Oman

πŸ‡΄πŸ‡²

Phone Code

+968

Capital

Muscat

Population

5 Million

Native Name

ΨΉΩ…Ψ§Ω†

Region

Asia

Western Asia

Timezone

Gulf Standard Time

UTC+04:00

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Oman is an Arab country on the southeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula, bordered by the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Yemen, with coastlines along the Arabian Sea and Gulf of Oman. Muscat serves as the capital and largest city. Oman is an absolute monarchy ruled by Sultan Haitham bin Tariq Al Said (since January 2020, succeeding Sultan Qaboos who ruled 1970-2020). The country is known for its traditional culture, hospitality, dramatic landscapes including mountains and deserts, historic forts, and relatively stable political environment compared to some regional neighbors. Oman has pursued modernization while maintaining cultural traditions and has positioned itself as a neutral mediator in regional affairs. Tourism infrastructure has developed significantly with the government promoting tourism as part of economic diversification from oil dependence. Major attractions include Muscat's Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Mutrah Souq, Royal Opera House, Nizwa Fort and traditional souq, Jebel Shams (Oman's highest mountain with 'Grand Canyon' views), Wahiba Sands desert, coastal areas of Sur and Salalah, wadis (valleys) including Wadi Shab and Wadi Bani Khalid, ancient beehive tombs at Bat UNESCO site, frankincense trees in Dhofar region, and dolphin/turtle watching along the coast. Oman offers authentic Arabian Gulf experience with less development than neighboring UAE or Qatar.

Visa Requirements for Oman

Oman offers multiple visa options for international visitors. E-visa system (launched 2018, portal: evisa.rop.gov.om) allows citizens of eligible countries to apply online for tourist visas with processing typically 1-3 days and cost 20 Omani Rials (approximately $52 USD) for 30-day single entry tourist visa. Visa on arrival is available at Muscat International Airport and land borders for citizens of GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) countries and limited other nationalities with specific conditions. Citizens of GCC countries (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain) can enter visa-free for up to 14 days and may extend. Some nationalities can obtain visa-free entry for short visits. Passport must be valid for at least 6 months from date of entry. Oman requires travelers to have travel health insurance covering COVID-19 treatment, though requirements have been updated periodically. The visa process is generally straightforward with clear online procedures. Oman has developed tourism infrastructure while maintaining traditional hospitality and cultural authenticity. The country is generally safe for travelers with low crime rates and has been less affected by regional instability than some neighboring countries.

Common Visa Types

E-Visa (Tourist)

Single entry 30 days costs 20 OMR ($52); multiple entry 1 year costs 50 OMR ($130); apply at evisa.rop.gov.om; processing 1-3 days typically; requires passport scan (valid 6+ months), photo, travel insurance, accommodation details, credit card payment; approval received via email; print visa to show at arrival; straightforward online process; available for citizens of most Western countries, many Asian nations, and others; check eligibility on official portal.

For tourism, applied online before travel through official e-visa portal for eligible nationalities.

Visa on Arrival

GCC nationals (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain) enter visa-free for 14 days extendable; other nationalities with visa on arrival eligibility can obtain 30-day visa at airport for 20 OMR ($52); requirements include passport valid 6+ months, return ticket, accommodation proof, visa fee payment; availability depends on nationality and entry point; e-visa application before arrival often preferred for smoother entry; verify current eligibility before travel.

Available at Muscat International Airport and land borders for GCC citizens and other eligible nationalities.

GCC Visa-Free Entry

GCC nationals (Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain) can enter Oman without advance visa using national ID card or passport for stays up to 14 days; extensions available through Royal Oman Police; GCC residents with valid residency permits in GCC countries may also be eligible for simplified entry procedures; part of GCC integration allowing free movement of Gulf citizens.

For citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council member states under regional free movement agreement.

Work Visa / Residence Permit

1-2 years typically, renewable; requires job offer from licensed Omani company, employment contract, medical examination, passport, educational certificates, police clearance; employer handles application through Ministry of Manpower; Omanization policies prioritize Omani nationals for employment so work permits granted primarily for skilled positions not available locally; common sectors for expats include oil and gas, healthcare, education, engineering; residence card (residence permit) issued after work visa approval; family visas available for dependents.

For employment in Oman, requires Omani employer sponsorship and Ministry of Manpower approval.

Important Travel Information

Cultural Sensitivity and Dress Code: Oman is a conservative Muslim country with traditional values. Visitors should dress modestly, especially when visiting mosques, souqs, and rural areas. For women: cover shoulders and knees, loose-fitting clothing recommended, headscarf required when entering mosques (non-Muslims can visit Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque during designated hours). For men: avoid shorts in public places, cover shoulders. Swimwear appropriate at hotel pools and beaches but not in public areas. During Ramadan (Islamic holy month of fasting), eating, drinking, and smoking in public during daylight hours is prohibited - respect fasting practices. Public displays of affection are discouraged. Photography: ask permission before photographing people, especially women; avoid photographing government buildings and military sites.

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque: Muscat's Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is Oman's architectural masterpiece and primary tourist attraction. One of few mosques in Gulf region open to non-Muslims (visiting hours: Saturday-Thursday 8:00-11:00 AM, closed Fridays and during prayer times). Features massive prayer hall with 14-meter Swarovski crystal chandelier, world's second-largest hand-woven Persian carpet (4,343 square meters), Italian marble, and capacity for 20,000 worshippers. Dress code strictly enforced: women must wear headscarf, long sleeves, long pants/skirt covering ankles (abayas available to borrow); men must wear long pants and shirts with sleeves. No shoes inside (carry bag for shoes). Free entry. Photography allowed in courtyard but restricted inside prayer halls. Respectful behavior essential - this is active place of worship.

Wadis and Desert Adventures: Oman's natural attractions include numerous wadis (valleys with seasonal water flows) offering swimming, hiking, and scenic beauty. Popular wadis: Wadi Shab (turquoise pools, cave swimming, moderate hike), Wadi Bani Khalid (year-round water, easier access, family-friendly), Wadi Tiwi (dramatic scenery). Access often requires 4WD vehicles and moderate fitness. Best visited October-April when temperatures are cooler. Wahiba Sands (Sharqiya Sands) offers desert experiences including dune bashing, camel riding, Bedouin camps, stargazing. Desert camps range from basic to luxury. Book desert tours through reputable operators. Bring sun protection, water, appropriate footwear.

Cities with missions

Where this country maintains embassies or consulates

Muscat
States & Regions in Oman

Explore different regions and their cities.

Hosted missions

Embassies in Oman

These foreign embassies and consulates are based here. Choose a mission to open its in-depth guide and contact details.

Key origin countries

United Kingdom in Oman
United States in Oman

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