How to plan a road trip to Oman

With a culture steeped in Islam, Oman has pragmatically avoided the winds of change by consistent practice of its traditions and customs thus remaining unique in the Gulf Region. However, being strategically placed in the region, visitors are attracted to Its lush landscapes and ancient heritage. The farsighted development of its road network with new roads and bridges makes the nation an enticing destination for discerning visitors who explore it by road.


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Introduction

Despite being under the tourist radar, Oman is full of natural beauty, friendly locals and excellent connectivity to the remotest areas.
Considered one of the top 20 countries with the best roads in the world, road trips in Oman are a pleasure with wide roads, stringent road safety rules and advanced traffic management systems in operation. Added to this, fuel is quite affordable in Oman, a sound combination offering many possibilities for adventurous visitors using Oman luxury resorts.

The best time to arrive and arrival formalities

Oman is a year-round destination with plenty of sunshine and dry days in most of the country, however, the temperatures are milder from October to March. This leads to peak visitor arrivals during these months with some visitors selecting properties like Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar.
The other months of the year are warmer, yet many attractions can still be enjoyed in the morning and evenings. Hence many visitors from neighbouring Gulf States arrive in Muscat through Saudi Arabia (through Umm Alzamool Border) or crossing from the United Arab Emirates as they are keen to explore Oman as an exciting road trip.
Such visitors must check the visa requirements considering their nationality. The online eVisa for touristic purposes can be applied for by over 200 nationalities. Please ensure your passport is valid six months after you arrive in Oman.

Getting about Oman

To seamlessly get around in Oman as you embark on your road trip renting a car is the best option. It is easy to arrange, affordable and safe with the fine road network and the rules and controls in place. The hassle associated with logistical planning to cover the interesting sights is reduced when you have arranged to rent a car.
Be mindful of the following factors if you intend to rent a car.
  • An International Driver’s License is required
  • Research different car rental companies and book the selected car in advance
  • To visit certain terrain such as Wahiba Sands Desert a 4WD vehicle must be selected.
  • Be familiar with Oman Driving Rules.
Despite these possibilities, if you would rather not rent a car but still prefer to do a road trip, a tour guide can be arranged to do a day trip or multi-day road trip covering the sights you want to explore.

Different Road Trips

With Oman’s incredible landscape, fertile soil, and rich cultural heritage there are many possibilities for road trips. The following are a few road excursions you can opt for while more options are available.
  • Exploring Wahiba Desert Sands – A breathtaking tour through the golden desert sands
  • Tour of Nizwa and Jebel Akhdar – exploration of the mountain regions and ancient heritage of Oman
  • Day tour of the capital city, Muscat, including the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

Useful Tips

These useful tips on packing, maintaining connectivity etc. will put your mind at rest as you prepare for the road trip.
Packing – Pack clothing to suit the tropical climate. Modesty in the manner of dress with the upper body and knees being covered is important for both males and females. Sunscreen, sunhats and sunglasses are musts.
Internet Facilities – As you will be moving around it is best to have a local SIM card with data facilities or use a Wi-Fi hotspot facility.
Language – While Arabic is the official language most Omanis do understand English and will be happy to help with information.