Money and duty free for Oman

Currency and Money

Currency information

Omani Rial (OMR) = 1,000 baiza. Notes are in denominations of OMR50, 20, 10, 5 and 1, and 500, 250, 200 and 100 baiza. Coins are in denominations of 50, 25, 10 and 5 baiza.

Credit cards

All major credit cards are accepted here, including to a lesser extent American Express. ATMs are widely available throughout the county.

ATM

ATMs are widely available throughout the country.

Travellers cheques

Travellers should be wary of using traveller's cheques in Oman as they are difficult to exchange. International hotel chains are more likely to accept them, but smaller hotels, shops and banks are likely to refuse. To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travellers are advised to take traveller's cheques in US Dollars.

Banking hours

Sat-Wed 0800-1200 and Thurs 0830-1130.

Currency restrictions

There are no restrictions on the import or export of local or foreign currency. However, amounts exceeding OMR6,000 or equivalent must be declared by all travellers. Monetary instruments and precious belongings can be declared online.

Currency exchange

Currency is easily exchanged in banks, money exchange centres and major hotels. It is advisable to take US Dollars or Pounds Sterling.

Oman duty free

Overview

The following items may be imported into Oman without incurring customs duty:

• Up to 2L of wine and 48 cans of beer (non-Muslims over the age of 21 only).
• 400 cigarettes (over the age of 21).
• Electronic goods and household appliances in non-commercial quantities.
• Gifts with a value of up to OMR300.

Meat products officially require an Islamic slaughter certificate and import licence. Medicines in their original packaging and with the original label should be accompanied by a prescription or medical certificate. Certain medicines may be illegal in Oman and may be treated as narcotics, so you should check with your nearest embassy before you go.

Banned Imports

The import and use of narcotics and obscene material are forbidden and can lead to imprisonment. There are severe penalties for drug offences including, in some cases, the death penalty. 'Soft' drugs are treated as seriously as 'hard' drugs. The possession of small quantities of cannabis can lead to a 12-month prison sentence and deportation.

The list of banned imports also includes leaves, flowers, seeds and stems of cannabis, raw or prepared opium, weapons, firearms and ammunition, fireworks, and alcoholic drinks (unless you are a non-Muslim).

Banned Exports

All the materials mentioned above are banned for export unless authorised by the General Inspector of Police and Customs.