A quiet road in a mountainous area of Oman with street lamps and some buildings on the side.

Roads in Oman

Roads in Oman

Written by: Michaela Eckmüller Last updated at: May 21, 2025

The infrastructure in Oman is modern and has now been well developed. When the oil business was started in 1967, it was hardly present. However, a good infrastructure was necessary to bring the progress that Sultan Qaboos envisioned for Oman and which he has continuously advanced since coming to power in 1970. In this respect, most roads in the country were only built in the 1970s or later.

Expansion of the road network

The road network in Oman is about 60,000 kilometers long. Almost every small town in the country is now connected to the network of paved roads. In recent years, 2000 kilometers of highway have been built to simplify transportation within the country. The well-developed roads, which lead through deserts and remote wadis to connect urban centers and small towns, are viewed differently. While supporters praise the progress and simplification of travel that the expansion of the roads brings, opponents criticize the ecological damage that is caused.

Means of transportation

The days when people in Oman rode camels through the desert to get from one place to another are long gone. Most Omanis own a car. Newer models, mostly from Japan, are driven. Jeeps are also frequently encountered on the roads. After all, there are still areas where one must switch to off-road driving. Off-road tourism, which was once one of the main branches of tourism in Oman, is being restricted by the ongoing expansion of the road network, as guided bus tours can now easily reach remote places.

Discover Oman with experts who have called it their home

Your dream holiday, tailor-made by experts.

We don't just know Oman from books, we visit the country several times a year to experience the culture, landscape and people first-hand.

From your first enquiry to your return home, we are there for you personally - by phone, email or WhatsApp, whenever you need us. Our trips are as unique as you are: individually planned and provided with exclusive privileges and high-quality arrangements that will make your trip unforgettable.

You might also like this

A U.S. passport and airplane tickets placed on a surface, indicating travel preparations.

Travel Preparation Oman

6 min read

Oman captivates travelers with its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. To fully experience the diverse wonders of this Sultanate, proper planning is essential. From visa requirements and health tips to ideal travel times, this guide provides everything you need for a smooth, well-prepared journey to Oman. Learn what climate conditions to expect, how to travel safely in remote areas, and what to know about handling Omani currency. These practical tips and recommendations will ensure you're ready to explore Oman’s beauty to the fullest—whether that means ventur...

The Royal Opera House in Muscat, Oman, a grand white building with classical architecture, set against a clear blue sky with a flag on top and colorful flowerbeds in front.

Royal Opera House Muscat

8 min read

The Royal Opera House Muscat is considered a gem in Oman’s cultural landscape, captivating travelers from around the world. Since its opening in 2011, it has not only established itself as a leading center for music and performance in the Middle East but also as an architectural masterpiece that combines traditional Omani elements with modern design. For culture enthusiasts and discerning travelers, the Opera House offers an unparalleled experience, harmoniously blending art, architecture, and luxury. With its diverse programming, unique architecture, and top-notch service, the Royal Opera Hou...

A lone palm tree stands in front of rugged mountains under a clear sky.

Mountains in Musandam

2 min read

The coastline of Musandam characteristic appearance is thanks to the limestone mountain range that rises there. No other region in Oman is as primitive, untouched, and natural as the mountainous world in Musandam. Those who set out to discover this mountainous world will find steep slopes, breathtaking gorges, dreamy small beaches, and overwhelming cliffs. The whole area is complemented by a few hotels in the mountain regions, which offer not only an excellent adventure holiday but also a wide range of options for families. By car from Khasab to Ras al Kaimah Anyone wishing to explore the mo...