Car Hire in Oman

Driving Licence Requirements

You will need an international driving permit to drive a hire car in Oman.

Driving General

You drive on the right in Oman. Roads are generally in a good to excellent state of repair. Fuel is subsidised by the government and is seriously cheap with petrol costing around £0.20 per litre.

As you might expect in a Muslim country, drink driving is totally prohibited.

Beware of flash floods on the roads especially at wadi crossings. Wadi crossings often have white and red painted poles - if the water has risen to the red zone, don't attempt to cross.

Also beware of goats and camels on the road. They don't have much in the way of road sense and may walk onto the road even if they have apparently seen you approaching.

If you're tempted to drive off road, refer to the conditions of your car rental agreement beforehand and be aware that doing so may also invalidate any excess insurance product.

Car Hire General

Many car hire contracts include only a limited mileage within the rates. It is not unusual to see limits of 200km or 300km per day. Rates for additional mileage are very variable so, if you are likely to cover a significant distance, either select an unlimited mileage contract or budget for the extra mileage charges.

Costs for additional drivers are very variable, we've seen rates vary from OMR 1.00 per day (about £1.70) to OMR 20.00 per day (£34).

Car Hire Insurance

Most car rental will include collision damage and theft waivers and excesses are low by European standards. It may still leave you with £250 to pay on a compact car as well as any damage to tyres, windows or underside of the vehicle so excess insurance is still worthwhile.

Check the level of third party insurance provided with your car hire. The minimum legally required is not high so you may find you are only covered up to OMR 5000 (around £8300) for injury to a person. This may be in line with typical claims but, if you can, increase your cover by selecting an SLI (Supplementary Liability Insurance) policy. Do check the policy does provide its SLI cover worldwide as many are restricted to the USA / Canada.