Oman is one of those places which feels very close to UAE but at the same time very different. The pace is slow, the nature is green in some parts and the people are very welcoming. Since the trip is short, most of the people just pack a bag and leave, and then they realise at the border or in Oman that something important is missing. So a little preparation before the trip saves a lot of trouble.
1. Check Your Oman Visa Before Anything Else
The first thing to sort is your Oman visa. For many UAE residents the visa on arrival is available at the border or airport for 5 OMR (around AED 48) and it is valid for 14 days. But let me tell you that eligibility depends on your nationality and sometimes on the profession written on your visa also. If you are not sure, better to apply for the eVisa online few days before, as it takes four to five working days and you travel with peace of mind.
2. Keep Your Documents Ready
Passport should have minimum six months validity, and keep your Emirates ID with you also as it is checked at the border. Suppose you are going by car, then driving license, car registration and Oman insurance are must. It is a good idea to keep photocopies or phone copies of everything in case something gets lost.
3. Arrange Some Omani Rial
Cards are accepted in hotels and malls, but small shops, petrol pumps in villages and local restaurants usually prefer cash. My suggestion is to exchange a small amount of Omani Rial in UAE itself. Also remember that the Rial has high value, so one Rial is around AED 9.5, and prices look small but they add up.
4. Pack According to the Place
If you are planning wadis like Wadi Shab or Wadi Bani Khalid, carry water shoes, swimwear and a dry bag. For Muscat, keep modest clothes because to enter the Grand Mosque women need to cover hair, arms and legs, and men should wear long pants. Sunscreen and cap are needed in any season.
5. Sort Phone and Internet
Check with your UAE mobile provider about roaming packs before leaving, or buy a local Omantel or Ooredoo SIM on arrival. Having internet is a big plus point for maps, especially on mountain roads where signal is weak.
At the end of the day, a short Oman holiday is very relaxing if the basics are done before you leave. For help with Oman visa or a full holiday package, better to speak with Efficient Tourism.
