Oman is an enchanting destination with dramatic deserts, stunning coastlines, and majestic forts. And one of the best ways to explore Oman is by car. Unlike most of the other destinations where people travel, Omani culture is very car-friendly. Having a car to drive around and visit every nook and corner of this incredible nation is a must. You can enjoy cruising down the coastline and head to the mountains for a tuff desert drive.
So, if you are considering visiting the Middle Eastern beauty of Oman and want to hire a car to explore at your own pace, you have landed at the right place. From muttering your way through narrow mountain passes to driving on beaches, from stopping by turtle nesting sites at night to seeking the stunning sunrise over golden dunes, a road trip is the best way to enjoy everything the country has to offer. Driving a rental car gives you flexibility, saves time and allows you to choose when to stop and where to stay.
A local car rental allows you to discover the 10 places to visit in Oman on a self-driving journey that we list below.
Muscat – Capital of Oman
The striking sapphire coastlines meet the azure skies at Muscat, the capital of Oman. From the stunning architecture of the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque to the vibrant energy of the Muttrah Souq, Muscat has something for everyone. Cruise the Muttrah Corniche and head over to the Royal Opera House and Al Alam Palace. This is the perfect first taste of Omani culture and hospitality.
Rent a car to Muscat and explore the entire city at your own pace and ease. Head to the lesser-known beaches such as Qantab and Yiti in your car as they are usually missed by local tour buses.
Jebel Akhdar – Green Mountain
Deserts and mountains form an intrinsic part of Oman’s stunning landscape. Jebel Akhdar or the Green Mountain, which is part of the Al Hajar Mountain range, is a beautiful contrast to the sandy plains below. Jebel Akhdar offers picturesque views with its terraced farms and rose gardens against a cool mountain backdrop.
Driving up to Jebel Akhdar will require a 4×4 or SUV as the route involves steep slopes and rugged terrain. But it is well worth the effort! Visit the villages on Jebel Akhdar, such as Al Ayn and Al Aqur, both on the edge of a cliff and connected by an incredible hiking trail. You can smell the Damask roses during their blooming season (March to May) and will feel like you are in a fairytale.
Nizwa – Historical City
A short 2-hour drive from Muscat is the ancient city of Nizwa. Rich in history and tradition, Nizwa was the capital of Oman for centuries before Muscat took over the title. Visit the imposing Nizwa Fort, one of the largest in Oman, then browse through the old souq for silver jewelry and daggers. Don’t miss the goat market that is held every Friday. On your way to Nizwa by rental car, you can visit the UNESCO-listed Falaj irrigation system and the quaint historical village of Birkat Al Mouz.
Wahiba Sands (Sharqiya Sands) – Sand Dunes
Visiting the golden dunes of Wahiba Sands or Sharqiya Sands is a must-do experience in Oman. These gently rolling sand dunes take your breath away, and watching the sun slowly set on the shifting sand is a mesmerizing sight. The changing hues of the dunes are the star attraction as they transform from pale gold to deep oranges as the sun moves across the sky.
For the best experience, make sure you have a 4WD rental to take you deep into the desert. Experience Bedouin camps and dune bashing in a 4×4, go on a camel safari, or try out sandboarding. Spend a night under the stars and have an unforgettable experience in a desert camp. But to get the best out of this, you need a rental car.
Sur – Coastal Destination
Drive 3 hours on one of the most beautiful coastlines in Oman and you reach the port city of Sur. Sur is known for its dhow-building (wooden boat) culture and wooden structure houses. Stroll down to the Dhow Yard and watch the ship builders working on their dhows. From Sur, drive along the rugged coastline, stopping at undiscovered beaches and fishing villages.
Visit Sur on a self-driving car rental and you will find things to see in Sur. Explore a turtle nesting beach at Ras Al Jinz, an underwater kelp forest for snorkeling, the lighthouse at Al Ayjah and watch the sunset from a viewpoint.
Wadi Shab – Natural Beauty
Wadi Shab is one of Oman’s most popular natural attractions and is worth driving to. A wadi is a dry riverbed, which after rainy season comes alive with fresh water pools and lush vegetation. Wadi Shab is no different with its emerald pools of water, stark white cliffs, and a cave with a waterfall. You will have to drive to the entrance and then take a short boat ride across the river. Then, hike in and enjoy the waterfalls and the views.
Renting a car to Wadi Shab gives you the freedom to arrive early and beat the crowds. You can also easily take a side-trip to Bimmah Sinkhole on the way back.
