Oman Solo Travel

Is Oman Good for Solo Travel?

Oman is a safe place for solo travellers, especially women. It is a Muslim country, and everyone must abide by the laws and follow tourism guidelines.

• Global Peace Index ranks Oman 37th on the list of 163 countries.
• Numbeo ranks Oman as the 5th safest country in its Safety Index of 146 countries.
• Global Finance Magazine ranks Oman 25th in its safest country index. The index includes a list of 146 countries.

In major cities of Oman, people speak English, so communication is not a challenge for solo travellers. Hindi, Swahili, and Urdu are widespread; therefore, you can enjoy the country throughout your travels from India. Muscat is not only the capital but also the safest city in Oman, especially for solo women travellers because of the low crime rate.

Best Places to Visit in Oman

Oman is a sought-after travel destination by solo travellers. If you want to experience its rich culture, the balance of ancient and modern lifestyle culminates to perfection and numerous sightseeing locations, here is your latest travel advice for Oman. You will get all wrapped here to give you a fulfilling journey. For a solo trip, here are some sight-worthy spots to explore on your Oman trip:

1. Muscat

   Oman's capital shows a great mix of Arabian and Western culture. As a solo traveller, you can explore various things, such as hills, beaches, and culture fanatics. You can visit Emerald Blue beaches and enjoy water sports. Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is a famous mosque where you can spend quality time and witness its stunning architecture, featuring a massive dome and a lavishly adorned prayer hall.

2. Salalah

   Salalah allows you to view the home of the Sultan of Oman. You can visit Al Baleed Archaeological Park, a UNESCO Heritage park where you will find remnants of the ancient port city, Zafar. The pristine Al Mughsail beach along the sea will get you to serene settings of relaxation. If you want to hike, Wadi Darbat offers you an adventurous spot.

3. Wadi Darbat

   Wadi Darbat is known for its picturesque hills and beautiful waterfalls. The East and West Salah mountain safari takes you on an adventurous journey where you can see the beauty of nature at its peak. You can also witness the beauty and mystery of Taq Cave and Tayq Sinkhole.

4. Nizwa

   The historic city of Oman, Nizwa, has the highest and most majestic mountains. Jebel Akhdar, the green mountain of Nizwa, is just two hours from Nizwa. While the Jebel Shams, Oman's highest mountain, is located in the western Hajar Mountains. The most recommended travel advice for Oman is hiking and trekking with a guided tour. It is a perfect place for outdoor adventures. If you want to go shopping, Nizwa Grand Mall is your place where you can shop, eat, and enjoy.

5. Sohar

   Rumoured as the home of the mystery character, Sindbad, Sohar allows you to witness various malls, skyscrapers, beaches, and monuments. Sohar Corniche takes you on a beautiful walk along Sohar's beaches. This place also takes you to Sohar Fort, the handicraft market, and the renowned Sultan Qaboos Mosque. Watching the Camel Racing Track is one of the most enjoyable activities that you won't find advertised in many places, but you can enjoy your quality time out there.

6. Musandam

   If you love scuba diving, come to Musandam. The Omani Peninsula, bordered by turquoise water bodies and rugged mountains, takes you on an exciting aquatic journey. Jebel Harim, the tallest peak in Musandam, has something you may never have witnessed. It is studded with fish fossils and other marine animals that are more than 250 million years old. If you want to see Musandan's heritage, cruise through the “khors” (inlets) that let you explore villages built in them. Most villages belong to the fish communities.

7. Bahla

   Bhala Fort in Bahla is one of the oldest forts of Oman, taking you back to the 13th century. Jabrin Castle is where Sultan bin Saif Al Ya'arubi used to live during the 15th century, and you will get into his Jihad stories when he liberated Muscat from Portuguese colonialism. Old Bahla Souq is the pottery market where you can buy various items near the fort.

8. Sur

   Bhala Fort in Bahla is one of the oldest forts of Oman, taking you back to the 13th century. Jabrin Castle is the home of Sultan bin Saif Al Ya'arubi, where he used to live during the 15th century, and you will get into his Jihad stories when he liberated Muscat from Portuguese colonialism. Old Bahla Souq is the pottery market where you can buy various items near the fort.

9. Wadi Shab

   Bimmah Sinkhole in Wadi Sahab pleases you with clear waters and beautiful limestones. Walk down the stairs to reach the bottom of Sinkhole, the perfect place for a quick swim. Wadi Shab hike lets you experience self-guided hiking through the gorgeous Wadi to the astonishing caves that arrive mid-trek. If you want to rest peacefully, go to Wadi Tiwi, emerald-coloured pools covered with date palms and banana plantations.

10. Khasab

    Khasab is one of the places that will make your journey full of rewards. The mountain, sea beaches, beautiful corals, and a Portuguese fortress- everything needed to make a tour happen- are there. Jebel Harim, also known as the “Mountain of Women”, is the highest peak and lets you have breathtaking views of the valley. Khasab Fort is one of the best ways to witness Oman before its globalisation.

Solo Travel Advice for Oman

Solo travelling to Oman can be fun and a once-in-a-lifetime experience. However, knowing local customs, travel rules and regulations, and transport connectivity can be more rewarding. These latest travel advice for Oman will help you enjoy your tour better than ever.

