KawkabMuscat and Jebel Akhdar Travel Guide
Muscat is a calm city between the mountains and the sea, with mild, lovely weather in winter. From here you can head to Jebel Akhdar, the wadis and Nizwa.
Visas
- Gulf citizens: Do not need a visa to enter Oman.
- Citizens of more than 100 countries: Can enter visa-free for up to 14 days, which cannot be extended. They need:
- A passport valid for 6 months.
- A return ticket.
- A hotel booking.
- Health insurance.
- Enough money for the stay.
- All other nationalities: Apply for a visa on the Royal Oman Police website.
Flights
Muscat International Airport has flights from the Gulf, Asia and Europe. From the Gulf states, you can also arrive by road.
Best time to visit
- October to April: The best time for Muscat, with mild weather that suits the sea and the wadis.
- Jebel Akhdar: Much colder than Muscat, and winter nights can get close to freezing.
Where to stay
- Qurum and Qurum Beach: Close to the sea and restaurants.
- Mutrah: The corniche and the old souq.
- Coastal resorts: Such as the Al Bustan area, for relaxing.
- Jebel Akhdar: Hotels and resorts with views over the valleys.
Getting around
- Best option: Rent a car, as the sights are far apart.
- Driving up Jebel Akhdar: Only four-wheel-drive vehicles are allowed past the checkpoint, so book a suitable car or a driver.
Top places
- Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque: One of the most beautiful mosques, with set visiting hours and a modest dress code.
- Mutrah Souq and Corniche: For shopping, frankincense and Omani halwa.
- Royal Opera House: A stunning building that hosts performances.
- Bimmah Sinkhole (Hawiyat Najm): A sinkhole with turquoise water on the road to Sur.
- Wadi Shab: Hiking and swimming between the rocks.
- Nizwa: The fort and the traditional souq on the way to Jebel Akhdar.
- Jebel Akhdar: Terraced farms and walks along the edge of the valleys.
Internet
Quick tips
- Currency: The Omani rial.
- Electricity: Plug type G.
- In the wadis: Don't go into a wadi if rain is expected.
- On Jebel Akhdar: Pack warm clothes in winter.
Last updated: October 2026. This information is for guidance only. Check the entry rules before you travel.
Sources:
- The Peninsula, Oman grants 14-day visa-free entry: https://thepeninsulaqatar.com/article/03/08/2026/oman-grants-14-day-visa-free-entry-to-citizens-of-over-100-countries
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