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✓ Updated February 2026

Weather data and travel information verified current

Best Time to Visit Oman: Jan or Feb 2026

Oman travel destination - scenic view of Wadi Shab's Emerald Pools & Hidden Cave during ideal visiting season
Image: Flag of Oman.svg viaWikimedia Commons

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Quick Answer:

The most rewarding time to experience Oman's dynamic beauty is during the cooler winter months, from October through April. Imagine exploring ancient forts and bustling souks under a pleasant sun, with temperatures perfect for discovering the dramatic desert landscapes and the refreshing mountain air. This period offers a dynamic contrast to the hotter months, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and witness breathtaking golden sunsets over the Arabian Sea without the intense heat.

Best Months to Visit:

JanFebDec

Airport Code

MCT

Coordinates

21.51°, 55.92°

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Top Things to Do

Wadi Shab's Emerald Pools & Hidden Cave

Hike through the dramatic canyon of Wadi Shab, rewarded by a series of stunning turquoise pools perfect for a refreshing dip. The ultimate prize is swimming through a narrow opening to discover a hidden waterfall inside a cave – an unforgettable natural wonder.

Nizwa Souq's Friday Cattle Auction

Immerse yourself in the vibrant chaos of Nizwa's ancient souq on a Friday morning, witnessing the lively cattle auction where local farmers haggle with spirited calls. Afterward, explore the surrounding stalls for exquisite silver jewelry, pottery, and traditional Omani dates.

Sunset Dhow Cruise in Musandam

Sail along the dramatic fjords of Musandam aboard a traditional wooden dhow, watching the rugged mountains plunge into the azure sea as the sun dips below the horizon. Keep an eye out for playful dolphins that often accompany the boats.

Frankincense Trail & Al Baleed Archaeological Park

Journey back in time along the ancient Frankincense Trail, exploring the UNESCO-listed ruins of Al Baleed, once a thriving port city. Imagine the caravans laden with precious frankincense arriving from the Dhofar region, and visit the adjacent Museum of the Frankincense Land for context.

See all 8 things to do →

💡 Travel Tip: For the best value on hotels during this season, check current rates on Trip.com.

Essential Travel Tips

culture

Dress modestly when visiting mosques and rural areas – think covering shoulders and knees. For women, a headscarf is often appreciated, especially when entering religious sites like the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. It's a sign of respect that locals will definitely notice and appreciate.

transport

Renting a 4x4 is highly recommended if you plan to explore beyond Muscat, especially if you want to visit the Wahiba Sands or Jebel Shams. While taxis are plentiful in cities, they can't handle the off-road terrain, and having your own vehicle gives you the freedom to stop at scenic viewpoints whenever you please.

money

While credit cards are widely accepted in hotels and larger shops, always carry some Omani Rials (OMR) for smaller souks, local eateries, and rural areas. ATMs are common in cities, but it's good to have cash on hand for spontaneous purchases, like delicious dates from a roadside stall.

food

Embrace the 'Shuwa' experience if you get the chance! This traditional Omani dish of slow-cooked lamb or goat, marinated in spices and wrapped in banana leaves, is often prepared for special occasions. Ask your hotel or local contacts if there are any gatherings where you might be able to try it – it's a true culinary highlight.

safety

Oman is incredibly safe, but it's still wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded souks. Always keep your valuables secure, and be mindful of the sun – stay hydrated and use sunscreen, as the heat can be intense even outside of summer months.

packing

Pack light, breathable clothing, but include a light jacket or shawl for cooler evenings, especially in the mountains or during winter. Don't forget comfortable walking shoes for exploring wadis and forts, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste.

💡 Travel Tip: If you're planning your trip, it's worth checking flight prices on Trip.com before you decide.

Weather Details

Jan
1 days
Feb
1 days
Mar
1 days
Apr
1 days
May
0 days
Jun
0 days
Jul
0 days
Aug
0 days
Sep
0 days
Oct
1 days
Nov
1 days
Dec
1 days

Monthly Weather Data Table

MonthHigh (°C)Low (°C)High (°F)Low (°F)Rainfall (mm)Rain DaysDaylight (h)
Jan26°C16°C79°F61°F10mm
1 days
10.7h
Feb27°C17°C81°F63°F10mm
1 days
11.2h
Mar30°C19°C86°F66°F10mm
1 days
12h
Apr34°C23°C93°F73°F10mm
1 days
12.8h
May38°C27°C100°F81°F0mm
0 days
13.4h
Jun40°C29°C104°F84°F0mm
0 days
13.7h
Jul39°C30°C102°F86°F0mm
0 days
13.5h
Aug39°C29°C102°F84°F0mm
0 days
12.9h
Sep37°C27°C99°F81°F0mm
0 days
12.1h
Oct35°C24°C95°F75°F10mm
1 days
11.4h
Nov31°C20°C88°F68°F10mm
1 days
10.9h
Dec28°C17°C82°F63°F10mm
1 days
10.5h

