WHEN TO TRAVEL TO Oman

Location

Climate

With its varied landscapes ranging from majestic mountains and sprawling deserts to historic villages and magnificent beaches, Oman is a must-see destination for lovers of cultural discovery and outdoor adventure.

Climatic seasons in Oman

The climate in Oman can be divided into three distinct periods: high season (November to February), low season (June to September) and shoulder season (March to May and October to November). Each has its advantages and disadvantages, depending on your preferences and desired activities.

High season (November to February)

High season in Oman is winter, with pleasant temperatures ranging from 20°C to 28°C during the day. This is the ideal time to enjoy outdoor activities, such as hiking in the mountains of Jebel Akhdar or boat trips to observe dolphins and turtles. This is also a good time to discover the country's cultural and historical sites.including medieval forts and castles, traditional souks and typical villages.

Low season (June to September)

The low season coincides with summer, the hottest time of the year. Temperatures can exceed 40°C in some regions, particularly inland, making outdoor activities less enjoyable. However, there are a few exceptions, it's also the season when you can take advantage of lower rates on accommodation, flights and excursions.. What's more, if you're a scuba-diving enthusiast, this is the ideal time to explore Oman's seabed, thanks to warm water and excellent visibility.

Off-season (March to May and October to November)

The shoulder season offers a mild, pleasant climate, with daytime temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C. There may be sporadic rainfall, especially in the mountains, but this is generally short-lived. This period is perfect for discovering the country without the tourist crowds of the high season or the sweltering heat of the low season.

Major cultural events and public holidays

As well as weather conditions, it's essential to take cultural events and public holidays into account when planning your trip to Oman. Some of these may influence accommodation prices and availability, while others will provide an opportunity to enjoy unforgettable experiences and immerse yourself in the local culture.

The Muscat Festival

Celebrated every year in January or February, the Muscat Festival is a major event celebrating the culture, art and history of Oman. For several days, shows, workshops, exhibitions and competitions are organized in the capital, offering a unique opportunity to discover the country's traditions and know-how. Note, however, that this event attracts many visitorsIt is therefore advisable to book your accommodation in advance.

National holiday

Every year on November 18, Oman celebrates its National Day. It's a public holiday marked by parades, fireworks and festivities across the country. If you have the opportunity to be in Oman during this period, be sure to join in the celebrations to experience a highlight of Omani culture.

Other public holidays

Oman also has several other public holidays, notably linked to the Islamic calendar, such as Eid al-Fitr (marking the end of Ramadan), Eid al-Adha (the Feast of Sacrifice) and Ras al-Sana (the Islamic New Year). It is important to note that during these holidays, some tourist sites and businesses may be closed or operate at reduced hours.. What's more, Ramadan is a period when Omanis fast from sunrise to sunset, so it's a good idea to observe certain rules (no eating, drinking or smoking in public) if you're traveling at this time.

To sum up: when to go to Oman?

For a pleasant stay rich in discoveries, the best time to travel to Oman is between November and February. However, if you want to avoid the crowds and benefit from low fares, the shoulder season (March-May and October-November) may also be a good option.

Located in the south-east of the Arabian Peninsula, the Sultanate of Oman is a country that is attracting more and more travellers, drawn by its rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural landscapes. Oman is a country that is attracting more and more foreigners, whether for professional, family or tourist reasons. Immigration and international tourism figures bear witness to this positive trend, as well as to the effectiveness of government policies aimed at encouraging the arrival of new visitors and residents.

Key immigration figures for Oman

In this first section, we look at the main indicators relating to immigration in Oman:

• Total number of foreigners : According to the latest available statistics, Oman is home to around 2 million foreigners, representing almost 44% of its total population. The majority of them come from Asian countries, in particular India, Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand. Bangladesh and Pakistan.
• Annual growth rate of arrivals : The number of foreigners arriving in Oman recorded average annual growth of 3.5% between 2010 and 2020. This trend is set to continue in the coming years, thanks in particular to the government's efforts to encourage foreign investment and diversify the economy.
• Main categories of visas issued : The most popular visas in Oman are work visas (around 60% of applications), followed by business and family visas. Tourism also accounts for a significant percentage of visas issued, as we will see in more detail in the next section.

International tourism in Oman: a booming sector

Oman is experiencing rapid growth in the number of international tourists, thanks in particular to the diversification of its tourism offering and the easing of entry requirements. Here are a few key figures reflecting this positive dynamic:

• International tourist arrivals : In 2019, Oman welcomed over 3.5 million foreign visitors, an increase of 8% on the previous year. The main nationalities represented were Indiansthe British and the Germans.
• Tourism's contribution to GDP : The tourism sector contributes 3% to Oman's gross domestic product (GDP), or around US$1.7 billion. The government aims to increase this share to 6% by 2040, as part of its economic diversification strategy.
• Jobs generated by tourism : Tourism is an important employment sector in Oman, accounting for some 70,000 direct and indirect jobs. This figure is set to continue to grow in the coming years, with the creation of new hotel and tourist establishments.

Most popular visas for travel to Oman

As mentioned above, several types of visa are issued by the Omani authorities to travelers wishing to visit the country. Here is an overview of the most common categories:

Tourist visa

The tourist visa is intended for people wishing to visit Oman for vacations, tourism or to visit friends and family. There are various types of tourist visa, including :

• THE short-stay visawhich allows you to stay in the country for up to 10 days;
• THE long-stay visafor a maximum of 30 days;
• THE e-visawhich can be obtained online and is valid for stays of up to 30 days.

These visas can be single- or multiple-entry, depending on the traveler's needs.

Business visa

The business visa is intended for professionals wishing to travel to Oman for professional reasons, such as meetings, conferences or business negotiations. It is generally valid for 30 days, and can be extended if necessary.

Work visa

The work visa is issued to foreigners who have obtained an employment contract with an Omani company. The duration of this visa depends on the length of the contract, but it is generally valid for a period of one to two years and can be renewed.

How to obtain a visa for Oman

To apply for a visa for Oman, interested parties must follow certain steps, including:

• Complete the online application form on the official Omani government website ;
• Provide the required documents, such as passport, photo ID, proof of address and, if applicable, a letter of invitation or employment contract;
• Pay the application fee, which varies according to the type of visa and length of stay;
• Wait for a reply from the authorities, who may grant or refuse the visa depending on eligibility criteria.