Oman often feels like the forgotten country of the Middle East. Located at the southern tip of the Arabian Peninsula, Oman stays out of the major political tension and drama that dominates the region. This may be why Oman has been frequently dubbed the “Switzerland of the Middle East”.

But Oman’s low profile is exactly what makes it so extraordinary. There is a stillness here that is unlike anywhere else I’ve ever visited. From It’s 2,000 miles (3,165 kilometers) of wild coastline to breathtaking mountains and hidden wadis, Oman is truly one of a kind. The locals are also incredibly kind and hospitable people. They go out of their way to make their country feel like home during your stay.

In my Oman travel guide, I’ve included the top places in Oman to explore, personalized travel recommendations, cultural insights, and the most essential tips for planning your journey to this unforgettable and timeless country. I’ll share the top things to do in Oman and advice that will ensure your trip is smooth and enjoyable.

Oman is unforgettable, once you visit you’ll understand why.

Reasons to Visit the Sultanate of Oman

One of the top reasons to visit Oman is to experience the authenticity and richness of the Arab culture. While many of Oman’s Gulf neighbors have lost a piece of themselves through rapid development and flashy skylines, Oman has retained its local atmosphere and culture while modernizing into a developed nation with the worlds second strongest currency. Interestingly, buildings in Oman cannot be built taller than five stories. This has surely contributed to the country’s harmony with It’s natural surroundings and the ongoing respect for preserving local Omani customs.

Another reason Oman is one of my favorite places I’ve ever visited is because of the countrys dramatic scenery and breathtaking nature. From the serene stillness of Jebel Shams at sunrise to the wild, mysterious camel filled shores of Salalah, Oman’s connection to the natural elements makes it a soulful place to explore. Traveling to Oman will leave you inspired.

My Oman Guide – A Traveler’s Guide to the Sultanate of Oman

Experience the timeless beauty and serene landscapes of Oman, a country where tradition coexists with modernity. From the tops of towering mountain cliffs to pristine camel filled beaches, discover why Oman is unlike anywhere else in the Middle East.

Oman Guide Essentials

• Region: Arabian Peninsula, from Musandam to Dhofar
• Language: Arabic; English widely spoken
• Currency: Omani Rial (OMR) – 1 OMR ≈ 2.60 USD
• Emergency Information: 999 (police), 998 (ambulance), 9999 (fire)
• Climate: Arid desert; hot summers, mild winters; monsoon season in Dhofar (June–September)
• Best time to visit: October–April
• Dress Code: Modest clothing recommended
• SIM Cards: Widely available at Muscat and Salalah airports
• Internet: Free Wi-Fi common in hotels, cafes, and airports

When to Visit Oman

The best time to visit Oman is October through April. Summertime in Oman, like the rest of the Arabian Peninsula, gets brutal and the humidity swelters at the coast.

Another great time to visit Oman is during the Dhofar region’s Khareef season. This is Salalah’s monsoon season. The entire coastline of Southern Oman is blanketed in a thick mysterious mist and the mountains are green and filled with vegetation. However, the thousands of wild camels that usually roam free are contained to keep them from drifting on the roads.

Visiting Oman during Ramadan and Eid

I visited Oman during the end of Ramadan and during the Eid days, the most important Islamic holiday in the country. During Eid al-Fitr, many restaurants and shops are closed. When I went to Nizwa, most of the souq was shut. However, the places most commonly visited by travelers remain open along with the hotels. Unlike the majority of Islamic countries, Oman celebrates four instead of three days of Eid.

You will see many Omanis dressed in their best traditional clothing and taking pictures everywhere. There are many social and cultural events that occur during Eid as well.

I visited towards the end of the month long Ramadan fast. During the day, many businesses remain closed. Avoid eating or drinking in public, as many Omanis fast from sunrise to sundown.

