Transport in Oman
If you are relocating to Oman, it is important to understand how transportation works in the country. Generally, Oman is very car-centric, with most expats preferring the convenience of having their own car. There are also bus services in the country, both for long-distance trips and for inner-city travel in Muscat. Train travel is not yet popular in Oman, although this is being developed. Overall, the countrys public transportation is not as well-developed as in other countries, which is why cars are so popular.
Car
Oman has a well-developed road network and a major highway system, making driving in Oman very comfortable. Driving is done on the right side of the road, and petrol prices and car prices are very affordable.
Due to the popularity of cars, traffic can be a big problem, especially in Muscat during rush hour and school pick-up/drop off times. Parking is also at a premium in Muscat.
Speed limits in towns vary from 40-80 km and motorways have a speed limit of 120 km/h. Expats on a visitor visa can drive on the licence from their home country, but those with a residence visa will need to obtain a local Omani licence. To drive, you must be at least 18, and to hire a car, you must be at least 21.
Note: Oman has a zero-tolerance policy for drinking and driving. Speed cameras are used throughout the country, and all phones used while driving must be hands-free.
Air travel
Muscat International Airport is the largest airport in the country and is the accessway for most expats in and out of the country. It is modern, large, and recently renovated, and receives daily flights from the Gulf, Asia, and Europe, as well as domestic travel.
Smaller, regional airports can also be found in Salalah, Ad Duqm, Sohar, and Ras Al Hadd. Oman Air is the Omani national airline and provides domestic and international flights multiple times per day. Other airlines offering travel to and from the country include Lufthansa, Qatar Airways, British Air, Emirates, and Gulf Air.
Buses
Within Muscat, there are several inner-city bus lines, operated by Mwasalat. City buses are not the most efficient way to travel, but they are inexpensive and well-maintained. They run frequently throughout the day, until around midnight.
Long distance, inter-city bus routes also operate throughout the country. They are modern and offer comfort and air-conditioning, but travel at slower speeds and often make multiple stops. The Oman National Transport Corporation offers regular bus services between Oman's larger towns and cities.
Taxis
Taxis can be found throughout Muscat. Fares are usually reasonable, but taxi drivers do not operate with a meter, so passengers must negotiate a fare before the journey begins. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber, are very rare in Oman. It is important for new arrivals to ask around to better understand the typical fare prices.
It is also common to see share shared taxis, which are orange and white minibuses that travel through Muscat, picking up and dropping off passengers.
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