Safety in Oman - All You Need to Know Before Visiting The Gulf Country

₹ 13,910 onwards View Packages
Oman is generally considered a safe country for travelers. The crime rate is low, and the country is known for its hospitality and welcoming nature. It is the only country in the Middle East to rank O on the Global Terrorism Index, which means the impact of terrorism is non-existent in Oman. It also has one of the lowest crime rates in the world. However, like any destination, it's important to take basic safety precautions.

Safety in Oman in Public Places

Source
There have been protests in the country, but most of them have been peaceful and haven't affected the safety in Oman. It is probably a good idea to avoid large demonstrations of any sort here, especially in border areas which can be dicey.  There have been reports of harassment and arrests of dissenting voices, especially as an amendment in the penal code in 2011 allowed for the arrest and detainment of individuals without an arrest warrant. Keep an eye out for public gatherings, especially during mid-day.

For the most part, the country is safe for travelers. Acceptance and tolerance are the pillars of Islam, and thus, most Omanis are approachable and pleasant. Crime rates are low, although the occasional instances of theft and opportunistic burglary, like bag snatchy, are reported. As with any country, it's best to stay alert. Be responsible for your belongings, and don't leave them unattended.

Social Precautions To Take When in Oman

Oman Safety
Source
The Omanis are friendly people who are proud of their country's rapid progress in the last four decades. Once an underdeveloped nation in the 1970s with little contact with the outside world, it boasts a high-income economy due to tourism and trade. The locals are hot and friendly and this has brought about a huge factor of safety in Oman for tourists. They are likely to stare, but it comes from a place of fascination and not insult. It isn't uncommon for taxi drivers or tour guides to strike up a conversation or invite you home to meet their families if they like your company. They take great pride in hosting you. 

1. Don't Mock The Sultan: Any criticism against Sultan Sayyid Qaboos bin Said Al Said, even jokingly, is considered taboo.

2. Don't Mock the Country Too: Maintaining a good reputation is significant here and it is important to keep in mind while interacting with the locals. It is best to avoid making any remarks about the country, the government or local officials.

3. Avoid Loud and Brash Behaviour: Displays of anger such as gesturing impatiently or loud arguments are not well-received. The Omanis are calm people, and showing anger publicly could be grounds for filing a complaint.

4. Liquor License and Legality: Although Oman is a Muslim country, it doesn't mean that alcohol isn't available in the country; hotel establishments with liquor licenses such as the Shangri-La, InterContinental and Grand Hyatt serve alcohol to patrons. Moreover, liquor licenses can be obtained from the Royal Oman Police. The legal drinking age in the country is 21 years old.

5. Contain the Alcohol When Visiting During Ramadan: Keep in mind that public intoxication, however, is illegal. During the month of Ramadan, these privileges are curtailed. Eating, drinking, smoking, and playing loud music in public spaces during daylight is forbidden. Anyone who is caught breaking this law can be arrested.

6. Courtesy When Visiting Local Homes: Keep in mind that it is considered rude to arrive without a gift of some sort, and remember to take off your shoes before entering the house.

Inoffensive Attire In Oman

Source

7. Modesty is Key in Oman: It is advisable to dress modestly to avoid hurting the sentiments of the local people. In Oman, it's impolite to wear skimpy outfits in public, regardless of gender.

8. Keep it Covered: Women should ideally cover their chest, thighs, midriff and shoulders, although they do not need to cover their heads unless they are about to enter a mosque. Men should avoid shorts and sleeveless t-shirts.

9. No Ripped, No Offense: Ripped clothing and slogan t-shirts with provocative slogans or images should probably be avoided.

10. Full-Length Swimwear: While two-piece swimsuits can be worn in private beaches, it's best to cover up as soon as you leave the swimming area. In public beaches, it is best to wear full-length swimming outfits. Bikinis, speedos, and revealing swimwear shouldn't be worn.

Road Safety in Oman

Omani Road, Safety in Oman
Source
Travelling by road is the most common mode of transport and Oman has a variety of highways along its cities and desert areas. But there are safety hazards involved, for drivers are known to be rash and ignore road rules. In some parts of the country, roads are in poor condition. Road accident rates are quite high in the country compared to the population. Also, keep an eye out for camels as they are known to stray onto roads.

11. Keep Spares Handy: There are long stretches of roads in the desert areas with no help in sight. It's best to keep spare tires and other supplies on hand in case of emergencies.

12. Keep Extra Food & Water: Always keep extra bottles of water in the car for these instances, especially when exploring the desert areas.

13. Beware the Flash Floods: Oman, like many countries in the Middle East, is prone to flash floods. It's especially dangerous to be in these abandoned stretches during that time. In case of rain, head to the high ground and follow the advice of local authorities. Many travellers have gotten lost in the desert during these rains, some even drowning from high levels of water.

