Oman is a beautiful country with stunning landscapes and a rich culture. If you plan on driving in Oman, it is important to be aware of the local driving rules and regulations. In this article, we’ll cover road safety, required equipment, road accident protocols, driving rules, road signs, traffic lights, traffic info resources, and parking rules.
Road Safety in Oman
Road safety is a top priority in Oman. The country has made significant progress in reducing the number of road accidents and fatalities over the years. However, there are still some challenges, particularly in rural areas where roads can be narrow and winding.
The quality of roads in Oman is generally good, with well-maintained highways and well-signposted roads. However, drivers should be aware of potential hazards such as sharp corners, steep drops, and changing weather conditions.
Local driving standards in Oman can be different from what some expats are used to. Drivers should be prepared to share the road with large trucks and buses, and local drivers may drive aggressively. It’s important to be patient and drive defensively.
Required Equipment
When driving in Oman, there are certain items that you must carry in your car. These include:
- Warning triangle: You must carry a warning triangle and use it in the event of an accident or breakdown.
- Reflective vest: You must carry a reflective vest and wear it when outside your vehicle on a public road.
- First-aid kit: It’s recommended that you carry a first-aid kit in your car.
Road Accidents
In the event of a road accident in Oman, drivers are required to follow certain protocols. If anyone is injured or there is damage to property, you must stop and offer assistance. You should also contact the police and exchange details with the other driver.
If you’re involved in a hit-and-run accident, you should report it to the police immediately. Failure to stop at the scene of an accident is a criminal offense in Oman.
Driving Rules
When driving in Oman, there are certain rules that you need to follow. These include:
- Drive on the right side of the road: In Oman, you must drive on the right-hand side of the road.
- Give way to the right: When approaching an intersection, you must give way to traffic coming from your right, unless otherwise indicated.
- Stick to the speed limits: The speed limit in built-up areas is 60 km/h, on rural roads 100 km/h, and on motorways 120 km/h.
- Don’t use your phone while driving: It’s illegal to use your phone while driving, even if you’re using a hands-free device.
It’s also important to be aware of camels when driving in Oman, particularly in rural areas. Camels are known to wander onto the roads, and drivers must take care to avoid them.
Road Signs and Traffic Lights
Road signs in Oman are clear and easy to understand. Here are some of the most important ones to look out for:
- Stop sign: This is a red octagon with the word “STOP” written in white letters.
- Give way sign: This is a red triangle with a white border and the words “GIVE WAY” written in white letters.
- No entry sign: This is a red circle with a white border and a black diagonal line.
Traffic lights in Oman follow the standard red, amber, and green sequence. However, there are some unique aspects to Omani traffic lights. For example, some lights have a flashing green light to indicate that you can proceed with caution.
Traffic Info Resources
If you’re driving in Oman, it’s important to stay up-to-date with traffic information. The Royal Oman Police provides a range of resources to help drivers stay informed:
- Traffic radio: The Royal Oman Police also provides regular traffic updates on its radio channels throughout the day.
- Traffic app: The Royal Oman Police has a traffic app, which provides real-time traffic information, including travel times, road closures, and detours.
- Paid parking: In many cities and towns, you must pay for parking on the street. You can pay at a ticket machine or via a mobile app.
- Parking permits: In some areas, you need a parking permit to park on the street. These permits are issued by the local council and are often only available to residents.
- Disabled parking: Blue disabled parking cards are recognized in Oman. These cards allow drivers to park in disabled spaces and on street parking for free.
Traffic info website: The Royal Oman Police website provides up-to-date information on road works, traffic incidents, and travel times. You can also report traffic violations and renew your driving license online.
Parking Rules
Parking in Oman can be challenging, particularly in urban areas with high populations of expats. Here are some useful rules to keep in mind:
If you’re an expat living in Oman, it’s important to check the local parking rules and regulations in your area. Some areas may have specific parking restrictions or rules, such as time limits or resident-only parking.
Driving in Oman can be a safe and enjoyable experience if you follow the rules and stay informed. Make sure you have the necessary equipment in your car, follow the local driving standards, and be aware of potential hazards on the roads. Stay up-to-date with traffic information, and be mindful of parking rules, particularly in areas with high populations of expats. By doing so, you can enjoy the stunning scenery and rich culture of Oman without any hiccups.