Is cash still widely used?
Yes, particularly outside Muscat. The capital has solid card acceptance at hotels, restaurants, and malls. In the Hajar Mountains, Wahiba Sands, and coastal villages, cash is essential. Traditional souqs and local eateries across the country prefer cash.
ATMs and withdrawing cash
ATMs are widely available in Muscat and larger towns. Bank Muscat and National Bank of Oman ATMs accept foreign cards reliably.
- Fees are around 2 OMR per withdrawal — note the rial is a high-value currency
- Availability in Salalah and Nizwa is reasonable; very limited in rural areas
- Withdraw cash in Muscat before heading into the desert or mountains
Card acceptance
Good in Muscat. Visa and Mastercard are accepted at hotels, modern restaurants, and larger shops. Outside the capital, cash is preferred or required.
Tips for travelers
- The Omani rial is one of the world’s highest-valued currencies — plan accordingly
- Carry rials for souqs, village guesthouses, and rural travel
- Oman is one of the safest countries in the Middle East
- Wadis, mountain villages, and desert camps require cash