Best Time to Visit Oman
Last updated: November 9, 2025
Oman is a land of breathtaking natural beauty and deep cultural heritage — where golden deserts meet turquoise seas, and rugged mountains hide ancient villages and oases. From the dramatic fjords of Musandam and the souks of Muscat to the dunes of Wahiba Sands and the lush greenery of Salalah, Oman offers a peaceful and authentic Arabian experience. While sunshine is guaranteed year-round, the best time to visit depends on your preferred activities and regions.
🌸 Winter (November – March): Ideal Weather and Outdoor Adventures
Winter is the best time to visit Oman. The weather is warm and pleasant across the country, making it perfect for sightseeing, hiking, and exploring both desert and coast. It’s also the high season for cultural festivals and outdoor experiences.
Highlights:
- Comfortable temperatures (20–28 °C)
- Ideal for exploring Muscat, Nizwa, and Sur
- Perfect for desert safaris, mountain treks, and dhow cruises
- Muscat Festival (January–February) celebrates Omani culture and heritage
☀️ Spring (March – May): Warm Days and Desert Beauty
Spring in Oman brings rising temperatures, especially inland, but the coast remains enjoyable. The landscapes are still green after the cooler months, and it’s a great time for diving and exploring before the heat peaks.
Highlights:
- Warm temperatures (25–35 °C)
- Great for visiting the Wahiba Sands and Jebel Shams
- Excellent diving visibility off the Musandam Peninsula
- Rose harvest season in Jebel Akhdar (March–April)
🍂 Summer (June – September): Hot in the North, Cool in the South
Summer is extremely hot in most of Oman, particularly in Muscat and the desert regions, but it’s the best time to visit Salalah in the south. During the Khareef (monsoon) season, the region transforms into a lush green paradise, drawing visitors from across the Arabian Peninsula.
Highlights:
- Hot temperatures (40–48 °C in Muscat; 22–27 °C in Salalah)
- Khareef Festival in Salalah (July–September)
- Misty mountains, waterfalls, and green landscapes in Dhofar
- Excellent hotel deals in northern Oman
❄️ Autumn (October – November): Balanced Weather and Cultural Calm
Autumn marks the transition from the hot summer to the cooler winter season. The weather becomes pleasant again, and it’s a fantastic time to explore Oman’s natural and cultural attractions in comfort.
Highlights:
- Warm temperatures (25–33 °C)
- Great for outdoor sightseeing and beach escapes
- Ideal for hiking in wadis and mountain villages
- Calm travel atmosphere before the winter crowds arrive
🇴🇲 In Summary
- Best for sightseeing and outdoor adventures: November – March
- Best for desert trips and rose harvest: March – May
- Best for Salalah and lush greenery: June – September
- Best for balanced weather and quieter travel: October – November
From the souks of Muscat and the ancient forts of Nizwa to the emerald wadis, towering mountains, and serene coastline, Oman is a destination of stunning contrasts and timeless charm. Whether you visit for culture, nature, or tranquillity, every season in Oman reveals a different kind of beauty.
Top Travel Tips for Oman
✅ GOOD NEWS: Visa-Free Entry (Up to 14 Days)
Citizens of many countries (including the US, UK, EU, Canada, and Australia) can enter Oman visa-free for up to 14 days. For longer stays, you must apply for an e-Visa in advance via the official Royal Oman Police e-Visa website. GCC citizens do not require a visa.
ℹ️ Currency: Omani Rial (OMR)
The official currency is the Omani Rial (OMR), which is divided into 1,000 baisa. It is one of the strongest currencies in the world. Credit cards are widely accepted in cities, hotels, and larger restaurants. However, you will need cash (rials or baisa) for small shops, taxis, and shopping in traditional souks.
ℹ️ Tipping: Appreciated, Not Mandatory
Tipping is not obligatory but is a welcome gesture for good service. In restaurants, 5-10% is appropriate if a service charge isn't already included. For taxi drivers, rounding up the fare is common. For guides and private drivers, a tip of 5-10 OMR per day is a generous way to show appreciation.
⚠️ Tap Water: Drink Bottled Water
While the tap water in Muscat is desalinated and technically safe, most locals and tourists prefer to drink bottled water. This is due to the taste and the varying quality of plumbing and storage tanks in different buildings. It is safe to use tap water for brushing your teeth.
⚠️ IMPORTANT: Power Plugs (Type G)
Oman uses the Type G plug, which is the same three-pin rectangular plug used in the United Kingdom. The standard voltage is 240V with a frequency of 50Hz. If you are travelling from a country that uses a different plug, you will need a travel adapter.
Things to do in Oman
Explore the stunning Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, swim in the turquoise waters of Wadi Shab, discover the ancient Nizwa Fort, or experience the magic of the Wahiba Sands desert. Book your tours and activities easily via our trusted partners: