Oman

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.

• Dial 9999 for police, ambulance, or fire.

Terrorism

Terrorists and their supporters may target U.S. citizens abroad.

Terrorist may target:

• Large public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Popular hotels, clubs, and restaurants
• Places of worship
• Schools
• Parks
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation (subways, buses, trains, and commercial flights)

Crime

• There is minimal street crime in Oman. Violent crime is rare.

Scams

Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.

If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.

Financial scams and internet romance scams may occur in Oman. Be careful of anyone asking for money, especially those who start a "romantic" relationship online or claim local authorities want money. Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters. Scammers pretend to be U.S. citizens in need of help.

Common scams include:

• People claiming to be U.S. military personnel
• People claiming to be detained or hospitalized abroad
• Romance and online dating
• Money transfers
• Grandparent and relative targeting
• Free trip or luggage
• Lotteries
• Inheritance notices
• Work permits and job offers

Victims of crime

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. You may report crimes to the local police by dialing 9999.

• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

The U.S. embassy or consulate can:

• Replace a stolen or lost passport.
• Help you find medical care.
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system.
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys.
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need.
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.

Sexual assault and domestic violence

• U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault or domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy and local law enforcement for assistance. 

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world.

Follow these safe practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States.
• VPN or VoIP usage is restricted and could result in penalties.
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks.
• Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS. The fastest route is not always the safest.
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens.
• It is illegal to operate drones or any other flying devices without a valid license.

Tourism safety

The tourism industry is regulated:

• Rules and safety inspections are regularly enforced.
• Dangerous areas and activities are marked with signs.
• Trained and certified staff are usually there to help with organized activities.
• If you get injured, you can usually get medical help locally.
• In rural areas, it might take longer for medical help to arrive and help.
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance.
• Review our information on Travel Insurance.

Local laws and customs

Criminal penalties

U.S. citizens must follow local laws. If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned.

• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.
• Before you start a business or a profession in Oman seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required.

Arrest notification

• If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. embassy or consulate immediately.

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations.

• They may be illegal according to local laws.
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety.
• You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States.

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• U.S. Department of Justice

Faith-based travelers

Faith based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your travel using these resources:

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering Abroad
• International Religious Freedom Reports

Gay and lesbian travelers

Same-sex relationships in Oman are criminalized and subject to a jail term of 6 months to 3 years.

• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with accessibility needs

The law in Oman prohibits discrimination against people with physical, intellectual or mental disabilities. The law is enforced.

• The most common types of accessibility may include accessible facilities and access to services.
• Expect accessibility to be limited in older buildings, public transportation, and outside of urban areas.
• Accessibility may be present in newer medical facilities and public buildings in cities.
• General public sentiment around disability is accommodating for reasonable requests for assistance.
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

• Review our information on Studying Abroad.

Women travelers

• Review our information on Women travelers.

Human rights

Oman law strictly limits media and speech. Criticism of the Sultan, government, and religion can lead to imprisonment or penalties.

• U.S. citizens should avoid public religious activities not sanctioned by Omani authorities.
• Strict dress codes are enforced in most government buildings and in some public spaces. Do not wear sleeveless shirts or shorts. Wear athletic clothing in public only when engaged in sports activities. Individuals wearing inappropriate clothing may be asked to leave and police may be called if the individual refuses.
• It is illegal to stay in the same hotel room or live with someone of the opposite sex, unless you are married or closely related. Hotel staff may request proof of relationship at check-in.
• Journalists should review our travel tips for Journalists.
• Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your destination prior to traveling.

Health

Health resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Oman Travel Information provides destination specific information on prevalent diseases and vaccination recommendations.
• CDC Medical Tourism information
• World Health Organization
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance

Emergency phone numbers

• Dial 9999 for emergency medical services.

Ambulance services

Ambulance services are widely available.

Oman uses 2 systems: a government-run emergency service and private ambulance services connected to hospitals and clinics. If the closest ambulance is already busy, it may take longer for help to arrive because an ambulance from another area will need to be sent.

Public ambulance services

These are managed by the Civil Defense and Ambulance Authority (CDAA), formerly PACDA, under the Royal Oman Police. Their services provide primary emergency medical response nationwide. 

• Emergency contact: Dial 9999 for immediate response.
• Coverage and cost: Public ambulance services are free of charge for everyone, regardless of insurance or nationality. 
• Public health integration: Public ambulances transport patients to Ministry of Health (MoH) hospitals. These handle cases like trauma, cardiac surgery, and oncology.

Private ambulance services

Hospital-based services: Major private hospitals, such as Al Hayat International Hospital, offer dedicated ambulance services.

• Dial +968-2200-4001 for patient transfers, event standby, and emergency resuscitation.
• Injured or very ill travelers might prefer to take a taxi or their own car to the nearest major hospital. This option can be faster than waiting for an ambulance.

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses coverage abroad. Most U.S. plans do not.

