Figures are estimates projected from the latest official statistics (ITU, UN, UN Tourism) and are for general reference only.
📲 How to Call Oman from Abroad
Follow these 4 simple steps to dial any phone number in Oman:
1
Dial your international access code
Most countries use 00 or +. From mobile phones, the + symbol works worldwide.
2
Dial Oman's country code: +968
Dial +968 immediately after the international access code. Do not include the + again if you already used 00.
3
Dial the city or area code
For landlines, dial the city code (drop any leading 0). For mobile numbers, skip this step.
4
Dial the local phone number
Enter the remaining digits of the recipient's phone number to complete the call.
💡 Example: To call Baghdad from the US, dial 011 +968 1 [number]. From mobile: + +968 1 [number].
☎️ Complete Guide to Calling Oman
How to Call Abroad from Oman
To call another country from Oman: dial the international exit code (00 in most countries, or press and hold 0 on a mobile to get +), then the destination country code, then the area code (without its leading 0), then the number. Example: to call the US, dial 00 1 [number] or + 1 [number].
International Number Format (E.164)
The global standard format for Oman numbers is +968 followed by the national number without its leading 0. A full international number has at most 15 digits including the country code. Save all your contacts this way so they work from anywhere in the world and in every app.
💡 Example: +968 [national number without the leading 0]
Tips to Lower Your Call Costs to Oman
Use internet apps like WhatsApp, Viber or Messenger for free calls over Wi-Fi.
Buy a local SIM or eSIM when traveling to Oman to pay local rates.
Activate an international plan from your carrier before you travel.
Use Wi-Fi Calling when available to avoid roaming charges.
Compare calling-card and VoIP providers for the lowest per-minute rate.
Why Isn't My Call Connecting? Common Fixes
You dialed 00 and + together — use only one of them.
You kept the leading 0 of the area or mobile code — remove it for international calls.
You forgot the country code +968 — it must come right after the exit code.
You added a city code to a mobile number — mobile numbers don't need one.
Your line isn't enabled for international calls — check with your carrier.
Wrong time — make sure it isn't the middle of the night in Oman.
Common Questions About Calling Oman
When should I use + instead of 00?
The + symbol works from any mobile phone anywhere in the world and replaces each country's exit code, so you never need to memorize them. 00 is the most common exit code and works on both landlines and mobiles. On a mobile, always prefer + — it is the most reliable.
Why do I drop the leading 0 of the area or mobile code when calling from abroad?
The leading 0 is a national trunk prefix used only for domestic calls. When calling internationally, the country code +968 takes its place, so you remove that 0 — otherwise the number is wrong and the call fails.
How do I call a mobile versus a landline in Oman?
For a mobile: dial +968 then the mobile number without its leading 0. For a landline: dial +968, then the city code (without its leading 0), then the local number. Mobile numbers never need a city code.
How do I send a text message (SMS) to Oman from abroad?
Save the number in international format — +968 then the number without its leading 0 — and send your message as usual. Your carrier may apply international SMS charges.
How can I call Oman via WhatsApp?
Add the contact in international format — +968 then the number without its leading 0. If they have WhatsApp, they appear automatically. WhatsApp calls run over the internet, are free, and need no exit code.
How much does it cost to call Oman?
It depends on your carrier and the line type; international calls over the regular phone network can be expensive. To save money, use internet apps like WhatsApp or Viber, or get a local SIM or eSIM.
What does the code +968 mean and where does it come from?
+968 is the international dialing code assigned to Oman by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). Every country has a unique code that identifies it on the global telephone network.
How do I save a Oman number in the correct international format?
Always store it in E.164 format: +968 then the national number without its leading 0 and without spaces. Saved this way, it works from any country and in every app without changes.
⏰ Best Time to Call Oman
Oman uses UTC+4. People there are usually awake from 09:00 to 21:00 local time, so the table below shows the best time to call Oman from major countries — in the caller's local time.
