Oman Holidays

What is Oman known for?

When it comes to international tourism, Oman is often overshadowed by some of its Middle Eastern neighbours. However, the sector here is growing year on year, and tourism is becoming an increasingly important part of the country’s economy.

Visitors can experience local history and culture in spades in Muscat and other prominent cities – the souks in the capital are the perfect places to immerse yourself in local life. Or, if you’re visiting in search of utter peace and quiet, the country’s spectacular landscapes – from beaches to mountains – will offer the ideal backdrop for your relaxing escape.

Plus, as Oman has grown into a more established holiday destination, a greater number of high-end hotels and accommodation options have been developed in the main tourist regions. Luxury and opulence are two words commonly associated with this part of the world, and the country’s catalogue of hotels certainly lives up to this reputation.

What food should I try in Oman?

Hospitality is ingrained in Omani culture, and food plays an important role in this regard; dining is as much about the experience as eating here. The country’s culinary influences have come from all over the world, since Oman is situated on ancient trade routes connecting Africa and Asia. Expect to find dishes rich in spices and heavy on meats, like machboos, where rice is cooked in the same pot as the meat, allowing the flavours to permeate every part of the plate.

A delicacy reserved only for special occasions, shuwa is a national favourite in Oman. Meat (often lamb, goat or camel) that’s been marinated in a spicy paste is wrapped in banana leaves before being slow-cooked in a fire pit in the ground. While the spices can vary depending on the region, the cooking process remains the same, ensuring the meat is incredibly tender.

What is the best way to get around Oman?

The most common way for visitors to get around Oman is by hiring a car. This will give you the opportunity to venture beyond the tourist trail to discover deeper recesses of Oman’s fascinating natural world; there is a lot to see here, but the main tourist sites are dispersed across the country. Roads are largely well maintained, and traffic is generally light (outside of the main urban areas) meaning competent drivers should have no trouble navigating the roads in Oman. Road signs are written in both Arabic and English.

Travellers planning on staying in the main tourist areas might instead consider public transport (the modern buses are cheap, convenient and comfortable) or rely on taxis, with local apps available to help you find a driver. Domestic flights are also an option, with routes connecting the major cities: a journey from Muscat to Salalah will take approximately one hour and 40 minutes.

What is the weather like in Oman?

Oman experiences a dry and subtropical climate year-round, but regional variations do exist. Average rainfall in the north can be as high as 300 mm, while averages in the south can be as low as 50 mm – comparable to the driest countries in the world. Expect temperatures to be well into the 30s during the summer months, while daytime temperatures in the winter rarely drop below 20ºC. The slightly milder (yet still pleasant) conditions at this time of year make the winter months the best time to visit.

Where can I stay in Oman?

If it’s your first visit to Oman, we recommend staying in Muscat. Staying in the capital will give you a flavour of the country’s culture and offer easy access to other popular parts. Due to its coastal location, Muscat is also the perfect place to stay if the beaches are set to feature heavily on your itinerary.

Where is Oman?

Oman is situated on the southeast coast of the Arabian Peninsula in West Asia. It’s bordered by the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Yemen.

What is the capital of Oman?

Muscat is the capital city of Oman. It sits on the Gulf of Oman in the north of the mainland.

What languages are spoken in Oman?

Arabic is the official and most prominent language in Oman. Urdu, Baluchi and English are other widely spoken languages.

What's the time zone in Oman?

Oman observes Gulf Standard Time (GST) which is four hours ahead of GMT.

What currency does Oman use?

The Omani rial (OMR) is the national currency of Oman. Even though cards are widely accepted across the country, it’s always recommended to carry a small amount of cash for smaller transactions.

How long does it take to fly to Oman from the UK?

A direct flight from London to Muscat will take approximately 7 hours and 10 minutes.

Do I need a visa for Oman?

British citizens need an E-Visa to enter Oman. You can apply for a ten-day or 30-day E-Visa, and applications can be made in advance from the official website. Your visa is valid for one month from the date it’s approved, so be careful not to apply too early or you may be denied entry on arrival. Our team will be able to advise on the Oman entry requirements before you travel.