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Medical care is not free in Oman. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility.
• Lack of payment may bar future travel to Oman.
• Hospitals generally require payment up front or proof of Oman-issued insurance before providing treatment or admitting a patient. Inability to readily provide payment for services may result in delay or denial of care, unless it is a life-threatening emergency situation.
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance. If you purchase medical travel insurance, you are responsible for seeking reimbursement from your medical insurance. Be sure to follow their guidance and instructions for filing claims.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Vaccinations

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice

Healthcare facilities

• Health facilities are available in Oman. It may be harder to find adequate health care in rural areas.
• The U.S. embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals found here. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.
• Hospitals and doctors generally require payment upfront prior to service or admission, unless it is a life-threatening emergency.
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in larger cities.
• Hospital-based care is only available through government institutions.

Prescription medications

• Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.
• Be sure to bring enough of your prescriptions (as well as over-the-counter medications) to last the duration of your trip.
  
• Check with the Oman Ministry of Health to make sure your medication is legal in Oman.
• Exercise caution when purchasing medication abroad. Pharmaceuticals are usually easy to buy with few controls.
• There is no clear official data on how widespread counterfeit prescription drugs are in Oman. However, authorities are strengthening rules through the Ministry of Health’s Drug Safety Center. Make sure you purchase medicines only from licensed pharmacies and avoid unregulated sources.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States. If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally.

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States.

For more information:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Food and Drug Administration

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and surrogacy

• If you are considering traveling to Oman to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please review our information on ART and Surrogacy Abroad.
• Surrogacy is illegal in Oman. 

Water quality and food safety

• Tap water is generally safe to drink and use in cooking.
• In rural areas tap water is not safe to drink.
• In some locations, tap water is not available every day.
• Bottled water and beverages are generally safe. Use major brands and ensure the seal is intact.
• You may want to request no ice in your drinks since it may be made using tap water.
• Eating uncooked vegetables and fruits can make you sick.
• Make water safe by filtering, boiling, disinfecting, or distilling.
• Impure water can cause diseases like typhoid, cholera, hepatitis, and dysentery.

Air quality

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations abroad.

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a 3-day forecast of expected air quality in Oman.
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow.
• NAQI is Oman’s official application for real-time air quality monitoring, showing air quality based on geographical location, pollutant details, weather data, and color-coded alert, using a simple green (good) to red (hazardous) system for quick assessment.
• For general information, visit the Medicine and Health  page.

Transportation

Road conditions and safety

• Dial 9999 for the Royal Oman Police for all traffic-related emergencies. Have an Arabic speaker call when giving directions to a location. English-speaking operators are not always available.
• The Royal Oman Police staff have a minimum of 1 English, 1 Hindi, and 1 Urdu speaker per shift. Callers should start speaking directly and will be transferred to an operator in the preferred language. Operators have been known to hang up on callers who ask if they speak English.
• Road conditions in cities and along major highways are generally good.
• Road conditions in rural areas range from good to poor. During rare instances of rain, flash flooding may occur.
• Traveling between cities can be dangerous due to poor lighting, wandering livestock, and speeding drivers.
• Residents may insure their vehicles outside the Sultanate. However, residents must purchase third party liability insurance locally.
• When involved in a traffic violation, cooperate with police officers and do not attempt to negotiate payment.
• If you are involved in a traffic accident that involves injuries, death, or material damage to vehicles, do not move your vehicle until the police give you permission. Moving your car may be seen as an admission of guilt. For minor traffic accidents with no damage or injuries, you may move your vehicle to the side of the road.

Traffic laws

• Short-term visitors with a U.S. driver’s license can drive rental vehicles but not privately registered cars.
• Residents must have an Omani driver's license.
• To obtain an Omani license, you must take a vision test. You must also have a U.S. license, with proof of being licensed for at least 2 years, or take a driving test.
• Traffic circles are common. The driver already in the circle always has priority.
• Drivers flashing high beams are signaling that they want to pass.
• Do not turn right on a red traffic signal.
• The following traffic violations may result in jail sentences, fines, or deportation:
  • Driving without a license
  • Running a red light
  • Driving under the influence of alcohol
  • Failure to wear a seat belt
  • Talking on cell phones while driving (hands-free technology is allowed)
  • Excessive speeding or overtaking another vehicle
  • Failure to maintain a clean car

Taxis and ride-shares

• Use marked taxis and do not allow anyone to direct you to one.
• Ride-share applications are not available in Oman. However, there are applications available for hailing a taxi that offer similar functionality and are compatible with U.S.-issued banking cards.

Public and commercial transportation

• Public transportation is generally safe. However, vehicles may swerve to pick up passengers without warning.
• Visit the Royal Oman Police website for more information.
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad.

Aviation safety oversight

• The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed Oman’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with international standards for aviation safety oversight. FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program.

Maritime travel

Mariners and passengers planning travel to Oman should check the following:

• U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Administration (MARAD) Advisories
• MARAD Active Maritime Alerts
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings
• U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Commons

Weather and natural disasters

Weather conditions

• Tropical cyclones – These can occur from May to November, with the highest risk from May to June, and from October to November. Coastal regions, especially around Salalah and Muscat, are most vulnerable.
• Floods – Most common during the rainy season between November and April. Sudden, heavy rainfall can lead to dangerous flooding in dry riverbeds (wadis) and low-lying areas.
• Sandstorms – These are frequent from May to August, especially in desert and inland regions. 

Emergency response is coordinated by the Civil Defense and Ambulance Authority (CDAA). Local authorities provide updates and safety instructions during severe weather events.

U.S. citizens living abroad

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits.

Embassies and consulates