Oman Tours & Travel Guide

Oman is known for its dramatic landscapes that shift from rocky highlands to quiet coastlines and endless desert. The country offers an unusual mix of mountains, valleys, and open skies that draw travelers looking for space, peace, and natural contrast.

Whether you’re hiking, relaxing near water, or crossing wide open sands, nature is always close. This balance of terrain makes Oman a unique destination in the region.

What sets Oman apart is how its past still shapes daily life. Traditions are visible in local festivals, crafts, and architecture.

Instead of only seeing history in museums, visitors experience it in the rhythm of daily life. Many travelers note that Omani culture feels both respectful and open; it’s a welcome mix for those looking to learn and connect.

One of the most lasting impressions from any travel to Oman is the kindness of its people. Omani hospitality is simple and genuine. Guests are often welcomed with local coffee and dates, and conversations are easy to start.

The country’s respectful atmosphere and sense of calm make it comfortable for all types of travelers, including families and solo visitors.

This Oman travel guide wouldn’t be complete without pointing out how much the country offers for outdoor lovers. From desert safaris to remote treks and water-based adventures, Oman is ideal for those who want more than just sightseeing.

The clear night skies and open terrain also give it a reputation for stargazing and off-the-grid experiences that are hard to find elsewhere.

Oman is often described as one of the safest and most stable countries in the region. It’s a place where daily life moves at a relaxed pace, and travelers usually feel at ease.

Strong community values, low crime, and social respect all contribute to an environment where you can focus on the journey, not the risks.

Your passport should have a remaining validity of no less than 6 months and should have at least one blank page.

To be allowed entry in Oman, most visitors need a visa. Some nationalities can get a visa on arrival or are visa-exempt for short stays (e.g., GCC citizens and certain other citizens for up to 14 days).

Health insurance is mandatory for all visitors, and you must make sure your policy covers your stay in Oman.

A confirmed return or onward travel ticket is often required.

Proof of confirmed accommodation, such as a hotel booking, is typically needed.

Required if coming from a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission.

The Grand Tours Visa offers a single visa for multiple countries, similar to a Schengen visa. Its main goal is to promote regional tourism by removing the need for travelers to apply separately for each destination. Instead of managing several applications and entry rules, one unified visa will simplify access across the entire GCC area.

Compared to Oman’s current tourist visa, which only allows entry to Oman, the GCC unified visa will offer broader access under one application. This means:

• Easier travel planning
• Cost effectiveness
• Time efficiency due to an entirely online process
• Seamless multi-country trips (e.g., fly into the UAE, drive into Oman without needing a second visa)

This setup is especially attractive for visitors planning regional circuits or extended vacation routes across the Gulf.

The GCC states have announced plans for a phased launch in 2026.

Key expected features include:

• Fully online visa process
• One application for all six countries
• Shared database and streamlined security
• Tourist-friendly design (easy forms, fast processing)

Exact details such as visa cost, validity, and eligibility are still being finalized. 

Today, travelers must use Oman’s separate eVisa portal or apply through an embassy. That system only applies to Oman. With the GCC visa, visitors would skip that step entirely if Oman is just one stop of a larger Gulf trip. 

The visa was intended to be launched in the last quarter of 2025, as announced in June 2025. However, due to some security and technical challenges, the launch of the GCC visa was delayed for further study and preparation for a phased launch in 2026.

Visit centuries-old forts such as Nizwa, Bahla, Jabrin, Rustaq, Mirani, and Nakhal. Many of these tourist attractions feature small museums and offer insight into Oman’s defensive history and architectural style. Their elevated towers also provide scenic views and photo opportunities.

The Hajar Mountains offer some of the best trekking routes in the region. Trails near Jebel Shams and Jebel Akhdar lead through rugged terrain, terraced farms, and old villages. Even short hikes in places like Misfat and Balad Sayt are rewarding. 

Drive into the vast Wahiba Sands in a rented 4WD. The area is known for tall dunes, camel rides, and desert camps hosted by Bedouin families. Dune bashing at sunset or sunrise is one of the most exciting things to do in Oman.