Getting In | Muscat international Airport

Most people arrive in Oman at the Muscat International Airport. Muscat’s Airport is a modern yet understated Middle Eastern airport, reflecting the country’s calm nature. Unlike the other Gulf nations, the Muscat airport feels peaceful. My favorite part of the airport is the large date palms that line the terminals. Once you arrive, you will go through immigration and customs before bing allowed in the Sultanate.

It’s also possible to arrive by a land border via Saudi Arabia or the United Arab Emirates. If you are renting a car, make sure they allow you to cross the border into Oman.

Moving around in Oman

Getting around Oman is easy, but it does require a bit of planning. The country is large and spread out, with public transportation being limited outside major cities.

Renting a car is the best way to explore Oman. Roads are in excellent condition and most signs are written in both English and Arabic. Driving here is much more orderly than other Middle Eastern countries. In fact, Oman is one of the easiest places I’ve ever driven. A 4WD may be easier if you plan to discover many of Oman’s mountains, wadis, and hidden beaches and is required to Visit the Jebel Akhdar mountains.

Just watch out for speed camera towers along the major highways. They are common and will automatically capture a picture of your car and charge you a speeding fine.

Taxis and rideshares are another great way to get around Oman’s cities. Currently, Uber isn’t operating in Oman. Otaxi and Tasleem are the main rideshare apps. Interestingly, only natural born Omanis are permitted to work as taxi drivers in Oman.

If you plan to visit the Dhofar province in southern Oman, I’d recommend flying from Muscat to Salalah. The flight is less than an hour, very affordable, and is a great way to see the country from an aerial view.

Visas in Oman

Many nationalities often get visas for arrival in Oman. Currently, the US, UK, EU and GCC countries get a visa on arrival, usually for 30 days which can be extended once inside the country.

For peace of mind, you can request a tourist visa to Oman through the Royal Oman Police ahead of your arrival to the country.

// Here is the link to request your visa to Oman

Sim Cards in Oman

I highly recommend getting a SIM card when traveling to Oman. This was a game changer since it made staying connected and navigating Oman way easier. You will be able to use your phone throughout the entire country, even in the mountainous and remote areas.

You can pick up a SIM card after going through customs at Muscat and Salalah airports. The actual card itself costs around $3. Plans range from $5-$25 depending on how much data you need. I was able to reload my SIM card when I needed more data.

There are a few SIM card companies. I went with Ooredoo Oman and I would recommend them. I picked up my SIM card at the Muscat airport. Their kiosk is right outside customs in the Muscat airport before the exit. You can also download their app before arriving to Oman.

Currency in oman

The currency in Oman is called the Omani Rial. It is one of the strongest currencies in the Middle East. 1 OMR ~ 1 USD. Coins are less common. Aesthetically, the Omani Rial is one of the most beautiful currencies in my opinion. ATMs can be found throughout the country.

Most places in larger cities like Muscat, Salalah, and Sohar accept credit cards, mainly Visa and Mastercard. I would recommend having some cash on hand for smaller stores and locations that are off the beaten path.

Note: Be cautious about getting Omani currency in the United States before your trip. My bank gave me a mix of some outdated Omani bills. When I arrived in Oman, all of the shops and restaurants would not accept the currency that was outdated. They told me I would have to go to a national bank of Oman branch for them to exchange the outdated bills with the current currency. It may be better to exchange currency once you arrive in  Oman. You can usually do this at the airport.

Sultanate of Oman Guide | Best experiences and places to visit

Here are a few of the incredible locations to explore and top experiences I had during my first journey through the Sultanate of Oman.

Explore the Coastal Capital of Muscat

Muscat is unlike the other capitals of the Gulf countries in the Arabian Peninsula. While cities like Dubai, Doha, and Riyadh are known for their shiny towers and soaring skyscrapers, Muscat retains a more traditional, residential feel. This has allowed Muscat to preserve more of its local culture in a way that other cities in the region simply have not. Both men and women wear traditional clothing and the atmosphere is much more authentic. In fact, buildings in Muscat cannot exceed 5 stories. Geographically, Muscat is long and linear, unfolding along the Gulf of Oman’s endless shorelines and the jagged slopes of the Al Hajar Mountains.

