Oman

International terrorist groups are active in the Arabian Peninsula. Attacks against targets in Oman may happen.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide. Terrorist attacks could occur anywhere and at any time. Be alert to possible threats, especially in public places. Terrorists may target tourist areas or other places frequented by foreigners and where large crowds may gather.

Possible targets include:

• places of worship or religious holidays
• hotels, clubs, restaurants and cafes
• markets and shopping malls
• outdoor recreation events, including festivals, concerts, and sporting venues
• public transport, airports and railway hubs

To stay safe:

• report suspicious activities or items to the police
• check the media for new threats
• take official warnings seriously
• follow the instructions of local authorities

If there’s a terrorist incident, leave the area if it’s safe to do so and follow the instructions of local authorities. 

More information:

• Terrorism

The security situation in the region remains unpredictable and could deteriorate with little or no warning.

Demonstrations and protests

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.

• Avoid all protests, demonstrations and large public gatherings.
• Monitor media and other sources for advice on possible unrest. Avoid affected areas.
• Take extra care around the time of Friday prayers.
• Plan your activities to avoid potential unrest on national or commemorative days.
• Be prepared to change your travel plans in case civil unrest disrupts them.
• If transport disruptions affect you, contact your airline, travel agent or insurer for help.

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Armed conflict in Yemen

Military tensions remain in neighbouring Yemen. 

If you decide, against our advice, to travel to border areas, be alert to possible threats.

Seek local advice on routes to minimise security threats.

There is a military response to Houthi militants' attacks on international shipping in the Red Sea. Although military activity is currently limited to the Red Sea and Yemen, Oman's travel advice could change quickly. You should monitor the travel advice and follow instructions from local authorities.

Oman has a low crime rate.

Petty criminals sometimes target tourists for burglaries and theft, especially in crowded places and from vehicles.

Physical, verbal and sexual harassment can occur. Risks increase at night. Secure your accommodation. Don't camp in remote areas. Take care when travelling outside towns and cities and in crowded places.

Reported cases of sexual assault and rape against foreign nationals are low, but they do happen. Take care when travelling alone particularly at night. 

Women have been detained when reporting sexual assault, as they must prove that the sex was not consensual to avoid being charged. It is illegal to have extramarital sex. Some travellers camping in small groups in remote areas have been assaulted.

To stay safe:

• secure all doors and windows at your accommodation
• avoid camping in remote areas alone or in small groups

Drink spiking

Methanol poisoning

Cyber security 

Kidnapping

Kidnapping can happen anywhere, anytime, including in destinations that are typically at lower risk. 

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers.

More information, including advice on how to reduce your risk of kidnapping:

Kidnapping

Transport and tour operators don't always follow safety and maintenance standards. This includes operators of adventure activities.

If you plan to do an adventure activity, including hiking and swimming:

• check if your travel insurance policy covers it
• ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
• always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts
• follow the advice of local authorities
• follow marked hiking trails and other safety instructions.

If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

Oman often experiences extremely high temperatures. From June to September, the temperature can reach 50°C.

Dehydration is common in summer. To avoid heat stroke and dehydration:

• drink plenty of water
• avoid long periods in the heat.

Flooding may occur during the monsoon season, from June to September. 

Oman may experience cyclones, especially during the monsoon season.

Rain can cause flooded roads, including in mountain areas and river valleys.

Sand and dust storms can occur during the drier months from October to May.

If a natural disaster or severe weather occurs:

• secure your passport in a safe location
• Register with the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System to receive alerts on major disasters.
• monitor local media and follow the advice of local authorities
• keep in contact with friends and family

Insect-borne diseases

Dengue, leishmaniasis and other insect-borne diseases occur, especially on the Musandam Peninsula.

Malaria is a low ongoing risk due to Oman's high temperature and humidity.

To protect yourself from illness:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing
• consider taking medication that prevents malaria

Get medical advice if you have a fever, muscle pain, a rash or a severe headache.

Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus

Cases of Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) have been reported in Oman.

Avoid contact with camels. Don’t consume raw camel milk, undercooked camel meat, or anything contaminated with camel secretions.

Get medical advice if you have a fever, cough, breathing difficulties or diarrhoea.

More information:

• MERS information card

Other health risks

There's a risk of Hepatitis A and typhoid through contaminated food or water.

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads

Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

More information:

• Infectious diseases

Health care is generally good but can vary from region to region.

Hospitals and clinics in larger cities are better equipped.

There’s no agreement between Australia and Oman for free healthcare. Tourists must pay for all medical care, even if they need to stay in hospital or be evacuated. This can be very expensive. Make sure your travel insurance covers you. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs. Before treating patients, hospitals often ask for:

• guarantee of payment
• proof of medical insurance
• an upfront deposit

Omani law applies to you even if you're transiting and don't leave the airport.

You may be detained and fined if you drink alcohol or are intoxicated in public. The legal age of drinking alcohol in licensed venues is 21. 

