Oman is an Arabian jewel combining ancient forts, pristine wadis, and dramatic desert landscapes. From the bustling souqs of Muscat to the frankincense trails of Salalah, this sultanate offers authentic Arabian experiences with world-class hospitality.
Oman is one of the safest countries in the world for travelers, consistently ranking among the top 10 globally for safety and security. Violent crime against tourists is extremely rare, the country is politically stable, and the Royal Oman Police is professional and responsive.
Current safety advisory
Low
Exercise normal precautions. The Oman-Yemen border region should be avoided due to ongoing regional conflict. No advisory against visiting main tourist areas including Muscat, Nizwa, Wahiba Sands, and Musandam.
Last updated: 2025-01
Official advisories
Guidance from national travel-advisory services.
Level 1 - Normal Precautions
Exercise normal precautions in Oman. Some areas have increased risk including Oman-Yemen border region.
Safe destination
Most visits to Oman are trouble-free. Take sensible precautions against petty crime and road safety risks.
Essential safety tips
Practical advice that applies everywhere.
Avoid the Oman-Yemen border region due to ongoing security risks.
Dress modestly at all times -- women should cover shoulders and knees; abayas are appreciated in rural areas and mosques.
Respect local customs during Ramadan: no eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours.
Keep copies of your passport and important documents stored separately from originals.
Be cautious when hiking in wadis during the rainy season (June-September): flash floods can occur with little warning.
Use only official taxis with meters, pre-booked apps (OTaxi, Mwasalat), or hotel transfers to avoid overcharging.
Register your trip with your country's embassy in Muscat if visiting remote desert or mountain regions.
Homosexuality is illegal in Oman -- exercise discretion and respect local laws.
Alcohol is only available in licensed hotels and restaurants; possession outside these venues is illegal.
Carry adequate water (3+ litres) when hiking wadis or deserts -- dehydration is a serious risk, especially May-September.
Haggling is expected in souqs but always bargain politely; aggressive negotiating is considered disrespectful.
Photography of military installations, government buildings, palaces, and people (especially women) without permission is prohibited.
Emergency numbers: Police 9999, Ambulance 9999, Fire 9999; Royal Oman Police is generally very responsive.
Common scams to avoid
Recognise and sidestep tourist-targeted scams.
Taxi overcharging
Traditional orange-and-white taxis sometimes charge tourists inflated rates, particularly from airport or tourist sites without a running meter.
How to avoid: Use the OTaxi app which shows fixed prices upfront, or negotiate the fare clearly before entering any taxi
Souq overpricing
In Mutrah Souq, initial prices quoted to obvious tourists can be 2-3x what local residents pay. This is standard market practice rather than dishonesty.
How to avoid: Counter-offer at 40-50% of asking price, maintain good humor, and walk away if unsatisfied — sellers will often call you back
Desert tour unofficial guides
Unofficial guides near Wahiba Sands entry points may offer cheaper tours than established operators but with no insurance, old vehicles, and poor safety practices.
How to avoid: Book desert tours through licensed operators in Muscat or reputable camp companies with established reputations
Health considerations
Staying healthy on your trip.
- Vaccinations
- No vaccinations required for most nationalities. Recommended: Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, routine MMR and DTaP. Yellow fever certificate required if arriving from an infected area. Consult a travel clinic 4-6 weeks before departure.
- Water
- Tap water is treated and technically safe in cities but most residents and visitors drink bottled water due to taste. Bottled water is cheap (OMR 0.2-0.5 per liter) and widely available. Avoid tap water in remote rural areas.
- Food
- Food safety is generally high in Oman. Stick to cooked foods at reputable restaurants. Be cautious with raw salads and street food hygiene in summer heat. Hospital-standard food at major hotels is safe.
- Facilities
- Oman has excellent medical facilities in Muscat with several accredited hospitals including Sultan Qaboos University Hospital and Royal Hospital. Private hospitals (Muscat Private Hospital, Badr Al Samaa) offer good standards. Remote areas have limited facilities — carry a basic first aid kit.
Safety for specific travellers
Tailored advice for different groups.
Solo travellers
Oman is extremely safe for solo travelers of all genders. Low crime, helpful locals, and stable society make it one of the best solo destinations in the Middle East. Standard precautions apply: don't hike remote wadis alone, inform accommodation of plans, and avoid isolated areas after dark in unfamiliar areas.
Female travellers
Oman is very safe for solo female travelers and consistently ranks among the best Arab countries for women. Harassment is rare. Dress modestly (covered shoulders and knees) to avoid unwanted attention and show respect. Female travelers are welcomed warmly and Omani women are visible in public spaces. Avoid hitchhiking and isolated wadi hiking alone.
Families
Oman is exceptionally family-friendly with safe streets, welcoming culture, and high-quality facilities. Children are welcomed everywhere. Main concerns are heat management and sun protection, wadi flooding in rainy season, and road safety on mountain roads. All major hospitals have pediatric departments.
LGBTQ+ travellers
Homosexuality is illegal in Oman under Article 223 of the Penal Code with potential imprisonment. The law is rarely enforced against tourists but public displays of same-sex affection should be strictly avoided. Exercise discretion, maintain privacy, and be aware that Oman is a conservative Islamic society.
Emergency contacts
Numbers to know before you go.
- Police
- 9999
- Medical
- 9999
- Embassy
- Contact your country's embassy in Muscat — US Embassy: +968 2464 3400; UK Embassy: +968 2460 9000; most embassies have 24-hour emergency lines
- Tourist Police
- 9999 (Royal Oman Police handles all emergency calls)