Money
The Omani Rial (OMR) is one of the world's highest-valued currencies — 1 OMR is roughly US$2.60. Notes come in 50 baisa, 100 baisa, 200 baisa, and 1, 5, 10, 20, and 50 rial denominations. ATMs are widely available in Muscat and main towns. Credit cards are accepted at hotels, restaurants, and larger shops; cash is preferable in markets, smaller towns, and for tipping. Budget on roughly 15–25 OMR per day if you're travelling modestly; more in Muscat.
Language
Arabic is the official language. English is widely spoken in Muscat, tourist sites, and in business — most signs in cities are bilingual. In rural areas and small towns, English may be limited; a few words of Arabic go a long way.
Safety
Oman is one of the safest countries in the Middle East for travellers. Petty crime is low, and violent crime against tourists is extremely rare. The main risks are traffic accidents (driving standards vary widely) and hiking/desert incidents. Don't underestimate the heat or the terrain.
Dress and conduct
Oman is a Muslim country with conservative values, though considerably more relaxed than Saudi Arabia. Cover your shoulders and knees in towns, villages, mosques, and souqs. Swimwear is fine at beaches and hotel pools. Public displays of affection are frowned upon. Photographing people — especially women — without asking is not appreciated.
During Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours.
Alcohol
Alcohol is available at licensed hotel bars and some restaurants in Muscat and other cities. It is not sold in shops. Don't drink in public or in a car.
Health
No vaccinations are required for entry unless you're arriving from a yellow fever country. Tap water is technically safe in most areas but most travellers stick to bottled water. The main health concern in summer is heat exhaustion — drink more than you think you need, stay out of direct sun during the hottest part of the day, and recognise the signs of heat stroke.
Medical facilities in Muscat are good. Outside the capital, hospitals exist in main towns but can be basic; for anything serious you'll want to get to Muscat. Travel insurance with medical evacuation cover is advisable.
Internet and phone
Mobile coverage is good across most of the country, including main roads and popular tourist areas, though it drops out in remote mountains and desert. SIM cards from Ooredoo or Omantel are available at the airport and in shops; a tourist SIM with a few gigabytes of data costs around 5 OMR.
Electricity
240V, British-style three-pin plugs (Type G). Adaptors are available widely.
Time
GMT+4 (no daylight saving).