There are many places to explore in Muscat. The Mutrah Corniche is a relaxing seaside promenade that is one of the oldest neighborhoods in the city. Nearby is the Mutrah Souq, a maze of colorful shops selling antiques and Omani speciality items. Additionally, there are many traditional forts in the area to visit. You can also go swimming in the warm water of the Arabian Sea at Qurum or Seeb Beaches. The Mall of Oman is noticeably more relaxed than malls in Dubai, making it an ideal place to cool off and escape the heat. It’s also home to Amouage, Oman’s most famous oud perfumery.

One thing to note is that the neighborhoods of Muscat are spread out and sprawling. Public transportation is limited, so it’s easiest to move around by renting a car or taxi.

// Here is my Complete Guide to Muscat which contains everything you need to know about exploring the coastal capital of Oman (COMING SOON)

Stay in one of Muscat’s Five star Resorts

I highly recommend treating yourself to a stay at one of Muscat’s five star resorts. There is no shortage of stunning luxury hotels in the city. Many are built right on the beach, lining the shore with tall, lush date palms. Usually, there are several restaurants at larger properties so you don’t even need to leave the resort. Other common amenities include spas, full gyms, and recreational activities like tennis and jet skiing.

I stayed at Jumeirah Muscat Bay, one of the top hotels in the city. Located just outside the city center of Muscat, Jumeirah is tucked away in a hidden beach cove. Every morning I was awakened by the song of local Omani birds and walked along the coastline at sunrise. The setting of the property is incredibly scenic and relaxing. The interior of the hotel is serene and beautifully detailed with traditional architecture and Arabian style arches.

Other 5 star hotels and luxury resorts in Muscat include the Chedi Muscat, the St. Regis Al Mouj, and the W Muscat. Each has a private coastline.

Visit the historic city of Nizwa

Just two hours from the coastal capital of Muscat lies the historic city of Nizwa. Nestled at the foot of the arid Hajar Mountains, Nizwa has a traditional and timeless feel. Best known for the expansive Nizwa Fort, the city also has a bustling souk, one of the best places to search for local Omani products and souvenirs. Here you can find khanjar daggers, traditionally worn by Omani men on special occasions. I purchased a traditional stick called an asa made with wood from local trees and adorned with silver engravings. Additionally, traditional Omani clothing is cheaper in Nizwa. The best deals are located in the shops below the Nizwa Mosque.

The streets of Nizwa come alive at night, with coffee shops bustling late into the evening. On Fridays, there’s a weekly goat market that is lively to spectate. The goat market starts early around seven in the morning, where most of the trading happens. The goat market is held right near the entrance of the Nizwa Souq.

Jebel Shams | Oman’s Highest Point

Known as the Grand Canyon of Arabia, Jebel Shams is one of the best places to experience the peace and breathtaking beauty of Oman’s mountains. Translated from Arabic as the “Mountain of the Sun”, Jebel Shams is Oman’s highest point. The Wadi Nakhr gorge that runs through Jebel Shams is 3,280 feet deep (1000 meters).

There are many trails in Jebel Shams. The most famous is called the Balcony Walk officially known as the W6 trail. One of my favorite things about Jebel Shams is that there are many places to spread out and enjoy the panoramic views during sunrise and sunset in peace.

You can camp on the rim of the canyon and there’s also several hotels and guest houses in Jebel Shams. You don’t need a 4WD to visit Jebel Shams, but it can make the drive easier since sections of the road up are unpaved and pretty steep.

// Here is my guide to Jebel Shams | The Grand Canyon of Arabia

Jebel Akhdar Mountains and the Damask Rose Bloom

The mountains of Jebel Akhdar are one of the most enchanting places in the Middle East. Located high in the Al Hajar mountain range, Jebel Akhdar is known in Arabic as the “green mountains”. It gets its name from the surprising vegetation that sprawls over the mountains and surrounding valleys. The region is dotted with dense rose gardens, pomegranate orchards, and produce farms, all connected by an ancient irrigation system. There’s also several mud brick villages that cling to the mountains of Jebel Akhdar. Some are empty while others are sparsely inhabited.

