Oman offers a delightful blend of traditions and modern luxury in the Arabian Peninsula. Immerse yourself in the rich Bedouin culture on these safaris, where you can enjoy traditional hospitality and cuisine amidst the stunning desert vistas. Oman is a top-tier destination for Indian travellers. The recent India Roadshow launched by the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism of the Sultanate of Oman in August emphasised the country's allure as a haven for those seeking an experience inspired by luxury, adventure, and lasting memories. If that is not enough to draw you in, you should also know that soon, you can embark seamlessly on your journeys across the Gulf region. With the new Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Grand Tours visa expected to roll out by the end of this year, your travel plans across Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates are set to become an easy reality. Moreover, a recent report suggests Oman is one of the top destinations among Gen Z and millennials as a solo travel hotspot.
If you are considering a trip to Oman, it's essential to take into account a variety of factors. Before embarking on your journey, it's important to familiarise yourself with the local customs and traditions, as well as any necessary travel documentation. Additionally, understanding the local currency, language, and transportation options will ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. Here are some essential tips.
Oman is not visa-free for Indians; you must apply for a tourist visa. For Indian nationals, there are two types of tourist visas available. The first option is the tourist visit visa 10D (26A), which allows for a 10-day stay within a one-month validity period. The second option is the tourist visit visa 30D (26B), which provides a 30-day stay.
Oman's official currency is the Rial Omani (RO), which is divided into 1000 baiza. The Rial Omani exchange is pegged to the US dollar, subjecting it to similar fluctuations. Currently, 1 Omani Rial (OMR= 1,000 Baizas) equals 218.18 Indian rupees. Banks operate from Saturday to Wednesday, from 8 am to 12 noon, and Thursdays from 8 am to 11 am. You will find ATMs nationwide at major supermarkets, hotels, and other locations. It is advisable to carry a card and cash in local currency in Oman.
The official language of Oman is Arabic. English is widely spoken in urban areas and popular tourist destinations. Due to Oman's diverse cultural landscape, various languages are spoken, including Baluchi, Swahili, Hindi, Malayalam, and Urdu. This linguistic diversity reflects the presence of different ethnic groups in the country, such as Arabs, Indians, Pakistanis, and Bangladeshis.
The work week in Oman spans from Sunday to Thursday. Weekends fall on Friday and Saturday.
Oman boasts a subtropical, arid climate with summer monsoons and scorching, dusty winds. In Muscat, enjoy average temperatures around 25°C in winter and a thrilling 38°C in summer. Seek respite in cooler temperatures of the mountainous Musandam Peninsula. Exercise caution as Oman's wadis (dry riverbeds) are prone to flash floods during heavy rainfall from October to March. Therefore, checking the weather forecast before venturing to a wadi is highly recommended. For most of the year in Oman, lightweight summer clothing in natural fibres like cotton is ideal. You may need sweaters, light jackets, or shawls for cooler evenings or stays in the desert or mountains.
You are allowed to purchase and enjoy alcohol in licensed venues such as hotels, restaurants, and clubs in Oman. Please note that the legal age for consuming alcohol is 21, and it is strictly prohibited to drink in public or to be in a state of intoxication. Importing and using e-cigarettes is also against the law in Oman.
To respect Ramadan traditions, it is important to adhere to specific guidelines. According to Article 277 of the Omani Penal Code, both Muslims and non-Muslims are expected to refrain from eating and drinking in public during fasting hours. This rule applies to all residents and visitors over the age of 15. It is also advised to dress modestly, covering your arms and knees. Furthermore, refraining from playing loud music, especially during fasting from sunrise to sunset, is also appreciated.
Please remember to dress modestly while in Oman. It's important to respect the local culture by covering your arms and shoulders. Avoid wearing sleeveless and strapless clothing. Skirts should be below the knee, and it's best to avoid wearing shorts in public areas unless you are at the hotel beach or by the pool.
While it is natural to be excited to capture memories in Oman, it's important to be mindful of local photography rules. Show respect by asking for permission before taking photos of people, especially women. Avoid taking pictures of government buildings, military checkpoints, and military facilities, as it's illegal. Always heed "No Photography" signs, particularly at mosques. Additionally, refrain from flying drones or using remote-controlled devices without a valid license.
When travelling anywhere, learning a few basic phrases is essential to have better interactions with the locals. In Oman, you can start a conversation with the traditional greeting "As Salam Alaykum," which translates to "peace be upon you." "Marhaba" means "hello". Additionally, use phrases like "Sabah Al Khayr" to greet someone in the morning, "Misa Al Khayr" to wish someone a good evening, and "Shukran" to express gratitude.
The most convenient way to reach Oman from India is to fly. Direct flights are available from major Indian cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore to Muscat, Oman’s capital. Airlines such as Oman Air, Air India, and IndiGo operate regular flights with an average duration of about 3 to 4 hours12. Alternatively, you can travel by road through the UAE, which requires crossing multiple borders and is less common.