Oman - basics - Countries Guide

Time: Local time is GMT +4.

Electricity: Electrical current is 220/240 volts AC, 50Hz. Plugs with rectangular, 3-pin flat blades are used.

Language: The official language of Oman is Arabic, but English is widely spoken. Hotel staff often also speak German and French.

Health: No vaccinations are required for entry to Oman, except for yellow fever for those entering within six days of having been in an infected area. Visitors should ensure they are up to date on all routine vaccinations. Avoid mosquito bites, as dengue fever may be a risk. Brucellosis is reported, particularly in the south of the country. Health and medical services in the country, particularly Muscat, are of a high standard, but are expensive for foreigners (Oman nationals receive free treatment), so health insurance is recommended. Food and water in Muscat is considered safe, but bottled water and precautions with unpasteurised milk are advised outside of the city.

Tipping: A service charge is usually added to bills, however a "little extra" is appreciated, as the service charge usually never makes it to the attendant. A general rule would be 5% additional to service charge, or between 10 to 15% where service has not been added.

Safety: Like all the Gulf States, Oman is considered to be under a high risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, particularly against Western interests, therefore vigilance is necessary. Crime, though, is not a problem for visitors, although common sense precautions should be practised. Rental and company vehicles have been vulnerable to robbery in the southern areas of Thumrait, Marmul and Nimr. Women are advised not to wear shorts or scanty clothing in the towns to avoid risk of sexual harassment. The strongest cyclone to hit the Gulf in decades struck Oman on 6 June 2007, causing wind and flood damage to the capital, Muscat.

Customs: Oman is a predominantly Muslim country and visitors should respect religious sensitivity, particularly in the matter of dress and public conduct. Women, in particular, should wear loose fitting clothes that cover most of the body. Eating, drinking and smoking in public during the holy month of Ramadan should be avoided, as it is forbidden by the Muslim culture. Homosexuality is illegal in the country. Importing obscene publications or videos is subject to severe penalties. Alcohol is available only at licensed hotels and restaurants and penalties for driving under the influence of alcohol are drastic. The legal blood alcohol level in the country is close to zero.

Communications: The international direct dialling code for Oman is +968, and the outgoing international code 00, followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0044 for the UK). City/area codes are not necessary. The country has GSM 900 mobile phone networks in operation. Internet cafes are to be found in Muscat and Nizwa and email is available in most city hotels.