Solo Outdoor Activities

Oman travel allows you to experience trekking and exploring beautiful Jebel Shams mountain, palm grove valley and turquoise pool on the way. After this adventurous hike, you can explore Wadi Shab and check out waterfalls and caves in the river valley. Get an instructor or local guide with you for a smooth and safe hike, as well as your on-the-go travel tips and advice for Oman.

Managing Commute

Oman's bus services, like Mwasalat, are affordable and connect cities like Muscat and Salalah. Domestic flights are available for faster travel. While Uber and Careem don't operate here, you can use local apps like Marhaba to ride in central cities. Oman Ferries offers scenic trips between islands, and renting a car allows you to explore remote areas like Jebel Shams.

Sharing Spaces in Hostels

For solo travellers in Oman, sharing accommodation in hostels is much preferred. It offers affordable and safe stay. You can look for hostels with basic amenities and secure storage options like lockers or cupboards and check good reviews before getting in. Also, choosing a place with better commute options makes solo travel comfortable.

Solo Female Travellers

For women, Oman is a safe place, so solo travellers can easily take themselves. Generally, men and women keep a distance between them in public. So you can move freely without any distress of getting disturbed. At night, it is better advisable to go with someone, maybe from your hostel mates, or you can ask your guide too.

Local Etiquette

One of the high points of cultural etiquette in Oman is maintaining proper distance between genders in any public place. This local unsaid mannerism is recommended, and you will feel welcome in the country. Another important aspect is to dress modestly while touring Oman, covering your legs and arms and avoiding wearing shorts. Maintaining local etiquette would be the best travel advice for Oman.

Where to Stay as a Solo Traveller in Oman

Oman provides various accommodations for solo travellers, from economic hotels to resorts and others. Here are some options you may want to consider.

Muscat

If you want to stay within your budget, Avenues Muscat Hostel and Basil Hostel could be ideal places. Avenues charges INR 617/ night, while Basil charges INR 1,134/night. If you want a good hotel for your stay, Savoy Inn Hotel Apartments can be a good place where room charges start at INR 1,912/night.

Salalah

Salalah offers cheap yet best hotels, such as Hotel Sama as Sadaah, whose per night room charge is INR 1237. AL NILE HOTEL SAADAH charges INR 1,549/night for a room. Airbnb provides Economy rooms at INR 1,308/night near Salalah Airport.

Bahla

You can book a room in Bahla Hotel Apartments at INR 2 748/night. Al Shuruq Stay also provides rooms at the same price. Hotels are a little more expensive than in Salalah. Nima Guest House in Nizwa is available for a double bed at INR 1 962/ night. Nizwa is just half an hour away from Bahla. The room is available on Airbnb.

How to Get Around in Oman

Oman has an organised transport system offering various convenient ways to travel across the country. Whether you want local options like city transport or long-distance buses, you can have options.

City Transport

The Otaxi app is a great commute option, where you can find a ride to go from one place to another on a reasonable budget.

Buses

Public buses in Oman connect every part of the country, from the north's port city of Sohar to the south's Salalah, almost 620 miles away. Oman's government-owned company, Mwasalat, manages the buses and is a reasonable means of transport.

Airport/Company Taxis

In Oman, you will find two taxi companies: Mwasalat and Marhaba. They both are run using their ride-hailing apps. These are safe and clean but little priced over other commute options. For example, airport fares usually start with 5 OMR (INR 1,091 approx.) with Mwasalat.

National Ferry Service

Ferries in Oman connect the enclave of Musandam and many islands to the rest of the country. One can take the ferry to visit Masirah Island and Diba. You can also get your car on ferries to explore the island, as these are large to explore on foot.

Packing the Essentials for your Country Solo Trip

Packing for an Oman trip requires a wise approach, as different climates could exist in other places at a particular time. The essentials to carry should be based on the activities and season, but here is a list of some essential items to consider.

Medical Kit

A first-aid medical kit ensures that you can quickly resolve small medical needs. Your kit should have bandages, antacids, pain relief, anxiety, fever relief and personal medication (if there are any). Also, you can keep moisturiser and antiseptic cream.

Clothing

Keep a mix of comfortable yet traditional clothes with you as Oman is a Muslim, and dresses could be a concern in the country. However, you can check what to wear in Oman.

Travel Insurance

While travel insurance isn't mandatory for Oman, getting a comprehensive plan is highly recommended. This coverage can protect you against medical emergencies, theft, and adventure-related incidents, especially in remote areas. Having insurance helps you stay stress-free and prepared for unexpected situations during your trip.

Documents

To apply for a tourist visa to Oman, you'll need several documents, including a copy of your passport, a completed visa application, passport-sized photos, and a purpose letter. Additional documents, such as Oman travel itinerary and accommodation proof may also be required. You can apply without a local sponsor if you have a valid Schengen or a visa to the USA, Canada, Australia, or Japan. In this case, ensure your passport is valid for six months beyond entry and have hotel bookings, return tickets, and a copy of your other visa as backup.

*Disclaimer: All costs are approximate and are subject to change at the time of travel.