DRIVERS INFORMATION GUIDE
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CONGRATULATIONS!
Racing through gravel and sandy terrains, make way for
another awaited international tournament, the Oman
International Rally, with a participation of world class
professional drivers racing against each other.
Under challenging surfaces in mountains, deserts and off-
road regions, the drivers will be judged on the time they take
to finish off the race.
Oman Automobile Association and all its partners invite all drivers and their co-drivers
to the Sultanate of Oman and wish you every success and hope you have an enjoyable
experience while you are here.
Please read and understand the following information carefully, and ensure that you
comply with all the requirements when registering for the event.
OMAN INTERNATIONAL RALLY SCHEDULE
JANUARY 26TH to 28th 2023
MEDICAL INSURANCE
Make sure that your team has active medical insurance, it’s valuable protection that
ensures you get quick and ready access to healthcare when you need it.
CAR FOR HIRE
Car for hire is available upon arrival in Oman or you may book this online prior to your
arrival, to help you have a better understanding of the rules & laws about driving hire cars
in Oman it is essential you read the terms & conditions in full before you leave to pick the
car up.
Requirements:
A. Passport
B. Original Driving License (International)
C. Credit Card
D. Drivers must be aged between 21 to 75 yrs. old
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TRAVEL INFORMATION
Country Information
State name: The Sultanate of Oman
Capital: Muscat
Other main cities: (Salalah, Nizwa, Sohar, Al Rustaq, Sur, Al Buraimi,
Musandam)
Official Language: Arabic & widespread use of English
Religion: Islam
Time Zone: Gulf Standard Time (UTC+4)
Climate: Oman can be described as a subtropical dry country, with
its hot desert climate and low annual rainfall, very high temperatures
in summer and an increasing difference between high and low
temperatures, especially in the inland areas.
Summer, from June through to September has very low rainfall.
Daily maximum temperatures can easily reach 40°C or more.
Winter is cooler with the occasional rainfall. Spring and autumn are
warm, mostly dry and pleasant, with maximum temperatures
between 25°C and 35°C and cooler night Temperatures between
15 and 22°C.
A hot, dust-laden wind, known as the Shamal, blows in the spring and summer-period, from
March till August. Sometimes these winds can be very strong, causing sandstorms, which
can occur throughout the year. Most rainfallshappen during the winter months in sudden,
short but heavy cloudbursts and thunderstorms.
Currency: Omani Rial
Electricity: The standard voltage is 240 V and the standard frequency is
50 Hz. The power plugs in Oman are of type G. If the standard voltage in
your country is in between 220 - 240 V (as is in the UK, Europe, Australia
and most of Asia and Africa) you can use your electrical appliances in
Oman. If the standard voltage in your country is in the range of 100 V -
127 V (as is in the US, Canada and most South American countries), you
need a voltage converter in Oman. You can also consider a combined
power plug adapter/voltage converter.
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Things to know: Muslims are forbidden to drink alcohol, but most of the hotel bars and
restaurants have a bar for guests. Visitors are only allowed to drink alcohol if they
purchase drinks from licensed hotels and restaurants.
INTERNET & MOBILE NETWORKS
The following telecommunication providers, Omantel, Ooredoo and reseller Renna, have
24-hour service booths in the Arrivals Hall at Muscat International Airport, making it easy
for travellers to buy a SIM card before they even set foot in the country. To sign up, you will
need your passport.
