General Information » Essential Info » Crime & Safety

While street crimes are uncommon in Oman and violent crimes rare, a healthy degree of caution should still be exercised. Keep your valuables and travel documents locked in a safe. Don’t leave valuables or tempting items like mobile phones or portable computers in plain sight in a parked car, particularly in hotel parking lots. When in crowded areas, be discreet with your money and wallet. As with anywhere in the world (no matter how safe), just remain vigilant and know what’s going on around you.

Ladies are strongly advised not to get into the orange and white taxis if they are alone – while there are many upstanding and honest taxi drivers around, there have been many reports of women being harassed in taxis.

With a variety of driving styles converging on Oman’s roads, navigating the streets either on foot or in a vehicle can be challenging. There are very few pedestrian crossings and overpasses but don’t be tempted to make a run for it, particularly across the main Sultan Qaboos highway (and while driving, be on the lookout for those who do).

Omanis are generally polite and will stop to let you cross, but do make eye contact and make sure their vehicle has completely stopped. Learn the rules of the road before getting behind the wheel, and drive defensively. Make sure you have insurance!