|
Oman is a monarchy that has developed rapidly in the past 25 years. Its economy is largely dependent on the production and export of oil. Tourist facilities are available in the capital city of Muscat, as well as in Salalah, Sohar, and Nizwa, and are being expanded elsewhere in the country.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: A valid passport and visa are required. Omani embassies and consulates issue two-year, multiple-entry tourist and/or business visas to qualified American citizens. "No-objection certificates" for entry into Oman may also be arranged through an Omani sponsor. Evidence of yellow fever immunization is required if the traveler enters from an infected area. To obtain a visa or for details on entry and travel requirements, please contact the Embassy of the Sultanate of Oman, 2535 Belmont Road N.W., Washington, D.C. telephone (202) 387-1980, 1981 or 1982.
SAFETY/SECURITY: American citizens in Oman are urged to maintain a high level of security awareness. As a result of rising tensions and acts of violence in the Middle East since the first part of October 2000, the Department of State is extremely concerned about the possibility for violent actions against United States citizens and interests throughout the region. Students and other groups have conducted a series of periodic non-violent demonstrations protesting U.S. Middle East policy since October 3, 2000. Anti-American demonstrations elsewhere in the Middle East have become violent and difficult for local authorities to control. In addition, the U.S. Government has indications that individuals may be planning terrorist actions against United States citizens and interests in the Persian Gulf, the Arabian Peninsula and elsewhere.
CRIME INFORMATION: The incidence of street crime is low in Oman, and violent crimes are very rare. Nevertheless, travelers to Oman should take normal precautions, such as avoiding travel in deserted areas after dark and avoiding travel alone after dark. Furthermore, travelers should also take normal precautions to protect their personal property from theft. In particular, valuables and currency should not be left unsecured in hotel rooms. Common sense and caution are always the best crime prevention. The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. Useful information on safeguarding valuables, protecting personal security, and other matters while traveling abroad is provided in the Department of State pamphlets, A Safe Trip Abroad and Tips for Travelers to the Middle East and North Africa. They are available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402, via the Internet at http://www.access.gpo.gov/su_docs, or via the Bureau of Consular Affairs home page at http://travel.state.gov.
MEDICAL FACILITIES: Care and medicines are available in Oman. Local medical treatment varies in quality, however, and can be inadequate. While hospital emergency treatment is available, there is no ambulance service in Oman. Malaria is a concern in the interior and on the Batinah Coast. Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services.
ROAD SAFETY: Road conditions, lighting, and traffic safety in cities and on major highways are good. Drivers are generally courteous and follow traffic rules. However, travel between cities, especially at night, may be dangerous due to poor or no lighting, wandering livestock, and speeding drivers.
Local Traffic Laws: Observing local traffic laws in Oman is a must. Seat belts are required, and the use of cellular telephones while driving is prohibited. Driving while under the influence of alcohol is strictly prohibited. There are stringent penalties for violation of these laws, particularly for driving under the influence of alcohol. In the event of a traffic violation and fine. Drivers should pay the fine as directed and should not attempt to pay the fine or negotiate payment at the time of the traffic stop. In the event of an accident, the driver should not move the vehicle from the location of the accident until police grant permission; moving a vehicle is equivalent to an admission of guilt. The Royal Oman Police may be contacted at telephone 968-560-099
AVIATION SAFETY OVERSIGHT: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of Oman's civil aviation authority as category 1 -- in compliance with international aviation safety standards for oversight of Oman's air carrier operations. For further information, travelers may contact the Department of Transportation within the United States at telephone 1-800-322-7873 or visit the FAA's Internet web site at http://www.faa.gov/avr/iasa/. The U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) separately assesses some foreign air carriers for suitability as official providers of air services. As a result of the August 23, 2000, crash of a Gulf Air flight in the Persian Gulf, the DOD has recommended that military commanders use air carriers other than Gulf Air for DOD official travel, at least until investigation of the crash is complete. For information regarding the DOD policy on specific carriers, travelers may contact the DOD at telephone (618) 229-4801.
CUSTOMS REGULATIONS: Travelers entering Oman may not carry with them or in accompanied baggage any firearms, ammunition, or pornography; all are subject to seizure if found. No more than one bottle of liquor is permitted per non-Muslim adult. Unaccompanied baggage and shipments of household goods are also subject to inspection. Books, videotapes, and audiotapes may be reviewed prior to being released to the owner. A copy of the packing list is required to clear effects through customs.
CRIMINAL PENALTIES: While in a foreign country, U.S. citizens are subject to that country's laws and regulations, which sometimes differ significantly from those in the United States and may not afford the protections available to the individual under U.S. law. Penalties for breaking the law can be more severe than in the United States for similar offenses. Penalties for possession, use or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict in Oman, and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines, and possibly even the death sentence. Visitors are additionally cautioned that it is illegal to use aggressive, obscene or abusive language or gestures in public. In accordance with Omani law, penalties for these offenses can range from deportation or fines to imprisonment. Civil charges may also be filed.
EMBASSY LOCATION AND REGISTRATION: U.S. citizens living in or visiting Oman are encouraged to register at the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy and obtain updated information on travel and security within Oman. The U.S. Embassy in Oman is located on Jameat A'Duwal Al Arabiya Street, Al Khuwair area, in the capital city of Muscat, P.O. Box 202, Medinat Al Sultan Qaboos 115, Sultanate of Oman, telephone (968) 698-989, fax (968) 699-189. The Embassy's e-mail address is aemctcns@gto.net.om, and its web site can be visited at http://usembassy.state.gov/muscat/. |