Oman Month by Month: Complete Guide

Planning your trip to Oman? Here's what to expect each month:

Jan in Oman

⭐ Best Time

Weather

26°C°C / 79°F°F

1 days rainy days • 10mmmm

What to Expect

Winter season with cooler temperatures. Fewer tourists but some attractions may have limited hours.

Crowd Level

🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation

Quick Tip: Jan is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Feb in Oman

⭐ Best Time

Weather

27°C°C / 81°F°F

1 days rainy days • 10mmmm

What to Expect

Late winter, beginning to warm up. Good for budget travelers seeking lower prices.

Crowd Level

🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation

Quick Tip: Feb is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

Mar in Oman

Weather

30°C°C / 86°F°F

1 days rainy days • 10mmmm

What to Expect

Spring begins, mild weather. Shoulder season with moderate crowds.

Crowd Level

🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation

Quick Tip: Mar offers a quieter experience with fewer tourists.

Apr in Oman

Weather

34°C°C / 93°F°F

1 days rainy days • 10mmmm

What to Expect

Spring in full bloom. Pleasant temperatures and growing tourist activity.

Crowd Level

🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability

Quick Tip: Apr can be quite hot. Stay hydrated and plan indoor activities.

May in Oman

Weather

38°C°C / 100°F°F

0 days rainy days • 0mmmm

What to Expect

Late spring, excellent weather. One of the best times to visit for most travelers.

Crowd Level

🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability

Quick Tip: May can be quite hot. Stay hydrated and plan indoor activities.

Jun in Oman

Weather

40°C°C / 104°F°F

0 days rainy days • 0mmmm

What to Expect

Early summer, warm and sunny. Peak season begins, book accommodations early.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Jun can be quite hot. Stay hydrated and plan indoor activities.

Jul in Oman

Weather

39°C°C / 102°F°F

0 days rainy days • 0mmmm

What to Expect

Peak summer season. Hot weather and highest tourist crowds. Most expensive time.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Jul can be quite hot. Stay hydrated and plan indoor activities.

Aug in Oman

Weather

39°C°C / 102°F°F

0 days rainy days • 0mmmm

What to Expect

Peak summer continues. Very crowded but great weather for outdoor activities.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Aug can be quite hot. Stay hydrated and plan indoor activities.

Sep in Oman

Weather

37°C°C / 99°F°F

0 days rainy days • 0mmmm

What to Expect

Early fall, shoulder season. Weather still good, crowds decreasing. Great value.

Crowd Level

🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability

Quick Tip: Sep can be quite hot. Stay hydrated and plan indoor activities.

Oct in Oman

Weather

35°C°C / 95°F°F

1 days rainy days • 10mmmm

What to Expect

Fall season, mild temperatures. Lower crowds and good prices. Comfortable for sightseeing.

Crowd Level

🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability

Quick Tip: Oct can be quite hot. Stay hydrated and plan indoor activities.

Nov in Oman

Weather

31°C°C / 88°F°F

1 days rainy days • 10mmmm

What to Expect

Late fall, cooler weather. Off-season begins, significant discounts available.

Crowd Level

🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation

Quick Tip: Nov can be quite hot. Stay hydrated and plan indoor activities.

Dec in Oman

⭐ Best Time

Weather

28°C°C / 82°F°F

1 days rainy days • 10mmmm

What to Expect

Winter season, holiday atmosphere. Festive but can be cold. Mixed crowds.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Dec is one of the best times to visit with ideal weather conditions.

All Things to Do in Oman

Wadi Shab's Emerald Pools & Hidden Cave

nature

Hike through the dramatic canyon of Wadi Shab, rewarded by a series of stunning turquoise pools perfect for a refreshing dip. The ultimate prize is swimming through a narrow opening to discover a hidden waterfall inside a cave – an unforgettable natural wonder.

