Muscat, Oman: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2022]
Traveling to Muscat, Oman? If you're planning to go to Muscat, the following is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Muscat
- Important essentials for Muscat
- Activities for Muscat
- Muscat in January: weather and what to pack
- Muscat in February: weather and what to pack
- Muscat in March: weather and what to pack
- Muscat in April: weather and what to pack
- Muscat in May: weather and what to pack
- Muscat in June: weather and what to pack
- Muscat in July: weather and what to pack
- Muscat in August: weather and what to pack
- Muscat in September: weather and what to pack
- Muscat in October: weather and what to pack
- Muscat in November: weather and what to pack
- Muscat in December: weather and what to pack

About your travel guide
Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.
When to go to Muscat, Oman
Based on the climate and weather in Muscat, the best time to go is January. See below for details.
Important essentials for Muscat, Oman
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Muscat, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
COVID-19 ESSENTIALS FOR 2022
-
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly product.
-
N95 masks to use in crowded airports
These N95 masks provide the best level of COVID protection possible.
-
A vaccine card protector
Vaccine cards frequently get worn. An unreadable card may result in severe consequences. This vaccine card protector helps avoid that.
Travel insurance
If you or a companion get COVID-19, your amazing trip can be ruined. Good travel insurance can help. See plans
-
Kids' KN95 masks
N95 masks aren't sold for kids. These are a good alternative (and can also be used by adults if N95 masks are not available).
-
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
General health necessities
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
-
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent kit.
-
Emergency motion sickness relief
Don't forget these
-
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
-
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
-
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Muscat. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
-
For families with young children
-
Airplane or car necessities
-
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. This one should be sufficient for most countries, but you may want to check with your hotel.
What to wear/what to pack for Muscat, Oman by month
Already know when you're traveling?
January
January for Muscat is warm and dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Bug repellent
-
Light skirts
-
Extra socks
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Sandals
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Beach necessities
If you're going to the beach:
-
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These pants can be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is a great choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We recommend:
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you plan to visit the stunning Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Muscat tourism authority.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
-
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
-
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
If you see the Bait Al Zubair Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
February
February in Muscat is warm. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day. It rains once in a while.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Extra socks
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Light skirts
-
Sandals
-
Bug repellent
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Beach necessities
If you're going to the beach:
-
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These pants can be vital in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We like:
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you plan to visit the stunning Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Muscat tourism authority.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
-
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
-
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
If you see the Bait Al Zubair Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
March
If you visit Muscat during March, you are likely to see that it is pretty consistently hot and dry with little rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain sometimes.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Sunglasses
-
Bug repellent
-
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice also removes harmful contaminants:
-
Skirts
-
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can make you comfortable and guard against UV rays:
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and keep you cool.
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
If you're going to the beach
-
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants will be essential in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We like:
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you plan to visit the stunning Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Muscat tourism authority.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
-
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
-
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
If you see the Bait Al Zubair Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
April
If you vacation in Muscat during April, you will probably find that it can be sweltering and dry with little rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 90s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 70s F (mid 20s C). Humidity is generally between 40 and 50% during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also filters dangerous contaminants:
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and keep you cool.
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Bug repellent
-
Sunglasses
-
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can cool you down quickly and protect you from skin damage:
-
Skirts
-
If you're going to the beach
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you plan to visit the stunning Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Muscat tourism authority.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
-
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
-
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
If you see the Bait Al Zubair Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
May
If you vacation in Muscat during May, you might find that it is blindingly hot and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 100s F (high 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 80s F (low 30s C). Humidity is generally between 30 and 40% during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Light skirts
-
Sarong
-
High-SPF sunscreen lotion
One of these:
-
Personal cooling fan
-
Thin tank or crop tops
-
Lightweight 'harem' pants
-
100% UV protection sunglasses
We suggest:
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Insects have been an issue here.
We recommend these bug repellents:
-
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can cool you down quickly and guard against UV rays:
-
Insulated water bottle
- https://amzn.to/31Mz9kT
Bug bite relief
-
Sun protecting pants
These will keep your legs safe from UV rays while also cool. Our favorites:
-
Beach-going accessories
If you're going to the excellent beaches don't forget
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you plan to visit the stunning Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Muscat tourism authority.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
-
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
-
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
If you see the Bait Al Zubair Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
June
Traveling to Muscat in June, you will notice that it can be sizzling and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the low 100s F (high 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can make you comfortable and guard against skin damage:
-
Lightweight 'harem' pants
-
Protecting pants
These will keep you safe from UV rays while also cool. Our favorites:
-
100% UV protection sunglasses
We suggest:
-
Bugs may be a problem here.
