U.S. Embassy Muscat

Jamiat A'Duwal Al Arabiya Street,
Al Khuwair Area (Shatti Al-Qurum), Muscat
Oman
Telephone: +(968) 2464-3400
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(968) 2464-3400
Fax: +(968) 2464-3535
Email: ConsularMuscat@state.gov

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Visit the Embassy of Oman website for the most current visa information.

Requirements for Entry:

• Passport valid for at least six months
• Visa

Tourist Visas: 

• U.S. citizens should apply for tourist visas in advance via the Royal Oman Police E-Visa website. Tourist visas are also available upon arrival at airports and land crossings.
• Visas are issued at Mazoonah and Sarfait (Oman-Yemen land borders) on a case-by-case basis.
• The current list of visa types and a schedule of fees are available at the Royal Oman Police website.
• Have proof of adequate funds and an onward/return ticket.
• Penalties for expired passports or visas include fines and/or imprisonment.

Avoid Travel to Yemen: We strongly advise U.S. citizens against travel to Yemen. Crossing the Yemen-Oman border can be dangerous. U.S. citizens who do so are routinely detained by Omani authorities. The Department of State and U.S. embassies abroad will not facilitate entry of U.S. citizens into Yemen. See our Travel Advisory for Yemen for further information.

Oman does not recognize dual nationality. Omani authorities may confiscate your U.S. passport if you have dual Oman/U.S. nationality. Should this happen, contact the U.S. Embassy. This does not constitute loss of U.S. citizenship.

Children of Omani fathers automatically acquire Omani citizenship at birth and must enter and exit Oman on their Omani passports.

Omani/U.S. dual nationals are subject to all Omani laws, including those placing special obligations on citizens of Oman.

Expect considerable delays if your U.S. passport is lost or stolen. The Royal Oman Police require entry verification upon departure. If your passport containing your entry stamp is lost or stolen, a police report may be required to exit Oman using a replacement passport. For further details, see the Royal Oman Police website.

Yellow fever vaccinations are required if you are coming from a country with yellow fever outbreaks.

Some HIV/AIDS entry restrictions exist for visitors and foreign residents of Oman. HIV/AIDS testing is required upon arrival for people on work or immigrant visas. Oman does not accept U.S. HIV/AIDS testing. Please verify this information with the Embassy of Oman before traveling.

Customs Regulations:

• Pornographic materials and firearms are prohibited.
• Muslim travelers are forbidden to bring in alcohol. Oman does not require visitors to identify with a religion.
• Non-Muslim travelers can bring in no more than two liters of alcohol bought at a duty-free shop.

Find information on dual nationality, prevention of international child abduction and customs regulations on our websites.

Terrorism:  Residents and visitors generally find Oman to be safe, and protests have been rare, peaceful, and closely monitored by the government. However, threats – including terrorism – remain. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, and targets may include tourist locations, transportation hubs, places of worship, markets, shopping malls, or any place where large crowds gather. For this reason, the Embassy advises U.S. citizens to avoid protests and to always remain vigilant. 

For more information, see our Terrorism page. 

MARAD Report: According to the United States Maritime Administration (MARAD), U.S. flag vessels in the Gulf of Oman, North Arabian Sea, Gulf of Aden, and the Bab el Mandeb regions face an elevated risk of attacks by violent extremists.

U.S. flag vessels should report suspicious activity to:

• COMUSNAVCENT battle watch captain at 011-973-1785-3879
• U.S. Coast Guard National Response Center at 1-800-424-8802 (toll-free), 202-267-2675, or 202-267-4477 (TDD).

Crime: There is minimal street crime in Oman, and violent crime is rare.

Scams: Internet romance and financial scams may occur in Oman. Review the Department of State’s Protecting Yourself from Scams and the FBI pages for information.

Technology Usage Abroad:
VPN/VoIP usage is restricted in Oman and could result in penalties.

GPS Navigation Apps are helpful in getting U.S. citizens around in a foreign country. Prior to using the GPS app, make sure you research the route to make sure it is safe. GPS navigation apps may give you the shortest route without safety considerations.

Be careful when using dating apps or online dating websites while abroad. Scammers may target U.S. citizens. Tell your friends and family where you are, meet in a popular public place, and avoid consuming suspicious food or drinks. Avoid traveling alone to bars or nightclubs.

