Oman Traffic Rules and Regulations

For tourists who aspire to visit Oman or for those who are new in the Sultanate, it is absolutely necessary to have a clear idea about the traffic rules and regulations in the country.  The country is blessed with beautiful landscapes in comparison to its middle eastern counterparts.

Below are certain basic rules and regulations, everyone in the country are expected to know and follow:

Regarding Seat Belt: Everyone riding a moving car in Oman must secure themselves with a seat belt.

Tolerance on Drinking and Driving:  As Oman as it is a strict Muslim country, there is zero tolerance of alcohol in the blood of a driver. Hence it is advised to not have  alcohol in at least a six hour period before you drive.  Severe penalties will be there including jail and deportation for those breaking the law.

Documents One Must Have:

For driving in Oman, one should have a complete set of documents including international driving licence, insurance certificate proving insurance was bought in Oman, vehicle test certificate and registration document. As proof of identification, a copy of your passport would be useful.

Safety Camera Warning Devices:

We would recommend you to not risk a fine and adhere to the speed limit as Oman has not termed Safety camera warning devices as illegal.

Minimum Age for Driving:

If  driving a locally registered car in Oman, you have to be at least 18 to be able to drive. The minimum age is 21 if you are renting a car and 25 would be the age for certain companies.

in Oman If you're, the but with some companies, it's 25. You may also need to pay a young driver premium if younger than 25.

Regarding Spot Fines:

The amount of fine is negligible  often and the deferring of the fines are done and the laws are flouted by drivers on occasional basis despite the motoring offences are fined on spot.

Speed Cameras:

There are mobile and fixed safety cameras in Oman literally everywhere. Despite the fines being small, the drivers are advised to not take the fact lightly.

Using of Mobile Phones:

It is illegal to use a phone without a hands-free kit  but the fine for not doing so is minimal and certain people do not follow the same.

...[ Continue to next page ]