Discover Oman’s treasures with BinMajid experts.
Oman is one of the safest and friendliest countries in the world. To truly unlock the beauty of the Sultanate of Oman and ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit, let us explore some key cultural norms, safety tips, and essential considerations. Understanding the local currency will empower you to navigate markets with confidence.
Ready to embark on your Omani adventure? With these tips in mind, you are well on your way to a safe, enriching, and unforgettable experience.
The Omani Rial (OMR) ranks among the top 3 most valuable currencies in the world, even higher than the Euro! Divided into 1000 Baisa, comes in notes from OMR 1 to OMR 50, with 100 and 500 Baisa notes handy for smaller purchases. While coins exist in all sorts of denominations, keep in mind that 5 and 10 Baisa might not be universally accepted.
Cash is widely used in Oman, but do not worry – credit and debit cards are also widely accepted, especially Visa and Mastercard. Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs) are readily available in banks, airports, gas stations, convenience stores, and shopping malls, ensuring convenient access to cash.
Be sure to download a currency conversion app with offline capabilities for worry-free transactions before your trip, ensuring smooth navigation of your transactions
Omanis are renowned for their warmth and hospitality, and showing respect to our culture is key to a truly enriching experience. Sharing a positive cultural practice like offering a friendly greeting -Salam- can further encourage respectful interactions with locals. Here are some helpful tips:
Dress Modestly: Avoid overly revealing clothing, especially in religious sites and during the holy month of Ramadan. Head coverings are not mandated for women outside of mosques. Remember, modesty is always appreciated.
Respectful Photography: Always seek permission before taking photos of locals. Be mindful of sensitive locations like government buildings and airports and remember that recreational drones are prohibited.
Friendliness First: A friendly “Salam” greeting goes a long way! Be mindful of public displays of affection, as Omani culture generally keeps such expressions private. Always be polite and respectful in your interactions, mindful of your tone and language.
Embrace the warmth of Omani culture with respect and discover a land that welcomes you with open arms.
Population : 3,027,959 including 577,293 expatriates (July 2011 est.)
Language : Arabic (official), English (widely spoken)
Capital : City of Muscat
Natural Resources : Oil, Natural Gas, Copper, Fishery, Agriculture
Rest assured, Oman welcomes you with open arms and peaceful streets. As with any travel destination, let us explore some simple tips to navigate your adventures with confidence. Oman boasts a reputation for being one of the safest countries in the world.
Although Oman is among the safest countries in the world, it is important to be vigilant. As with any country, remember to keep valuables secure in your car or on the beach.
Driving in Oman is quite safe, but always stay alert and navigate Oman’s well-maintained roads by respecting traffic rules, including roundabouts, for everyone’s safety. While driving at night in rural areas is not recommended, daytime journeys unveil breathtaking landscapes and authentic cultural experiences.
About the Weather
The heat of the summer starts to break in October and really cools off in November it starts to build again in April with the humidity kicking in
around the middle of May. My personal Favorite months are November and March. But even in the height of the summer, it is possible to drive
high into the mountains and enjoy some wonderful cooler weather
In case of emergency, the following contacts might be helpful.
For general emergencies, immediate police assistance, and road accidents causing vehicle damage, call: 9999.
Need a taxi in Muscat? Have car troubles and want to request a tow truck? Call Muscat Taxi Main Station at +968 9914 3222. Visitors may consider taxi apps, such as Marhaba and Oman Taxi (OTaxi).
Keep in mind that the working week in Oman is from Sunday to Thursday. Most foreign embassies and consulates are in the capital city Muscat and may have shorter operating hours, especially during the holy month of Ramadan. Confirm specific timings beforehand to avoid inconvenience.
Dial help, relax, and discover Oman! Essential numbers in your pocket, peace of mind at your fingertips.
