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Oman
- Oman has a generally safe environment for travelers, though foreign nationals should be aware of societal and cultural norms.
- Exercise normal safety precautions due to the risk of petty crime; increased caution is recommended in border areas due to regional tensions and potential spillover from the conflict in neighboring Yemen.
- Environmental challenges such as extreme temperatures and seasonal flooding are prevalent.
Risk Factors
- Foreign nationals are predominantly affected by petty criminality, which is most common in crowded markets (souks), beaches and tourist areas. Violent crime is rare and does not target foreign nationals.
- Protest activity is infrequent, though low level protests occasionally take place due to socio-economic issues. Protests are prone to occur in close proximity to public squares or government buildings, including the Consultative Assembly, the Diwan of Royal Court, and on rare occasions, the sultan's palaces in Muscat and Sohar.
- Avoid travel to border areas adjacent to Yemen because of the ongoing conflict and possible cross-border militant activities.
- Although there have been cases of the authorities arbitrarily detaining people, such incidents are limited to Omani citizens. Foreign travelers should refrain from criticizing the Sultan, Oman, religion, or engaging in political activities. Some degree of online surveillance should be anticipated while in Oman.
- A major terrorist attack has never occurred in Oman.
- Drive cautiously, especially from October to May, when sand and dust storms can make road conditions hazardous.
- Traveling between cities, particularly at night, can pose risks due to inadequate lighting and the presence of roaming livestock.
- Use registered taxi services to ensure safety. Check for white taxis with orange and blue features, a functioning meter, official license plates, the driver’s ID displayed inside, and company branding,
- Reputable ride-sharing apps like OTaxi or Marhaba are a reliable alternative to taxis.
- The monsoon season runs from June to September and mainly affects Dhofar in the southern region, but also in al-Buraimi and northern areas in recent years.
- Oman is known to be affected by major tropical cyclones, which can cause floods, landslides and infrastructural damage. However, the most notable risk is in the far south, where flash floods have caused injury and fatalities.
- Sandstorms and droughts are also known to occur between May and September.
- Monitor weather updates to stay abreast of conditions. Follow safety guidelines during flooding and sandstorms to ensure personal safety.
- Dress modestly and behave respectfully in public to adhere to Oman’s Islamic customs and conservative norms.
- Abstain from possessing or using drugs. Penalties for drug offenses are severe, while strict regulations apply to the consumption of alcohol.
- Avoid public displays of affection and be mindful of local laws affecting the LGBTQ+ community to prevent legal issues.