellent accessible facilities. It is best to hire a private car or an accessible taxi for the day to navigate between the different sites comfortably.

For Luxury Travel: Stay at one of Muscat’s premier luxury resorts, such as The Chedi or Al Bustan Palace. Arrange for a private, air-conditioned car and a personal guide for a bespoke tour of the city’s landmarks. In the evening, book a table at a fine-dining restaurant within your resort or at the Royal Opera House, combining world-class cuisine with magnificent surroundings. For a unique experience, consider a private sunset dhow cruise from a nearby marina.

For Adventure Travel: Rent a 4×4 vehicle from the airport to have full freedom for the next three days. After visiting the main sights in Muscat, you could take a late afternoon drive into the nearby mountains behind the city for some stunning views and a taste of the rugged Omani landscape. This sets you up perfectly for the next day’s adventure into the wadis and the desert.

For Nature Lovers: While today is focused on culture, the natural setting of Muscat is always present. The city is dramatically framed by the rugged Al Hajar Mountains and the sea. Appreciate this unique geography during your visit to Old Muscat, which is nestled in a natural harbor. In the late afternoon, take a walk in Qurum Natural Park, a pleasant green space with a mangrove forest and a lake, offering a peaceful break from sightseeing.

Muscat is a spread-out city, so the location of your hotel matters. For a luxurious beach resort experience, the areas of Al Ghubra and Al Bustan are home to the most opulent hotels, like The Chedi and the Ritz-Carlton Al Bustan Palace. These offer private beaches, stunning pools, and world-class service. The Shatti Al Qurum area is another great choice, offering a mix of upscale hotels and easy access to the public beach, shops, and the Royal Opera House. For more central, business-style hotels, the Al Khuwair and Ruwi districts offer good value.

There are also some excellent and more affordable Omani-style hotels and guesthouses, particularly in the Muttrah area, which can offer a more authentic feel. Staying near Muttrah puts you within walking distance of the famous souq and the beautiful corniche. For a 3-day trip, choosing a hotel that is relatively central, perhaps in the Qurum or Al Khuwair areas, provides a good base for exploring in all directions without spending too much time in traffic.

• Luxury: The Chedi Muscat
• Mid-Range: W Muscat
• Budget: Mutrah Hotel

The most important tip for visiting the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is to adhere strictly to the dress code. It is a place of worship and respectful attire is mandatory. Women must cover their hair, wrists, and ankles completely. This means wearing a headscarf (like a pashmina) and loose-fitting, non-transparent clothing (long sleeves and long trousers or a maxi skirt). Men must wear long trousers and a shirt with sleeves. Entry will be denied if you are not dressed appropriately. Abayas and headscarves can usually be rented on-site for a small fee if needed.

Oman is a hot country, especially from April to October. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. The sun is extremely strong, so sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are essential whenever you are outdoors. Plan your outdoor sightseeing for the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the intense midday heat. Most shops and some attractions may close for a few hours in the afternoon, so plan your schedule accordingly.

Dressing for a day in Muscat requires a balance of staying cool and being culturally respectful. Lightweight, loose-fitting clothing made from natural fabrics like cotton or linen is your best choice. For the Grand Mosque visit, a specific modest dress code is enforced (see Daily Travel Tip). For women, a prepared outfit of a maxi dress or loose linen trousers with a long-sleeved tunic and a pashmina for a head covering is ideal. Men should wear long trousers and a short or long-sleeved shirt.

For the rest of the day exploring Old Muscat and museums, the dress code is more relaxed, but it is still recommended for both men and women to cover their shoulders and knees as a sign of respect. Comfortable walking shoes or sandals are essential. Given the heat, choosing light-colored clothing will also help you stay cooler. Always have a hat and sunglasses with you to protect you from the strong Omani sun.

For an authentic Omani culinary experience, you must try a restaurant that serves traditional dishes. Kargeen Caffe, located in the Madinat Al Sultan Qaboos area, is a fantastic choice for your first evening. It has a beautiful, atmospheric garden setting with outdoor seating under the trees and serves a wide range of delicious Omani and Middle Eastern food, including Shuwa (slow-cooked spiced lamb or goat, a national dish) and a variety of grilled meats and mezzes. It’s also a great place to try a shisha pipe.

