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5 Common Tourist Scams to Avoid in Oman

Located on the southeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula, Oman is a major country in the Middle East. It is mainly known for its stunning orchards, fortresses, stream valleys and sailing ships. The tourist destinations of this country are popular across the world, attracting tourists throughout the year.

However, it is safe to say that Oman is not free of scams and fraud. To know more about common fraud in Oman, keep reading this article.

Team Digit

List of Common Tourist Scams and Frauds in Oman

Oman is a stunning tourist spot that has attracted tourists from around the world. However, tourist scams are quite common across the country. As a tourist, you must be aware of these to stay away from them.

Here are a few of the frequent scams that take place in this country:

1. Lost Wallet Scam

A major scam in this country is known as the lost wallet scam. In this, a stranger claims to have found your wallet on the street after having stolen it at some point. They ask for a huge amount of money from the owner in exchange for returning it.

They create major commotion and hassles if you refuse to pay them.

Common Around: Muscat, Salalah and Nizwa

2. Guide Scams

The culture of having a tour guide is heavily prevalent across Oman. You will be approached by several locals who will ask to be your guide when you go sightseeing. However, most of them are scammers who will try to steal your belongings by bringing you to an unsafe road. They might also overcharge for their services.

Common Around: Muscat, Salalah and Nizwa

3. ATM Helpers

When withdrawing cash from ATMs, you may come across issues of malfunctioning machines or a stuck card. In this scenario, a friendly stranger may approach you, offering help.

If you accept the help, they will use their card skimmer to scan your card and memorise your PIN to use these later and steal from your account.

Common Around: Muscat and Salalah

4. Taxi Fare Scam

Taxis for sightseeing in Oman can also scam tourists. Taximeters are not that common in this area. Naturally, taxi drivers are likely to overcharge tourists who are not familiar with the right charges.

They might also longer routes on purpose simply to charge extra money from the tourists.

Common Around: Muscat and Salalah

5. Pickpocket

Another major issue that tourists face is related to pickpockets. This particularly happens in the top tourist destinations that are usually crowded. You will simply face a bump from a stranger, and your wallet or other belongings are missing the next thing you know.

It is often difficult to recover these, even with the help of the police.

Common Around: Muscat and Salalah

How to Avoid Travel Scams in Oman?

There are various ways to avoid getting scammed in Oman. The best idea is to purchase a policy for Travel Insurance for Oman. It will help you cover any emergency financial and safety needs in this country. Besides, here are some other tips that can help you enjoy a hassle-free holiday in Oman free of scams:

When visiting crowded or popular tourist destinations, always be cautious of your wallet and other valuable belongings. Not carrying much cash or cards during sightseeing is advisable to avoid theft.
Keeping all your valuables in your hotel room can be a safe way to avoid theft. Here, having Travel Insurance that Provides Financial Emergency Cash can be beneficial. It helps you with the required financial coverage at times of need.
If you take a taxi to go out and visit the sites, always check the distance from Google Maps and conduct research regarding the right charge for the same. This will help you avoid such taxi drivers who overcharge.
Always consider ATMs of reputable banks whenever you need to withdraw cash in Oman. If the ATM does not work, you can always seek help from the bank employees. Never accept help from any stranger or locals regarding malfunctioning ATMs.
Seek help from reliable locals or trustworthy travel agents regarding selecting tour guides. This will help you avoid scammers and fraud guides who are looking to steal your belongings or overcharge you on your trip.
Keep your wallet safe to avoid the scam of a lost wallet while sightseeing. Instead of keeping it in your pockets, you can also carry a crossbody zipper and keep your wallet in it so that it is within your reach always.
It is always advisable to keep all your important documents, including your government IDs and passport, safe. However, if you lose your passport in Oman, you can seek assistance from the Indian Embassy Office in Muscat, Oman.

Emergency Resources for Travel Scams in Oman

Despite the petty scams and frauds, Oman is a safe country. If you come across such hassles and need instant protection, you can always get in touch with the Oman Police forces. Apart from that, the Embassy of India will also help you out with emergency requirements. Here are some of the contact details for emergencies you might face in Oman during your holiday:

Any Emergencies/Fire: 999
General/Police Assistance: 9999
Police (Capital): 56099
Airport Operations Office: 519500
Embassy of India in Oman: (+968) 24684500

As this article pointed out, fraud in Oman can be common when you are visiting the country for the first time. While it is a stunning tourist destination, such frauds and scams can make it slightly unsafe for travellers. Thus, knowing about these in advance and planning accordingly to avoid them is advisable.

FAQs About Tourist Scams in Oman

All

Is Muscat safe for tourists?

Muscat is one of the top cities in Oman. It is generally safe, with a low crime rate. However, as it is filled with tourist spots, scammers are common in most parts of this city. You must stay aware and avoid familiarising yourself with them.

How do I report a scam or fraud in Oman?

You must contact the emergency helpline of the Oman Police at 9999 to report a scammer or fraudulent activity. You can also contact the hotline for Cyber Extortion at 80077444 or drop an email at info@rop.gov.om.

Is it mandatory to purchase a travel insurance policy when travelling to Oman?

There is no government guideline regarding purchasing travel insurance when going on a holiday to Oman. However, tourists should purchase a policy so that they can handle legal issues in a foreign country with the right coverage and assistance.

Can solo female travellers safely visit Oman?

Yes, solo female travellers can visit Oman. However, women should avoid doing this, as there are certain beliefs and cultural confinements in Oman when it comes to a female solo traveller, which can cause catcalling and unwanted attention.

Can I enjoy nightlife safely in Oman?

There is not much to the nightlife in Oman. You can travel around the country and explore the night markets. However, you need to be cautious of scammers who might lurk in these areas at late hours, looking for tourists to steal.

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Disclaimer -

Your policy is subjected to terms and conditions mentioned in your policy schedule and policy wording. Please go through the documents carefully.

The information mentioned here about the countries, visa fees and others is taken from different sources. Digit Insurance is not promoting or recommending anything here. Please verify the same before you book your tickets, apply for a visa, buy a travel policy or make any other decision.