From
Best time to call (local time)
🇺🇸 United States
07:00–13:00
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
07:00–18:00
🇩🇪 Germany
07:00–19:00
🇫🇷 France
07:00–19:00
🇸🇦 Saudi Arabia
08:00–20:00
🇦🇪 UAE
09:00–21:00
🇹🇷 Turkey
08:00–20:00
🇮🇳 India
11:00–23:00
Times are approximate and may shift by about an hour during daylight saving time.
🧭 From Your Country to Oman
Live dial format and time difference — updates instantly
Dial from 🇺🇸 United States
011–968–XXX–XXXX
Time right now in Oman
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🌐 Personalise for Your Passport
Select your passport country to see visa requirements and embassy info relevant to you:
🛂 Visa Requirements
Common Visa Questions for Oman
Do I need a visa to visit Oman?
It depends on your nationality. Some travelers can enter Oman visa-free for short stays, while others need an e-Visa, a visa on arrival, or a visa obtained in advance from an embassy or consulate. Check the rule for your specific passport using the official IATA Travel Centre tool before you travel.
Does Oman offer an electronic visa (e-Visa)?
Many countries now offer an online e-Visa for eligible nationalities, letting you apply and pay over the internet before arrival. Availability, eligible passports, and fees differ from country to country, so confirm whether Oman currently offers an e-Visa for your nationality on the official IATA Travel Centre.
Is a visa on arrival available in Oman?
A visa on arrival lets eligible travelers obtain their visa at the airport or border instead of applying beforehand. Whether Oman grants it, and to which nationalities, can change over time, so verify your eligibility on the official IATA Travel Centre before relying on it.
How long can I stay in Oman on a tourist visa?
Tourist stays are commonly limited to 30, 60, or 90 days depending on the country and your nationality, and overstaying can lead to fines or entry bans. Check the exact permitted duration for your passport on the official IATA Travel Centre.
What documents are usually required to apply for a Oman visa?
Most applications ask for a passport valid for at least six months, recent passport photos, proof of onward or return travel, proof of accommodation, and sufficient funds for your stay. Some visas also require travel insurance or an invitation letter, so confirm the exact list for Oman on the official IATA Travel Centre.
How much does a Oman visa cost and how long does it take?
Visa fees and processing times vary widely by nationality and visa type, ranging from same-day e-Visas to several weeks for embassy applications. Always apply well before your trip and check the current fee and processing time for Oman on the official IATA Travel Centre.
How long must my passport be valid to enter Oman?
Many countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months beyond your date of entry, with one or two blank pages for stamps. Confirm the exact passport-validity rule for Oman on the official IATA Travel Centre before booking.
⚠️ For guidance only. Visa rules change frequently — always verify with the official embassy website before booking.
🏢 Embassy Information
US Embassy Muscat P.O. Box 202, P.C. 115, Madinat Al Sultan Qaboos, Muscat ☎ +968 2464 3400 Sun-Thu 8:00-17:00
💳 Tipping Culture
10% service often included; extra tip appreciated.
🚄 Transport
Mwasalat bus network | Taxi widely available | No metro | Muscat expressway | Oman Air domestic | Car hire essential for wadis
✈️ Airports
6 airports | Muscat International Airport MCT (main) | Salalah SLL | Duqm DQM | Sohar OHS | Khasab KHS
🗺️ Administrative Divisions
Oman is divided into 11 governorates.
Muscat
Dhofar
Musandam
Al Buraimi
Ad Dakhiliyah
Al Dhahirah
Al Batinah North
Al Batinah South
Ash Sharqiyah North
Ash Sharqiyah South
Al Wusta
📅 Best Time to Visit
October–April offers pleasant, mild temperatures in Oman. Avoid June–August when temperatures exceed 45°C (113°F). Ramadan dates shift yearly — restaurants and attractions operate reduced hours; respect daytime fasting in public.
🛡️ Safety Advice
Tourist areas in Oman are well-policed and generally safe. Check your government's travel advisory before booking. Women should dress modestly to avoid unwanted attention. Photography of government buildings, military sites, and locals (especially women) requires permission.