Safety Around Women and Couples in Oman

Arab  women
Source
Female travellers have a great deal of freedom in Oman. However, as an interaction between the genders is relatively minimal, simple interactions with locals can be misinterpreted.

14. Stay in Your Limits: Outside of urban areas like Muscat and Salalah, it is advisable to not smile or stay too close to the opposite gender as this can be deemed flirtatious behaviour.

15. Sit With Same-Gendered Passengers: In public transport, it is better to avoid sitting next to male co-passengers.

16. Ask Before Photographing: While taking photographs with locals, it's important to ask their permission first. This is especially true for Omani women who might be upset at being photographed without their consent.

17. Ask Before Any Physical Contact: This extends to physical touch. If a local does not offer first, it's better to avoid it.

18. No PDA: Despite its flexibility to tourists, Oman is relatively conservative with regard to relationships. Couples should minimize public displays of affection to avoid catching attention as this kind of behaviour is considered offensive.

Safety in Oman for LGBTQ Travellers

Safety in Oman for LGBTQ
Source
As with all countries in the Middle East, the Omani government does not condone LGBT activities. Homosexuality is illegal here. According to Article 33 of the Omani Penal Code, erotic acts and relationships between individuals of the same sex are a punishable offence of six months to three years in jail. But, unlike its neighbours, Oman is more tolerable. Unless individuals display outright homosexual behaviour or announce it, they probably won't be bothered during their travels.

Although some might disagree with the belief and traditional nature of Oman, it is we who are being allowed into their country and culture. So, it is important to respect their wishes and sentiments. For travellers and locals too, the safety in Oman is pretty good. As long as these basic guidelines are followed, it should be a hassle-free trip for all involved!

This post was published by Rhea Nath

Share this post on social media

Oman Travel Packages

Compare quotes from upto 3 travel agents for free

Related Articles

Travel Tips

Travel Tips

Renting A Car In Oman - A Complete Guide

Travel Tips

Travel Tips

Currency in Oman - Your Guide to the Omani Rial

Travel Tips

Travel Tips

Online Visa for Oman - Oman Visa Information for a Convenient Travel Experience

Travel Tips

Travel Tips

Oman Visa for Indians - Visa Requirements, Cost, Documents & More

Art & Culture

Art & Culture

A Brief History Of Oman And The Story of The Oldest Arab Nation

Food & Drink

Food & Drink

Delicious Cuisine of Oman That You Must Experience

Shopping

Shopping

12 Best Shopping Places In Oman

Fairs & Festivals

Fairs & Festivals

Festivals In Oman

Experiences

Experiences

Turtle Watching in Oman at Ras Al Jinz Reserve

Art & Culture

Art & Culture

Culture of Oman - The Colourful Omani Culture

Fairs & Festivals

Fairs & Festivals

Eid Al-Fitr in Oman - A Guide To Celebrating Eid in Oman

Art & Culture

Art & Culture

Traditional Dress of Oman - Couture That Forms The Culture!

Adventure

Adventure

Hiking in Oman - 7 Best Spots For Hiking in Oman

Art & Culture

Art & Culture

Languages in Oman - What Languages Are Spoken in the Sultanate of Oman?

Art & Culture

Art & Culture

Music of Oman

Experiences

Experiences

6 Best Places for Dolphin Watching In Oman

Transport

Transport

List of Airports in Oman

Transport

Transport

A Guide to Muscat International Airport and It's Fantastic Amenities

Fairs & Festivals

Fairs & Festivals

Eid Al Adha in Oman – Your Concise Guide into The Festivities

Art & Culture

Art & Culture

Religion in Oman - Official and Immigrant Religions, Top Places of Worship in Muscat

Adventure

Adventure

Surfing in Oman: Your Guide to a Fulfilling Aqua Adventure

Nightlife in Oman - Experience the Arabian Nights

Art & Culture

Art & Culture

20 Interesting Facts About Oman That You Probably Didn't Know

Experiences

Experiences

A Look at the Most Scenic Landscapes of Oman you Must Visit

Adventure

Adventure

Diving in Oman - Top Dive Sites, Best Time & More

Adventure

Adventure

Camping in Oman - Top Places, Operators, Prices

Shopping

Shopping

Shopping Malls in Oman For Shopping, Food and Entertainment

Sightseeing

Sightseeing

Cities in Oman You Must Visit

Beaches & Islands

Beaches & Islands

Beaches in Oman

Wildlife & Nature

Wildlife & Nature

Beautiful Wadis in Oman

Comments on this post

View Packages