We recommend these bug repellents:
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Light skirts
-
Personal cooling fan
- https://amzn.to/31Mz9kT
Bug bite relief
-
Sarong
-
High-SPF sunscreen lotion
One of these:
-
Insulated water bottle
-
Thin tank or crop tops
-
Beach-going accessories
If you're visiting excellent beaches don't forget
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you plan to visit the stunning Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Muscat tourism authority.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
-
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
-
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
If you see the Bait Al Zubair Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
July
If you vacation in Muscat during July, you are likely to notice that it can be blisteringly hot, somewhat hazy and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 90s F (high 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 80s F (low 30s C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Skirts
-
Lightweight 'harem' pants
-
Thin short sleeve shirts
Remember to bring extra, as these are likely to get wet or dirty.
-
Cooling tank or crop tops
These are engineered for cooling:
-
Light linen shorts
-
Sunglasses
-
Sun protecting pants/skirts
These will keep your legs protected from UV rays while also cool. Our favorites:
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Bug repellent
-
High-SPF sunscreen lotion
Bug bite relief
-
Light dresses
These Columbia dresses are developed to cool you and can provide UV protection.
-
Personal cooling fan
-
Insulated water bottle
-
Beach necessities
If you're going to the beach:
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you plan to visit the stunning Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Muscat tourism authority.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
-
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
-
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
If you see the Bait Al Zubair Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
August
If you visit Muscat during August, you may see that it is a scorcher, very hazy and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the 90s F (mid 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 80s F (high 20s C). Humidity is generally around 60 during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Lightweight 'harem' pants
-
Insulated water bottle
-
Thin short sleeve shirts
It's important pack extra, as these get wet or dirty.
-
Personal cooling fan
-
Bug repellent
-
Sun protecting pants/skirts
These will keep your legs safe from UV rays while also cool. Our favorites:
Bug bite relief
-
Sunglasses
-
Skirts
-
Light dresses
These Columbia dresses are specially designed for cooling and to provide UV protection.
-
Cooling tank or crop tops
These are developed to keep you cool:
-
Waterproof sandals
-
High-SPF sunscreen lotion
-
Light linen shorts
-
Beach necessities
If you're going to the beach:
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you plan to visit the stunning Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Muscat tourism authority.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
-
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
-
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
If you see the Bait Al Zubair Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
September
September in Muscat is unbearably hot and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the 90s F (mid 30s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Light linen shorts
-
Bug repellent
Bug bite relief
-
High-SPF sunscreen lotion
-
Skirts
-
Insulated water bottle
-
Personal cooling fan
-
Sunglasses
-
Protecting pants/skirts
These will keep you protected from UV rays while also cool. Our favorites:
-
Cooling tank or crop tops
These are created to cool you:
-
Thin short sleeve shirts
Don't forget pack additional, as these often get wet or dirty.
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Lightweight 'harem' pants
-
Light dresses
These Columbia dresses are created to help you stay cool and include UV protection.
-
Beach necessities
If you're going to the beach:
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you plan to visit the stunning Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Muscat tourism authority.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
-
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
-
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
If you see the Bait Al Zubair Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
October
If you vacation in Muscat during October, you may find that it is extremely hot and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 90s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 70s F (mid 20s C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and cool you.
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can cool you down quickly and protect you from the sun:
-
Bug repellent
-
Skirts
-
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also removes contaminants:
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
Sunglasses
-
If you're going to the beach
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you plan to visit the stunning Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Muscat tourism authority.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
-
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
-
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
If you see the Bait Al Zubair Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
November
If you are traveling to Muscat in November, you will notice that it is pretty consistently hot and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (high 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Skirts
-
Loose-fit shorts
-
Waterproof sandals
-
Insulated water bottle
Our choice also cleans dangerous contaminants:
-
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
-
Sunglasses
-
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and keep you cool.
-
Bug repellent
-
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from skin damage:
-
If you're going to the beach
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you plan to visit the stunning Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Muscat tourism authority.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
-
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
-
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
If you see the Bait Al Zubair Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
December
December for Muscat is a perfect temperature and dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Light skirts
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Sandals
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Extra socks
-
Bug repellent
-
Beach necessities
If you're going to the beach:
-
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These pants are a lifesaver in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is a great choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We suggest:
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you plan to visit the stunning Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Muscat tourism authority.
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
-
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
-
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
If you see the Bait Al Zubair Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Comfy walking shoes
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Activities for Muscat, Oman
Here are some activity recommendations and activity-specific packing tips for Muscat.
Check out our guides for these other locations: Bellingen, New South Wales, Australia, Rügen, Germany, Broadway, England, United Kingdom, Moss Vale, New South Wales, Australia, Spiritwood, Saskatchewan, Canada, Strontian, Scotland, United Kingdom, Muang Ngeun, Laos, Resen, Macedonia, Whistler, British Columbia, Canada, Kazungula, Zambia, and Ussuriysk, Russia.