Money, Currency and Cards in Oman
Local Currency
Rial Omani (OMR)
General Advice
Omani Rials are available outside Oman however the exchange rate in-country tends to be better. Most people travel with a mixture of US$ cash and their debit and credit cards as ATMs are widely available in larger towns and cities.
Money Exchange
All banks in Muscat and other large towns have bureau de change facilities and changing cash and travellers' cheques poses no problems. It is difficult to change travellers' cheques outside Muscat and given the easu of using debit and credit cards should ideally be avoided.
ATM Availability
Widely available in Muscat and other large towns such as Salalah ATMs provide a convenient way of obtaining money when travelling in Oman. Ensure that sufficient funds are obtained before setting off to more remote areas of the country. For more information check the Visa ATM locator, the MasterCard ATM locator or the American Express ATM locator for the addresses of ATMs around the world.
Credit Cards
Widely accepted shops, hotels and restaurants in and close to Muscat and Salalah. Credit cards should not be relied upon elsewhere where Omani Rials cash is the usual method of trade. You can also check the Visa, MasterCard or American Express locator pages.
Travellers Cheques
Travellers’ cheques in US$ are accepted in Oman, but only American Express branded cheques outside Muscat. Purchase in US$ for a smoother ride. Given the hassle, cash is a better bet.
Other Information
Omani Rial (OMR) RO1 = 1000 baizas. Banknotes are issued in denominations of 100, 200 and ½ 1, 5, 10, 20 and 50 rials. Coins are issued in denominations of 5, 10, 25, 50 and 100 baisa, ¼ rial and ½ rial.
