(Last updated: 4 Aug 2011)

Visas

Visas are required (except for citizens of other Gulf countries) and can be obtained at Muscat's Seeb airport, or at border crossings. A visit visa is valid for one month from the date of entry and can be renewed for another month.

If your passport shows any evidence of travel to Israel you will be denied entry to Oman.

For further information on visas, please check with the relevant authorities before travelling.

Climate

For weather details in Oman, please visit the World Meteorological Organization.

Security and health

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) provides advice for business travellers and tourists going to Oman. This is regularly updated, and should be checked before planning travel.

Time zones and time differences

Oman is six hours behind Australian Eastern Standard Time.

To find out the current time in Muscat, view the World Clock.

Dialling codes

Oman's country code is 968.

For calls to Oman from Australia dial: 0011 + 968 + area code + telephone number.

For calls from Oman to Australia dial: 00 + 61 + area code + telephone number.

For further information (eg. area codes) please visit the White Pages - international dialling codes.

Public holidays

2011
November 18 – National Day and birthday of HM Sultan Qaboos
November 28 – Eid al-Adha (Feast of the Sacrifice)

2012
January 1 – New Year’s Day
February 4 – Milad Al Nabi (Birth of the Prophet)
June 17 – Leilat Al Meiraj (Ascension of the Prophet)
July 23 – Renaissance Day 
August 19 – Eid Al-Fitr
October 25 – Eid Al-Adha
November 15 – Islamic New Year
November 18 – Omani National Day & birthday of HM Sultan Qaboos

Note: Muslim festivals are timed according to local sightings of various phases of the moon and the dates given above are approximations. During the lunar month of Ramadan that precedes Eid al-Fitr, Muslims fast during the day and feast at night and normal business patterns may be interrupted. Many restaurants are closed during the day and there may be restrictions on smoking and drinking. Some disruption may continue into Eid al-Fitr itself. Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha may last anything from two to 10 days, depending on the region. Generally, if a holiday falls on a Friday, a day is given in lieu.

Currency

Oanda currency converter

The local currency is the Omani Riyal.

Electricity and water

The electricity supply in Oman is AC 220/240 volts, 50 Hz frequency, 1, 3 phases, 2, 4 wires.