If you come to the attention of the local authorities, they may require you to take a blood test, particularly if they suspect you have used drugs or alcohol. If you refuse, you could be arrested for your failure to comply.

Behaviour that may be considered offensive or antisocial, but not criminal, in Australia could break Omani law. See 'Other laws' below.

More information:

• Arrested or jailed

The Embassy of Australia in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, is accredited to Oman. The Embassy in Riyadh doesn't have direct access to Omani Government institutions such as police stations, jails and hospitals. The Australian Government must formally seek access via the Omani Embassy in Riyadh. This can cause delays if you need consular help.

Drugs

Penalties for drug offences are severe and include the death penalty. Possessing even a small amount of drugs can result in lengthy jail terms and heavy fines. These laws also apply if you're transiting through Oman. 

Police may detain you if you are accompanied by a person who is involved in drug cases, including trafficking, possessing or using drugs. You may remain in detention until investigations are concluded for all parties.

If you come to the attention of the local authorities, they may require you to take a blood test, particularly if they suspect you have used drugs or alcohol. If you refuse, you could be arrested for your failure to comply.

More information:

• Carrying or using drugs

Other laws

If you're involved in legal matters, get professional legal advice. This especially includes family law regarding divorce, child custody and child support. 

Know your rights and responsibilities.

Authorities may not let you leave Oman if you:

• are involved in business or labour disputes
• have unpaid debts, and bills. Unpaid bills include:
  • giving somebody a cheque which bounces (including post-dated and ‘security’ cheques)
  • non-payment of bills (for example property rent, hotel bills or car hire).
• have unpaid traffic fines. You can check if you have outstanding traffic fines via the ROP app or online service: Royal Oman Police Website - Online Services - Traffic Offense Payment.
• have legal proceedings underway

Serious offences, such as murder, may attract the death penalty.

The following activities are illegal:

• same-sex sexual acts or having sex outside marriage
• using aggressive, obscene or abusive language or gestures in public, including on social media
• insulting Oman, Islam, the royal family, the local government and its policies or local officials
• taking photos near, or at, government buildings or other sensitive infrastructure, including oilfields
• possessing pornographic material
• wearing military or similar clothing and accessories
• using or importing e-cigarettes or vape products

Always ask people for permission if you want to take their photo. 

LGBTQIA+ information

Same-sex relationships are illegal and may lead to severe punishment, including prison and fines.

Cross-dressing is also illegal.

If you're transgender or intersex, or your gender on your passport doesn't match your appearance, you may:

• be questioned at immigration
• be denied entry into Oman

More information:

• Advice for LGBTQIA+ travellers

Oman doesn't recognise dual nationality.

If you're a dual citizen, and entered Oman using your non Australian passport, this limits the consular services we may be able to provide including if you are arrested or detained.

More information:

• Dual nationals

Oman has strict Islamic dress and behaviour codes.

Hotels may refuse accommodation to couples who can't prove they're married. You should contact your accommodation provider to seek clarification on the requirements. It is important to respect local customs and act in a culturally appropriate manner.

Take extra care during Ramadan and Shia religious festivals.

The Omani weekend is Friday and Saturday.

To ensure you don't offend:

• avoid disrespecting Islam or any other religion
• avoid bad language, rude gestures and public displays of affection
• respect restrictions on alcohol and pork products.

If in doubt, seek local advice.

To observe dress codes:

• dress modestly in public when not at tourist beaches, hotels or resorts
• avoid wearing tight clothes, shorts or low-cut tops
• cover your upper arms and knees. 

Penalties including fines and jail terms apply to violations of Oman’s public decency laws

Ramadan

The Islamic holy month of Ramadan is observed in Oman. Respect religious and cultural customs and laws at this time.

During Ramadan, eating, drinking (including water) and smoking may be illegal in public during the day. If you're not fasting, avoid these activities around people who are. Seek local advice to avoid offence.

More information

• Ramadan

Visas

Australian citizens visiting Oman for up to 14 days for the purpose of tourism may be eligible for a free-of-charge entry visa. This is subject to the following conditions/requirements:

• evidence of your confirmed accommodation booking
• evidence of health insurance to cover your stay
• evidence of your return ticket
• your passport is valid for more than six months

The Omani 14-day free entry visa may not be extendable. You'll need to leave Oman before the end of 14 days to avoid visa violation penalties. See Royal Oman Police for up-to-date information.

 If you're staying in Oman for more than 14 days, you'll need to get a valid visa, and fees will apply. Oman is issuing visas on arrival and accepting applications for work and tourist visas. Please check the requirements with Royal Oman Police. 

You'll need travel insurance for the duration of your stay.

If you need to renew your Omani visa while in Oman, apply for a visa extension through the Royal Oman Police website. Penalties may apply if you overstay your visa.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. You should contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate of the Sultanate of Oman for the latest details.