For a more casual lunch, there are many excellent Turkish and Lebanese restaurants all over Muscat that serve delicious and affordable shawarma, kebabs, and fresh juices. In the Old Muscat and Muttrah area, there are several local coffee shops where you can grab a quick bite or a traditional Omani meal. A must-try is Omani coffee (kahwa), which is flavored with cardamom and often served with dates. It is a symbol of Omani hospitality.

From Muscat International Airport (MCT), the easiest way to get to your hotel is by airport taxi or by using a ride-hailing app like Otaxi, which is the local equivalent of Uber. The taxis are regulated and metered. For exploring the city, renting a car is the most convenient and popular option, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Driving in Muscat is straightforward, with excellent roads and clear signage in both Arabic and English.

If you prefer not to drive, taxis and the Otaxi app are readily available throughout the city. Distances between the main sights (the Mosque, Old Muscat, the souq) are significant, so walking between them is not feasible. Muscat also has a public bus system, which is very affordable but can be slow and less convenient for tourists with a limited schedule. For a 3-day trip, renting a car or using taxis is the most efficient use of your time.

For this day trip, you essentially have two options: self-driving or hiring a private guide with a 4×4. If you are a confident driver, renting a 4×4 offers the ultimate freedom and flexibility. The route is straightforward along the main coastal highway. However, hiring a local guide and driver is an excellent, stress-free alternative. An experienced Omani guide will not only handle the driving (including the skilled off-road driving in the desert) but will also share invaluable knowledge about the geology, history, and local culture. They know the best spots for photos and the safest ways to navigate the wadi.

Many tour operators in Muscat offer this exact itinerary as a private day trip. They often include a picnic lunch, water, and guidance for the Wadi Shab hike. When you reach Wahiba Sands, the tour can include a visit to a Bedouin family home for coffee and dates, offering a small but meaningful cultural interaction. The experience of having a local guide drive you expertly over the high dunes as the sun sets is a thrill that is hard to replicate on your own.

For Young Travelers: This is a perfect day for adventure. The swim at the Bimmah Sinkhole is great, but the hike and swim in Wadi Shab is the main event. Be prepared for some scrambling over rocks. The finale of swimming into the cave to the waterfall is a huge thrill. In Wahiba Sands, ask your guide for an exhilarating dune bashing experience. If you had more time, an overnight stay in a desert camp would be the ultimate experience.

For Seniors: This is a very long and active day. The Bimmah Sinkhole is easily accessible via a concrete staircase. However, the Wadi Shab experience can be very challenging. A more suitable and relaxing alternative is to visit Wadi Tiwi instead, which has a road running through it, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful scenery from the car. Alternatively, you could skip the wadi hike and spend more time relaxing at the coast before heading to the desert. The sunset over Wahiba Sands can be enjoyed from an accessible viewpoint without extensive walking.

For Families: The Bimmah Sinkhole is fantastic fun for children who can swim. The Wadi Shab hike is suitable for older, active children and teenagers, but may be too difficult for young kids. The short boat ride at the start is fun for all ages. The desert is a giant sandbox for children. They will love running up and down the dunes. The dune bashing can be tailored to be gentle and fun rather than extreme, making it an exciting experience for the whole family.

For Travelers with Disabilities: This day’s itinerary is unfortunately very challenging for travelers with mobility issues. The Bimmah Sinkhole is accessed by a long, steep staircase. Wadi Shab is inaccessible. The desert can be experienced to some degree from a 4×4 vehicle, and the view from the edge of the sands is beautiful. A much better alternative would be a coastal drive to the town of Sur to see the dhow building yard, followed by a visit to the Ras al Jinz turtle reserve (best seen at night), which has some accessible viewing areas.

For Luxury Travel: Book a high-end private 4×4 tour in a luxury vehicle like a Toyota Land Cruiser. Your guide can arrange a gourmet picnic lunch to be served in a scenic spot in the wadi. For the desert portion, instead of just a sunset visit, your tour could be linked to an overnight stay at a luxury desert camp like Desert Nights Camp, where you can enjoy a sumptuous dinner and sleep in a luxurious tented suite under the stars, breaking the journey into two days.

For Adventure Travel: Self-driving a rented 4×4 is the ultimate adventure. It allows you to explore at your own pace and maybe even discover some lesser-known side tracks (with a good GPS!). After the sunset in Wahiba, you could try wild camping just on the edge of the desert (ensure you have all the necessary gear and supplies). This is a rugged but deeply rewarding way to experience the Omani wilderness on your own terms.

