Omanis' Uk Travel: Visa Requirements And Exemptions

British citizens can travel to Oman without a visa for up to 14 days. Oman Air and British Airways offer direct flights between London Heathrow and Muscat, with a flight time of around 7 hours. When travelling to Oman, it is important to be aware of the local laws and customs, which differ significantly from those in the UK, as Oman is an Islamic country. For example, during the holy month of Ramadan, it is forbidden to eat, drink, smoke, or chew gum in public during the daytime. It is also important to respect local dress codes and modesty conventions. In terms of safety, there is a high threat of terrorist attacks globally, including in the Gulf region, which Oman is a part of. Personal attacks against foreign nationals are relatively rare in Oman, but it is advised to take the same precautions as one would in the UK.

Visa requirements for Omani citizens

Omani citizens can visit the UK for up to 14 days without a visa. However, for stays longer than 14 days or for work or study purposes, a visa is required. It is recommended to apply for a visa online before travelling, and tourists can select the 'unsponsored visit visa' option. Alternatively, a visit visa can be obtained upon arrival at a UK airport.

When entering the UK, Omani citizens must present:

• A passport valid for at least six months beyond the arrival date.
• A return or onward ticket.
• Proof of accommodation, such as a hotel booking.
• Travel health insurance.

It is important to note that the UK has specific vaccine requirements for travellers from certain countries. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is mandatory for travellers arriving from Rwanda, Tanzania, or countries listed as transmission risks.

Additionally, Omani citizens should be aware of the UK's customs and laws, which may differ significantly from those in Oman. It is advisable to respect local traditions, customs, and religions at all times.

For the most up-to-date and comprehensive information, it is recommended to refer to the UK government's official website or consult the British Embassy in Oman.

Flight options from the UK to Oman

There are a number of airlines that offer flights from the UK to Oman. Oman Air offers daily direct flights between London Heathrow and Muscat, with an average flight time of 7 hours. British Airways also operates on this route, although this flight includes a stop in Abu Dhabi. For indirect flights, Emirates via Dubai and Qatar Airways via Doha are recommended.

There are also direct flights to Muscat from Manchester, as well as connecting flights from various UK departure points.

For those looking for a bargain, the cheapest month to fly to Oman is currently June. The cheapest day of the week to fly is usually Tuesday, followed by Monday, while Saturday is typically the most expensive.

London to Oman Flight Details

• London to Muscat: 7 hours 10 minutes
• London to Salalah: 10 hours 20 minutes (no direct flights)
• London to Sohar: 13 hours 50 minutes (no direct flights)

Airlines Operating on the UK-Oman Route

• Oman Air
• British Airways
• Emirates
• Qatar Airways
• Etihad Airways
• Swiss Air
• Wizz Air Abu Dhabi
• Kuwait Airways
• Pegasus Airlines

Recommended vaccinations for travellers to Oman

It is recommended that travellers to Oman consult a healthcare professional for advice on vaccinations and medications. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends the following vaccines for travellers to Oman: MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella), pneumonia, and TDAP (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis). Here is a list of other recommended vaccinations and medications for travellers to Oman:

• Hepatitis A vaccine is recommended for all travellers, especially those who plan to eat or drink outside major restaurants and hotels. Hepatitis A can be transmitted through contaminated food or water in Oman, regardless of where you are staying.
• Typhoid vaccine is recommended for all travellers, especially those who plan to stay with friends or family or in smaller towns and rural areas. Typhoid can also be transmitted through contaminated food and water.
• Hepatitis B vaccine is recommended for travellers who may have sexual contact with a new partner, undergo a medical procedure, or get a tattoo or piercing. Hepatitis B is transmitted through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood.
• Rabies vaccine is recommended for travellers who may come into close contact with animals, including children, those spending long periods outdoors, and those on longer trips. Rabies is present in dogs, bats, and other animals in Oman, but it does not pose a significant risk to most travellers.
• Yellow Fever vaccine is required for travellers arriving from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission. This includes travellers coming from Rwanda, Tanzania, or other countries listed as transmission risks.
• Malaria prophylaxis is recommended for travellers to certain regions in Oman, including Ad Dakhliyah, North Al Batinah, and North and South Ash Sharqiyah. Antimalarial medication may be considered, but it is recommended to consult a medical professional due to potential side effects.
• Travellers' Diarrhoea is a common ailment, and it is recommended to bring along antibiotics and antidiarrheal drugs. Food and water precautions should be taken to prevent travellers' diarrhoea.
• Insect and Tick Protection is important to prevent diseases such as dengue fever and malaria. Wear long sleeves, long pants, hats, and shoes, and use insect repellents containing DEET or picaridin.
• Schistosomiasis is a risk in Oman, transmitted through contact with fresh water. Avoid swimming, bathing, or paddling in fresh water lakes and streams to prevent infection.

