Things to Know Before Travelling to Oman for Work
Maintaining Proper Etiquette:
The working week in Oman runs from Sunday to Thursday. Friday and Saturday are weekends. Be extremely respectful of Omani culture. Do not photograph government and military buildings, religious sites, construction sites and strangers. Oman has strict laws against this. Avoid displaying affection and consuming large amounts of alcohol publicly. Men and women must dress modestly and cover their shoulders, knees and back. Certain hand gestures are punishable by law and must be avoided. Be extremely respectful towards the government administration. It is illegal to insult and call names. Littering in public places is a legal offense and can result in large fines.
Documents Needed To Travel To Oman:
Employers must apply for each foreign worker’s work permit and employment visa to the Immigration Department. You may require a medical certificate. Once the visas are approved, foreign workers may travel to Oman with a valid passport and visa. Some nationalities will require a special permit – you must check with your employer regarding this. You may require a Police Clearance Certificate. Within 30 days of a worker’s arrival, he/she must apply for a residence permit.
Travelling To Oman:
Oman has strict laws against bringing offensive media, narcotics and drugs, and inappropriate media that contradicts Islamic faith and Omani culture. Weapons are also prohibited. You must declare currency valued over set limits (6,000 OMR), expensive personal gifts and items and large quantities of cigarettes and alcohol (not more than 2 liters per passenger, only non-Muslims are allowed to carry liquor). Check with the authorities at the Omani Embassy if you need any clarifications on items you can and cannot carry. Find more information on customs and restrictions on the official website.
Health Insurance:
There is currently no mandatory health-insurance coverage. However, a new law will soon require employers to provide health insurance for non-Omani workers. Each patient will be entitled to OMR3,000 of treatment per year. The scheme will be implemented in stages until all private-sector employees are covered. The cost will be covered by employers
Phone Plans:
There are 16 verified telecom carriers in Oman. You will be able to purchase a prepaid SIM card using your passport and a valid payment method (debit or credit card).
Bank Accounts:
You can only apply for a bank account once you have a valid residence permit. You also need a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your employer that clearly states your salary, your original passport, and your tenancy agreement. Carry photocopies of all the documents, along with passport sized photographs.
Getting Help:
In case of emergency, contact
- (police, fire, ambulance) 9999
