Highlights

Muscat

Oman’s vibrant capital blends modern life with traditional culture — explore the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Mutrah Souq, Al Jalali and Al Mirani forts, and scenic corniche views. 

Nizwa

Known for its historic fort and bustling souq, Nizwa offers a glimpse into Oman’s rich heritage and traditional handicrafts, with nearby Jebel Akhdar providing spectacular mountain scenery.

Jebel Akhdar

Part of the Al Hajar Mountains, this “Green Mountain” region is famous for terraced orchards, rose gardens, hiking trails, and cooler temperatures. 

Wahiba Sands

Experience Oman’s iconic desert landscape with sweeping sand dunes, camel treks, and overnight stays in Bedouin-style camps under starry skies.

Bimmah Sinkhole & Wadi Shab

Discover Oman’s dramatic natural wonders — swim in turquoise pools, hike through canyons, and explore freshwater caves amid stunning desert and mountain backdrops.

Sur

Traditional dhow-building town on the coast, offering beautiful beaches, turtle watching, and a glimpse into Oman’s maritime heritage.

Useful information

Your search for ""

clear search

Communications

Country Code for Oman: +968 

Official Travel advice: 

Oman Travel Advice & Safety | Smartraveller (Australia) 

Oman | SafeTravel NZ (New Zealand)   

Emergencies: 9999 

Australian Honorary Consulate, Muscat 
Behind Centara Hotel, United Towers Building, Way no. 5007, 
Compound no. 250, Ghala, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman 
Phone: +968 2476 3350 
Website: smartraveller.gov.au 

New Zealand Consulate General, Muscat 
Villa 2869, Way No. 2333, Madinat Al-Sultan Qaboos Street, 
PO Box 520, Muscat, Oman 
Telephone: +968 24 694 932 
Email: nzconsul@omantel.net.om

Customs

Visitors should be respectful of Omani customs and conservative dress is strongly advised: clothing that covers shoulders and knees is expected. Taking photographs of locals should be done only with permission, particularly in rural or sensitive areas. Loud or disruptive behaviour is frowned upon, and modesty is particularly important at religious sites. During Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours as a sign of respect. Violating public decency laws can lead to fines or even jail terms under Oman’s penal code. 

Electricity

Electrical Socket types: A and B 
Voltage: 120V, 60Hz 

Health

According to Smartraveller, health risks in Oman include insect‑borne diseases such as malaria, dengue, and leishmaniasis, particularly in regions like Musandam, so use insect repellent and ensure accommodation is insect‑proof.  Dehydration and heatstroke are serious risks during summer, so you should drink plenty of water and avoid long exposure to high temperatures. Travel insurance is strongly recommended for all travellers. 

Here’s the same text with hyperlinks included: 

Official Travel advice visit: 

Oman Travel Advice & Safety | Smartraveller (Australia) 

Oman | SafeTravel NZ (New Zealand) 

How to Get There & Getting Around

Most international travellers typically arrive via Muscat International Airport, which is well connected globally. Once in Oman, renting a car is a very common way to get around, but if you’re planning to drive, be cautious: road conditions vary, and in remote areas it’s recommended to travel in a 4WD with spare supplies. For short trips or city travel, taxis or arranged transport via tour operators are often the safest and most reliable. 

Holidays & Festivals

  • Islamic New Year (Hijri New Year, 1 Muharram) – Public holiday in Oman marking the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar. 
  • Mawlid al-Nabi (Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday, 12 Rabiʽ al-Awwal) – Celebrates the birth of the Prophet Muhammad.
  • Isra and Mi’raj (Night Journey and Ascension, 27 Rajab) – Commemorates the Prophet Muhammad’s night journey to Jerusalem and ascension to heaven. 
  • Eid al-Fitr – Marks the end of Ramadan. Public and private sectors receive holidays; dates vary each year based on moon sightings. 
  • Eid al-Adha (Feast of the Sacrifice) – Major Islamic festival observed nationwide with time off; dates vary annually according to the lunar calendar. 
  • Ascension Day (Assumption of the Sultan’s Power) – Public holiday marking the day the current Sultan assumed office. 
  • National Day of Oman – 20–21 November – Celebrates Oman’s national pride and heritage with parades, fireworks, and cultural events. 

Language

The official language of Oman is Arabic, but English is widely spoken in cities, tourism areas, and by people working in the hospitality industry, making communication relatively easy for English-speaking travellers. 

Money, Tipping & Shopping

The currency in Oman is the Omani Rial (OMR). ATMs are widely available in Muscat and other larger cities, though may be more limited in remote areas. Credit cards (Visa, MasterCard) are accepted at many hotels, restaurants, and shops, but for local markets or small vendors, cash is often preferred. As for tipping, while not always mandatory, it is appreciated in restaurants, for guides, and for drivers. 

Visas

The Travel Corporation has partnered with the company Sherpa to provide travellers with the latest government and health restrictions. Simply enter the country you want to travel to for information on safety regulations, border closures, quarantine requirements, your travel visa and more using the Sherpa travel tool: Visa Advice 

 

For both Australian and New Zealand passport holders, Oman offers relatively straightforward visa arrangements: Australians visiting Oman for up to 14 days for tourism may be eligible for a free entry visa, provided they have confirmed accommodation, travel insurance, a return ticket, and a passport valid for more than six months. Longer stays or different visa types (e.g. working or business) require a visa application with associated fees. 

 

Official Travel advice visit: 

Oman Travel Advice & Safety | Smartraveller (Australia) 

Oman | SafeTravel NZ (New Zealand)