💉 Vaccinations & Health
Routine vaccinations should be up to date. Hepatitis A recommended due to food/water exposure. Hepatitis B and Typhoid suggested for longer stays. Yellow Fever certificate required if arriving from infected countries. Saudi Arabia requires Meningococcal vaccine for Hajj/Umrah pilgrims.
📶 SIM & Internet
Tourist SIM cards available at airports — bring passport for registration. eSIM growing (Airalo, Holafly work in most countries). Data is affordable ($5–20 for 5–20GB). VPN apps may be restricted; download before arrival. Free Wi-Fi available in hotels, malls, and cafés.
👔 Dress Code & Etiquette
Modest dress is essential in Oman: cover shoulders, knees, and chest. Women should carry a scarf for mosques and conservative areas. Saudi Arabia and Iran have specific dress codes — abaya/headscarf required in Iran. UAE and Bahrain are more relaxed but modesty still appreciated.
🌍 Oman: Culture, Food & Places
What are the most famous foods in Oman?
Some of the most famous foods in Oman include: Shuwa (slow-cooked lamb), Harees (wheat & meat), Majboos (spiced rice), Mishkak (beef skewers), Halwa (sweet dessert), Mashuai (spiced fish & rice), Shawarma, Qahwa (cardamom coffee), Dates (world-class Omani dates), Laban (salted buttermilk).
What are the best places to visit in Oman?
Top places and landmarks to visit in Oman include: Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Muttrah Souq (oldest in Oman), Wadi Shab, Nizwa Fort & Souq, Al Hoota Cave, Jebel Akhdar (Green Mountain), Wahiba Sands Desert, Wahiba Sands camel rides, Fins Beach, Khasab Fjords.
What are the main customs and traditions in Oman?
Notable customs and traditions in Oman include: Islamic customs observed, Dress modestly in public, Greet with 'As-salamu alaykum', Ramadan hours strictly observed, Right hand for greeting and eating.
What is Oman famous for?
Oman is well known for: Frankincense trade heritage, Falconry & camel culture, Omani khanjar (curved dagger, national symbol), Wadi trekking & caving, Wadis and desert driving.
Where in the world is Oman located?
Oman is located in the Middle East.
What countries are near Oman?
Countries in the same region as Oman include: Bahrain, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Turkey.
🆘 Emergency Numbers
999 Emergency | 9999 Police
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capital of Oman?
The capital of Oman is Muscat. It is the largest city and the political, economic, and cultural center of Oman, set along the Gulf of Oman.
What currency is used in Oman?
Oman uses the OMR · OMR · Omani Rial.
What is the dial code for Oman?
The international dial code for Oman is +968.
When is the best time to visit Oman?
October–April offers pleasant, mild temperatures in Oman. Avoid June–August when temperatures exceed 45°C (113°F). Ramadan dates shift yearly — restaurants and attractions operate reduced hours; respect daytime fasting in public.
How much does a trip to Oman cost per day?
Daily costs in Oman range from $55 (budget) to $140 (mid-range) to $320 (luxury) per person, excluding flights.
Is Oman safe for tourists?
Tourist areas in Oman are well-policed and generally safe. Check your government's travel advisory before booking. Women should dress modestly to avoid unwanted attention. Photography of government buildings, military sites, and locals (especially women) requires permission.
How many governorates does Oman have?
Oman has 11 governorates. They are: Muscat, Dhofar, Musandam, Al Buraimi, Ad Dakhiliyah, Al Dhahirah, Al Batinah North, Al Batinah South, Ash Sharqiyah North, Ash Sharqiyah South, Al Wusta.
🧳 Practical Travel Info
🔌
Power PlugType G · 240 V · 50 Hz
💵
TippingTipping appreciated but not mandatory. Round up or add 10% at restaurants.
💧
Tap WaterUse cautionTap water is treated in cities but bottled water is recommended for travelers.
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