The Best Time to Visit Oman

The best time to visit Oman is between October and April when the temperatures are moderately cooler than the rest of the year. There are loads of fun activities to enjoy outdoors during these still warm (yet much cooler than summer) months such as hiking, camping, and lounging on the stunning beaches throughout the country.

No matter when you decide to travel to Oman, this guide will assist you in planning your trip to the "Jewel of Arabia" known as Oman. Visit breathtaking cities like the capital of Muscat or attend festivals in places like Salalah.

Weather in Oman

Oman has a relatively warm to hot climate year-round. Nevertheless, the scorching summer months can be a bit unbearable for those not used to temperatures averaging over 100 degrees F. The fall months starting in October through December is the most ideal time to visit, as the temperatures are steady between mid the 70s to high 80s F.

Popular Events and Festivals

Oman is home to loads of festivals and events hosted throughout the year. Omani culture believes in coming together to celebrate joyous occasions together like EID, Ramadan, and Oman’s independence in November for National Day.

During the winter months, there are plenty of festivals to check out including the massive parade that is hosted to celebrate the birthday of the late Sultan Qaboos on Nov. 18. Muscat Festival occurs in January, the perfect time of year for an outdoor culture festival when temperatures average in the mid- to low 70s. The new year is a busy time and hotels are relatively higher during this time, so book early if you are planning to ring in the year in Oman.

Tourist Attractions in Oman

There are a host of fun-filled tourist attractions available year-round in Oman. These include historical sites, architectural jewels, and more. Some attractions aren’t feasible during certain times of the year such as dune-bashing or visiting the Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve.

Additionally, tourists should factor in certain religious holidays and holy months where certain activities and attractions will not be available to all. These include Ramadan and EID during the summer months. During the day, tourists can expect restaurants to be closed and even no drinking of water in public until after sunset. Oman has a very strict policy on clothing and eating during this time. Therefore, it is recommended to be prepared to follow the rules as locals do. Visiting sites such as the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, you should dress conservatively, covering shoulders and hair with a scarf for women.

January

In January tourists can expect long sunny days and little to no rain during this peak period of travel in Oman. Temperatures are mild and perfect to enjoy many outdoor activities.

Event to check out: The annual Muscat Festival is one of the biggest events in Oman. It celebrates Omani culture and history through concerts, artistic displays, and activities for children.

February

February continues to have some of the coolest temperatures of the season in Oman. There are also short, sharp rain showers that occur periodically. Temperatures are moderately cooler in the evenings but beautiful nonetheless.

Event to check out: Tour of Oman is the premier event for cycling enthusiasts. World-renowned cyclists from all over come to compete in the race, which occurs among the staggering mountaintops and the landscape below from Muscat to Nizwa.

March

March is the onset of warmer temperatures but still a gorgeous time to explore the country. Average temperatures reach the mid-80s F during this time.

Event to check out: The popular tourist attraction in March is the Sultan Camel Race Cup. It is a festival that lasts for several days at the Royal Cavalry Track, featuring camels from around the country that were trained for racing.

April

April brings about longer days featuring up to 10 hours of sunlight, perfect for those wanting to get out and enjoy the stunning outdoors in Oman. It is off-peak season, so crowds are not as commanding for tourists looking to beat the masses.

Event to check out: During spring, in the depths of Jebel Akhdar Mountain (aka “The Green Mountain”) just outside of Nizwa, it's rose-blooming season. Tourists can not only see the lush green mountains, but also patches of locally grown roses used for rose-water and exuberant perfumes.

May

May is a time where temperatures are transitioning from milder spring-like weather to more extreme summer month’s heat. Temperatures are high in the 100s F, but humidity is also low making it a bearable time to visit. The holy month of Ramadan begins in May, which is typically celebrated during Eid-al Fitr (Festival of Breaking the Fast). It marks the end of the month-long dawn to sunset fast that Muslims all over celebrate.

June

Excessive summer heat begins in the month of June. It is off-peak season because the hot and humid temperatures can be a bit insufferable for some to enjoy. During this time, hotels across the country lower their prices to attract locals and tourists alike. The khareef (rainy season) begins in Salalah. June is a time where locals and tourists flock down south to Salalah in order to enjoy cooler summer temperatures than the rest of the country. Hotels can be extremely packed during this time, so book early.

July

July is one of the hottest months of the year, so tourists should beware of the blistering sun and pack loads of sunscreen. Average temperatures occur in the mid to upper 100s F.

Event to check out: The annual Salalah Festival occurs in July, during the rainy season in Oman. It’s held during peak season to visit Salalah when the city has lush, green scenery. The event promotes shopping, concerts, cultural attractions, and sporting events.

August

August is typically the hottest month of the year in Oman, thus it’s a time to enjoy indoor activities for those visiting the country. Temperatures can average around 115 degrees F to 120 degrees F on average. The second major Islamic holiday in Oman is Eid Al Adha, also referred to as the Feast of Sacrifice. It is observed on the 10th day during the last month of the Islamic calendar. Families gather to feast at sunset, and loads of restaurants around the country have huge Eid celebrations and deals for families and friends. (The dates of this holiday vary by year, occurring in either July or August.)

September

Fall descends upon Oman in September, thus cooler temperatures emerge nearer to the end of the month. Fall is a great time to visit because it is less humid, yet still a gorgeous time with bright, sunny warm days.

Events to check out: While peak turtle season occurs during the summer, September is still a great time to view the turtle migration most notably in Sur, Oman. Tourists come from all over to visit Ras al Jinz Turtle Reserve at the end of breeding season when temperatures are cooler than summer months.

October

Temperatures steadily fall in October, making it a fantastic time to enjoy outdoor activities as temperatures average in the low 90s to mid-80s F.

Events to check out: Autumn Harvest occurs in October, with walnuts, pomegranates, olives, and grapes being reaped. Omanis prepare for the upcoming holiday season.

November

November is the best time for visiting Oman due to cooler temperatures in the 80s F and minimal rainfall.

Events to check out: National Day occurs in November. It is a time for locals to celebrate their independence and the birthday of the late Sultan Qaboos.

December

The holiday season continues through the month of December. Visitors can expect moderately cooler temperatures during this time. Hotels around the country have an array of deals in December for those looking to celebrate Christmas and New Year’s Eve.