FAQs

Capital: Muscat

Oman population: estimated at 4,974,986 (in 2019)

Languages: Arabic, English

Time Zone: GMT+4

Currency: Omani Rial

Visa: please contact www.rop.gov.om

Shaking hands is the usual form of greeting. It is important that women dress modestly beyond the hotel grounds: long skirt or dresses (below the knee) with covered shoulders. Woman are requested to cover their hair with a scarf as well as long skirt or trousers and long sleeves during the visit of the grand mosque.

Men are requested to wear long trousers and shirts with sleeves.

Dumping litter is forbidden and can be fined by the police. It is polite not to smoke in public. Collecting flowers, fruits, seashells, abalone, corals, crayfish and turtle eggs is prohibited.

Islam is the major religion in Oman.

The country is open-minded towards other religions as well.

Visitors should ask permission before attempting to photograph people or their property. “No Photography” signs must be followed. To take pictures of Government and Military installations are strictly prohibited.

Alcohol should not be consumed in public places apart from licensed premises, such as licensed hotels & restaurants. It is illegal to carry liquor in the car. In addition, the police take a serious view of traffic offences in which alcohol is involved and heavy fines may be imposed.

During the holy month of Ramadan, all Muslims are fasting from sunrise until sunset daily. During this period, all non-Muslims are kindly requested to avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public places during the hours of daylight. Tourist restaurants, hotels and coffee shops remain open during this time, but will not serve Alcohol (except in-room service and after sunset). Supermarkets are open during day time.