Safety in Oman - everything you need to know before visiting the Persian Gulf country

The Sultanate of Oman boasts natural wonders and a rich cultural heritage that attracts tourists from all over the world. It is known in the Middle East for its modern appearance, like the neighboring United Arab Emirates, combined with genuine charm rooted in tradition.

Nevertheless, tourists should still have safety information in Oman when traveling to countries in the Middle East. Although the wave of violence caused by the Arab Spring has decreased dramatically since 2010, some countries, such as Yemen and Syria, still contain travel warnings.

Despite being located in this turbulent region, Oman is one of the few countries in the region that still welcomes Western culture.

Safety in public places

Because of Oman's location, there is little political tension. Unlike other countries in the Middle East, Omanis did not protest against the new political regime, but rather favored better living conditions and the creation of more jobs.

There have been protests in the country, but most of them have been peaceful and have not affected security in Oman. It is probably a good idea to avoid large demonstrations of any kind, especially in border areas, which can be risky.

There have been reports of harassment and arrests of dissenting voices, especially since the Penal Code was amended in 2011 to allow for the detention of individuals without an arrest warrant. Watch out for public gatherings, especially at noon.

For the most part, the country is safe for travelers. Acceptance and tolerance are pillars of Islam, and therefore most Omanis are pleasantly accommodating.

In fact, the country received a zero rating on the Global Terrorism Index in 2013 and 2015, indicating a high level of security. Crime rates are low, although incidents of theft and burglary, such as bag snatching, have been reported. As in any country, it's best to be on guard, be responsible for your belongings and not leave them unattended.

Social precautions to take when in Oman

Omanis are friendly people who are proud of their country's rapid progress over the past four decades. Once an underdeveloped country in the 1970s with little contact with the outside world, it now boasts a high-income economy thanks to tourism and trade.

1. Any criticism of Sultan Sayyid Qaboos bin Sayyid Al Sayyid, even in jest, is considered taboo.
2. Maintaining a good reputation here is important, and it's worth keeping that in mind when talking to locals. It is best to avoid making any comments about the country, the government, or local officials.
3. Displays of anger, such as impatient gestures or loud arguments, are not received favorably. Omanis are quiet people, and public displays of anger can be grounds for a complaint.
4. Although Oman is a Muslim country, this does not mean that alcohol is not available; hotel establishments with liquor licenses such as the Shangri-La, InterContinental, and Grand Hyatt serve alcohol to visitors. In addition, liquor licenses can be obtained from the Royal Omani Police. The legal drinking age in the country is 21.
5. Keep in mind, however, that public intoxication is illegal. During the month of Ramadan, these privileges are limited. It is forbidden to eat, drink, smoke or play loud music in public places during daylight hours. Anyone caught breaking this law can be arrested.

In addition, the locals are very warm and friendly, and this has led to a huge safety factor in Oman for tourists. It is not uncommon for cab drivers or tour guides to strike up a conversation or, if they like your company, invite you home to meet their families.

They are proud to accept you. If you approve of their kind offer, keep in mind that arriving without any gift is considered rude, and remember to take off your shoes before entering the house.

Clothing in Oman

1. It is advisable to dress modestly so as not to hurt the feelings of the local population. In Oman, it is impolite to wear skimpy clothes in public, regardless of gender.
2. Ideally, women should cover their breasts, hips, waist, and shoulders, although they do not need to cover their heads unless they intend to enter the mosque.
3. Men should avoid wearing shorts and sleeveless shirts.
4. Torn clothing and T-shirts with provocative slogans or images should probably be avoided.
5. While two-piece bathing suits can be worn on private beaches, it is advisable to dress as soon as you leave the swimming area. On public beaches, it is best to wear full-length swimsuits. Bikinis and revealing swimsuits should not be worn.

Road safety in Oman

Road travel is the most common mode of transportation, and Oman has many highways along its cities and desert areas. But this poses a safety risk, as drivers are notoriously reckless and ignore the rules of the road.

In some parts of the country, the roads are in poor condition. The level of traffic accidents in the country is quite high compared to the population. Also, watch out for camels, as they have been known to show up on the road.

1. Long, unassisted roads in desert areas. It is best to have spare tires and other supplies on hand for emergencies.
2. Always keep extra water bottles in the car, especially when exploring desert areas.
3. Oman, like many countries in the Middle East, is prone to flash floods. At this time, it is especially dangerous to be in these abandoned areas. In case of rain, go to high ground and follow the advice of local authorities.

Many travelers got lost in the desert during these rains, and some even drowned from high water levels.

Safety of women and couples in Oman

Females have a great deal of freedom in Oman. However, because the interaction between the sexes is relatively minimal, mere contact with locals can be misinterpreted.

1. Outside urban areas such as Muscat and Salalah, it is advisable not to smile or stay too close to the opposite sex, as this could be considered coquettish behavior.
2. It is better not to sit next to male passengers on public transport.
3. When taking pictures with locals, it is important to ask their permission first. This is especially true for Omani women, who may not be happy about being photographed without their consent.
4. This extends to physical touch as well.
5. Despite its flexibility for tourists, Oman is relatively conservative in relationships. Couples must minimize public displays of affection in order to avoid attracting attention, as such behavior is considered offensive.
6. It is forbidden to live together or share a hotel room with a member of the opposite sex who is not a spouse or relative, although the more posh hotels turn a blind eye to this.

Safety in Oman for LGBT Travelers

As in all Middle Eastern countries, the government of Oman does not approve of LGBT activities. Homosexuality is illegal here.

Under Article 33 of the Omani Penal Code, erotic acts and same-sex relationships are punishable offenses ranging from six months to three years in prison. But unlike its neighbors, Oman is more tolerant.

If people do not exhibit overt homosexual behavior or do not report it, they probably will not be bothered during their travels. Unlike unmarried heterosexual couples, they can easily rent hotel rooms in the country. There is an underground group for the LGBT community that is discreet.

Although some may not agree with the faith and traditional character of Oman, it is we who are allowed to enter their country and culture. So, it is important to respect their wishes and sentiments.

For travelers and locals, security in Oman is pretty steady. As long as these basic rules are followed, the trip should go smoothly for everyone involved!