Geography: The Sultanate of Oman is one of the most fascinating countries in the Middle East, renowned for its spectacular geographical beauty and cultural diversity. It has a diverse range of history, heritage and climate conditions. Thousands of years ago, Oman was known by Magan (a Sumerian name).

The Sultanate of Oman lies in the South-western part of Asia, on the southeast coast of the Arabian Peninsula. It borders the United Arab Emirates in the northwest, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in the west, and the Republic of Yemen in the southwest. With a total land area of 309,500 square kilometers, Sultanate of Oman is the third largest country in the Arabian Peninsula.

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Time: Sultanate of Oman is four hours ahead of GMT and there are no daylight saving time changes.

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Climate: The country’s climate is predominantly arid and varies slightly from one region to another. In the coastal areas, the weather is hot and humid during the summer months, while it is dry elsewhere in the interior. Milder weather dominates the mountains and Dhofar region all the year round. March temperatures can be as low as 25 degrees Celsius in Muscat.  

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Banking Services: Omani Rials as well as US Dollars (US$) are accepted in Muscat. Money can be exchanged at the Airport on arrival at the banks and other authorized money exchange agencies on the presentation of passport. The current exchange rate is approximately one US$ to 0.39 Omani Rials. Major credit cards and travelers checks are also accepted.

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Electricity/Voltage: Electricity in Oman is 240 volts at 50 Hertz. Any device which does not accept 240 volts at 50 Hertz needs a voltage converter. Travelers with computers, shavers, and other appliances should carry a plug adapter kit.

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