Travel Vaccines and Advice for Oman
Located in the Middle East, Oman is something of a hidden gem. With hospitable people and desert landscapes, the country is a perfect to meet any craving for a Middle Eastern adventure.
Oman features majestic coastal cities and modern metropolises throughout the entire country. Take an afternoon drive along Jebel Shams. Explore Nakhal Fort and engulf yourself in a world of Middle Eastern history. Or hop aboard a camel and ride through romantic Sharqiya Sands. With adventures galore, Oman is a dream trip.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Oman?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Oman
Do I Need a Passport and Visa for Oman?
What Is the Climate Like in Oman?
How Safe Is Oman?
Take a Swim in Snake Canyon
What Should I Take to Oman?
U.S. Embassy in Oman
Do I Need Vaccines for Oman?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Oman. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Oman: typhoid, hepatitis A, polio, yellow fever, tick-borne encephalitis, rabies, hepatitis B, influenza, COVID-19, pneumonia, meningitis, chickenpox, shingles, Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) and measles, mumps and rubella (MMR).
See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:
- Typhoid –
Food & Water –
Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. - Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travelers. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Required if arriving from a region with polio transmission. Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended. - Yellow Fever –
Mosquito –
Required if traveling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. - Tick-borne Encephalitis –
Ticks –
Cases isolated mainly to coastal areas. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travelers and those who may come in contact with animals. - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Recommended for travelers to most regions. - Influenza –
Airborne –
Vaccine components change annually. - COVID-19 –
Airborne –
Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. - Pneumonia –
Airborne –
Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. - Meningitis –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. - Chickenpox –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. - Shingles –
Direct Contact –
Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended. - TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) –
Wounds & Airborne –
Only one adult booster of pertussis required. - Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) –
Various Vectors –
Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.
See the table below for more information:
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for Oman |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Typhoid | Food & Water | Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator. |
| Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travelers. |
| Polio | Food & Water | Required if arriving from a region with polio transmission. Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended. |
| Yellow Fever | Mosquito | Required if traveling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. |
| Tick-borne Encephalitis | Ticks | Cases isolated mainly to coastal areas. |
| Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travelers and those who may come in contact with animals. |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Recommended for travelers to most regions. |
Routine Vaccinations for Oman |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Influenza | Airborne | Vaccine components change annually. |
| COVID-19 | Airborne | Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. |
| Pneumonia | Airborne | Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. |
| Meningitis | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. |
| Chickenpox | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. |
| Shingles | Direct Contact | Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. |
| TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) | Wounds & Airborne | Only one adult booster of pertussis required. |
| Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) | Various Vectors | Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended. |
Specific Vaccine Information
- Typhoid – Salmonella Typhi causes typhoid, a severe infection transmitted via contaminated food and water. Vaccination is recommended for travelers and those with elevated infection risks. Practicing proper hygiene and safe food handling can also reduce the likelihood of contracting typhoid.
- Hepatitis A – Hepatitis A is a highly contagious liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus. It’s typically spread through contaminated food or water. The hepatitis A vaccine is a safe and effective immunization that protects against the virus, usually given in two shots for long-term prevention.
- Rabies – The rabies virus is a deadly threat that spreads through bites and scratches from infected animals. Preventing rabies involves timely vaccination, avoiding contact with wildlife and seeking immediate medical attention if bitten. The rabies vaccine is instrumental in developing immunity and safeguarding against this fatal disease.
- Hepatitis B – The hepatitis B vaccine is a potent shield against this liver virus, recommended for all travelers and crucial for healthcare workers. Alongside vaccination, practicing safe sex and avoiding needle sharing are essential in hepatitis B prevention.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are viral infections that can spread through close contact and respiratory droplets. Vaccination is the most effective way to halt their transmission. The MMR vaccine, given in two doses, strengthens immunity, reducing the chances of contracting and spreading these diseases.
Dengue is a threat to visitors to Oman. Be sure to bring mosquito repellent and netting.
See our vaccinations page to learn more about these infections and vaccines. Ready to protect yourself? Book your travel health appointment today by calling or schedule online now.
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in Oman
Prevent Bug Bites in Oman
Shield yourself from bug bites with proper attire and EPA-approved repellents such as DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Safeguard your sleep area with bed nets and screens. In case of bug bites, clean the area, resist scratching, and utilize over-the-counter solutions while seeking professional assistance for severe reactions.
Food and Water Safety in Oman
Safeguard your health during international travels by eating fully cooked, hot meals, at reliable dining establishments. To minimize the chances of travelers’ diarrhea, follow these precautions: choose safe foods, avoid untreated water, practice frequent hand-washing, consider probiotics, and exercise caution when indulging in unfamiliar cuisines.
Altitude Sickness in Oman
When ascending to high altitudes, beware of altitude sickness, which can cause headaches, nausea, and dizziness due to reduced oxygen levels. Preventive measures include gradual ascent, staying hydrated, and possibly using medications like acetazolamide. If symptoms appear, swift descent to lower elevations, rest, and medical evaluation are essential.
Infections To Be Aware of in Oman
- Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever – Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever is transmitted by ticks and can also spread from person to person through contact with infected bodily fluids. Preventative measures include tick bite prevention, healthcare worker precautions, and research towards a potential vaccine.
- Dengue – According to the CDC, dengue fever, caused by a virus from mosquito bites, manifests through fever, headaches, and severe muscle pain. Preventative measures include using insect repellent and wearing protective clothing. While no specific treatment exists, early medical intervention can mitigate severe complications.