EAT & DRINK and developing progress while retaining
the core aspects of its culture and
As a state Oman has a long history heritage – making it the perfect travel
through which it has made a great destination for those seeking an authentic
contribution to civilizations around the Arabian experience.
world. At one time Oman was an influential
seafaring nation whose foreign Muscat is the modern capital of Oman and
relationships extended as far as China, the offers visitors a stunning combination of
USA, Britain and France. Omani the old and new culture. From the
ambassadors have been presenting their architectural masterpiece that is the
credentials in the capital cities of these Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, to its
countries for about 200 years. mountain backdrop and breath-taking
beaches, this city never fails to entertain
The cuisine of Oman recalls its role as a and inspire.
key trading post between the east and
west. Muscat is the dining centre of Oman There are five UNESCO heritage sites in
and the recommended region to start Oman, all of which are worth visiting.
from to enjoy a variety of interesting Bahla Fort was declared as the World
dishes of the Sultanate, including Heritage Site in 1987 and has since been
spectacular rich seafood hauled fresh beautifully restored. The fort reopened to
from the Arabian Sea. the public in late 2012.
Some of the tastiest dishes are reserved Muscat is the modern capital of Oman and
for the big religious festivals such as Eid-ul- offers visitors a stunning combination of
Fitr and Eid-ul-Adha. Locals abstain from the old and new culture. From the
alcohol in favour of the Omani strong architectural masterpiece that is the
coffee, flavoured with cardamom and Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, to its
served with dates, halwa, and other mountain backdrop and breath-taking
delicious sweet treats. beaches, this city never fails to entertain
and inspire.
WHAT TO SEE
Credited to the Bronze Age (3rd
With its natural breath-taking beauty, the millennium B.C.), the archaeological sites
Sultanate of Oman is known to be the of Bat, Al Khutm and Al Ayn in Ad Dhahirah
oldest independent state in the Arab make up for the world’s most complete
World. It has embraced modernization collection of beehive tombs.
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This ancient watering system is deeply The Ancient city of Qalhat in Sur is a site
rooted in Oman’s heritage, with over 3000 that has an exceptional standard in
aflaj – or irrigation systems – still in use international value with trading between
today. Using gravity to transport water Oman and a number of other countries in
from springs, the fair management of the ancient times. It is considered as a
these waterways plays an important role distinctive example of architecture and
in communities around the country. Falaj planning of active port cities in the Middle
Daris in Nizwa, one of Oman’s longest falaj, Ages
is still in use even today.
HOW TO GET THERE
Oman is just a seven-hour direct flight from many
European and Asian cities, and flights can also
be taken directly from North and South America,
Australia and Africa or through short transfers
from neighbouring Gulf States.
There are three Airports in use in Oman which are: Khasab Airport, Muscat International
Airport and Salalah Airport.
Oman Air is the national carrier of the Sultanate and is based at Muscat International
Airport. In addition, there are several other airlines that operate direct flights to Oman on a
daily basis.
Distance of the race track to Muscat International Airport:
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Upon arrival in Muscat International Airport, it takes approximately 13.6 km or 14mins
travel time to get to the race track. Car rental is an easily accessible option to benefit the
maximum from your stay in the country; Airport Taxis are also available for transport.
DRIVING IN OMAN
Driving is on the right-hand side of the road.
Traffic signs in Oman are typical and nothing
drastically different to majority countries. The
traffic laws in Oman are comprehensive and
strictly imposed. Speed cameras are placed
every 1.2 miles (2km) in Muscat. Speed is
measured in km/h, and signs are according to
the ISO (European) system. Some basic
pointers and considerations to think about
when driving in Oman: The speed limits are 120km/h on motorways, 90km/h on open
roads and between 40km/h and 80km/h in cities/urban areas.
The numbers on the signs are in dual language with Arabic numbers at the top and English
at the bottom. There is zero tolerance for driving while inebriated. It is illegal to use your
phone while driving. Beware of stray animals on the road – rogue camels, random goats,
etc.
In order to rent a car in Oman, you must have an international driving license, a credit card
and your passport to register. The age requirements to hire a car is from 21 to 75,
although this varies from one company to another as some rental companies set their
minimum age as 25. You must have had your license for at least one year before being
permitted to drive in Oman.
Car hires are available upon your arrival in Oman or can be booked online prior to your
arrival to make you have a better understanding of the rules & laws about driving hire cars
in Oman it is essential you read the terms & conditions in full before you leave to pick the
car up.
