Currency, Credit Cards and Changing Money in Oman

If you're planning a holiday to Oman, here is what you need to know about currency, cash and credit cards:

Currency
Omani Riyal is the official currency in Oman and although in some shops, restaurants and hotels you may also find that they accept other currencies like the UAE dirham or the US dollar, this should not be relied on. Money can easily be changed at banks in the main cities and ATMs that accept international cards are widespread. If you need to change money, please ask your driver or staff at your hotel where the best place to do this is.

Using credit cards in Oman
Nowadays international credit cards (MasterCard, Visa and Amex) are also accepted in many places throughout Oman, but this may not be the case everywhere you will be travelling.

If you travel regularly it will pay to apply for one of the specialist credit cards for travellers that offer excellent rates of exchange and charge zero "load" fees when purchasing items, or withdrawing local currency from ATMs whilst abroad. For up to date information on the best specialist credit cards for travellers we suggest visiting one of the price comparison websites.

Best pre-paid cards for Oman
Prepaid credit cards are now the safest way to travel with ‘cash' and are much more cost effective and convenient than Travellers Cheques which are now slowly becoming obsolete. We recommend the Caxton FX Global Traveller card which offers a fixed exchange rate at 2.75% below the prevailing interbank rate when spending overseas and withdrawing local currency from ATMs. Unlike credit cards the application process is straightforward, but you need to allow 7 days for delivery of the card. For more information please visit caxtonfx.com. 

Find out more about our holidays to Oman. To discuss your travel needs, you can complete an enquiry form or call our Asia experts on 020 7720 9285.