Best time: Oct-Apr

Nizwa Souq's Friday Cattle Auction

cultural

Immerse yourself in the vibrant chaos of Nizwa's ancient souq on a Friday morning, witnessing the lively cattle auction where local farmers haggle with spirited calls. Afterward, explore the surrounding stalls for exquisite silver jewelry, pottery, and traditional Omani dates.

Best time: Oct-Apr

Sunset Dhow Cruise in Musandam

activity

Sail along the dramatic fjords of Musandam aboard a traditional wooden dhow, watching the rugged mountains plunge into the azure sea as the sun dips below the horizon. Keep an eye out for playful dolphins that often accompany the boats.

Best time: Oct-Apr

Frankincense Trail & Al Baleed Archaeological Park

cultural

Journey back in time along the ancient Frankincense Trail, exploring the UNESCO-listed ruins of Al Baleed, once a thriving port city. Imagine the caravans laden with precious frankincense arriving from the Dhofar region, and visit the adjacent Museum of the Frankincense Land for context.

Best time: Year-round

Desert Camping Under a Blanket of Stars

activity

Venture into the Wahiba Sands for an overnight desert experience, sleeping in a traditional Bedouin camp. The silence of the desert is profound, and the night sky, free from light pollution, offers an unparalleled celestial display.

Best time: Oct-Apr

Omani Coffee & Halwa Tasting in a Local Home

food

Seek out an invitation to a local Omani home for a traditional coffee ceremony, where rich, cardamom-infused coffee is served with sweet, date-based halwa. This intimate experience offers a genuine glimpse into Omani hospitality and culinary traditions.

Best time: Year-round

Exploring the Muttrah Corniche & Souq at Dusk

shopping

Stroll along the bustling Muttrah Corniche as the evening call to prayer echoes and the air fills with the scent of spices and incense from the labyrinthine souq. This is the perfect time to haggle for pashminas, lanterns, and Omani perfumes.

Best time: Year-round

Diving or Snorkeling at Daymaniyat Islands

activity

Discover the vibrant underwater world of the Daymaniyat Islands Nature Reserve, a protected marine area teeming with colorful coral reefs and diverse marine life. It's a fantastic spot for spotting sea turtles and a kaleidoscope of tropical fish.

Best time: May-Oct

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GoWithGuide Tours and Experiences

Getting Around Oman

Rental Car

Renting a car is by far the most flexible way to explore Oman, especially if you plan to venture beyond Muscat. It allows you to reach remote wadis, mountain villages, and desert landscapes at your own pace.

Cost:Starting from OMR 15-20 per day for a basic sedan, more for SUVs. Factor in fuel costs (around OMR 0.25 per liter).
Tip:Book in advance, especially during peak season (October-April). Ensure your rental agreement covers off-road driving if you plan to explore wadis. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is usually required alongside your home country license. Avoid driving at night outside major cities due to unpredictable animal crossings and poor lighting. Download offline maps (Google Maps or Maps.me) as GPS signal can be spotty in remote areas.

Intercity Buses (Mwasalat)

Mwasalat, the national transport company, operates comfortable and reliable bus services connecting major cities and towns across Oman. This is a budget-friendly option for solo travelers or couples.

Cost:Fares vary by distance, e.g., Muscat to Salalah is around OMR 8-10, Muscat to Nizwa is around OMR 3-4.
Tip:Book tickets online via the Mwasalat website or app to secure your seat, especially for popular routes. Arrive at the bus station at least 30 minutes prior to departure. Buses are generally punctual, so don't be late. Ladies often prefer to sit towards the front of the bus; it's not a strict rule but a common courtesy. Luggage is usually stored underneath the bus.

Taxis (Metered & Negotiated)

Taxis are readily available in cities and towns. Metered taxis are ideal for shorter trips within urban areas, while for longer distances or day trips, negotiating a fare beforehand is essential.

Cost:Metered taxis start around OMR 1-2. Negotiated fares can range widely; a day trip to Jebel Shams from Nizwa might cost OMR 40-60.
Tip:Always insist on using the meter for short city trips. If no meter is available or for longer journeys, agree on the price *before* you start. Have small denominations of Omani Rials (RO) handy. Apps like Otaxi or Marhaba Taxi can be useful for booking and sometimes offer fixed prices. Be aware that some drivers may try to overcharge tourists; a quick check with your hotel or a local can give you a ballpark figure.

4x4 Tours / Private Drivers

For accessing remote wadis, desert camps, or mountainous regions like Jebel Shams, hiring a 4x4 with a driver is often the most practical and safest option. Many tour operators offer these services.

