Oman

Plan your trip to Oman

Oman offers a rare blend of dramatic mountains, vast deserts, fjord-like coastlines and welcoming culture, all with far fewer crowds than its Gulf neighbours. It's a safe, easy country to self-drive, combining historic forts and souks with turtle beaches, wadis and the monsoon-green hills of Dhofar.

Getting there & around

Most travellers fly into Muscat International Airport, which has connections across the Gulf, Europe and Asia; Salalah has its own airport for Dhofar. There are no passenger trains, so renting a car is the best way to explore, with well-maintained highways linking regions, though a 4WD is needed for wadis, dunes and mountain tracks. Musandam is separated from the rest of Oman by the UAE, so it's often reached via Dubai or by ferry from Muscat.

How long to stay

Plan on 7–10 days to cover Muscat, the mountains, the desert and the coast at a comfortable pace. Add 2–3 more days if you want to include Dhofar or Musandam, which require separate flights or long drives.

When to go

October to April brings warm, dry, comfortable weather ideal for most of the country, while May to September is very hot inland and on the coast. Dhofar is the exception: its khareef monsoon (roughly late June to early September) turns Salalah's hills green and draws Gulf visitors.

Suggested itinerary

1. Muscat highlights — Explore the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, the Royal Opera House and the waterfront Mutrah Corniche with its souk and fish market. Visit Al Alam Palace framed by two clifftop forts.
2. Into the Hajar Mountains — Drive into Ad Dakhiliyah to Nizwa for its round fort and traditional souk, then continue up Jebel Akhdar for terraced villages and cool mountain air. Stop at Birkat Al Mouz's old falaj-fed plantations.
3. Wahiba Sands desert — Head to Ash Sharqiyah to camp among the dunes of the Wahiba Sands, with dune driving and sunset views. Detour to Wadi Bani Khalid for turquoise pools before reaching the sands.

Frequently asked questions

Is Oman worth visiting?

Yes. Oman rewards travellers with dramatic and varied scenery, well-preserved forts and culture, and a relaxed, safe atmosphere with fewer crowds than nearby Dubai or Abu Dhabi.

How many days do you need in Oman?

About 7–10 days lets you see Muscat, the Hajar Mountains, the desert and the coast. Adding Dhofar or Musandam requires 2–3 extra days each due to travel distances.

Is Oman safe for tourists?

Oman is considered one of the safest countries in the Middle East, with low crime and a friendly attitude toward visitors. Normal precautions and respect for local customs are advised.

Do I need a visa to visit Oman?

Many nationalities can obtain an eVisa online before arrival, and some short stays are visa-free. Check the official Royal Oman Police visa portal for your nationality and current rules.

What is the best time to visit Oman?

October to April offers the most comfortable weather for most of the country. For Salalah and Dhofar's green monsoon season, visit during the khareef from late June to early September.