Currency & Exchange

 

Oman's official currency is the Omani Rial (OMR), which is divided into 1,000 baisa (Bz). The Omani Rial is a strong and stable currency.

Exchange Rates (subject to exchange rates):

  • 1 OMR equals approximately 2.60 USD
  • 1 OMR equals approximately 2.20 EUR
  • 1 OMR equals approximately 1.90 GBP

Currency Breakdown

  • Coins: 5, 10, 25, 50, and 100 baisa
  • Banknotes: 1, 5, 10, 20, and 50 OMR

The Omani Rial is the third strongest currency in the world. When exchanging money, keep in mind the approximate value of common denominations:

  • 5 OMR ≈ 12.99 USD | ≈ 11.44 EUR
  • 10 OMR ≈ 25.97 USD | ≈ 22.87 EUR
  • 20 OMR ≈ 51.95 USD | ≈ 45.74 EUR
  • 50 OMR ≈ 129.87 USD | ≈ 114.35 EUR

You can exchange foreign currency at airports, banks, exchange offices, and major hotels. Money exchange centers in cities like Muscat, Salalah, and Sohar offer competitive rates and fast service. U.S. Dollars, Euros, and British Pounds are widely accepted for exchange.

Cash vs. Card Use:

Cash is widely accepted throughout Oman, especially in local markets (souqs), small shops, and rural areas. However, in cities and tourist hubs, Visa and MasterCard are accepted at most hotels, restaurants, malls, coffee shops, and car rental services. Some places may apply a small surcharge for card payments.

Banking & ATMs:

Oman has a well-developed banking system. ATMs are widely available in cities, towns, shopping centers, and even gas stations. Most ATMs accept international debit and credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Cirrus, etc.), and provide OMR in cash.

Major banks like Bank Muscat, NBO, and Bank Dhofar offer reliable ATM and foreign exchange services. Just ensure your bank card is activated for international use before you travel.

Bank Muscat has a branch at the Sultan Qaboos University campus. Bank Muscat, NBO, and Bank Dhofar ATMs are also available on campus. Do not hesitate to ask the organizers.

Travel Tips:

  • While cards are convenient, always carry some cash---especially when exploring outside of major cities or using taxis.
  • It is often better to withdraw money locally rather than exchange it in your home country, as it ensures you get the most favorable exchange rates and avoids unnecessary fees and charges.
  • If you are not carrying cash upon arrival, you can withdraw money from the ATM machines at the airport. If you want to exchange cash, several exchange kiosks are also available at the airport.
  • When exchanging money, it's a good idea to request smaller denominations such as five rials, one rial (1,000 Baisa), and half a rial (500 Baisa).
  • Taxi rides in Muscat are generally inexpensive. It's a good idea to carry small change, as drivers may not always have enough change for larger bills like 10 rials or more.