For Nature Lovers: This day is a geological and ecological feast. At the Bimmah Sinkhole, appreciate the unique karst topography. In Wadi Shab, look for the small fish and dragonflies that inhabit the pools and the date palms that cling to the canyon walls. In Wahiba Sands, observe how the color of the dunes changes with the light and look for the tracks of desert creatures. This is a journey through Oman’s most powerful natural elements: water, rock, and sand.

As this is a day trip, you will be returning to your hotel in Muscat. A hotel with a comfortable bed and a good swimming pool will be a very welcome sight after a long, hot, and dusty day of adventure. Having a good base to return to is key for making such an intense day trip enjoyable. A hotel with a relaxing atmosphere where you can unwind in the evening is ideal.

If you were to extend this trip, the best option would be to book an overnight stay in the desert. Wahiba Sands has a variety of desert camps, ranging from basic Bedouin-style camps to luxurious tented resorts with private bathrooms and swimming pools. Waking up to the silence and the soft morning light of the desert is a truly magical experience that is highly recommended if your itinerary allows for an extra day.

• Luxury: Al Bustan Palace, A Ritz-Carlton Hotel
• Mid-Range: Grand Millennium Muscat
• Budget: Muscat Holiday Hotel

For Wadi Shab, you need to be prepared. The experience involves a short boat ride, followed by a 45-minute hike over rocks and boulders, and then swimming through several pools to reach the final waterfall cave. You must wear sturdy shoes that you don’t mind getting wet (like water shoes or trekking sandals). Do not attempt this in flip-flops. Pack light: just water, sunscreen, and a waterproof bag for your camera or phone. Leave your towels and change of clothes in the car. Only strong swimmers should attempt to enter the final cave.

This is a very long day with a lot of driving (at least 5-6 hours in total). Start as early as possible from Muscat (no later than 7 AM) to make the most of the daylight hours and avoid the worst of the midday heat in the wadi. Pack plenty of water and snacks in the car. Let someone know your itinerary. While Oman is very safe, you will be traveling through some remote areas, and it’s always a good practice.

Today’s attire should be practical and comfortable for a range of activities. Start with your swimsuit on under your clothes. Over the top, wear lightweight, quick-drying activewear. Shorts (to the knee) and a t-shirt are acceptable for the wadi hike. For women, athletic leggings and a t-shirt can be a good option. The most important item is your footwear: sturdy water shoes or trekking sandals with a good grip are essential for navigating the wet and slippery rocks of Wadi Shab.

Bring a hat and sunglasses for sun protection during the hike. It’s also a good idea to pack a change of dry, comfortable clothes in the car to change into after your swim. You will be sandy after the desert, so having something fresh to wear for the drive back to Muscat will make the journey much more comfortable. A light jacket might be nice for the evening as the desert can cool down quickly after sunset.

Food options along the coastal highway are limited, so it’s a good idea to pack your own lunch and snacks. You can buy supplies from a supermarket like Lulu or Carrefour in Muscat before you leave. A picnic of sandwiches, fruit, and nuts can be enjoyed at the Bimmah Sinkhole park or at the entrance to Wadi Shab. This is the most efficient way to eat and maximizes your time for activities.

There are a few simple coffee shops and small restaurants in the towns you pass through, like Tiwi, where you can get a basic local meal like biryani or a shawarma if you prefer not to pack your own food. For dinner, you will likely arrive back in Muscat late and tired. The easiest option is to eat at your hotel or at a casual restaurant near your accommodation. After such a long day, a simple and satisfying meal is all you will need.

A 4×4 vehicle is essential for this day trip. While you can reach the Bimmah Sinkhole and the entrance to Wadi Shab with a regular sedan, a 4×4 is absolutely necessary to drive into the Wahiba Sands desert. Driving on the sand is a specific skill, so if you are not an experienced off-road driver, it’s best not to venture too far into the dunes on your own. Many self-drivers will just go to the edge of the desert to a camp where a guide can take them dune bashing.