Cost:Can range from OMR 80-150+ for a full-day tour, depending on the destination and duration.
Tip:Book through reputable tour operators or your hotel. Ensure your driver is experienced with the terrain. Ask about inclusions (water, lunch, entrance fees). It's polite to offer your driver a break and perhaps a meal if you're out for the entire day. Don't underestimate the driving conditions; a local guide is invaluable for navigation and safety.

Shared Taxis (Hafalat)

These are a more local and adventurous way to travel between towns, essentially shared taxis that wait until they are full. They are less frequent and less comfortable than intercity buses but can be an experience.

Cost:Very affordable, significantly cheaper than private taxis or buses. Muscat to Sohar might be around OMR 2-3.
Tip:These are best for the budget-conscious and adventurous traveler. They depart from designated taxi stands (often near souks or bus stations) when full. Be prepared for a less direct route and potentially crowded conditions. Knowing a few basic Arabic phrases can be helpful. Don't expect air conditioning in all of them, especially older models.

💡 Travel Tip: This season usually means better deals — check what's available on Trip.com.

Similar Destinations

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the absolute best time to visit Oman, and what should I pack for it?

For the most pleasant weather, aim for the cooler months between October and April. You'll find comfortable temperatures perfect for exploring the deserts and mountains. Pack light, breathable clothing for the daytime, but definitely bring a warmer layer, like a fleece or light jacket, for cooler evenings, especially if you plan on camping in the desert or visiting higher altitudes like Jebel Shams.

What are some essential cultural etiquette tips I should know before arriving in Oman?

Oman is known for its warm hospitality, but respecting local customs is key. Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas – shoulders and knees should be covered for both men and women. Always ask permission before taking photos of people, particularly women, and it's polite to use your right hand for eating and greeting.

Is it easy to get around Oman without a car, or should I rent one?

While you can manage in Muscat using taxis and ride-sharing apps, venturing outside the capital really calls for a rental car, preferably a 4x4 if you plan on exploring wadis or the desert. Public transport is limited, and distances between attractions can be significant. Having your own wheels gives you the freedom to stop at spontaneous viewpoints and explore at your own pace.

Beyond the famous forts, what are some lesser-known Omani experiences you'd recommend?

Don't miss the chance to explore the Bimmah Sinkhole for a refreshing swim in its turquoise waters – it's a natural wonder that feels like a secret oasis. Also, consider a visit to the ancient city of Qalhat, near Sur; it's a UNESCO World Heritage site with fascinating ruins that offer a glimpse into Oman's rich maritime history, far from the usual tourist crowds.

What's the deal with driving in Oman? Are the roads safe, and what should I watch out for?

Omani roads are generally excellent and well-maintained, especially the main highways. However, be aware of speed limits, as they can change abruptly, and watch out for camels or goats that might wander onto the road, particularly in rural areas. Driving at night can also be challenging due to poor lighting and potential wildlife on the roads, so it's best to plan your journeys to finish before sunset.

Is it safe for solo female travelers to explore Oman?

Absolutely, Oman is widely considered one of the safest countries in the Middle East for solo female travelers. Omani people are incredibly respectful and welcoming. You'll likely find locals eager to help if you need directions or assistance, but as always, it's wise to maintain general travel precautions, dress modestly, and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded souks.

What is the cheapest month to visit Oman?

The cheapest months to visit Oman are typically May and Jun during the off-season. You can save 30-40% on hotels and flights compared to peak summer months. While weather may not be ideal, you'll enjoy fewer crowds and significant savings.

How many days do you need in Oman?

We recommend spending 3-5 days in Oman to see the main attractions without feeling rushed. This gives you time to explore the top sights, experience local culture, and take a day trip if desired. Budget travelers might do 2-3 days, while those wanting a deeper experience should plan for a week.

What should I avoid in Oman?

Avoid visiting Oman during May if possible, when weather conditions are less favorable. Also, be cautious of tourist traps in heavily visited areas - research attractions beforehand and consider booking skip-the-line tickets for popular sites.

Is Oman expensive to visit?

Oman can be enjoyed on various budgets. Daily costs typically range from $50-80 for budget travelers, $100-200 for mid-range visitors, and $250+ for luxury experiences. Prices are highest during Jan and lowest during off-season months. Book accommodations early to secure better rates.

What is Oman famous for?

Oman is famous for its unique attractions, rich culture, and memorable experiences. The destination is best known for its architectural landmarks, local cuisine, and vibrant atmosphere. Visit during Jan or Feb for the best experience.

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