If you are a first time visitor to Oman and are new to driving in the desert, never ever try it. We strongly recommend booking conducted tours for sand bashing, as only an experienced driver can ensure your safety.Also you need to be extra cautious with camel ride – especially while mounting and dismounting a camel. Though it looks simple, in reality it could be a laborious task.
It’s okay to explore Oman all by yourself, but take care to drive only along roads where overhead power lines (OHL) are visible, as these indicate people, towns or villages nearby. Otherwise you may get lost. If you are lost, refer to your map to get back.
Never camp or picnic on a dry wadi bed. The innocuous dry wadis could get flooded instantly if it rains atop the mountains.
Be careful to sufficiently stock your supplies of water, first aid, insect repellents, petrol and other essentials before you explore Oman’s interiors.
Be wise in using your camera. Never photograph local women without their permission. Also, sensitive and strategic areas like borders, embassies, and military installations should be avoided. You are liable to be prosecuted and your film roll confiscated.
You need to be extremely careful about your safety when it rains in Oman. Sudden rains can cause severe flooding on roads, wadis and elsewhere, in which case you need to revise your travel plans.
If you are behind the wheel outside city limits and in areas where you see camel signboards, watch out for the slow-moving camels! They may appear on the road from nowhere, and cause fatal accident.
While in Oman, follow a decent dress code. Never wear shorts. Save it for the beach. Women are advised to wear modest clothes and cover their body sufficiently.
Never eat, drink or smoke in pubic during the holy month of Ramadan.
Check and confirm timings, if you plan to visit museums and forts. They may vary and some could even be closed for renovation.