The journey from Muscat to the Bimmah Sinkhole takes about 1.5 hours. From there, it’s another 30 minutes to Wadi Shab. From Wadi Shab to the edge of Wahiba Sands is about 1.5 hours. The drive back to Muscat from the desert takes around 2.5 hours. Hiring a car with a driver or a guided tour is the most common and recommended way to undertake this journey, as it removes the stress of navigation and off-road driving, allowing you to fully enjoy the scenery and the experience.

Booking a dolphin-watching tour in advance is essential. Several reputable operators, such as Sidab Sea Tours or Ocean Tours Oman, run daily trips from the Marina Bandar Al Rowdha. The tours typically last for two hours and have a very high success rate of spotting dolphins. Some operators offer longer tours that combine dolphin watching with snorkeling at a nearby cove, such as Bandar Khayran, which is a great option if you have extra time. The boats are comfortable, and the guides are knowledgeable about the marine environment.

When exploring the Muttrah Souq, the best approach is to simply wander and allow yourself to get lost in its enchanting alleyways. The souq is roughly divided into different sections, with areas for silver, textiles, spices, and household goods. Don’t miss the Al-Dhalam (Darkness) Souq, the core, covered part of the market. For a more relaxed shopping experience, visit the Omani Heritage Gallery near the entrance of the souq, which sells high-quality, authentic, and fixed-price handicrafts made by local artisans.

For Young Travelers: After the dolphin tour, consider a more active water sport like jet skiing or paddleboarding, which can be arranged at some of the public beaches or marinas. The Muttrah Souq is a great place to hunt for unique souvenirs like silver jewelry or a traditional Omani “kumma” (cap). For a final view, take a short but steep hike up to the Muttrah Fort (if it’s open), which offers a fantastic panoramic view over the souq, the corniche, and the harbor.

For Seniors: The dolphin-watching boats are generally stable and comfortable, making for a pleasant and low-impact morning activity. The Muttrah Souq is mostly flat, but can be crowded. A visit in the late morning or late afternoon can be more relaxed. The main thoroughfare of the souq is easy to navigate. A leisurely stroll or a rest at a coffee shop along the beautiful Muttrah Corniche, which runs in front of the souq, is a lovely way to spend the afternoon.

For Families: Children will be absolutely thrilled by the dolphin-watching tour; the excitement of spotting a pod of dolphins is a huge highlight. The Muttrah Souq can be an adventure for kids, like a real-life Aladdin’s cave. Let them look for a small souvenir like a toy camel or a colorful lamp. After the souq, you can visit the Riyam Park, which has some fun rides and a giant, ornamental incense burner on the hill, providing a fun break for children before heading to the airport.

For Travelers with Disabilities: Many of the dolphin-watching tour operators can accommodate wheelchairs if you contact them in advance to discuss your needs. The Muttrah Corniche is a flat, paved, and accessible promenade. The main path through the Muttrah Souq is also accessible, though the side alleys can be very narrow and crowded. It’s best to visit during quieter times of the day (mid-morning or late afternoon) for easier navigation.

For Luxury Travel: Charter a private yacht for your morning marine excursion. This allows for a completely personalized itinerary, whether you want to focus on finding dolphins, discover secluded beaches for a private swim, or enjoy a gourmet lunch served on board. For your souq experience, you could arrange for a personal shopper to guide you to the most exclusive shops for antique silver, high-quality frankincense, and bespoke perfumes.

For Adventure Travel: Choose a dolphin-watching tour that is combined with a serious snorkeling or diving trip. Oman’s waters, particularly around the Daymaniyat Islands (a longer trip), are home to incredible coral reefs and marine life, including sea turtles and rays. This turns the morning into a proper marine adventure. In the souq, the adventure is in the haggling and the discovery of obscure alleyways and hidden shops.

For Nature Lovers: The dolphin-watching tour is the main event. Oman’s waters are home to several species of dolphins, and sometimes even whales. Keep an eye out for other marine life like sea turtles and various seabirds. After the tour, a walk along the Muttrah Corniche allows you to appreciate the dramatic coastal geography where the mountains meet the sea. In the souq, seek out the stalls selling frankincense, the aromatic resin that has been a cornerstone of Omani nature and trade for millennia.