I visited Jebel Akhdar during the Rose season when the mountains and terrace farms of Jebel Akhdar are filled with pink, fragrant, Damask roses. The Damask rose season in Jebel Akhdar typically runs from March to late April. Jebel Akhdar is actually famous for its rose water, which is made from the flowers using an ancient technique.

// Everything you need to know about visiting Jebel Akhdar during the Damask Rose Bloom (COMING SOON)

Note: Only 4WD are allowed up the steep road to Jebel Akhdar. There is actually a small military checkpoint before the incline starts. Any car that isn’t a 4WD will not be allowed up the road. I saw several cars being turned away. You will either need to rent one or hire a driver with a 4WD.

Stay in the Suwgra | a 500 year old mountain village

Tucked in the hills of Jebel Akhdar is one of the most immersive and authentic places to stay in all of Oman. The Suwgra is a former mountain village built into the side of a cliff that has been transformed into a heritage bed and breakfast. The family that used to live in the village now operates the guesthouse, preserving the traditional culture and atmosphere for visitors.

Staying at the Suwgra is incredibly rejuvenating. Breathing in the fresh mountain air and hiking the many trails above the village is a deeply grounding way to experience Oman’s nature. The family prepars traditional Omani meals with fresh, local ingredients. I got to see the cooking of the shuwa, a local Omani dish prepared on special occasions and holidays.

One of my favorite memories of staying at the Suwgra was when they transported all my luggage by zip line across the canyon ravine.

// All you need to know about staying at the Suwgra | Oman’s 500 year old mountain village

Watch a traditional omani bull fight

By far one of my favorite experiences in Oman was getting to watch a traditional Omani bull fight. Before visiting Oman, I was unaware that bull fighting has been a local tradition for hundreds of years. Unlike Spanish bullfighting however, no harm is meant for the bulls and there’s also no matador.

The Omani bull fights are local and intimate. I was the only westerner in attendance and I didn’t see any women. If you plan to visit, I highly recommend wearing traditional clothing. If you’re a man, wear a dishdasha, the Omani version of a thobe. Women should probably cover their heads, considering this is a local event. The Omani bull fights aren’t well advertised, but I was able to get in touch with the local event coordinators who invited me to the event.

// Everything you need to know about attending the bull fights in Oman

Explore tropical Salalah in the South of Oman

My favorite part of Oman is Salalah. Located in Oman’s southern Dhofar region, the coasts of Salalah are lined with thousands of wild palm trees. Dense tropical plantations growing papaya and bananas stand feet away from the sea, and the roads are lined with fresh fruit and juice stands. You can even drive your car on the beaches here.

However, my favorite part of Salalah is the thousands of wild camels that roam the hills and beaches of this tropical Middle Eastern city. They are literally everywhere, and camel warning signs line the highway.

The terrain from Salalah all the way to the Yemen border is some of the most breathtaking and incredible scenery I have experienced anywhere in the Middle East. Just don’t drive up to the armed border crossing like I did. That was a memorable but stressful experience.

// My complete guide to Salalah | The Middle East’s tropical camel filled oasis

Marvel at the Unique Architecture of Oman’s Mosques

Oman is a country filled with many large and grand mosques. The soaring minarets and expansive domes can be seen towering above highways and at the centers of Oman’s most important cities.

The dominant sect of Islam in Oman is the Ibadi branch. Ibadism emphasizes inner spirituality and tolerance rather than strict legalism. In fact, Oman is the only majority Ibadi Muslim country in the world.

One thing that I admire about the mosques of Oman is that a majority are built out of local materials. Many use minimalistic, whitewashed walls made of stone or clay. Many also have expansive courtyards and gardens, emphasizing the importance of community.

