How Should I Dress in Oman?

Oman is a Muslim country and it’s important that you are respectful of this in various ways, the first being how you dress. It’s not a must, but it’s a good idea to dress modestly. You can wear what you want, however this isn’t the place to be strolling down the street in a crop top and tiny little shorts, it’s disrespectful. When you go to swim in public places such as wadis, you need to wear appropriate swimwear, the guidelines show swimwear that covers you up to your knees and elbows. So preferably don’t go swimming in bikinis, however this is fine in hotel pools and also when snorkelling in Daymaniyat Islands. There is however a dress code you must abide by when visiting religious sites. You must wear loose clothing that covers you all the way to your hands and feet and women just cover their head with a scarf. 

Do I Need to Wear a Headscarf in Oman?

This brings me to my next point, if you’re planning to visit religious sites, it’s a good idea to bring a scarf unless you want to buy one there of course. I love buying new scarfs around the world so I bought mine outside the mosque and I love it. I actually bought another one in the souks on my last day and I get compliments every time I wear it around the world. It is not a requirement to wear the headscarf everywhere, just when visiting religious sites where there is a strict dress code.

How to get Around in Oman

Next thing you need to know if you’re planning to venture out of the city, and you should, is that there isn’t much public transport available and if you’re relying on taxis and tour groups, it can get pretty expensive. Due to this I highly recommend hiring a car, it’s affordable, petrol is so cheap, and the roads are really easy to drive. Just watch out for the speed cameras as they are everywhere! 

Also keep in mind when driving in Oman that some places are not really accessible with a normal car. Some of the canyons and mountain roads require a 4×4 and please don’t try to drive through the desert in a normal car either as you will get stuck! 

Do I Need Cash in Oman?

Most places in Oman do accept card payments, however there may be odd times where you’ll need a little cash, so it’s good to get just a little bit in case. It’s best to do this in a local ATM, not at the airport, and there are even drive through ATMS which is so cool! 

What is the currency in Oman?

The currency of Oman is the Omani Rial (OMR). As mentioned above, most places do also accept card payments, so you’ll just need a small amount of cash for the few places that may not accept card and you can easily withdraw cash at an ATM in the cities before you head off to rural areas.

Is English widely spoken in Oman?

English is widely spoken in Oman, especially in urban areas and tourist destinations. Most signs and menus are also available in English, making it very easy for English-speaking tourists to navigate the country.

Is Oman safe for tourists?

Yes, Oman is considered one of the safest countries in the Middle East for tourists. The crime rate is very low, and the locals are friendly and hospitable. Of course with any travel destination, it’s important to exercise common sense and take usual precautions, but from my experience, Oman is a very safe country to explore. Generally people in Oman are incredibly kind and the hospitality is amazing so you have nothing to worry about there. Have fun and happy travels! 

What is the best time of year to visit Oman?

The best time of year to visit Oman is during the cooler months from October to April, when temperatures are milder (although it is still very warm!), which is better for outdoor activities and exploring. In the hotter months, temperatures go beyond 40 degrees celsius which is not ideal for being outside and can be very uncomfortable as well as dangerous. Do keep in mind that the cooler months also bring tourists, so expect higher prices and crowds.

What are the Best Things to do in Oman?

I highly recommend venturing out of the city as there is so much to see and do, from swimming in the wadis to snorkelling on Daymaniyat Islands, staying in the desert or taking a walk through history in Nizwa Fort, there is so much to see in Oman so exploring outside of the city is a MUST. Oman offers a diverse range of attractions, including the stunning landscapes of Wadi Shab and Jebel Shams, the historic forts of Nizwa and Bahla, the beautiful beaches of Salalah, and the picturesque villages of Jebel Akhdar. For a change of scenery you can also explore the deserts of Wahiba Sands and Rub’ al Khali (Empty Quarter).

Enjoy your time in Oman and don’t forget to pack a camera, you’ll want it!

As always, love Elise x