Oman, a country of stunning desert landscapes, rugged mountains, and pristine coastlines, is an Arabian gem waiting to be explored. Whether you’re wandering through Muscat’s souks, camping under the stars in Wahiba Sands, or diving in the turquoise waters of the Daymaniyat Islands, understanding how to access cash is crucial. While cards are widely accepted in urban areas, cash is still necessary for small businesses, traditional markets, and remote regions. This guide covers everything you need to know about cash and ATMs in Oman, including withdrawal fees, transaction limits, exchange rates, and card acceptance, ensuring a seamless travel experience.
Where to find ATMs in Oman?
Urban Areas: In major cities like Muscat, Salalah, and Sohar, ATMs are widely available, especially in commercial districts, shopping centers, and near bank branches. The National Bank of Oman operates one of the largest ATM networks in the country, with more than 169 ATMs across Oman.
Tourist Spots: Popular destinations like the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Mutrah Souq, and Wadi Shab have ATMs in their vicinity, often within or near tourist facilities. Additionally, major airports and hotels typically have ATMs available for travelers.
Rural Areas: In smaller towns and remote regions, ATM availability can be limited. It’s advisable to carry sufficient cash when traveling outside major cities.
Best ATMs to use in Oman for foreigners
The best ATMs for foreigners to use in Oman are those owned by popular banks such as:
- Bank Muscat
- NBO
- Bank Dhofar
- Sohar International
- Oman Arab Bank
- Ahli Bank
- Alizz Islamc
- QNB
There are other banks with ATMs that also accept international debit and credit cards.
There are no known Global ATM Alliance member banks or All Points network banks in Oman.
Don’t accept conversion at ATMs and withdraw only in local currency
In Oman, some ATMs may ask – Accept OR Decline Conversion (also known as With or Without Conversion, or, Charge in OMR).
- If you ‘Accept’ – ATM converts your money at ATM’s set exchange rate and you pay an extra fee.
- If you Decline, the ATM will convert at exchange rate of the bank/card logo (Visa, Master, etc.).
So, to avoid extra fees, select ‘Decline/Without’ Conversion or ‘Charge in OMR’.
Can I use a foreign debit or credit card at an ATM in Oman?
Yes, majority of the foreign debit and credit cards are widely accepted at ATMs in Oman. They commonly accept Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, Plus, Cirrus cards. Some of them accept American Express cards. Others like JCB, UnionPay, Diners, Discover and Rupay cards are generally not accepted.
What are the ATM opening hours
Most ATMs operate 24/7 but cash availability at ATMs can vary by location.
What are ATMs called
ATMs in Oman are usually found by a signage of word ATM’ or ATMs have only the name of bank.
Language options at ATMs
ATMs primarily present Arabic and English as language options.
What currencies can I withdraw from ATMs in Oman?
ATMs in Oman primarily dispense cash in the local currency, Omani Rial (OMR).
ATM withdrawal limits in Oman
ATMs in Oman have a maximum withdrawal limit per transaction of OMR 300 to OMR 1,500, with most common being OMR 1,500 (Omani Rial).
ATM Fees in Oman
There are many fee-free ATMs in Oman. Majority of the Bank ATMs in Oman do not charge any ATM Access Fees per transaction to foreign card holders. There are a couple of bank ATMs that charge OMR 1.5 to OMR 2.1 ATM fee per transaction (Omani Rial) so there are many fee-free ATMs you can use in Oman as a foreign cardholder!
Apart from ATM Access Fees, there can be other potential charges to withdraw cash in Oman. These are:
1. Currency Conversion Fees (Accept or Decline Conversion)
2. Your Bank’s currency conversion fee – Some banks charge the card holder a fee to use the card abroad. Cross check with your bank on what the charges are.
To avoid these fees:
- Use the ATM Fee Saver app to find fee-free or low-fee ATMs.
- Opt for “Decline Conversion” or “Without Conversion” during ATM transactions.
- Consider getting fee-free cards from your home country.
Ways to find fee-free ATMs in Oman
Discover fee-free and low-fee ATMs on the ATM Fee Saver mobile app for iOS and Android. This app provides ATM PINs and details of leading bank ATMs such as ATM fees and withdrawal limits for foreign cardholders at ATMs in Oman. Moreover, its simple fee calculator helps you determine exact withdrawal charges. You can also find cash tips and tricks on the app for 100 + countries including Oman.
Safety at ATMs
Oman is known for its low crime rate, making it a safe destination for travelers. ATMs are widely available throughout the country, especially in urban areas. While incidents of ATM-related crimes are rare, it’s still advisable to use ATMs located in well-lit, populated areas or within bank premises to minimize potential risks.
FAQs
What to do if an ATM takes your card?
If an ATM in Oman takes your card, contact the bank (if you used an ATM inside a bank branch), they may retreive your card if you have proof of identity. You can also contact the bank’s helpline but they usually retreive and resend new cards only for their own customers. If so, you’ll need to contact your own bank and ask them to deliver a new card at home or abroad.
Fee-free ATMs and possible to withdraw cash free of cost at ATMs here?
Yes, its possible. There are many fee-free ATMs in Oman. Majority of the Bank ATMs do not charge any ATM Access Fees per transaction to foreign card holders.
Foreign cards from US, UK, India, China, Europe, Australia accepted?
Absolutely yes! You can usually use cards from the US, UK, Europe, Australia, and other countries at ATMs here.
Bitcoin ATMs
As of now, there are no known Bitcoin ATMs operating in Oman.
Foreign bank ATMs’ presence in Oman
Bank of America: No, there are no Bank of America ATMs here.
Citibank: No, Citibank does not operate here anymore. Barclays: No, Barclays does not have ATMs here.
HSBC: Yes, HSBC has a presence in Oman but only for corporate customers.
Standard Chartered: No, Standard Chartered does not operate ATMs here.