- Leishmaniasis – Leishmaniasis, transmitted by sand fly bites, can be prevented by adopting protective measures such as using insect repellents, covering exposed skin, and staying indoors when sand flies are active.
- MERS – MERS, caused by MERS-CoV, was first identified in Saudi Arabia in 2012. Preventing MERS involves practicing good hygiene, staying away from infected individuals and camels, and following CDC travel guidelines. It’s worth noting that there is no vaccine available to protect against MERS at present.
- Schistosomiasis – Schistosomiasis, caused by parasitic flatworms, is prevalent in areas with contaminated freshwater sources. Prevention involves staying out of potentially infected waters and using protective clothing. Recognizing symptoms such as fever and seeking medical help promptly is crucial for diagnosis and treatment.
Do I Need a Passport and Visa for Oman?
A passport and visa are required for entry to Oman. Visas are limited to 30 days. Fees can vary based on changes by the Royal Oman Police.
Oman Entry Requirements |
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| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Oman? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | |
|
| Business Visa | |
|
| Vaccinations | |
|
Sources: Embassy of Oman and U.S. State Department
Penalties for expired passports or visas include fines and/or imprisonment.
Passport Health has partnered with industry leaders in travel document services, RushMyPassport and G3 Travel Services. These teams will walk you through the Oman visa process step-by-step and handle the sometimes difficult communication with embassies and consulates. Start your visa process today!
What Is the Climate Like in Oman?
The climate of Oman is hot and dry, with little to no rainfall throughout most of the year. The country also battles the Shamal, which are intense, dust-driven winds. These can be very intense and tend to stir up mass amounts of dust throughout Oman’s regions.
The summer temperatures can reach up the 100’s, with cooler temperatures at night. Throughout late autumn and early winter, temperatures are quite enjoyable, in the 60’s. Oman receives the most rainfall in winter from thunderstorms and intense cloud build-up.
- Muscat – The capital and largest metropolitan city, has peak temperatures in the 110’s. The climate is very dry and barren, with the region receiving its annual 4 in. of rainfall in December.
- Seeb – A highly populated coastal city in Oman, is home to some of the country’s best temperatures. July is the hottest month in Seeb and January is the coolest. June is the driest month while September is the wettest.
How Safe Is Oman?
Oman is a relatively safe country, with few terrorist attacks to date.
The country faces minimal street crime, and violent crimes are rare. The Royal Oman Police have a good reputation for being very efficient in their duties to the public.
Though the crime rates are low in most of the country, exercise caution. Watch local news and avoid public gatherings or protests.
Take a Swim in Snake Canyon
Avoid an Embarrassing Stop
Over 70% of travelers
will have diarrhea.
Get protected with Passport Health’s
travelers’ diarrhea kit!
Dubbed as Oman’s, “natural water park,” Snake Canyon is an adventure built for the bravest of explorers. Nestled in the Wadi Bani Awf, its rocks have been smoothed down by rushing water in the canyon. The slippery water hole attracts rock climbers, canyon divers and repellers.
The Canyon was shaped by nature and is one of the most exquisite, hidden gems in the entire country of Oman.
Though a beautiful and unique adventure, flash floods are common. The trek to Snake Canyon is not for the fainthearted. If you do decide to take on the challenge, make sure you prepared.
What Should I Take to Oman?
Oman can be difficult to pack for. With so much to do and see, it’s important to make sure you have what you need.
- Appropriate Clothing – It is important to remember that this is a Muslim country. Tourists should respect the country’s culture by wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees. If you plan on visiting any mosques, head scarfs may also be required.
- Lighter-Colored Clothes – Temperatures are relatively warm throughout most regions. White is a recommended color to help keep you cool.
- Power Converter – Bring a converter if you’re planning on using any electronics that are not Omani. Oman plugs are a type G 200V and are different from those in the United States.
U.S. Embassy in Oman
All Americans visiting Oman should register online with the U.S. Department of State before departure. This will inform the office of your travel plans within the country and will allow them to reach out in the case of an emergency or evacuation.
Once in Oman, the information for the U.S. Embassy is:
U.S. Embassy Oman
Jamiat A’Duwal Al Arabiya Street,
Al Khuwair Area (Shatti Al-Qurum), Muscat
Oman
Telephone: +(968) 2464-3400
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(968) 2464-3400
Fax: +(968) 2464-3535
Ready to start your next journey? Call us at or book online now!
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Oman
Overall rating: 5 stars – 2 reviews
★★★★★
“Great Experience“
“They were super nice and helpful. The woman I made my appointment with on the phone was very polite and helpful. Then when I had my appointment, she walked me through everything I needed to know about my trip to Oman and knew the answer to every question I asked.”
Submitted by: Christen
★★★★★
“I’m all set!“
“Thank you for a good experience. The woman I worked with answered all my questions and made me feel I made the best decisions on the vaccinations I chose for my trip to Oman. I also appreciate the itinerary/information book that came with it. Thank you for making the ordeal of getting vaccinations easy!”
Submitted by: Willa
“They were super nice and helpful. The woman I made my appointment with on the phone was very polite and helpful. Then when I had my appointment, she walked me through everything I needed to know about my trip to Oman and knew the answer to every question I asked.”
“Thank you for a good experience. The woman I worked with answered all my questions and made me feel I made the best decisions on the vaccinations I chose for my trip to Oman. I also appreciate the itinerary/information book that came with it. Thank you for making the ordeal of getting vaccinations easy!”
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