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Muscat is Oman’s most famous mosque. Completed in 2001, it blends traditional Omani architecture and contemporary Islamic design. Another one of my favorite mosques in Muscat is the Al Zulfa Mosque in Al Seeb. With more than 20 green domes, the mosque looks like something straight out of Aladdin. The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Sohar is also truly breathtaking, combining Iranian and Central Asian influences. The tile work on this mosque is especially beautiful. It’s truly magical to visit at night, when the grounds are still and serene.

Tourists should not visit mosques during the five daily designated Islamic prayer times.

Eat at Traditional Omani Restaurants

Another one of my favorite things about Oman is the food. Omani cuisine is very tasty and flavorful.

The best places to eat in Oman are traditional and local restaurants. If the sign is written in Arabic, you’re probably in the right area. I like the type of places where they put a plastic placement down and serve your food on large metal plates. Some restaurants, like Rozna in Muscat, are even built like the Omani forts found throughout the country.

These aren’t just places to eat, they are windows into the country’s rich heritage, hospitality, and flavors. Along with standard wooden tables, many restaurants have areas with low seating that consists of colorful rugs and cushions. A majority of local restaurants also have private family seating so women can take off their hijabs to eat more comfortably.

One of the best foods I tried in Oman was camel skewers. The meat was very tender and tasty. Oman also has excellent restaurants from other Middle Eastern cuisines like Kuwaiti, Saudi, and Lebanese.

shop for Omani Frankincense and Bakhoor

One of the top things to buy in Oman is frankincense. Resembling small white pebbles, frankincense is produced in Oman’s southern Dhofar region in Salalah. It is harvested from the local Boswellia Sacra trees. When burned, a clean and resinous smell is released. It is used to welcome guests and during religious ceremonies. Historically, omani frankincense traveled across the ancient world on trade routes out of Arabia. Frankincense is also sometimes called Lubán.

Another famous incense in Oman and the entire gulf region is bakhoor. Usually made in the form of a woodchip, bakhoor is coated with various scented oud oils that when burned exude a rich, strong sent. All the countries in the Arabian peninsula have cultural ties to the burning of bakhoor during social occasions.

Other Things to do in Oman

Here are a few other ideas to add to your trip to Oman, whether you’re seeking more adventure, deeper cultural experiences, or more otherworldly scenery.

• Musandam | the fjords of Oman
• Visit the coastal city of Sur
• Attend an Omani camel race
• Take in the panoramic views of Yiti Beach
• Visit lesser known Omani cities like Barka and Ibra
• Rub Al Khali | the desert of the Empty Quarter

Oman Guide Itinerary

Here is how I spent my 8 day journey and roadtrip through the Sultanate of Oman. Feel free to alter for the length and specifics of your trip.

• Day 1: sunrise Jumeirah Muscat Bay and explore Muscat
• Day 2: Day trip to Nizwa and sunset at Mutrah Corniche
• Day 3: Jebel Akhdar and stay at the Suwgra
• Day 4:Jebel Shams
• Day 5: Sunrise at Jebel Shams and bull fights in Liwa
• Day 6: Free day in Muscat, night flight to Salalah (1 hour)
• Day 7: Salalah: drive west to the Yemen border (Sarfayt)
• Day 8: Mountains north of Salalah, Al Haffa Beach

other Oman guides and blogs

I hope you found my travel guide helpful as you plan your journey through the mesmerizing Sultanate of Oman. If you have any questions or thoughts, feel free to leave a comment below. I’d love to hear about your experiences exploring Oman. Safe Travels!

Here are some of my other Oman and Middle East travel guides for inspiration as you prepare for your trip:

• Salalah Travel Guide | Arabia’s hidden camel filled oasis
• Jebel Shams Guide | Visiting the Grand Canyon of Arabia
• The Bull Fights of Oman | Everything you need to know
• The Suwgra | Stay at Oman’s 500 year old mountain village
• Top 15 things to do in Oman | the corner of Arabia
• Muscat City Guide (COMING SOON)
• Damask Rose Season in Jebel Akhdar (COMING SOON)