U.S. Department of State Bureau of Consular Affairs Washington, DC 20520 Consular Information Sheet

This information is current as of today,

Oman

December 9, 2003

COUNTRY DESCRIPTION: The Sultanate of Oman has a long and proud heritage, and is a country of great natural beauty on the southeast corner of the Arabian Peninsula. With a population of 2.4 million, it is a country which has seen rapid economic and social development in the past three decades. While Oman is traditionally Islamic and Islam is the state religion, Omanis have for centuries lived with people of other faiths. Non-Muslims are free to worship at churches and temples built on land donated by the Sultan. The economy is largely dependent on the production and export of oil. Excellent tourist facilities are available in the capital area of Muscat, as well as in Salalah, Sohar, and Nizwa and are increasingly found elsewhere in the country. Travelers may wish to visit the Directorate General of Tourism's web site at http://www.omantourism.gov.om for more information.

ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS: A valid passport and visa are required for entry into Oman. Omani embassies and consulates can issue two-year, multiple-entry tourist and/or business visas to qualified U.S. citizens. Optionally, U.S. citizens may obtain a 30-day visa by presenting their U.S. passports on arrival at all Omani land, sea and air entry points. (Note: The validity period of the applicant's passport should not be less than six months.) Adequate funds and proof of onward/return ticket is required.

Other categories of short-term visit/business/work contract visas are available, but these must be arranged in advance through an Omani sponsor. To obtain a visa or for additional details on entry/exit requirements, please contact the Embassy of the Sultanate of Oman, 2535 Belmont Road, N.W., Washington, DC 20008, telephone (202) 387-1980/2. Evidence of yellow fever immunization is required if the traveler enters from an infected area.

In an effort to prevent international child abduction, many governments have initiated procedures at border points. These often include requiring documentary evidence of the relationship and permission for the child's travel from the parent(s) or legal guardian if not present. Having such documentation on hand, even if not required, may facilitate entry/departure.

DUAL NATIONALITY: The Omani Government does not recognize dual nationality. Omani authorities can confiscate the U.S. passports of U.S./Omani dual nationals. Should this occur, it does not constitute loss of U.S. citizenship. However, it should be reported to the U.S. Embassy in Muscat. For additional information, see the Consular Affairs home page on the Internet at http://travel.state.gov for our Dual Nationality flyer.

SAFETY AND SECURITY: There have been no instances in which U.S. citizens or facilities in Oman have been subject to terrorist attacks. However, U.S. citizens in Oman are urged to maintain a high level of security awareness. The Department of State remains concerned about the possibility of terrorist attacks against U.S. citizens and interests throughout the region. The State Department suggests that U.S. citizens in Oman avoid predictability, varying travel routes whenever possible. U.S. citizens are also urged to treat mail or packages from unfamiliar sources with suspicion. Unusual mail or packages should be left unopened and reported to local authorities. U.S. citizens with security concerns are encouraged to contact local authorities and the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Muscat.

CRIME: Although the incidence of crime is low in Oman, travelers to Oman should take normal precautions. Travelers should also protect personal property from theft. In particular, valuables and currency should not be left unsecured in hotel rooms. Common sense and caution are the best crime prevention. While violent crime is rare in Oman by U.S. standards, it does occur.

The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad must be reported immediately to the local police and the U.S. Embassy. If you are the victim of a crime while overseas, in addition to reporting to the local police, please contact the nearest U.S. Embassy for assistance. The Embassy staff can, for example, assist you to find medical care, to contact family members or friends and explain the process for transferring funds. Although the investigation and prosecution of crime is solely the responsibility of local authorities, consular officers can help you to understand the local criminal justice process and to find an attorney if needed.

U.S. citizens may refer to the Department of State's pamphlets A Safe Trip Abroad and Tips for Travelers to the Middle East and North Africa for ways to promote a trouble-free journey. The pamphlets are available by mail from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C.20402, via the Internet at http://www.access.gpo.gov/su_docs, or via the Bureau of Consular Affairs home page at http://travel.state.gov.

MEDICAL FACILITIES: There are a number of medical facilities utilized by Westerners in Oman. Many (but by no means all) Western pharmaceuticals can be found in Oman. Local medical treatment varies from quite good to inadequate, depending in large part on location. While hospital emergency treatment is available, ambulance services are just being established in Oman. Doctors and hospitals expect cash payments for health services.