ENTRY INFORMATION / VISA
1. Visa can be obtained on arrival or by online application
a. This is applicable to those eligible countries listed here
https://evisa.rop.gov.om/visa
eligibility / https://www.rop.gov.om/english/countrylist1.html
a. To apply for a visa online refer to this link
https://evisa.rop.gov.om/en/loginportal
b. If your country /nationality is not listed and needs a sponsor to obtain a
visa please send your request to thuwan@omanauto.org for us to
process the visa against proof of payment.
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c. Documents requirements Passport + 2x2 photo (make sure that
passport is valid for not less than 6 months. From the expiry)
d. Payment is 35 OMR for each person (if applicable only)
e. Deadline for Visa request 5th January 2023.
2. New Visa Rule for GCC Residents (Residents of GCC countries can Enter
Oman without a Visa for commercial & business Purposes)
a. GCC residents have to lodge an online application at
https://evisa.rop.gov.om/en/loginportal
b. Choose 29A GCC Visa type
c. See the full Description & Condition Here – click to download attachment
d. See the full List of Allowed Profession Here – click to download the
attachment
3. Covid Restrictions
a. Entry Regulations lifted since 22 May 2022 (no further updates until
now)
FLIGHT TICKETS & HOTEL BOOKINGS
1. Tickets (return) up to 3 pax per team
a. Passport Copy of Driver & Crew
b. Preferred travel dates (Arrival & Departure) from Round 1 to Round 2
I. Tentative Booking Dates: Arrival 10th January / Departure
22nd January 2023
II. Changes after a ticket are issued is chargeable, all tickets are
non-refundable
2. Hotel Accommodation – up to 3 pax
a. Round 1 to Round 2: 12 Nights covered (1 Single & 1 Double Room)
only.
b. Hotel accommodation is booked according to the above tentative dates,
any changes have to inform in advance, all excess stay is on the driver’s
account and must be settled upon check out to the hotel.
c. If drivers want to stay late or arrive earlier it is your discretion but please
note that OAA only covers 12 Nights.
3. Tickets & Hotel Booking from Round 3 to Round 4 will be the same setup.
HOTEL INFORMATION
OAA has been able to arrange a choice of hotels for you during the race meeting. The 4
hotels given below have been selected as they are extremely close to the circuit which is
ideal for the early starts. So, if you would like to book into one of them, please find the
details below:
Note: To avail the below Hotel special rates, kindly contact the Reservations Team. All
rates /fees are subject to additional 5% VAT if applicable.
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NOVOTEL MUSCAT AIRPORT (PREVIOUSLY SUNDUS ROTANA)
Single Room: OMR 32NET (BB)
Double/Twin Room: OMR36 NET(BB)
The above rates are inclusive of:
• Breakfast
• Wi-Fi
• All Taxes fee
In order to book your rooms please, e-mail
HB7A7-SL@accor.com
Cc: HB7A7-RE1@accor.com; cc: eddy.daccache@accor.com
Tel: +968 24511891, +968 24511893
Contact: Eddy Daccache / Jhanavi Pandya
Please e-mail by subject OAA Special Rate
HOLIDAY INN - MUSCAT
Single Room: OMR 35 NET (BB)
Double Room: OMR 40 NET(BB)
The above rates are inclusive of:
• Breakfast Buffet
• 8% service charge
• 5% VAT
• Lunch or Dinner @ OMR 8 NET per person per meal
• Airport pickup or drop off @ OMR 8 per car per way
In order to book your rooms, please e-mail
mouza.alrajhi@holidayinnmuscat.com
Tel: +968 91402596
Contact: Mouza Al Rajhi
Please e-mail by subject OAA Special Rate
PARK INN – RADISSON MUSCAT