Victims of Crime: U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance. U.S. citizens can report crimes to the local police at 9999.  Emergency hotlines are mostly Arabic-speaking.  The U.S. Embassy has received reports from U.S. citizens who were unable to receive assistance due to language barriers.  U.S. citizens should continue to call and directly report their situation until they reach an available English speaker.  Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas.

We can:

• Help you find appropriate medical care
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion 
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States
• Provide an emergency loan for destitute U.S. citizens for repatriation to the United States
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• Replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance. The law in Oman does not specifically address domestic violence. However, charges may be brought under other statutes. Victims of domestic violence may file a complaint with the police, and reports indicate that police respond promptly and professionally. The government operates a domestic violence hotline and a shelter for victims.

For additional information please see Oman’s Penal Code and our Human Rights Report for Oman.

Dial 1100 to reach the government-operated domestic violence hotline.

Tourism: The tourism industry is generally regulated. Rules with regard to general practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced. Dangerous areas and activities are marked with signs. Trained staff are usually there to help with organized activities. If tourists get hurt, they can usually get medical help anywhere in the country. In smaller cities, it might take longer for medical help to arrive and assist. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage.

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you break local laws, even if you don't know it, you can be kicked out of the area, arrested, or put in prison. If you want to start a business or work in a job that needs special permits or licenses, you should get information from the local authorities before you start.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the U.S., regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.

Omani authorities typically do not permit foreigners accused of crimes to leave the country while cases are open.

Carry your passport at all times, or you could be detained.

It is illegal to photograph certain buildings.

Alcohol and Drugs: You may be arrested for possession of alcohol or driving under the influence. Drinking is only permitted in some international hotels, bars, homes, and some restaurants.

Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs include lengthy jail sentences and heavy fines.  Some prescription medications, such as narcotics, available in the United States may be illegal in Oman. Travelers should check the Oman Ministry of Health’s Medications and Travel webpage before importing prescription medications.

Motor Vehicle Violations: Traffic laws are strictly enforced and carry heavy penalties. Remote traffic cameras are extensively used to monitor speeding and stop light infractions.

Immigration officials, airports and other ports of entry and exit have ready access to information on traffic offenses, and violators cannot depart Oman unless all fines have been paid in full.

Personal Defamation Charges:

• Using vulgar language or hand gestures can lead to personal defamation charges. 
• An accusation alone, regardless of who files it, can initiate a legal process.
• U.S. citizens may be able to resolve these cases with a formal apology and payment of damages to the aggrieved party.
• Raising your voice at local authorities in Oman can result in detainment.

Business Disputes: Business disputes, court orders to pay a settlement, or government investigations into both criminal and civil issues may prohibit your departure from Oman until the issue is resolved. The U.S. Embassy is unable to intervene in civil cases but can provide a list of local attorneys who may be able to represent U.S. citizens. In Oman it is not uncommon for local authorities to maintain your passport while a business dispute is under investigation.

Issues can include:

• Labor or financial disputes
• Personal debt (including bounced checks, credit card debt, and bank loans)
• Outstanding contracts or leases
• Traffic fines
• Pending legal matters, including cases related to gestures or behavior that are viewed as offensive.

Cultural Heritage Items: To avoid prosecution, check first with Omani authorities before taking “cultural heritage items” such as archaeological artifacts, meteorites, or stones. 

Notary Services: All foreign public documents (Birth, Marriage, Death, Divorce, academic records, etc.) need to be apostilled for use in Oman. The U.S. Embassy in Oman cannot apostille any documents issued in the United States. See our website for designated authorities in the United States that can issue an apostille.

Employment in Oman: Although a common practice, it is illegal for Omani employers to retain your passport. Such retention could grant undue leverage to your employer in case of a dispute. U.S. passports are the property of the U.S. government.

The U.S. Embassy cannot intervene in labor disputes. At the beginning of any employment, obtain a contract that clearly states the terms of employment. Try to resolve disputes privately with your employer. If this fails, consult our list of lawyers.

Dress Code: Be sensitive to Islamic culture and do not wear sleeveless shirts, halter-tops, or shorts. Wear athletic clothing in public only when engaged in sports activities.

Currency: U.S. bills printed before 2006 are often not accepted. Local currency is easily available from ATMs or currency exchange counters.

