SULTANATE OF OMAN, MINISTRY OF TOURISM

SULTANATE OF OMAN, MINISTRY OF TOURISM

SULTANATE OF OMAN, MINISTRY OF TOURISM

Monday 7 July 2014

5 Fast Facts About Oman - O to V

Omanisation: The Omanisation program has been in operation since 1988, training Omani personnel to replace skilled expatriates. There is a fixed Omanisation ratio in various areas of the private sector as stipulated by the Ministry: transport, storage and communications 60% Omanisation; finance, insurance and real estate 45%; industry 35%; hotels and restaurants 30%; wholesale or retail trading 20% and contracting 15%.

Ramadan: Ramadan is the holy month of fasting during which Muslims abstain from eating, drinking and smoking during daylight hours. As a sign of respect, visitors are also required to refrain from publically indulging in these activities between sunrise and sunset. As of 2007, the Oman Government permits tourists staying at selected hotels to purchase and consume alcohol after sunset (from 7pm - 2am) in allocated restaurants. Most international hotels have been granted permission to serve alcohol during Ramadan, including Radisson SAS, Grand Hyatt, Shangri-la Barr Al Jissah Resorts & Spa, The Chedi, Inter-Continental Hotel and the Crowne Plaza.

Regions: Oman is divided into nine main regions – Muscat, the administrative and commercial capital, Al Batinah, Al Dhahirah, Al Dakhiliyah, Al Buraymi, Al Sharqiyah, AlWusta, Dhofar and Musandam. Each of the regions is then divided into smaller wilayats to assist in the administration process.

Religion: Islam is Oman’s official religion; other faiths are also respected.

Visas: Visitor visas are available at all air, land and sea arrival points for citizens of over 50 countries including European Union, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore and Japan. Visas on arrival for these countries cost RO 5 and are valid for ten days or R.O 20 which is valid for one month. Those countries not valid for a visa on arrival must obtain a visa before travel. For the latest information please go to www.omanairports.com. Further information can be obtained from the Oman Embassy. (Tel 020 722 50001)

Discover more about Oman: www.omantourism.gov.om

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