MEDICAL INSURANCE: U.S. medical insurance plans seldom cover health costs incurred outside the United States unless supplemental coverage is purchased. The Department of State strongly urges Americans to consult with their medical insurance company prior to traveling abroad to confirm whether their policies apply overseas and whether insurance companies will cover emergency expenses including medical evacuation. Further, U.S. Medicare and Medicaid programs are inapplicable outside the United States. Many travel agents and private companies offer insurance plans that will cover health care expenses incurred overseas including medical evacuations.

When choosing health insurance, Americans should consider that many foreign doctors and hospitals require payment in cash prior to providing service and that a medical evacuation to the U.S. may cost in excess of $50,000. Uninsured travelers who require medical care overseas often face extreme difficulties. When consulting with your insurer prior to your trip, ascertain whether payment will be made to the overseas healthcare provider or if you will be reimbursed later for expenses you incur. Some insurance policies also include coverage for psychiatric treatment and for disposition of remains in the event of death.

Useful information on medical emergencies abroad, including overseas insurance programs, is provided in the Department of State's Bureau of Consular Affairs brochure Medical Information for Americans Traveling Abroad, available via the Bureau of Consular Affairs home page or autofax: (202) 647-3000.

OTHER HEALTH INFORMATION: Information on vaccinations and other health precautions, such as safe food and water precautions and insect bite protection, may be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's hotline for international travelers at 1-877-FYI-TRIP (1-877-394-8747); fax 1-888-CDC-FAXX (1-888-232-3299), or via CDC's Internet site at http://www.cdc.gov/travel. For information about outbreaks of infectious diseases abroad consult the World Health Organization's website at http://www.who.int/en. Further health information for travelers is available at http://www.who.int/ith.

TRAFFIC SAFETY AND ROAD CONDITIONS: While in a foreign country, U.S. citizens may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. The information below concerning Oman is provided for general reference only, and may not be totally accurate in a particular location or circumstance.

Safety of Public Transportation: Good
Urban Road Conditions/Maintenance: Good
Rural Road Conditions/Maintenance: Poor
Availability of Roadside/Ambulance Assistance: Poor (Ambulance service has only begun in certain urban locations in Oman.)

Road conditions, lighting, and traffic safety in cities and on major highways are good. Travel between cities, especially at night, may be dangerous due to inadequate lighting, wandering livestock, and speeding drivers.

Local Traffic Laws: Traffic laws in Oman are strictly enforced. Seat belts are required, and the use of cellular telephones while driving and driving while under the influence of alcohol are prohibited. There are stringent penalties for violation of these laws, particularly for driving under the influence of alcohol. In the event of a traffic violation and fine, drivers should pay the fine as directed by the police and should not attempt to pay the fine or negotiate payment at the time of the traffic stop. In the event of an accident, the driver should not move the vehicle from the location of the accident until police grant permission; moving a vehicle is equivalent to an admission of culpability. The Royal Oman Police may be contacted at telephone 968-560-099.

Driving: Visitors should not drive without a valid license. Short-term visitors in possession of a valid U.S. driver's license may drive rental vehicles, but residents must have an Omani driver's license. To obtain an Omani license, a U.S. citizen must have a U.S. license that has been valid for at least one year or must take a driving test.

Insurance: Visitors hiring rental cars should insure the vehicles adequately against death, injury, loss or damage. Residents may insure their vehicles outside the Sultanate; however, third party liability must be purchased locally.

Local Traffic Customs: The use of European-style traffic circles is prevalent in Oman. However, unlike European traffic practice, the driver on the inside lane always has priority. A car flashing its high beams is generally asking for a chance to pass. Right turn on red is not permitted.

For additional general information about road safety, including links to foreign government sites, see the Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs home page road safety overseas feature at http://travel.state.gov/road_safety.html. For specific information concerning Omani driving permits, vehicle inspection, road tax and mandatory insurance, please contact the Omani Office of Tourism of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry via the Internet at http://www.omanet.com.

AVIATION SAFETY OVERSIGHT: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of Oman's civil aviation authority as category 1 -- in compliance with international aviation safety. For further information, travelers may contact the Department of Transportation within the United States at telephone 1-800-322-7873, or visit the FAA's Internet website at http://www.faa.gov/avr/iasa/index.cfm.

The U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) separately assesses some foreign air carriers for suitability as official providers of air services. As a result of the August 23, 2000, crash of a Gulf Air flight in the Persian Gulf, DOD has recommended that military commands use air carriers other than Gulf Air for DOD official travel. For information regarding the DOD policy on specific carriers, travelers may contact DOD at telephone (618) 229-4801.