Salalah – Frankincense Land
Salalah is a different world from the northern parts of Oman and is located in the Dhofar region of the country. The landscape is lush and green as the entire place turns into a wonderland during Khareef season (June to September) when the rain arrives. The mystical land of frankincense trees is a completely different experience and should be experienced by everyone.
Salalah is a bit far from Muscat, and the flight time is just over an hour. But you can have more fun and explore further with a rental car. Drive to the incredible waterfalls such as Ayn Athum, relax at beaches like Al Mughsail, and check out the ancient ruins in Al Baleed. The 1,000+ km long drive from Muscat is also an epic adventure in itself, with desert plateaus, towering mountain passes, and more.
Ras Al Jinz – Turtle Nesting Site
If you are in Oman, don’t miss the opportunity to watch the incredible green turtles nest on the beaches of Ras Al Jinz. The protected nature reserve is a prime nesting site for turtles, and guided night tours are allowed in small groups of visitors. Quietly watching turtles carefully laying eggs, or tiny baby turtles walking into the sea, will give you goosebumps.
Getting to Ras Al Jinz can be tricky without a car, as public transport is limited. Rent a car in Oman and you can time your visits perfectly and also stay at eco-lodges located nearby. The drive from Sur to Ras Al Jinz is along the coastline and very scenic, so you will enjoy the journey as much as the destination.
Bahla – Ancient Town
Bahla is an incredible historical site, which is home to one of Oman’s oldest forts. The imposing mud-brick fortress is surrounded by palm trees and legends of jinns. Being a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Bahla Fort is a reminder of Oman’s ancient history.
The nearby Jabreen Castle is also worth visiting with its ornate ceilings and Islamic architectural designs. Near the town, you will find traditional pottery workshops where you can buy handcrafted ceramics. Rent a car and take as much time as you like at each of these sites and explore them at your own pace. You can also book local tours to visit these places together on your Omani journey.
Masirah Island – Off the Beaten Path
If you are into getting off the beaten track, head to Masirah Island, off the east coast of Oman. Masirah is known for its pristine white sand beaches and also for kitesurfing in its waters. The beaches of Masirah also serve as nesting sites for turtles. Drive across this remote island and find your own spot on a quiet beach for a beach picnic or wild camping.
Drive to Masirah Island by crossing the car ferry at Shannah Port. Rent a car from Muscat or Salalah, but remember to take your vehicle back in the same place.
Tips for Driving in Oman
Driving License: Tourists can drive in Oman with their national driving license if it’s in English or an International Driving Permit.
Speed Limits: Observe speed limits and watch out for speed cameras, which operate with radar.
Road Conditions: Roads are well-maintained, but if you are heading off-road or in the mountains, get a 4WD.
Navigation: Google Maps and other navigation apps will work in Oman, so download offline maps for areas with low or no mobile signal.
Why a Car Rental Makes All the Difference
One of the most underrated things to do in Oman is driving on its highways and bylanes. Unlike other countries where you need a tour or join a group itinerary, Oman works better for independent travel. Oman is known for its raw and unspoilt nature and untouched beauty across its deserts, mountains, wadis, and coastline. A rental car gives you the freedom to decide itineraries, plan your travel at your own pace, and choose your priorities.
Drive to chase a breathtaking sunset over sand dunes, feel the cool wind in your hair when you drive a mountain pass, or pull over for roadside Oman food and street snacks. A self-drive vacation is the best way to truly experience Oman. And if you are in Muscat or Salalah already and wondering where to start your journey, simply search for car rental near me and you will get a list of available options.
With local car rentals, you can also head to small villages to get to know the locals, discover roadside eateries and restaurants, and visit places usually inaccessible by public transport. Exploring the country on your own is an adventure in itself and having a rental car will only increase your excitement.
Final Thoughts
Oman is a land of contrasts, from ancient forts to futuristic cities, from scorching deserts to misty mountains, from bustling souqs to quiet beaches. To discover all these beautifully contrasting elements of Oman, rent a car and set off on your road trip. Oman is a place to be experienced by everyone — solo travelers, couples, families, and friends. A rental car will not only make your trip easy but transform your travel from sightseeing to soul-searching.
So, if you are already in Muscat or Salalah or planning a visit to the Middle East and searching for car rental near me, remember Oman isn’t just a destination — it’s a journey, and every great journey needs the freedom of the open road.