Faith-Based Travelers: See our following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report – see country reports

International Volunteers:

• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Travelers: Consensual same-sex sexual conduct is criminalized in Oman and subject to a jail term of six months to three years. While there are no legal restrictions on providing information or services related to sexual orientation, stigma remains high in the country. Authorities have taken steps to block media content related to sexual orientation. See our Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Travelers Information page for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities: The law in Oman prohibits discrimination against persons with physical, intellectual, or mental disabilities.  Expect accessibility to be limited in older buildings (including government buildings and schools), public transportation, and general infrastructure, and more common in newer medical facilities and public buildings in cities. Outside of urban areas, access is greatly reduced.  Accessible parking spaces are scarce.

Omanis will generally try to accommodate reasonable requests for assistance.

See our Accessibility Needs for Travelers page.

Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips.

Women Travelers: See our travel tips for Women Travelers. 

For emergency services in Oman, dial 9999. Emergency hotlines are mostly Arabic-speaking. The U.S. Embassy has received reports from U.S. citizens who were unable to receive assistance due to language barriers.

Response times for ambulance services vary.  Injured or seriously ill travelers may wish to take a taxi or private vehicle to the nearest major hospital rather than wait for an ambulance.

See our Health Abroad page for more information.

• We highly recommend that all travelers review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Travelers’ Health webpage for Oman. Also, check the general Traveler Advice for Oman.
• Review all sub-sections. These include Travel Health Notices, Vaccines and Medicines, Non-Vaccine-Preventable Diseases, Stay Healthy and Safe, Healthy Travel Packing List, and After Your Trip.
• Review the CDC Traveler Advice webpage that provides advice on medical considerations including:
  • Reasons for Travel (for example: Adventure Travel, Spring Break Travel)
  • Travelers with Special Considerations (for example: Allergies, Long-Term Travelers and Expatriates)
  • General Tips (for example: Traveling with Medications, Travel Vaccines)
• Be sure you are up to date on all scheduled immunizations and recommended vaccines.
• Be sure to bring enough over-the-counter medications and prescriptions.

The Department of State, U.S. embassies and U.S. consulates do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See Insurance Overseas page for more information on insurance providers with overseas coverage. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on the type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the Ministry of Health to ensure the medication is legal in Oman.

Vaccinations: Be up to date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Air Quality: 
Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations overseas.

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a 3-day forecast of expected air quality in Egypt.
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow.
• For general health information, visit the “Your Health Abroad” page.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Road Conditions: Road conditions in cities and along major highways are good. Road conditions in rural areas range from good to poor. During rare instances of rain, roads are prone to flash flooding.

Travel between cities can be dangerous due to poor lighting, wandering livestock, and speeding drivers.

Public Transportation: Public transportation is generally safe, although vehicles may swerve to pick up passengers without warning.

Traffic Violations:
The following traffic violations may result in jail sentences, fines, and/or deportation:

• driving without a license
• running a red light
• driving under the influence of alcohol
• failure to wear a seat belt
• talking on cell phones while driving (hands-free technology is allowed)
• excessive speeding or overtaking another vehicle
• failure to maintain a clean car

When involved in a traffic violation, cooperate with police officers and do not attempt to negotiate payment.

If you are involved in a traffic accident that involves injuries, death, or material damage to vehicles, do not move your vehicle until the police give you permission. Moving your car may be interpreted as an admission of guilt. For minor traffic accidents with no damage or injuries, you may move your vehicle to the side of the road.

Traffic Guidelines:

• Traffic circles are common. The driver already in the circle always has priority.
• Drivers flashing high beams are signaling that they want to pass.
• Do not turn right on a red traffic signal.

Driving License Requirements:

• Short-term visitors with a U.S. driver’s license may drive rental vehicles, but not privately registered cars.
• Residents must have an Omani driver's license.
• To obtain an Omani license, you must take a vision test and either have a U.S. license (with proof of being licensed for at least two years) or take a driving test.

Car Insurance:
Residents may insure their vehicles outside the Sultanate; however, third party liability insurance must be purchased locally.  For all traffic-related emergencies, call the Royal Oman Police at 9999. Have an Arabic speaker call when giving directions to a location, since English-speaking operators are not always available.

See our Road Safety page or the Royal Oman Police website for further information.

Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed Oman’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with international standards for aviation safety oversight. FAA’s website includes more information on its assessment program.  

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Oman should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts. Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website and the NGA broadcast warnings.

FACT SHEET

Please see the Fact Sheet for Oman.

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the State Department’s travel website for the Travel Advisories.
• Follow us on X/Twitter and Facebook.
• See traveling safely abroad for useful travel tips.

International Parental Child Abduction
Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Oman. For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act (ICAPRA) report.