On your final day, a hotel with easy access to the marina and the airport is advantageous. Hotels in the Qurum, Shatti Al Qurum, or Al Khuwair areas are well-positioned, typically being a 15-20 minute drive to both the Marina Bandar Al Rowdha and the airport. Most hotels in Muscat will offer luggage storage after check-out, allowing you to enjoy your morning activities without your bags. This is a crucial service for making your departure day smooth and enjoyable.

If you have a late flight, consider booking a hotel that offers day-use rates or has good spa and pool facilities. This would allow you to return from your morning tour, relax by the pool, and shower before heading to the airport, which is a wonderful way to end your trip feeling refreshed. Proximity to a good restaurant for a final Omani meal is also a convenient bonus. Booking a reliable airport transfer through your hotel is the easiest way to ensure a stress-free departure.

• Luxury: W Muscat
• Mid-Range: Crowne Plaza Muscat
• Budget (near Airport): Aerotel Muscat – Airport Transit Hotel

For the dolphin-watching tour, bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, as the sun’s reflection off the water can be very intense. While dolphin sightings are very common, they are not 100% guaranteed as these are wild animals. Go with an attitude of enjoying the beautiful boat ride and the coastal scenery, and consider any dolphin sightings a wonderful bonus. If you are prone to motion sickness, it’s a good idea to take medication beforehand, although the sea is usually quite calm.

When shopping in the Muttrah Souq, remember the bargaining etiquette. It should be a friendly and respectful process. Start by offering a lower price, and don’t be afraid to walk away if the price isn’t right. It’s a good idea to have smaller denominations of cash, as it can be difficult for vendors to make change for large bills. The souq is at its most atmospheric in the evening, but for more serious shopping, a morning visit can be less crowded.

For the morning dolphin-watching tour, wear light and comfortable clothing that you don’t mind getting a little splashed. Shorts and a t-shirt are perfectly acceptable on the boat. Wear shoes with a good grip, like sandals or boat shoes, as the deck can get wet. A light, long-sleeved shirt can be useful for sun protection. A hat that won’t easily blow off in the wind is also a very good idea.

For the afternoon visit to the Muttrah Souq and for your flight, you should change into more modest attire. Long trousers or a long skirt and a top that covers your shoulders is appropriate and respectful for this traditional area. Comfortable shoes are a must for walking through the souq and the airport. An outfit that is both respectful for the souq and comfortable for the plane is the ideal choice for your final day.

After your dolphin-watching tour, a wonderful place for your farewell lunch is the Muttrah area. The Muttrah Corniche is lined with several cafes and restaurants offering fresh seafood and local dishes with a great view of the harbor. Bait Al Luban is a standout choice for an upscale, authentic Omani meal in a beautifully decorated traditional house. It’s a fantastic place to try a variety of Omani specialties in a refined setting. For something more casual, the fish market near the souq has simple eateries serving the freshest grilled fish.

Before heading to the airport, enjoy a final Omani coffee and dates at a local coffee shop. The Muttrah Souq has several small, traditional coffee shops tucked away in its alleys, which are perfect for a quick and atmospheric break from shopping. It’s a perfect way to experience this cornerstone of Omani hospitality one last time before you depart.

The main marina for dolphin tours, Marina Bandar Al Rowdha, is located a short drive south of Old Muscat. The easiest way to get there is by car or taxi. The drive from most central Muscat hotels takes about 20-30 minutes. After the tour, you can take a taxi directly to the Muttrah Souq, which is located in the adjacent bay.

The Muttrah Souq and the surrounding corniche are best explored on foot. For your final journey to Muscat International Airport (MCT), a pre-booked hotel car or a taxi is the most reliable option. The airport is about a 20-30 minute drive from the Muttrah or Qurum areas, but you should allow for extra time, especially during peak traffic hours, to ensure a smooth and timely departure.

The traditional dhow is a symbol of Oman’s rich maritime heritage. These wooden boats have plied the waters of the Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean for centuries, carrying traders and explorers. Today, taking a dhow cruise is a classic Omani experience. In Muscat, you can take short sunset cruises that offer beautiful views of the city’s coastline and forts from the water. For a more dramatic experience, the Musandam Peninsula in the north (known as the “Norway of Arabia”) offers stunning fjord-like landscapes (khors) that are best explored on a full-day dhow cruise, where you can snorkel and spot dolphins.

Oman’s waters are teeming with marine life. Dolphin watching is a very popular activity from Muscat, with several species, including spinner and bottlenose dolphins, frequently sighted. Further offshore, it’s possible to see whales at certain times of the year. Oman is also a critical nesting site for several species of sea turtles, including the Green Turtle. The reserve at Ras al Jinz is one of the best places in the world to take a guided night tour to watch these magnificent creatures nesting on the beach.

Frankincense, an aromatic resin from the Boswellia sacra tree, is the historic heart of Omani culture and trade. For millennia, the finest frankincense in the world has come from the Dhofar region in southern Oman. This precious resin was more valuable than gold in the ancient world and was the source of the region’s great wealth. Today, the scent of burning frankincense (luban) is ubiquitous in Oman; you will smell it in souqs, hotel lobbies, and homes. It is used as a perfume, for medicinal purposes, and to welcome guests. Buying some high-quality frankincense resin and a burner (majmar) in the souq is the most authentic Omani souvenir you can get.

Hospitality is another cornerstone of Omani tradition. You will often be welcomed with “kahwa” (a light coffee flavored with cardamom) and dates. This is a ritual of friendship and respect. The khanjar, a traditional ceremonial dagger with an ornate, curved sheath, is the national symbol of Oman and is worn by men on formal occasions. While you can buy decorative khanjars in the souq, they are a powerful symbol of Omani identity and pride.

Renting a car is the best way to explore Oman, as public transport outside of Muscat is very limited. The road network between major towns is excellent, with modern, well-maintained highways and clear signage in both Arabic and English. Driving is on the right-hand side of the road. To see the country’s best natural sights, such as the wadis and mountains, renting a 4×4 vehicle is highly recommended, and in some areas, mandatory. This allows you to go off the main roads and explore the rugged tracks that lead to the most spectacular scenery.

Petrol is relatively inexpensive. Be aware of speed cameras, which are common on highways. It’s also important to watch out for camels and goats, which can wander onto the roads, especially in rural areas. Driving in the desert sands requires specific skills and should not be attempted by inexperienced drivers; it’s better to hire a guide for this. An international driving permit is recommended, along with your valid home country driver’s license.

The official currency is the Omani Rial (OMR). The Rial is a very strong currency, and it is divided into 1000 Baisa. ATMs are widely available, and credit cards are accepted in hotels, major restaurants, and shops. It’s useful to have some cash, especially smaller notes, for souqs and small cafes.

Citizens of over 100 countries, including those from the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and the EU, can enter Oman visa-free for tourist stays of up to 14 days. For longer stays, an e-visa must be obtained in advance. Always check the latest visa rules for your specific nationality on the Royal Oman Police website before your trip.

Oman is consistently ranked as one of the safest and most peaceful countries in the world. Crime rates are extremely low. It is a very safe destination for all types of travelers, including solo female travelers and families. The Omani people are known for being respectful and helpful.

The best time to visit Oman is during the cooler winter months, from October to April. During this period, temperatures are very pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The summer months, from May to September, are extremely hot and humid, especially on the coast.

Oman is a conservative Muslim country. It is important to dress modestly out of respect for the local culture. Both men and women should ensure their shoulders and knees are covered when in public. At the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, women must also cover their hair. Swimwear is acceptable at hotel pools and private beaches, but not at public beaches.

Alcohol is available but its sale and consumption are restricted. It can be purchased and consumed in licensed hotels, restaurants, and bars. It is illegal to drink alcohol in public places or to be drunk in public. The legal drinking age is 21.

The official language is Arabic. However, English is widely spoken, especially in Muscat and in the tourism industry, so communication is generally not a problem for foreign visitors. Road signs are in both Arabic and English.

Oman is generally considered to be a mid-to-high-range travel destination, more expensive than countries like Morocco but less expensive than the UAE. Accommodation and guided tours (especially those requiring a 4×4) will be the biggest expenses. Food and petrol are relatively affordable.

The working week is from Sunday to Thursday. The weekend is Friday and Saturday. Most businesses, including souqs and shops, will close for a long lunch break in the afternoon (from around 1 PM to 4 PM) and then reopen in the evening until late. The Grand Mosque has specific, limited opening hours for non-Muslims in the morning.

Oman uses the Type G power outlet, which is the same three-pronged plug used in the United Kingdom. The standard voltage is 240V with a frequency of 50Hz. You will need a UK-style travel adapter if your devices have a different plug type.