Entry to Oman

You need a valid visa to enter Oman if you're planning to stay for more than 14 days. Visit visas are available on arrival at the airport. However, it's recommended you apply for a visa before you travel. You can apply for an e-visa through the Royal Oman Police portal. When applying for a visa, make sure you choose the right type of visa. The type of visa you need will depend on your country of residence and the purpose of your travel. Visit the Royal Oman Police portal or contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate of the Sultanate of Oman for advice.

Your airline may have rules in addition to those set out by the Omani authorities.

Visit the Oman Airports portal for information on Security and Customs requirements. 

If your passport contains evidence of entry to Israel, or another country's border crossing points with Israel, authorities will deny you entry to Oman.

Omani authorities may not allow you to enter Oman from Yemen without prior approval. Crossing the border into Yemen can be dangerous due to the threat of armed conflict and violence. If you decide to cross the border from either Oman or Yemen, prior approval may be required. For advice, visit the Royal Oman Police portal or contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate of the Sultanate of Oman.

Yellow fever vaccination

You need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter Oman if you're arriving from a country where it's a risk.

More information:

• Countries with a risk of yellow fever (PDF)

Travel with children

In some cases, children with an Omani father need their father's permission to leave Oman. 

Check with the Royal Oman Police and the airlines whether the father's permission is require to travel. 

More information:

• Embassy or Consulate of the Sultanate of Oman

Validity

Oman may require a minimum validity of 6 months on passports to be able to renew your Omani Residence Permit.

Authorities may not allow you to exit or enter Oman if you're travelling on an emergency passport. Contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate of the Sultanate of Oman for advice.

Lost or stolen passport

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier 

If your passport shows 'X' in the gender field, Omani authorities may refuse you entry. 'X' refers to those who are indeterminate, intersex or unspecified sex. Contact the Royal Oman Police or contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate of Oman before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.

More information:

• LGBTQIA+ travellers

The local currency is the Omani Rial (OMR).

Declare all precious metals, local and foreign currency valued OMR6000 or more when you arrive and depart. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash. More information is available here: Traveller Services

You can easily exchange US dollars and euros at commercial banks and currency bureaus.

Credit card facilities and ATMs are widely available.

Ask your bank if your cards will work in Oman.

Driving permit

If you hold an Omani residence permit you'll need to obtain an Omani driver's licence to be able to drive in Oman.

If you're in Oman on a visit visa, you should hold an International Driving Permit (IDP). Your IDP should be endorsed by the Oman road authorities. This is usually done at the rental car company at the airport.

Road travel

The annual death toll on Omani roads is high. You're more likely to die in a motor vehicle accident in Oman than in Australia.

Safety hazards include:

• drivers ignoring road rules
• bad weather limiting visibility
• poor road conditions in some parts of the country
• camels straying onto roads

Dangers are higher if you drive outside major cities, especially after dark, and on unsealed roads.

Oman restricts travel to some areas, including the Yemeni borders. You'll need authorisation from Omani authorities to travel to restricted areas.

You may be detained and fined if you drink alcohol in public, or if you drive under the influence of alcohol.

If you plan to drive: 

• check your travel insurance policy covers you
• learn local traffic laws and practices

More information:

• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Check your travel insurance covers you for riding motorbikes, quad bikes or similar.

Always wear a helmet.

Taxis

Only use registered taxis and limousines. Arrange these through your accommodation if you can.

Use a meter taxi or agree on the fare with the driver before getting in a taxi.

Public transport

Long-distance shared taxis and minibuses operate between major centres.

These services aren't networked or scheduled.

More information:

• Transport and getting around safely

Sea travel

Territorial disputes and security issues in many of the waters near Oman make sea travel in these areas risky, especially around the islands of Abu Musa and Tunbs in the southern Gulf. Piracy occurs in the waters around Oman, Yemen and Saudi Arabia. If you travel by sea, monitor the International Maritime Bureau piracy reports.

If you travel by sea to or near Oman:

• monitor piracy reports for the region
• be cautious and alert to possible threats
• avoid confrontation

More information:

• Travelling by boat

Air travel

Check Oman's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

More information:

• Air travel

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider
• employer
• airline

Fire and rescue services

Call 9999.

Medical emergencies

Call 9999.

Police

Call 9999.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

The Australian Government aims to provide high quality consular assistance. There are limits to what we can do. Read the Consular Services Charter to understand how we can assist you overseas.

For consular, passport and notarial enquiries, contact the Embassy of Australia in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Australian Honorary Consul, Muscat

Behind Centara Hotel
United Towers Building
Way no.5007
Compound no.250
Ghala, Muscat
Sultanate of Oman

Phone: +968 24763350
Email: ausconsul-oman@usoman.com

The working week is Sunday to Thursday.

Embassy of Australia, Riyadh

Abdullah Bin Hozafa Al-Sahmi Avenue
Diplomatic Quarter
Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Phone: (+966) 11 250 0900
Website: www.saudiarabia.embassy.gov.au
X: @AusAmbKSA
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AusEmbKSA 

The working week is Sunday to Thursday.

Check the Embassy website for detail about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia