Useful Tips

VISA FORMALITIES

• Proposal for APTLD Group
• Visa Application for Tourist

CONTACT DETAILES:

Contact Name: Mr. Naseem Shah / Mr. Saud Al Junaidy
Email: naseem@infinitetours.om, info@infinitetours.om , saud@infinitetours.om
Phone: +968 79835219 / +968 71550249
Website: infinitetours.om

DETAILS OF ARRIVAL AND TRANSPORT

The Muscat International airport has all necessary amenities to welcome participants properly. It is located 10 minutes from the meeting venue.  This airport is used for arrival and departure of international flights.
The officially recommended hotels are located close to the meeting venue. For those who wish to take a taxi, it is strongly recommended that delegates only use the airport taxies.  The cost of a journey of 10 kilometers is approximately cost 8/- OMR by Taximeter. For transportation from the hotels, other than the venue hotel, to the meeting venue and vice versa, hotel’s taxis and other means like car rent are available, all borne by the participants.

CURRENCY

The official currency of Oman is the Omani Riyal. Visa, American Express, Access/MasterCard, and Diners Club cards can also be used. Banks are open from Sunday till Thursday, from 8.00 to 1400. Most banks in Oman provide Visa or MasterCard facilities through their branches and ATMs. Most of international Credit cards are widely accepted in Malls and shops. Money Exchange is available through airports, hotels and exchange shops in all major malls and Souqs in Oman. ID or passport is required for Money Exchange.

The exchange current rate in Oman is as follows:

1 Dollar = 0.386 OMR (approx.)

ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES

AC power voltage in Oman is 220/240V, frequency ~50Hz. Most electrical outlets are as shown below.

LANGUAGES

Arabic is the official language in Oman. However, people also speak English. As Oman is a melting pot of cultures that combines Arabs, Hindi people, Pakistanis and others, other languages are also widely spoken like: Hindi, Swahili and Baluchi.

HEALTH AND SAFETY

Emergency medical assistance will be provided free of charge within the premises where the meeting will take place. Nevertheless, it is advised to take out international travel insurance to cover any medical expenses in case of medical treatment. Hotels can provide assistance for any medical emergency

For important numbers, please see the link.

INTERNET

Internet Access free of charge will be available at the event meeting room. Hotels normally offer free WiFi connectivity. Sim card can be purchased from airports, passport is required. All telecom providers have a stand in airports, shops and major malls. Hotels can assist the guests.

BEST RESTURANTS

Whether it is tasty street food or fine dining, visitors to Oman will find a wide range of options to suit all tastes. From contemporary restaurants serving all types of international cuisine in hotels, resorts, malls and commercial areas, to the casual shawarma eateries and coffee shops, the possibilities are endless.

Traditional Omani food can be found at a number of hotels and restaurants and is a combination of Arabian, Indian and African influences which has created a unique cuisine. Al Loomie at the Al Bustan Hotel in Muscat and Bait Al Luban in Muttrah are just some of the restaurants known to serve Omani food with a modern twist.

• Al Angham
  The restaurant offers attentive service and Omani dishes such as harees, lamb stews and Omani lobster.
  
  
• Ubhar
  Muscat offers a range of culinary options for its guests, from jelly-like halwa and street food to exquisitely crafted desserts and English breakfasts. If you're looking for traditional Omani cusine, Ubhar* is a great first stop. The restaurant offers a mix of local delicacies and fusion dishes (like frankincense ice cream) that will please cautious and adventurous eaters alike.
  
  
• Bait Al Luban
  If you're in the Muttrah area, Bait Al Luban (House of Frankincense) is a great spot for a celebratory dinner. Book in advance, ask for a seat on the balcony, then sit back and enjoy some delicious local food in a stunning setting.
  
  
• Woodlands
  Once you've had your fill of karak and dates, Woodlands* is a good spot to satisfy any Indian food craving. The restaurant offers a wide range of vegetarian dishes on its menu, served in a cosy environment.
  
  

SHOPPING

From aromatic Frankincense to traditional clothing and silver works, Oman’s souqs provide an atmospheric shopping experience that is uniquely Omani. Most largE settlements in Oman have their own souq, the most famous being Muttrah Souq, situated on the Old Muscat waterfront and selling everything from clothes, to silver, spices, Frankincense and more. Also, Nizwa Souk definitely worth a visit.

Modern shopping is a favorite pastime in Oman, with large shopping centres developed across the Sultanate, including Muscat City Centre, Muscat Grand Mall and Oman Avenues Mall. Here, visitors can find the latest trends and brands from around the world.

SHOPPING FOR GROCERIES

Supermarkets are widely spread around Muscat. Main hypermarkets stores like Lulu Hypermarket, Carrefour are providing all kind of food, organic and authentic.

Be mindful about alcohol consumption. There are many restaurants and even bars or nightclubs where you can get alcohol. You can also purchase alcohol from specialized stores which are usually located inside hotels. Remember that although you can purchase alcohol from these
places, its public consumption is against the law.

HOW TO GET AROUND IN MUSCAT

There are plenty of options available for easy travel through the Sultanate – perfect for travelers looking to explore the country’s unique culture, amazing nature, authentic heritage and great food.

Buses are a safe and affordable option for getting around Oman and operate across the Sultanate, as well as within Muscat. Mwasalat – a government owned company – is the leading public transport service in the country, offering inter-regional as well as inner-c

Taxis are an efficient and cost-effective way to explore the Sultanate and can be recognized by their distinctive white and orange coloring. Special blue and white taxis operate from airports only and have a set price that can be requested from the driver. Oman officials are currently working towards the introduction of metered taxis to offer an even better service to visitors.

For further information, contact The Taxi Counter at Muscat Airport on (+968) 2434 1297.

PRAYER SPOTS IN THE CONFERENCE AREA AND ACROSS THE CITY

Hotels provide prayer rooms for their guest, however participants can pray in their rooms or in Masjids available across the city.

SAFETY AND SECURITY

Oman is one of the safest countries around the world. Not only for the great efforts of the police, but also the great and kind hearts of the Omani people. They always care for their country and its visitors, and provide them with the warmest welcome even when they are complete strangers. According to the Global Terrorism Index, Oman is one of the few terrorism-free countries in the world. So, visitors don’t need to bring weapons or to be worried about safety. If anything wrong happens, they can go and talk to the police.

Local people should under no conditions be shot or recorded on cameras without their permission for the action. The photo and video recording of churchmen and men wearing military uniform is totally banned by the law.

Though the crime rate is rather low in the city, tourists should observe regular safety precautions. One should not set off for exploration to remote districts of the city as well as keep by oneself valuables and substantial sums of cash. Those who visit the city of Muscat for the first time are strongly recommended to stroll around the city only with a guide.

MUSCAT WEATHER IN OCTOBER

The weather in Muscat during October can be humid and very dry but can be pleasant at night. Daytime maximum temperatures average around a steamy 34°C (94°F), whilst at night it is 24°C (75°F).