Clothing advice for visitors to Oman

Oman is a conservative Middle Eastern Muslim country with a unique culture that blends many regional influences. As a visitor, it is important to respect the local culture and dress code, which reflects the country's traditions and values. While the Omani people are friendly and accepting, it is advisable to dress modestly and avoid revealing clothing in public places.

For women, loose clothing that covers the arms, legs, and shoulders is recommended. Skirts or dresses should reach below the knee, and trousers are preferable. Women should also carry a shawl or scarf to cover their hair when visiting conservative areas or entering a mosque. Beachwear should be reserved for the beach.

For men, the dress code is less strict, but it is advisable to avoid shorts and singlets. Long-sleeved tops and pants are recommended. Thigh-length shorts can be worn, but swimsuits should be confined to the beach.

When packing for Oman, it is important to consider the varying climates across the country. In the desert, lightweight, loose, long clothing made from breathable fabrics is recommended to protect from the extreme heat. A light-colored scarf, wide-brimmed hat, and UV-protective sunglasses are also essential to shield from the intense sunlight. In contrast, the wadis and coastal regions have a cooler and more humid climate, so layering with lightweight, moisture-wicking base layers and insulating mid-layers is key. A waterproof outer layer is also recommended for the coast.

Additionally, it is important to remain culturally sensitive by covering the arms and legs, especially in public spaces and when visiting mosques.

Local laws and customs in Oman

Oman's laws and customs differ significantly from those in the UK, and it is important to respect local traditions and customs. Here are some key points to be aware of when travelling to Oman:

Religion and Culture

Oman is an Islamic country, and it is important to respect local religious traditions and customs. During the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, and it is forbidden for anyone, including non-Muslims, to eat, drink, smoke, play loud music, or dance in public during daylight hours. It is also important to dress modestly when visiting Oman, covering the tops of arms and legs, and ensuring that clothing is loose-fitting. Swimming attire should only be worn on tourist beaches or at swimming pools. Additionally, it is respectful to ask permission before entering a mosque.

Passports and Identification

To enter Oman, your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of arrival. It is also recommended to carry a copy of your passport at all times, keeping the original document in a safe place.

Alcohol and E-cigarettes

Non-Muslim residents can obtain a licence to drink alcohol at home, but liquor licences are not available to non-residents. Tourists and visitors can purchase and consume alcohol in licensed venues, such as hotels, restaurants, and clubs. The legal drinking age in Oman is 21. It is important to note that drinking in public, being drunk in public, and drink driving are all punishable offences under Omani law. The import and use of e-cigarettes and vape products are also illegal in Oman.

Other Customs and Laws

• It is illegal to swear, make rude gestures, or display excessive affection in public.
• Cross-dressing is illegal in Oman.
• Homosexuality is illegal in Oman.
• It is illegal to live together or share a hotel room with someone of the opposite sex to whom you are not married or closely related.
• It is important to respect the privacy of others by not photographing people or certain government buildings and military sites without permission.
• Hobbies such as bird watching and plane spotting may be misunderstood, especially near sensitive locations.
• Financial crimes, including fraud, bouncing cheques, and non-payment of debts or bills, can result in imprisonment and/or fines.
• It is important to pay all outstanding debts and fines before leaving the country.
• There is zero tolerance for drug-related offences in Oman, with severe penalties for importing, trafficking, smuggling, or possessing even small amounts of drugs.
• Some UK prescription and over-the-counter medications are illegal in Oman, so it is important to carry a copy of your prescription if you are bringing any medication into the country.

Frequently asked questions