Group trips to Oman

If you are a UK citizen, to find out the entry requirements for Oman, you can check this informational page from our partner Sherpa. If you need a visa, you can apply for it through Sherpa. If you are not a UK citizen, you can still use Sherpa by changing the nationality in the 'Passport' section.

Before traveling, always remember to check the government website of your country of origin for updates on the entry requirements for Oman – you wouldn’t want to stay home due to a bureaucratic detail!

• UK residents: review the FCDO Travel Advice.
• US residents: consult the US Department of State Travel Advice.
• Other residents: refer to your government or local consulate's travel advice.

Oman is in the Gulf Standard Time (GST) zone, which is 4 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+4). Oman does not observe daylight saving time. So, if it is 12pm in the UK, it will be 4pm in Oman. If it is 12pm in New York, USA, it will be 8pm in Oman. Keep this in mind when planning your calls or meetings.

Oman's currency is the Omani Rial (OMR). The daily exchange rates are approximately:

• 1 GBP to 0.49 OMR
• 1 USD to 0.39 OMR
• 1 EUR to 0.42 OMR

You can exchange currency at banks, airports, and authorized exchange centers.

In Oman, you can pay using credit cards, debit cards, and cash. Most major credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger stores. However, it's a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller shops, markets, or rural areas where card payments might not be available. ATMs are common in urban areas, allowing you to withdraw the local currency, which is the Omani Rial. Always check with your bank for any foreign transaction fees when using your cards abroad.

Tipping in Oman is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, you might want to leave a tip of around 10 percent if service isn't included. For taxi drivers, rounding up the fare is a nice gesture. Hotel staff, like porters, usually receive a small tip of around one Omani Rial. In general, tipping is a way to show appreciation for good service, but it’s not expected everywhere.

In Oman, it's a good idea to buy a local SIM card or an e-SIM data plan if you want to stay connected. Major providers like Omantel and Ooredoo offer various plans. Wi-Fi is generally available in hotels, cafes, and some public areas, but having a SIM card ensures you're connected on the go. Roaming charges can be high, so a local SIM is a cost-effective option for staying connected throughout your trip.

In Oman, the official language is Arabic. Here are a few useful colloquial expressions you might hear or use:

• Hello: "Marhaba"
• Thank you: "Shukran"
• Yes: "Na'am"
• No: "La"
• Goodbye: "Ma'a as-salama"

Many Omanis also speak English, especially in tourist areas, so communicating shouldn't be too difficult.

In Oman, you'll find that Type G plugs are used, similar to the ones in the UK. The electrical system operates on a voltage of 240V with a frequency of 50Hz. If you're coming from a country with different plug types, we suggest you bring a universal adapter to ensure your devices can be used without any issues. Always check your device’s compatibility with 240V to prevent any damage.

The main religion in Oman is Islam, with the majority of Omanis practicing Ibadi Islam, a unique branch that distinguishes them from many other Islamic countries. When visiting, there are a few cultural and dress considerations to keep in mind:

• Women should cover their shoulders and knees, especially when visiting mosques or religious sites.
• Men should also dress modestly, avoiding sleeveless tops and shorts.

Important religious holidays in Oman include Ramadan, a month of fasting, and Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan. Eid al-Adha, another significant festival, celebrates the willingness of Ibrahim to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. Plan your visit accordingly as these holidays can affect business hours and public services.

Oman is a beautiful destination with diverse landscapes, so packing smart is key. Here's a list to help you get started:

• Clothing:
  • Lightweight long-sleeved shirts and pants (to respect local customs)
  • Breathable T-shirts
  • A light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings
  • Swimwear for the beach or pools
• Shoes:
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Sandals for the beach
  • Hiking boots if you plan to explore the mountains
• Accessories and Technology:
  • Sunhat and sunglasses
  • Power bank
  • Universal adapter (Oman uses type G plugs, 240V, 50Hz)
• Toiletries and Medication:
  • Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
  • Basic toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant)
  • Travel-size first aid kit
  • Common travel medication (pain relievers, motion sickness tablets, antihistamines)

Keep in mind the warm climate and cultural respect, especially in public places.

The weather in Oman varies by region, so here's a quick breakdown:

• Coastal areas: Hot and humid, with temperatures often above 30°C (86°F) most of the year. Best time to visit is from November to March when it's cooler.
• Interior regions: Very hot and dry, especially in summer with temperatures exceeding 40°C (104°F). Winter months are more pleasant.
• Mountainous areas: Cooler than the rest of the country, especially at night. Great for visiting year-round, but the coolest months are November to March.

For the best experience, visit during the cooler months from November to March.