Yes, Oman is one of the safest countries in the Middle East for tourists. The country has very low crime rates, and Omani people are known for their warm hospitality and friendliness towards visitors. Solo travelers, families, and couples all find Oman to be a welcoming and secure destination.

The best time to visit Oman is from October to April, when temperatures are pleasant and comfortable for outdoor activities. The winter months (November to February) offer the most agreeable weather with daytime temperatures around 25-30°C. The summer months (May to September) can be extremely hot, especially in the interior, though the Salalah region enjoys a unique monsoon season (Khareef) from June to September.

Most nationalities can obtain an e-visa or visa on arrival to enter Oman. Citizens of GCC countries do not require a visa. The e-visa can be applied for online through the Royal Oman Police website before your trip. Tourist visas are typically valid for 10 to 30 days. It is recommended to check the latest visa requirements based on your nationality before traveling.

Oman offers incredible diversity for travelers. Must-visit destinations include Muscat (the capital with its stunning Grand Mosque and Royal Opera House), Nizwa (the ancient fort city and traditional souq), Wahiba Sands (golden desert dunes perfect for camping), Wadi Shab and Wadi Bani Khalid (crystal-clear natural pools), Jebel Akhdar (the Green Mountain with terraced villages), the Musandam Peninsula (dramatic fjord-like coastline), and Salalah (the tropical south with monsoon greenery).

The official currency of Oman is the Omani Rial (OMR). One Omani Rial is divided into 1,000 baisa. The Rial is one of the highest-valued currencies in the world — 1 OMR equals approximately 2.60 USD. Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shopping malls, but it is advisable to carry cash for souqs, small shops, and rural areas.

Oman is a conservative Muslim country, and visitors are expected to dress modestly in public areas. For men, shorts above the knee and sleeveless tops should be avoided in public places. Women should cover their shoulders and knees. When visiting mosques, women need to wear a headscarf and loose-fitting clothing. At beaches, resorts, and hotels, Western beachwear is acceptable. Light, breathable cotton clothing is recommended due to the warm climate.

Yes, tourists can drive in Oman with an international driving permit (IDP) along with their valid national driving license. Renting a car is one of the best ways to explore Oman, as many of the most beautiful destinations are off the beaten path. Roads in Oman are generally well-maintained, though a 4WD vehicle is recommended for desert and wadi excursions.

Omani cuisine is rich and flavorful. Must-try dishes include Shuwa (slow-roasted lamb marinated in spices and cooked underground for up to 48 hours), Majboos (spiced rice with meat or fish), Harees (wheat and meat porridge), Mashuai (whole spit-roasted kingfish with lemon rice), and Halwa (a traditional Omani sweet). Omani coffee (Kahwa) served with dates is an essential cultural experience.

A minimum of 5-7 days is recommended to explore Oman's highlights, including Muscat, Nizwa, and the desert or wadis. For a more comprehensive experience covering Salalah in the south, the Musandam Peninsula in the north, and the lesser-known gems, 10-14 days would be ideal. Weekend trips from neighboring countries are also popular for quick getaways to Muscat and the surrounding areas.

Oman is a paradise for adventure lovers. Popular activities include desert camping and dune bashing in Wahiba Sands, canyoning and wadi hiking in Wadi Shab, snorkeling and diving in the Daymaniyat Islands, mountain trekking on Jebel Shams (Oman's Grand Canyon), rock climbing, paragliding, kayaking through the Musandam fjords, and turtle watching at Ras Al Jinz reserve where endangered green turtles nest.