Standard Room
Single: OMR 27 NET
Double: OMR 32 NET
Junior Suite
Single: OMR 55 NET (Access to the Executive Lounge)
Double: OMR 65 NET (Access to the Executive Lounge
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The above rates are inclusive of:
• Breakfast served at our International Buffet Restaurant
• Free Wi-Fi
• In-room bottled water
• Access to Gym facilities
• Access to Outdoor Swimming pool
In order to book your rooms, please e-mail
reservations.muscat@radissoncollection.com
Call +968 24350548
Contact: Alaa El Chaar
Please e-mail by subject: OAA Special Rate
HORMUZ GRAND – MUSCAT
(January bookings ONLY)
Collection room
Single: OMR 38 NET
Double: OMR 44 NET
Collection executive room
Single: OMR 60 NET (Access to the Executive Lounge)
Double: OMR 70 NET (Access to the Executive Lounge)
Junior Suite
Single: OMR 100 NET (Access to the Executive Lounge)
Double: OMR 100 NET (Access to the Executive Lounge
The above rates are inclusive of:
• Breakfast
• Wi-Fi
• In-room bottled water
• Access to Gym facilities
• Access to Outdoor Swimming pool
In order to book your rooms, please e-mail
reservations.muscat@radissoncollection.com
Call +968 24350548
Contact: Ala El Chaar
Please e-mail by subject: OAA Special Rate
MUSCAT GATE HOTEL
Standard Room
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Single: OMR 20 NET (BB)
Double/Twin: OMR 25 NET (BB)
The above rates are inclusive of:
• Breakfast
• Wi-Fi
• Complimentary in-room iron board available upon request
• Complimentary in-room Tea & Coffee making facilities
• Access to Gym facilities
• Car rental service available upon request
• Laundry services (Charges may apply)
In order to book your rooms, please e-mail
revenue@muscatgatehotel.com
Tel: +968 24510634, +968 92435287, +968 24511152
Contact: Mylene Torres
Please e-mail by subject OAA Special Rate
ROYAL TULIP
Superior Single Room: OMR 28 NET(BB)
Superior Double Room: OMR 33 NET(BB)
The above rates are inclusive of:
• Breakfast
• Wi-Fi
• Access to Fitness Centre
• Access to Swimming Pool
• Access to Jacuzzi
• Access to Sauna and Steam
In order to book your rooms, please e-mail
reservations@royaltulipmuscat.com
Telephone: +968 22125565; Mobile: +968 92558762
Cc: rashad.alraisi@royaltulipmuscat.com
Telephone: +968 22125514; Mobile +968 93296163
Please e-mail by subject OAA Special Rate
SWISS-BELINN MUSCAT HOTEL
For Individual bookings
Superior Single Room: OMR 22 NET(BB)
Superior Double Room: OMR 25 NET(BB)
Deluxe Single Room: OMR 25 NET(BB)
Deluxe Double Room: OMR 28 NET(BB)
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For Group bookings (10 rooms and above)
Superior Single Room: OMR 20 NET(BB)
Superior Double Room: OMR 23 NET(BB)
Deluxe Single Room: OMR 23 NET(BB)
Deluxe Double Room: OMR 26 NET(BB)
Above rates are inclusive of Tax and VAT during the event.
In order to book your rooms, please e-mail
sesimu@swiss-belhotel.com
Tel: +968 2490 8800
Contact: Nizar Al Rawahi
Please e-mail by subject OAA Special Rate
***Note: All rates quoted are subject to change at any time without notice and
subject to availability and alteration.
All Fees & Dues are non-refundable & inclusive of VAT (OAA VAT Registration: OM1100014382)
CONTACT DETAILS
For Customs & Logistics queries:
POC: Abdulmajeed
email: abdulmajeed@omanauto.org
Any General Questions & Info:
POC: Madel
email: events@omanauto.org
mobile: +968 91263313
Media Registration & Accreditation:
POC: Nabeeha
Email: nabeeha@omanauto.org
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