The Oman Business Travel Guide provides an array of useable travel tools and resources to assist business travellers. The guide contains facts on Oman, visa information, business customs, useful tips and other resources. An appreciation and understanding of other cultures, languages, customs and etiquette can be of great help to business travellers and give a real advantage to ensuring a successful business trip.
Oman Guide
Quick Facts on Oman
Oman Travel Advice
Visa Requirements
Business Customs and Etiquette
Travel Advice and Tips
Public Holidays
Oman Map
Oman Weather
Currency Converter & Travel Money Exchange
Oman Hotels & Flights
Travel Insurance
Quick Facts on Oman
Country: Oman (Sultanate of Oman)
Capital: Muscat
Currency: Omani Rial (OR)
Population: 3 Million
Area total: 212,500 sq km
Languages: Arabic (Official), English (business)
Time Zone: GMT +4
Electricity: 220-240V 50Hz
Dialling Code: 968
GDP: USD 53.7bn (2007)
Religion: Predominately Muslim.
Political System: Monarchy
Internet Domain: .om
Oman Travel Advice
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office offers travellers useful advice when travelling to Oman. You can find more information on entry requirements for Oman, advice on local laws and customs, health considerations, useful tips on safety and security and the address and contact details of the British Embassy in Oman. The information is updated on a regular basis making it a useful resource for both business and leisure travellers when searching for the latest travel advice and information on Oman. For more information please see: Oman Travel Advice
Visa Requirements
Visas can be granted on arrival for short term visits for citizens of the UK, many European counties, Canada, USA and other selected countries. Other nationalities not on the selected list have to ensure they arrive in Oman with a valid visa. Visa requirements are subject to change with changes in requirements and rules for further information please see: Oman Visa Requirements
Business Customs and Etiquette
Business dress is conservative and both men and women are advised to wear conservative, non-revealing clothing. Greetings are usually with a handshake, business cards are then exchanged. There are a relatively small number of business people with controlling interests in many industries, so it is advisable to try to establish a good business relationship with them. Business is done with people that are respected and trusted this can take some time to build up and it can take several trips before this is established. People should be addressed with their correct titles and would need to wait for the hosts to initiate a move to first names. Decisions can take some time to be reached, a degree of patience may be required.
Travel Advice and Tips
Most trips to Oman for both business visitors and tourists go ahead each year without incident. There is a relatively low risk of crime in the country, however you should be aware of some incidents of robbery and ensure that your valuables are not in public view. You should maintain vigilance at all times and ensure you are full aware of your surrounds and environment. It is advisable to wear conservative clothing to avoid any unwanted attentions and you should be aware of local holidays and religious holidays where businesses can be closed or operate under shorter hours. During Ramadan it is considered impolite to eat, drink or smoke in public.
Travel Checklist: See our Packing & Travel Checklist containing useful tips and reminders to ensure you have everything you will need on your trip.
Travel Vaccinations: It is recommended you check with your GP for advice on any travel vaccinations up to eight weeks before you travel. For more information and advice on travel vaccinations please see the NHS Fit for Travel website.
Tipping: If service charge is not included usually around 10-15%
Hours of Business:
For Businesses:
08.00 to 13.00 then 15.30 to 18.30 Saturday to Thursday
Some businesses are open 08.30 to 13.00 then 15.00 to 17.30 Saturday to Wednesday
For Shops
08.00 to 13.00 then 16.00 to 18.00 Saturday to Wednesday
08.00 to 13.00 Thursdays
For Banks:
08.00 to 12.00 Saturday to Wednesday
08.00 to 11.30 Thursday
NOTE: During Ramadan opening hours are subject to change. Many Shops may stay open later than the general guideline hours outlined above.
Public Holidays
Public Holidays (2012):
Jan 1: New Year’s Day
Feb 5: Mouloud
Jun 17: Leilat al-Meiraj
Jul 23: Renaissance Day
Aug 19: Eid al-Fitr
Oct 26: Eid al-Adha (Feast of the Sacrifice)
Nov 15: Islamic New Year
Nov 18: National Day
Oman Map
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Related Resources
Oman Weather
Disclaimer: The information given in on this website is given in good faith and to the best of our knowledge. If there are any discrepancies in no way do we intend to mislead. Important travel details and arrangements should be confirmed and verified with the relevant authorities.
