COVID-19

If you are planning international travel at this time, please read our COVID-19 related travel advice here, alongside our destination specific travel advice below.

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid non-essential travel to the border area with Yemen due to the ongoing conflict (level 3 of 4).

Exercise increased caution

Exercise increased caution elsewhere in Oman due to the potential for violent demonstrations and the threat of terrorism (level 2 of 4).

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Oman

Civil Unrest
Demonstrations sometimes occur in Oman. New Zealanders in Oman are advised to avoid all protests, demonstrations and large public gatherings as even those intended as peaceful have the potential to turn violent. We recommend monitoring local and regional events that may have the potential to flare up through local media and following any instructions issued by the local authorities.

Terrorism
There is an underlying threat from terrorism in the Gulf region, including against Western interests. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreigners. New Zealanders are advised to take particular care in public and commercial areas known to be frequented by Westerners or tourists. Always be aware of your surroundings, and maintain a high level of security awareness.

Local Travel and Maritime Safety
Travellers entering the Gulf area by sea should be aware that many areas of the Gulf are highly sensitive, including near maritime boundaries and the islands of Abu Musa and the Tunbs in the southern Gulf. Vessels entering these areas have been detained and inspected. Mariners are advised to make thorough enquiries with local authorities before entering these waters or visiting ports. 

Piracy occurs in coastal waters and sometimes farther out at sea. Mariners are advised to take appropriate precautionary measures in these waters. For more information view the International Maritime Bureau's piracy report.

Crime
While the overall crime rate is low in Oman, foreigners may be the targets of opportunistic crime, such as pickpocketing or theft from vehicles.  There have been reported cases of sexual assault against foreign nationals in the past. Female travellers should take extra care, especially if alone and particularly at night.

General Travel Advice
New Zealanders are advised to respect religious and social traditions in Oman to avoid offending local sensitivities. Modesty and discretion should be exercised in both dress and behaviour. The use of bad language, rude gestures, and public displays of affection, and behaviour that disrespects the government, the Sultan, local culture or Islam, may result in complaints and charges being laid by the local authorities. Penalties including fines and jail terms apply to violations of Oman’s public decency laws.

You should carry a photocopy of your passport or another form of identification at all times.

Photography of government buildings or military establishments is prohibited - if in doubt, don’t take a picture.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe, including the death penalty.

Some prescribed and over-the-counter medicines that are readily available in New Zealand are considered controlled substances in Oman. If a traveller arrives with certain medication, they will not be allowed into the country and may be prosecuted.  For more information, check the Omani Ministry of Health website or contact your nearest Omani Embassy.

New Zealanders travelling or living in Oman should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for any planned adventure activities, and medical evacuation by air.

New Zealanders in Oman are encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Travel tips

• Current health alerts

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The New Zealand Embassy Riyadh, Saudi Arabia is accredited to Oman

Street Address Diplomatic Quarter, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia Postal Address PO Box 94 397, Riyadh, 11693, Saudi Arabia Telephone +966 11 488 7988 Email NZEmbassyKSA@mfat.govt.nz Web Site http://www.mfat.govt.nz/saudi-arabia Hours Sun - Thurs 0900 - 1200hrs, 1230 -1500hrs Note

See our regional advice for the Middle East