- avoiding having valuables on show
- taking safe and reliable transport
- travelling with colleagues or other delegates, especially at night
- being alert in crowded and tourist areas, airports, restaurants, pubs and bars and on public transport
- keeping your card in sight and concealing your PIN when using ATMs and paying by card
Location and travel advice
THE is committed to ensuring a safe, inclusive and enjoyable experience for all our delegates.
To help you prepare for your upcoming visit, we encourage you to review the key information and travel advice below.
Before traveling, we recommend checking the travel guidelines and recommendations from your home country's embassy. Additionally, we advise consulting your primary care provider to determine whether any vaccinations or other health preparations are needed for your trip.
Venue
Arab Open University, Oman campus
Building 994
Way 92
Seeb
Muscat
Oman
Visas
Citizens of GCC countries (Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE) do not require a visa to enter Oman.
Citizens of more than 100 countries and regions are exempt from entry visas for stays of up to 14 days. Other citizens will require a visa. Please note that it can take several weeks to process a visa application so early application is recommended.
We can provide visa invitation letters for ticket holders when requested. Please email a photo/scan of your passport to events@timeshighereducation.com once you have booked your ticket.
We cannot accept any responsibility for visa applications. Where a delegate is unable to attend because of failure to obtain a visa on time, the normal cancellation policy for the ticket fee will apply.
We recommend having travel insurance for the duration of your trip. Please contact your travel agent for further details.
Accommodation
Delegates are responsible for reserving and covering the cost of accommodation for the duration of their stay.
Below you will find a map through which you can easily browse for hotels and private accommodations. Hover over an accommodation to view travel times and distances to the venue.
Safety advice and emergency contacts
To protect your personal safety we recommend:
Oman's main emergency service number in 9999. Call this number if you need urgent help from police, fire or ambulance services.
FAQs
What is the dress code?
We ask our delegates to wear conservative attire, meaning covered knees and shoulders. Regular western business or business casual clothes are suitable. You are not required to wear an abaya (cloak) or headscarf at the airport or in the city.
What is the main language?
Arabic is the primary language used in all dealings and public transactions. English serves as an informal second language and is spoken by a large section of its society. All road signs are bilingual in both Arabic and English.
What will the weather be like?
It will be hot during the day with temperatures around 35°C (95°F). Pack sunscreen (less than 100 ml), a hat and sunglasses. All buildings are fully air-conditioned so we recommend bringing a light jumper.
Which currency can I use?
Oman's currency is the Omani rial (ريال, OMR) which is subdivided into 1000 baisa. Notes come in denominations of 50, 20, 10, 5 and 1 rials and 500 and 100 baisa, and coins in 50, 25, 10 and 5 baisa. While most shops and restaurants accept credit cards, it is still a good idea to have some cash on you (especially small change). ATMs are easily accessible in most shopping malls, petrol stations and supermarkets.
Where can I exchange currencies?
Currency exchange and transactions are easy with all banks offering currency exchange services. Exchange bureaus are located at airports, some shopping centres and various other locations. Credit cards (e.g. Visa, MasterCard and American Express) are generally accepted throughout the country. ATMs are also widely available.
Which plug socket is used?
Oman uses the type G plug (three rectangular pins in a triangular pattern) and operates on a 240V supply voltage and 50Hz. We would recommend bringing a universal adapter.
Will wi-fi be available?
Free wi-fi is available throughout the university's buildings. Connection details will be displayed at the check-in desk.
Are there data roaming charges?
You will need to check the exact charges with your network provider but most international delegates will incur high data roaming charges. We recommend buying an eSIM via Airalo which gives you 1GB of data for 7 days for US$4.50. Use our referral code TIMESH7718 for US$3 off. We recommend checking that your phone supports eSIMs before making your purchase.
Is tap water safe to drink?
While tap water is generally safe to drink, most Omanis drink bottled water. Outside the capital area and main towns, you should boil or sterilise water for drinking, brushing teeth or making ice.
Can I drink alcohol and smoke?
Tourists and visitors over the age of 21 can buy and drink alcohol in licensed venues, such as hotels and restaurants, however it is illegal to drink alcohol in public. Importing and using e-cigarettes is illegal in Oman.
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