1001 Events - Professionals With Passion

Area: The Total Area of Oman is 309,500 km2.

History: Omans unique story reveals examples of great moral strength, courage,heroism, maritime skills, scholarship and hard work that have together moulded the Sultanate into its present form Oman’s heroic resistance staved off the Persian invasion in that period and their ultimate victory is owing to the leadership of Ahmed bin Said Al-Busaidi who succeeded in ousting the Persians from Oman and was elected imam in 1744 AD, In 1970 His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, the crowing Glory of Oman, inaugurated the renaissance and modern ago of Oman.

Location: The Sultanate of Oman occupies the south-eastem tip of the Arabian Peninsula and lies between latitudes 16” 40’ north, and longitudes 51” 50’ and 59” 40’ east.

Weather: Oman enjoys 365 days of warm sunshine with cooler evenings and occasional showers in the months between November & March.

Local Time: Oman is 4 hours ahead of GMT during winter 03 hours ahead during daylight savings on the summer month.

Climate: The varied geography of Oman has resulted in a wide variety of climatic conditions. Although lying the tropics, the Sultanate is subject to seasonal changes like the more temperate regions of the world. Winter temperatures can be as low as 15 Celsius and summer temperatures can be as high 48 Celsius in Muscat and as high as 54 in the desert.

Language: The official language is Arabic although English is most commonly spoken German and French are also mostly spoken in all hotels. This is an asset for all tourists into the country.

Currency: The currency is Omani Rials. A Rial is referred to as OMR when shown in written 1000 Baiza is equal to 01 Rial. The exchange rate is 01 OMR=US$ 2.58 (approximate).

Electricity: Electricity services is Oman are excellent and power cuts in electrical supply are rare. Normal three-pin 13 ampt British style plugs are used operating on 220/240 volts. If the guests need to purchase an adapter, all supermarkets and most hotels will sell these.

Making Telephone Calls: Like any other country call from a land line to another is chargeable, however in Oman it is charged at a very minimum rate. The roaming fees (by using international mobiles) are very high and it is advisable to use a local mobile sim cards.

Alcohol: Alcohol is widely available at many bars, restaurants, hotels and clubs. But you cannot purchase alcohol from any supermarket unless you have an alcohol license.

Photography: There are many great photo opportunities in Oman. However kindly note that local people may take exception to be photographed wearing their natural dress without their permission.

Culture: The Sultanate enjoys an unspoiled culture and trading lifestyle in almost every aspect. Even in its modernity, Oman is distinctly Arab and Offers the visitor a glimpse of many unique old-world wonders.

Dress Code: Visitors are free to dress according to their personal choice. Dress sensibly, although very revealing clothes shouldn’t be worn in public places of worship. Most Omani men and women prefer to wear their traditional national dress.

Heritage: Oman boats an unprecedented number of UNESCO-classified World Heritage.
Site including bat with its tombs dating back 3,000 years, the For of Bahla, and the fascinating Frankincense Route which commences from Dhofar and includes Al-Blaid, site of the ancient city of Zafa, khawar Rawri, Shisr and Wadi Dukah. Oman’s heritage feature a great sea-faring tradition, as one would expect from a country with 3,165 km of coastline. Many museums and galleries around the secluded and historic harbors of Muscat and Muttrah illuminate the importance of the sea and, indeed, of water generally, throughout Oman’s 5,000 year-old history.

Economy: Oman follows a free economy system, encouraging open markets, competition and quality production. The Sultanates economic strategy is based on series of five-years plan. In vision 2020, Oman aims to become a newly industrialized Economy and to double the Gross Domestic product which is currently US$ 8.593 per capita. Oil remains the largest contribution to the GDP. The country is also aiming at increasing other industries such as trade, Tourism.

Safety and Security: Oman is safe destination and violet crimes are rare. It is recommended to keep your valuables and personal belongings safely.

Hospitality: Omanis are very hospitable people and welcome tourists. They are also vey helpful and generous. Oman is well known for its rich culture and heritage from the pas many years.