The waters around the Daymaniyat Islands are rich with coral and marine life. It is ideal for snorkeling and scuba diving. Coastal boat tours often include dolphin watching and glass-bottom rides. These are popular things to do in Muscat and the surrounding areas.

Wadis like Shab and Bani Khalid are known for their turquoise pools and dramatic landscapes. Others, such as Wadi Tiwi and Wadi Al Arbeieen, are quieter but just as scenic. Pack a swimsuit and water shoes; swimming in these natural pools is refreshing.

Explore traditional souqs and try regional foods. Dishes like shuwa and halwa are widely loved, and seafood is common in coastal towns. Attend village events or local festivals when available for a deeper look at daily life in Oman. These moments offer some of the most authentic highlights of Oman.

At Ras al Jinz Turtle Reserve, you can join a night tour to observe endangered green turtles nesting or hatching. This is a seasonal wildlife experience unique to Oman and often recommended by animal lovers.

Beyond major sights, Oman has lesser-known spots like Al Hoota Cave, Ayn Razat, and old villages such as Birkat al Mouz. Renting a car gives you the flexibility to explore these areas and find quiet corners off the usual route.

Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore Oman. Roads are paved, well-marked, and in excellent condition, particularly on major highways connecting Muscat and Nizwa and on the long-distance route between Muscat and Salalah. A 4WD vehicle is strongly recommended for desert drives or mountain roads. 

Driving is on the right-hand side. Speed limits are strictly enforced by road cameras.

The majority of the road signs are in English and Arabic. 

Taxi Muscat (orange) and Oman Taxi are metered and reliable. In smaller towns, taxis usually operate without meters and agree on the fare in advance. Outside urban areas, taxis can be hard to find, so it’s best to arrange transportation through your hotel or tour provider.

Oman’s state-run Mwasalat buses connect major cities, including long-distance services between Muscat and Salalah, with some departures operating overnight.

Local minibusses run within some cities but may not follow fixed schedules. While buses are affordable, most tourists prefer renting a car or booking private tours for comfort and flexibility.

For longer distances, domestic flights between Muscat and Salalah are available and take about one and a half hours. Both Oman Air and SalamAir operate these routes. 

While highways are smooth and reliable, rural and remote areas require caution. Mountain roads can be steep. Goats or camels may wander onto roads.

Night driving is safe, particularly between Muscat and Nizwa, but extra care is advised. Always keep your fuel tank topped up, as remote routes may not have frequent petrol stations.

Oman has strong mobile coverage, including 4G and 5G networks in major cities and tourist areas. Local SIM cards from Omantel or Ooredoo can be purchased at the airport or mobile shops (passport required). 

A prepaid SIM card in Oman typically costs between $3 (1.15 OMR) and $10 (3.85 OMR), while data packages start at around $10. Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, restaurants, and shopping malls, making it easy to stay connected throughout your trip.

Oman isn’t ultra-budget, but it’s not overpriced either. Mid-range daily expenses (lodging, food, fuel, basic transport) average $100–150. Markets and fuel are cheap, but guided tours and high-end hotels can raise your total. Carry cash for smaller towns, but credit cards work well in cities.

Fuel is widely available and costs around $0.62 (0.24 OMR) per liter.

The currency is the Omani Rial (OMR), which is stable and strong (about 1 OMR ≈ 2.60 USD). Credit cards are accepted in most urban areas, but small shops and taxis prefer cash.

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Around 10% in restaurants or rounding up taxi fares is considered polite. Bargaining is acceptable in souqs for items like crafts or spices, but fixed prices apply in malls, hotels, and larger stores.

Public smoking bans are enforced, especially in air-conditioned buildings and malls. Don’t litter or spit in public; on-the-spot fines apply.

It’s normal for hotels or police to ask for ID. Keep a digital copy of your passport on your phone, and carry a hard copy or the real one when traveling between regions.

Shops in Muscat usually open 9 am–1 pm and 4 pm–10 pm. In smaller towns, schedules may vary. Fridays are quiet until late afternoon due to prayer hours.