Essential Driving Tips for Tourists in Oman: Safety & Rules

Driving in Oman offers tourists the freedom to explore this beautiful country at their own pace. With excellent road infrastructure, clear signage in English and Arabic, and courteous drivers, Oman is one of the easiest Middle Eastern countries for foreign visitors to navigate. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about traffic rules, road safety, cultural etiquette, and practical tips for a stress-free driving experience.

License Requirements for Tourists

GCC Countries: Residents of Gulf Cooperation Council countries (UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar) can drive in Oman using their home country license. No additional documentation required.

Select Countries: Visitors from the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and EU member states can drive with their home country license for up to 6 months. Ensure your license is in English or has an official English translation.

All Other Countries: An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required along with your original license. The IDP must be obtained in your home country before traveling to Oman. Driving without proper documentation can result in fines and insurance invalidation.

Speed Limits and Enforcement

Oman enforces speed limits strictly using automated cameras throughout the country. Speed cameras are common on highways, urban roads, and even residential areas. Here are the standard limits:

• Highways: 120 km/h (some sections allow 140 km/h, clearly marked)
• Urban Roads: 80-100 km/h (varies by road type)
• Residential Areas: 40-60 km/h
• School Zones: 40 km/h (strictly enforced during school hours)
• Construction Zones: 60-80 km/h (temporary limits clearly posted)

Important: Even exceeding the limit by 10 km/h can trigger a fine. Fines range from OMR 10 for minor violations to OMR 50+ for serious speeding. Use cruise control on highways to maintain consistent speeds and avoid inadvertent violations.

Essential Traffic Rules

Driving Side and Lane Discipline

Oman follows right-hand traffic (drive on the right side of the road, overtake on the left). Lane discipline is generally good, but be aware:

• Keep to the right lane except when overtaking
• Use indicators well in advance (at least 3 seconds before changing lanes)
• Do not undertake (overtake on the right) unless in heavy traffic
• Flash headlights to signal you're overtaking (common practice)

Seatbelts and Child Safety

Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers (front and rear seats). Children under 4 years must use appropriate child seats. Fines for non-compliance: OMR 10 per person. Most rental companies provide child seats for OMR 3 per day—book in advance.

Mobile Phone Use

Using a mobile phone while driving is illegal unless using hands-free systems. Fine: OMR 10. Use phone holders and Bluetooth connectivity. Pull over safely if you need to make calls or check navigation.

Roundabouts

Oman uses roundabouts extensively. Traffic already in the roundabout has right of way. Enter only when safe, use your right indicator when exiting. Multi-lane roundabouts can be confusing—stay in your lane and follow road markings carefully.

Traffic Lights

Red light violations are taken seriously (fine: OMR 30, 3 black points on license). Cameras at most intersections. Amber light means prepare to stop, not speed up. Right turns on red are generally not permitted unless specifically signed.

Road Conditions and Types

Highways

Oman's highway network is excellent, with smooth tarmac and clear signage. Major routes include:

• Route 1: Muscat to Sur (coastal route)
• Route 15: Muscat to Nizwa (interior)
• Route 31: Muscat to Salalah (longest highway)

Highways are well-lit near cities but dark in rural areas. Drive cautiously at night—camels and goats can wander onto roads.

Mountain Roads

Routes to Jebel Akhdar, Jebel Shams, and other mountain areas feature hairpin bends, steep gradients, and narrow sections. 4x4 vehicles are mandatory for some mountain roads (checkpoints verify). Drive slowly, use low gears on descents, and honk before blind corners.

Desert and Wadi Tracks

Off-road driving requires experience and proper equipment. Never attempt desert or wadi driving alone. Deflate tires for sand (15 PSI), carry recovery gear, and inform someone of your route. Flash floods can occur suddenly in wadis—check weather forecasts.

Parking Rules and Etiquette

Paid Parking: Common in Muscat city center and tourist areas. Use Mawaqif app or pay-and-display machines. Rates: OMR 0.5-1 per hour.

Illegal Parking: Fine: OMR 10. Common violations include parking on yellow lines, blocking driveways, and parking in disabled spaces without permits.

Mall Parking: Free at most shopping malls. Arrive early on weekends and holidays as spaces fill quickly.

Fuel Stations and Costs

Fuel is relatively inexpensive in Oman. Current prices (December 2025):

• M91 (Regular): OMR 0.390 per liter
• M95 (Premium): OMR 0.470 per liter
• Diesel: OMR 0.390 per liter

Most stations are self-service. Payment by cash or card. Stations are common in cities but sparse in remote areas—fill up whenever below half tank. Major chains: OQ, Shell, EPPCO.

Weather and Seasonal Considerations

Summer (May-September)

Extremely hot (40-50°C). Avoid driving midday if possible. Always carry extra water. Check tire pressure regularly as heat causes expansion. Park in shade when possible to keep interior cool.

Winter (November-March)

Pleasant temperatures (20-30°C), ideal for driving. Mountain areas can be cold at night (5-10°C). Occasional rain can make roads slippery—reduce speed and increase following distance.

Sandstorms

Occur occasionally, especially in summer. If caught in a sandstorm: reduce speed, turn on headlights, increase following distance. If visibility drops severely, pull over safely away from the road and wait it out.

Emergency Procedures

Accidents: Stop immediately, turn on hazard lights, place warning triangle 50m behind vehicle. Call police (9999) for all accidents, even minor ones. Do not move vehicles until police arrive (unless blocking traffic). Exchange insurance details with other parties.

Breakdowns: Pull over safely, turn on hazards. Call your rental company's 24/7 roadside assistance. Kish Rent: +968 71 000 270. Do not attempt repairs on highways—wait for professional help.

Emergency Numbers: Police 9999, Ambulance 9999, Fire 9999, Royal Oman Police Traffic 1099.

Cultural Driving Etiquette

• Be Patient: Omani drivers are generally courteous. Avoid aggressive driving or road rage.
• Flash Headlights: Used to signal you're overtaking or to thank someone for giving way.
• Hazard Lights: Brief flash to say "thank you" when someone lets you merge.
• Friday Traffic: Expect heavier traffic around mosques during Friday prayers (12-2 PM).
• Ramadan: Traffic increases just before iftar (sunset). Drive extra carefully as people rush home.
• Respect for Royalty: Pull over and stop if you see a royal motorcade (flagged vehicles with police escort).

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Underestimating Distances: Oman is large. Muscat to Salalah is 1,040 km (12+ hours). Plan realistic daily driving limits.
• Ignoring Fuel Levels: Stations can be 100+ km apart in remote areas. Never let tank drop below 1/4.
• Driving in Wadis During Rain: Flash floods are deadly. Check weather forecasts and never camp in wadi beds.
• Speeding in Residential Areas: Children play near roads. Slow down in villages and neighborhoods.
• Not Carrying Water: Dehydration is a serious risk. Minimum 2L per person, more for desert trips.
• Relying Solely on GPS: Download offline maps. Cell coverage is limited in mountains and deserts.

Insurance and Documentation

Always carry these documents while driving:

• Valid driver's license or IDP
• Rental agreement
• Insurance certificate
• Passport and visa (for tourists)
• Cross-border authorization (if traveling to UAE)

Police can request these documents at any time. Driving without proper documentation: fine OMR 10-50, possible vehicle impoundment.