CUSTOMS REGULATIONS: Travelers entering Oman may not carry with them, or bring into the country in accompanied baggage, firearms, ammunition, or pornography; all are subject to seizure. Unaccompanied baggage and shipments of household goods are also subject to inspection. Books, videotapes, and audiotapes may be reviewed prior to being released to the owner. A copy of the packing list is required to clear effects through customs. Travelers carrying prescription drugs should be in possession of the prescription and a letter from their doctor detailing the use of the medicine. It is advisable to contact the Embassy of the Sultanate of Oman in Washington for specific information regarding customs requirements. A maximum of one bottle of liquor is permitted per non-Muslim adult.

Pets (dogs and cats) entering Oman require an import permit from the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, Department of Animal Health, before shipment. Application forms may be obtained from the Ministry by one's sponsor and must be submitted with a copy of the pet's rabies vaccination record and a veterinary health certificate. Vaccination certificates must be dated between one month and six months prior to arrival in Oman. Dogs and cats must be at least four months old to be allowed into Oman. Further, a second veterinary health certificate dated no more than one week prior to arrival of the pet into Oman is required. The original rabies vaccination record and the veterinary health certificate must accompany the pet. Pets may be subjected up to a six-month quarantine, if veterinary authorities are not satisfied with the health condition of the pet and/or certifications. Pets must be manifested as cargo on an airway bill when transported by air. Note: For importation of other pets (birds, fish, reptiles, etc.), please contact the Directorate of Animal Health at telephone: 968-696-300, ext. 1510/1513 or by fax at 968-694-465/696-271 for current information.

CRIMINAL PENALTIES: While in a foreign country, U.S. citizens are subject to that country's laws and regulations, which can differ significantly from those in the United States and may not afford the protections available to the individual under U.S. law. Penalties for breaking the law can be more severe than in the United States for similar offenses. Persons violating Omani laws, even unknowingly, may be expelled, arrested or imprisoned. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines. Death sentences are possible for violators of Oman's drug laws. Visitors are additionally cautioned that it is illegal to use aggressive, obscene or abusive language or gestures in public. In accordance with Omani law, penalties for these offenses can range from deportation or fines to imprisonment. Civil charges may also be filed.

SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES: Omani employers often ask that expatriate employees deposit their passports with the company as a condition of employment. Although customary, this practice is not required by Omani law. The U.S. Embassy in Muscat advises U.S. citizens to exercise caution if an employer asks to withhold your passport, since this can operate as a restraint on travel and could give undue leverage to the employer in a dispute. U.S. passports are the property of the U.S. government.

Islamic ideals provide the foundation of Oman's customs, laws and practices. Foreign visitors are expected to be sensitive to the Islamic culture, and not dress in a revealing or provocative style, including the wearing of sleeveless shirts and blouses, halter-tops and shorts. Athletic clothing is worn in public only when the wearer is engaged in athletic activity. Western bathing attire, however, is the norm at hotel pools and beaches frequented by westerners.

CHILDREN'S ISSUES: For information on international adoption of children and international parental child abduction, please refer to Internet site http://travel.state.gov/children's_issues.html or telephone 1-888-407-4747.

Embassy Location and Registration: U.S.-citizen residents and visitors are encouraged to register with the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Muscat, where they may also obtain the latest information on safety and security in Oman. Registration forms (pdf format) are available on the Embassy webpage under Consular Services at the link: "American Citizen Services." To complete the registration process, download, print and fax the completed form to the Consular Section at (968) 699-189. In addition to registering, American citizens may subscribe to obtain Embassy announcements via e-mail by accessing the Embassy webpage and clicking on the link under Consular Services: "To Receive Embassy Announcements via E-mail." The workweek in Oman is Saturday through Wednesday. The U.S. Embassy in Oman is located on Jameat A'Duwal Al Arabiya street, Al Khuwair Area (Shati al-Qurum), in the capital city of Muscat. The mailing address is P.O. Box 202, Medinat Al Sultan Qaboos 115, Sultanate of Oman, telephone: (968)698-989, fax: (968) 699-189. The Embassy's e-mail address is aemctcns@omantel.net.om, and its website is http://www.usa.gov.om.

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This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated September 18, 2002, to update information on entry requirements and the U.S.-citizen registration process.

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