Oman Weather, climate and geography
Weather and climate
Best time to visit
Oman has a predominantly desert climate, with hot summers and mild winters. The best time to visit is between October and April, when temperatures are more comfortable and the air is clear. During this period, daytime highs in Muscat range from around 25°C (77°F) to 32°C (90°F), cooling to pleasant evenings. Summer months (May to September) can be extremely hot, with daytime temperatures exceeding 45°C (113°F) in some regions, especially inland.
The southern Dhofar region has a different climate due to the annual khareef (monsoon), which lasts roughly from June to September. During this time, light rains and mists transform the landscape into rolling green hills and waterfalls — a rare contrast to the rest of the country's arid scenery. In mountain regions like Jebel Akhdar, temperatures are cooler year-round, often 10–15°C lower than in the lowlands.
Required clothing
Lightweight, breathable clothing is suitable for most of the year, though modesty is important. Women should cover their shoulders and knees in public places, while men should avoid sleeveless shirts. In cities and resorts, relaxed but respectful attire is appropriate. For visits to mosques or religious sites, women should wear long sleeves, ankle-length trousers or skirts, and a headscarf; men should wear long trousers and avoid sleeveless tops.
During the cooler months or when travelling in the mountains, bring a light jumper or jacket for evenings. If visiting the desert, pack a scarf or hat for sun protection and warm layers for chilly nights. Waterproof footwear or sandals are useful for exploring wadis, while a lightweight rain jacket can be handy during the khareef season in Dhofar.
Geography
Oman occupies the southeastern corner of the Arabian Peninsula, bordered by the United Arab Emirates to the northwest, Saudi Arabia to the west and Yemen to the southwest. It has an extensive coastline of over 3,000km (1,860 miles) along the Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Oman, giving it a long maritime tradition and diverse landscapes.
The country is dominated by the rugged Hajar Mountains, which run parallel to the northern coast and contain Oman's highest peak, Jebel Shams. South of the mountains lies a broad plain stretching to the sea, while the vast Rub' al Khali (Empty Quarter) desert extends into Oman's western regions. In contrast, the Dhofar region in the far south has a tropical character, with monsoon rains during the khareef season transforming the hills into lush green valleys.
Oman's varied geography makes it one of the most scenic countries in the Middle East, offering deserts, oases, beaches and mountains all within a day's travel of one another.
