Muscat: To promote responsible and sustainable tourism across the Sultanate of Oman, the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism has issued the General Guidelines, which will ensure the safety and satisfaction of visitors, especially during visits to villages, nature reserves, off-road locations, and cultural sites.
The guidelines are:
Dressing conservatively is appreciated. Clothing that covers the knees and shoulders is required for men and women.
Basic rules of courtesy impose on people to respect Oman’s calm and tranquility.
Keep the noise to a minimum.
Ask for permission before photographing people or entering private premises, as it is considered intrusive and inappropriate.
Help keep Oman litter-free.
Make sure litter goes in its designated locations.
Ensure your guide has a valid tour guide license issued by the Ministry of Tourism.
Village Visits:
Practices that threaten wildlife and biodiversity are strictly prohibited.
Picking fruits and vegetables is considered inappropriate as it is a source of income for villagers.
Do not contaminate any water source. Villagers depend on traditional water systems for drinking and agriculture.
Keep to designated paths when exploring villages and surrounding areas.
Make sure you park your vehicle in the designated areas to ensure villagers are not inconvenienced.
Always camp on high ground.
Avoid wadis that are susceptible to flash floods.
Desert Safari:
Vehicles must be equipped with GPS trackers and safety equipment.
It is advised to travel only with a qualified tour guide and in groups with more than one vehicle.
Off-Road Travel: Use only 4WD vehicles for off-road travel. Avoid travelling off-road alone, and ensure you carry spare tyres and plentiful supplies of food, water, and fuel. Notify others of your plans and the expected time of return.
Cruising: Use only licensed tourism boats to ensure compliance with safety requirements.
Each passenger should be equipped with a top-quality life vest.
Trekking: Be aware of the length and difficulty of a trail before setting off.
Ensure you have sturdy shoes and adequate supplies of food and water.
Please do not trek alone.
Keep away from valleys and beaches prone to flash flooding.
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