Getting around Oman
Oman's size and landscape make domestic flights a convenient option for covering long distances, especially between Muscat and the southern city of Salalah. The national carrier, Oman Air, operates frequent flights on this route, with a journey time of around 90 minutes. These flights are particularly useful for travellers short on time who wish to explore both the northern and southern regions of the country.
Other airports with scheduled services include Sohar, Duqm and Khasab, though flight frequencies can vary. During peak holiday periods, additional services may be added, especially to Salalah for the khareef (monsoon) season.
Oman's excellent road network makes travelling by car or coach one of the most rewarding ways to explore the country. Major highways link Muscat with Salalah in the south, Sur on the east coast, and Nizwa and the interior. The scenery is constantly changing — from mountains and deserts to coastline and fertile wadis — making road journeys part of the adventure.
Driving standards are generally good, and fuel is inexpensive by international standards. Distances can be long, and remote stretches may have few petrol stations or services, so it's sensible to plan refuelling stops in advance. Road signs are in both Arabic and English, and GPS coverage is reliable throughout most of the country.
For visitors who prefer not to drive, intercity coaches provide a comfortable and affordable alternative.
Oman has one of the best road networks in the region. Highways connecting Muscat, Nizwa, Sur and Salalah are generally smooth and well-maintained. Urban roads are wide and well-lit, while rural routes are paved but can vary in quality. Mountain and desert tracks may be unpaved, and heavy rain can cause temporary flooding or damage, especially in wadis. Drivers should check local conditions before setting out on remote or off-road journeys.
Oman's main highways are designated as Route 1, Route 13 and so on, linking major cities and regions. Secondary roads connect smaller towns, while unpaved tracks lead to mountain villages, desert camps and coastal inlets. Expressways are dual carriageways with clear signage in Arabic and English. In contrast, mountain passes and wadi routes may require four-wheel drive and cautious driving, particularly during or after rainfall.
Car hire in Oman is straightforward and widely available at airports, in Muscat, and in major towns such as Salalah and Nizwa. International and local rental companies offer a range of vehicles, from compact city cars to four-wheel drives suitable for mountain and desert travel. A 4WD is strongly recommended if you plan to visit wadis, mountain villages or the Sharqiya Sands.
Drivers must be at least 21 years old (sometimes 25 for certain car classes) and hold a valid driving licence. Most car hire firms accept International Driving Permits, though a national licence in English is often sufficient. Fuel is inexpensive, and petrol stations are easy to find along main highways, though less frequent in remote areas.
Taxis are plentiful in Muscat and other large towns. They are easily recognised by their white and orange colour scheme. Most taxis do not use meters, so it's best to agree on the fare before setting off. Ride-hailing apps such as OTaxi and Yango are increasingly popular and generally offer transparent pricing, especially useful for visitors unfamiliar with local rates.
In smaller towns and rural areas, taxis can sometimes be shared, operating like informal minibuses along fixed routes. Drivers are usually courteous, and tipping is appreciated but not expected.
Oman's smooth highways, scenic mountain routes and wide open landscapes have made it an emerging destination for cycling enthusiasts. The cool winter months (October to March) offer the most comfortable riding conditions. The annual Tour of Oman professional cycling race highlights the country's varied terrain — from coastal roads to steep climbs in the Hajar Mountains.
Oman has a reliable long-distance coach network linking Muscat with major regional centres such as Nizwa, Sur and Salalah. The Mwasalat company operates modern, air-conditioned buses with affordable fares and regular schedules. Journeys are comfortable and safe, though long — the Muscat–Salalah trip takes around 12 hours by road.
Tickets can be purchased at bus stations, through authorised agents or online. Smaller private operators also run services to nearby towns, but departure times may be flexible. Intercity coaches are a good option for budget-conscious travellers who prefer not to drive long distances.
Oman drives on the right-hand side of the road. Speed limits are clearly marked and range from 40–60 km/h (25–37 mph) in cities to 100–120 km/h (62–75 mph) on highways. Fixed and mobile speed cameras are common, and fines for violations can be substantial. Seat belts are mandatory for all occupants, and the use of mobile phones while driving is prohibited unless using a hands-free system.
Drink-driving is strictly forbidden and carries heavy penalties. Drivers should also watch out for camels and goats wandering onto rural roads, especially at night. Traffic in Muscat is orderly compared to many regional capitals, but defensive driving is still advised.
Car insurance policies in Oman often include basic roadside assistance, particularly when hiring from reputable international companies. Travellers should confirm the level of cover before setting off, especially if planning long drives through rural or desert areas. In cities and along major highways, help can usually be arranged quickly through your rental provider or the Royal Oman Police, who maintain patrols on main routes. In remote regions, however, mobile signal can be patchy, so it's sensible to carry water, a spare tyre, and a charged phone.
Visitors driving in Oman must carry a valid national driving licence and passport at all times. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended, especially if the home licence is not in English or Arabic. Rental car users should also have the rental agreement and insurance documents readily available. If entering Oman by car from a neighbouring country, proof of cross-border insurance (the "orange card") is required. Police checks are occasional but friendly, and having the correct paperwork ensures a smooth experience.
Getting around cities such as Muscat is easiest by taxi or ride-hailing app, as public transport options remain limited. The city is spread out, so walking between districts is often impractical in the heat. Ride-hailing services provide transparent fares and are widely used by locals and visitors alike.
In smaller towns, shared taxis and minibuses are the most common forms of public transport. Muscat's public bus network, operated by Mwasalat, connects key areas including Ruwi, Muttrah, and Al Khoud, but services are primarily designed for residents. For visitors, taxis remain the most convenient and flexible way to move around urban areas.
Oman does not currently have an operational passenger rail network. Although plans for a national railway connecting major cities and linking with the proposed Gulf Railway have been discussed, construction has yet to begin. For now, domestic travel relies on air and road transport, both of which are well developed and efficient for reaching all parts of the country.
The government-operated National Ferries Company (NFC) runs regular services linking the Musandam Peninsula with the mainland, as well as routes to Masirah Island and between Shannah and Masirah. These modern, air-conditioned ferries carry passengers and vehicles, providing a comfortable alternative to long drives through mountainous terrain.
Schedules can vary according to weather and season, and advance booking is advised during weekends and holidays. In addition to ferries, private operators in Muscat and coastal towns offer leisure cruises, dolphin-watching trips and dhow excursions, which are popular for sightseeing rather than transport.
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