Oman is a unique place on the tourist map of the Middle East with a distinctive rich culture mixing European, Arab, Asian and African influences. Despite the stereotypical thinking that Oman is all desert, the country has a diversified landscape. This guide includes all essential information,visa, food, languages spoken and cultural information you’ll need to plan Traveling to Oman.
Its incredible views are one thing, but even more fascinating and impressive is that the land is not destroyed yet by massive tourism.
Do I need a visa to visit Oman?
Most travelers need a visa to visit Oman. There are two options: a traditional visa and an electronic visa obtainable online.
The conventional way entails going to the Oman embassy in your country, filling out the form, and submitting your documents. They will either reach you out, or you will need to visit the embassy for a follow-up.
To avoid the need to visit an Embassy, it’s best to apply online 3 days before the planned trip. Application for an e-Visa to Oman requires no embassy visits. All you need is a smartphone and Internet access.
Find the visa application form on the website oman-evisa.com and apply within minutes from home!
The Oman eVisa will be sent in a PDF format to the applicant’s email address. On average, it’s processed within 31 hours. With an online visa to Oman, you may visit friends and relatives, travel on holiday, business trips in the Sultanate of Oman.
The Omani government has created three different types of online visas for passengers to select from. Applicants can visit Oman with a single-entry or multiple-entry permit that allows them to stay in the country for different periods. You can find more information here.
What is the best time to visit Oman?
In Oman, there is no such thing as the spring or fall season. The temperature just shifts from blazing hot to pleasant.
It’s worth noting that, depending on the year, May and October can still be scorching. But in the wintertime, November to April is very nice cold breezy weather.
There are some advantages and disadvantages of the summer and winter travel to Oman, which are as follows:
Summer travel in Oman
Advantages:
– The pleasant weather in the upper mountains.
– Prices during the off-season.
– Salalah (South Oman) during the monsoon season.
Disadvantages:
– The unbearable heat across the country.
– A lot of humidity in coastal areas.
Winter travel in Oman
Advantages:
– Lovely weather all over the country.
– A lot of social life, events, etc.
Disadvantages:
– Price increases.
What language do people speak in Oman?
Oman’s national and official language is Arabic. In Oman, the Balochi language is also widely spoken. Moreover, English is a pretty common language, particularly in Muscat. Tourists visiting Oman shouldn’t be worried about the communication problems.
The Omani people are well-educated and speak many languages. In Oman, there is no need to be concerned about a language barrier. The traffic signs are written in both English and Arabic, so it is easier for you to reach the destination by reading the road signs.
3 best attractions to try in Oman
- Wadi Shab
Wadi Shab is the ideal place to see while traveling to Oman. The wadi (gorge) is a lovely 45-minute hike with several emerald green water pools. It is spectacular blue-green water that makes you feel refreshed and a jump into the water will be a perfect way for keeping you cool on your hike.
After the walk, you’ll arrive at the last section, where you may swim in the cave and observe a waterfall. Wadi Shab is a 1.5-hour journey from Muscat, the capital. It’s simple to find because it’s on the side of the road. Wadi Shab will take around 3-4 hours to explore. Avoid the heat of the noon hours by going for an early walk!
- Muscat’s Sultan Qaboos Mosque
Muscat’s Sultan Qaboos Mosque was completed in 2001. It’s the most important spiritual place in Oman today. Its architectural and detail-oriented elegance attracts visitors from all over the world.
It isn’t particularly crowded, though, as compared to other spiritual locations around the globe. It’s important to note that both men and women must wear long sleeve shirts and ankle-length slacks.
- Nizwa Fort
Nizwa Fort is one of Oman’s most magnificent and historical fortresses. It’s a nice area to spend an hour or two roaming around.
Several markers tell amazing stories about the fort’s history, objectives, and defense system. Get a glimpse of the lush oasis of palms from the top of the central circular fort.
- best foods to try in Oman
- Majboos
Majboos, also known as Kabsa or Makboos, is a classic mixed rice dish from Saudi Arabia. It is well-known in the Arab world, particularly in Gulf nations such as Oman.
The meal is made out of basmati rice, veggies, beef or chicken, and various spices. It’s sometimes accompanied by yogurt or a green salad, traditional bread, and tomato sauce.
- Shuwa
In Arabic, shuwa refers to cooked meat. It’s a popular meal in Oman. Shuwa cuisine requires a long cooking period.
The Shuwa is marinated in Omani spices, wrapped in banana leaves or palm leaves, and cooked for one to two days in an underground sand oven. This may appear unusual, yet Shuwa meat is one of the most delicious meals available.
- Mashuai
Omani mashuai is a delicious fish dish. It’s made out of grilled kingfish with a flavorful lemon sauce.
This meal is uniquely delicious, with characteristic Omani spices, and should not be missed on a visit to the country.
Final words
Oman is home to endless dunes, lush green valleys with palm trees, massive mountain ranges, and natural ponds. Everything in Oman is a must-try out.
This ultimate guide can help you to prepare for your Omani trip and it’s also a perfect list of things that you shouldn’t miss when visiting the country.
Enjoy your time in Oman, inhale its natural beauty, try local cuisine, reach the peaks, swim in wadi and collect the best moments! But first, don’t forget to obtain your Oman e-Visa at least 3 business days in advance!
