Driving in Oman as a United Kingdom National
Oman offers excellent modern roads, low fuel prices, and very safe driving conditions. The Muscat to Salalah route, wadi driving, desert routes, and Jebel Akhdar are highlights for road trippers.
Key Things to Know First
Oman requires an International Driving Permit for foreign visitors. Obtain one in United Kingdom before departure.
How to get an IDPUnited Kingdom drives on the left, but Oman drives on the right. Extra caution required at roundabouts, intersections, and after exits.
Tips for switching sidesUnited Kingdom uses mph, but Oman uses km/h. Verify your GPS or navigation app is set to the correct unit.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Rule | United Kingdom | Oman | Change? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traffic side | Left-hand traffic | Right-hand traffic | Yes |
| Speed unit | mph | km/h | Yes |
| IDP required | — | Yes | Yes |
| Min. driving age | 17 | 18 | Differs |
| Emergency number | 999 | 9999 | Different |
| Road difficulty | Moderate | Easy | — |
Speed Limits in Oman
Speed limits in Oman are posted in km/h (kilometres per hour). Quick reference: 50 km/h ≈ 31 mph · 100 km/h ≈ 62 mph · 130 km/h ≈ 81 mph.
Documents to Carry in Oman
- Original driving licence from United Kingdom — must be valid and unexpired
- International Driving Permit (IDP) — required in Oman. Obtain from your national motoring association before travelling.
- Passport or national ID — carry at all times while driving
- Car insurance certificate — verify it covers Oman before departure
- Vehicle registration / rental agreement
Emergency Number in Oman
Primary emergency number in Oman. Save it before you drive.
Emergency numbers for all countriesFull Oman Driving Guide
Road rules, toll system, fuel types, parking, regional quirks — everything you need for driving in Oman.
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