Quick Guide

October – March

Expect long sunny days and temperatures around 87 degrees, or lower in December and January, perfect for exploring the cities, hitting the beach and hiking in the Hajar Mountains.

April – September

Temperatures soar, but prices fall; you’ll spend your trip flitting between the pool and air-conditioned attractions, like Muscat’s malls, the National Museum and the Royal Opera House.

Visas

Citizens of 103 countries — including the U.S. — can visit Oman without a visa for stays of 14 days or less. For other visa options, check with the Foreign Ministry of Oman.

Money

Local currency is the Omani rial; its exchange rate is pegged to the U.S. dollar. Shops, taxis and restaurants accept credit card payments, though cash is useful for tipping. ATMs are widely available.

Travel Health

Check with the Foreign Ministry of Oman for the latest health safety information, including travel protocols and requirements like negative COVID-19 tests, quarantines, mask mandates and more in connection with COVID-19. Before traveling, research and prepare for what to do if you get sick while away.

Getting Here

Muscat International Airport is the country’s main international hub. It is 15 minutes from central Muscat; taxis, buses, car rentals and hotel shuttles operate from the airport.

Getting Around

Some areas of Muscat are walkable, such as Muttrah and Ruwi, but taxis are the easiest way to get from points A to B. Fares are cheap, with a minimum charge of 1 rial. For journeys outside the capital, a rental car is advised.

Local Lingo

Gulf Arabic is the official language in Oman, though English is widely spoken in Muscat. When haggling in the souk, impress the shopkeepers with a few handy phrases: Bikam?: How much is it? Ktir ghali: Too expensive. Mish mumkin: Not possible. Na’am!: Yes! Shukran: Thank you.

Must-Have Apps

Otaxi; Mwasalat; Oman Address

Insider Tip

In hotels, restaurants and the souk, you may be offered tiny cups of cardamom-scented Arabic coffee — which are refilled constantly as a traditional sign of welcome. Accept a cup with your right hand; when you’ve had enough, shake the cup slightly to signal you’re done.

October – March

Expect long sunny days and temperatures around 87 degrees, or lower in December and January, perfect for exploring the cities, hitting the beach and hiking in the Hajar Mountains.

April – September

Temperatures soar, but prices fall; you’ll spend your trip flitting between the pool and air-conditioned attractions, like Muscat’s malls, the National Museum and the Royal Opera House.

Visas

Citizens of 103 countries — including the U.S. — can visit Oman without a visa for stays of 14 days or less. For other visa options, check with the Foreign Ministry of Oman.

Money

Local currency is the Omani rial; its exchange rate is pegged to the U.S. dollar. Shops, taxis and restaurants accept credit card payments, though cash is useful for tipping. ATMs are widely available.

Travel Health

Check with the Foreign Ministry of Oman for the latest health safety information, including travel protocols and requirements like negative COVID-19 tests, quarantines, mask mandates and more in connection with COVID-19. Before traveling, research and prepare for what to do if you get sick while away.

Getting Here

Muscat International Airport is the country’s main international hub. It is 15 minutes from central Muscat; taxis, buses, car rentals and hotel shuttles operate from the airport.

Getting Around

Some areas of Muscat are walkable, such as Muttrah and Ruwi, but taxis are the easiest way to get from points A to B. Fares are cheap, with a minimum charge of 1 rial. For journeys outside the capital, a rental car is advised.

Local Lingo

Gulf Arabic is the official language in Oman, though English is widely spoken in Muscat. When haggling in the souk, impress the shopkeepers with a few handy phrases: Bikam?: How much is it? Ktir ghali: Too expensive. Mish mumkin: Not possible. Na’am!: Yes! Shukran: Thank you.

Must-Have Apps

Otaxi; Mwasalat; Oman Address

Insider Tip

In hotels, restaurants and the souk, you may be offered tiny cups of cardamom-scented Arabic coffee — which are refilled constantly as a traditional sign of welcome. Accept a cup with your right hand; when you’ve had enough, shake the cup slightly to signal you’re done.