General Information » Essential Info » Health Requirements

No health certificates are required for visitors to Oman, except for people who have recently been in a yellow fever infected area. However, it is always wise to check with an Oman diplomatic mission or your travel agent before departure as health restrictions may change. If you are travelling from a yellow fever area, you will need a certified vaccination at least 10 days before arriving in Oman. Travellers from Africa may be tested for malaria on arrival.

Malarial mosquitoes are rarely a problem in the cities. They are sometimes found around wadis and pools in the mountains, but they are not found in the desert or at altitudes above 2,000m. Long-term residents do not usually take malaria tablets. As of 2001 the World Health Organisation declared Oman malaria-free and taking preventive medication is no longer required. However, certain short-term visitors (such as elderly people or people with compromised immune systems) are advised to take the necessary precautions. Check requirements a month or so before leaving your home country.

Rabies has not been eradicated in Oman, so if you are bitten seek medical attention immediately. Vaccinations for Hepatitis A and B, and typhoid are recommended.

Oman’s climate can be harsh, particularly in summer. Drink plenty of water and cover up when out in the sun. Try to avoid too much exposure to the sun between 10:00 and 15:00 and use the appropriate factor of sunscreen – sunburn, heat stroke and heat exhaustion can be very unpleasant and in some cases, dangerous.

The risk of contracting avian flu (bird flu) when travelling is very low, and Oman has had no reported cases so far. However, it is sensible to avoid direct contact with any birds (alive or dead), and undercooked poultry and egg dishes. Check the hygiene standards of any food outlet before you eat there.

Check www.fco.gov.uk for updated travel information on Oman and other countries.