Question 1

Participating Countries – Visa Requirements

Accepted Answer

* Please verify the latest visa requirements on the Royal Oman Police e-Visa website: https://evisa.rop.gov.om/# (https://evisa.rop.gov.om/#)
Or contact your representative.

Question 2

Arrival & Travel Information

Accepted Answer

• Main Airport: Muscat International Airport (MCT), located ~30 minutes from central Muscat.
 • Transport Options:
 • Airport taxis (official counters inside arrivals hall)
 • Ride-hailing apps (Otaxi, Mwasalat)
Buses
Muscat’s public bus network is operated by Mwasalat, providing safe and affordable city and intercity travel.
Team Benefits: Good option for short trips within the city, though may be less convenient for rugby teams traveling with equipment.
Tips:
 • Check Mwasalat’s website or app for routes and schedules.
 • Buses can get crowded during peak hours, so plan accordingly.
Apps:
 • Google Play Store(https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=om.mwasalat.app&pcampaignid=web_share)
 • Apple App Store(https://apps.apple.com/us/app/mwasalat/id1562970593)

Trains
Oman does not currently have a train network, so trains are not an option for travel between Muscat and other cities.

Taxis
 • Taxis are the most convenient way to get around Muscat, especially for teams.
 • Otaxi (operated by Yango) is the recommended service for rugby teams:
    • Features: Easy booking, safe, reliable, and suitable for team-sized groups.
Apps:
 • Google Play Store(https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.yandex.yango&pcampaignid=web_share)
 • Apple App Store(https://apps.apple.com/us/app/yango-taxi-food-delivery/id1437157286)
Tip: For teams with luggage or equipment, Otaxi or private taxi services are the easiest way to get to training grounds or hotels.

Question 3

Weather & Climate

Accepted Answer

• Expected Weather (October in Muscat): Warm and sunny
 • Temperature Range: 28°C – 34°C during the day, 22°C – 26°C at night
 • Humidity: Moderate, evenings more comfortable
 Tip: Stay hydrated — water and refreshments will be available at the venue.

Question 4

Dress Code & Cultural Notes

Accepted Answer

Clothing
Oman is a conservative country, so dressing modestly is important, especially in public areas, government buildings, and religious sites.
 • For Men:
    • Casual: T-shirts, polo shirts, long shorts or trousers.
    • Formal/official: Long trousers and collared shirts.
 • For Women:
    • Casual: Tops covering shoulders, long skirts or trousers.
    • Formal/official: Long dresses or trousers, preferably covering arms.
 • Sports Gear:
    • Rugby kit is acceptable during training and matches.
    • Avoid wearing shorts/tank tops in malls or public streets.
 • Footwear: Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking, sightseeing, or stadium visits.
Tip: Sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen are recommended due to the strong sun, especially during outdoor training.

Mosques
Visiting mosques is a common experience in Oman, but non-Muslims have limited access to some. Respectful behavior is mandatory:
 • Entry Rules:
    • Remove shoes before entering prayer areas.
    • Dress modestly: cover shoulders and knees; women may need a headscarf.
    • Some mosques restrict entry for non-Muslims (e.g., Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Muscat allows visitors at specific times).
 • During Prayer:
    • Avoid walking in front of worshippers.
    • Silence mobile phones and maintain quiet.
    • Do not take photos inside prayer areas unless permitted.
 • Etiquette Tips for Teams:
    • Teams can schedule mosque visits for cultural learning.
    • Avoid loud behavior or running in mosque courtyards.
    • Always follow guidance from mosque staff or signage.

Language
Official Language: Arabic.
English: Widely spoken in Muscat, especially in hotels, restaurants, and tourist areas.

Question 5

Currency & Essentials

Accepted Answer

Currency: Omani Rial (OMR)
 • 1 OMR ≈ 2.6 USD (approx.)
ATMs: Widely available in Muscat, including at malls, banks, and hotels.
Credit Cards: Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted; smaller shops may prefer cash.
Electronic Payments: Many stores also accept online transfers via mobile banking apps or QR codes.
Tips: Carry some cash for small purchases or local markets that may not accept cards

Question 6

Malls & Sports Shops

Accepted Answer

Malls
Mall of Oman – Largest Mall in Oman
 • Team Benefits:
    • Huge food court with international cuisines (varied dietary needs).
    • Spacious seating areas for group dining.
    • Pharmacies & sports shops for quick essentials.
 • Entertainment:
    • Snow Oman indoor snow park.
    • 15-screen VOX Cinemas (IMAX included).
    • Magic Planet arcade & VR zones.
 • Location: Mall of Oman(https://maps.app.goo.gl/Lum8b9VvUQ9erQZd9)
Oman Avenues Mall 
 • Team Benefits:
    • Lulu Hypermarket for supplies.
    • Wide variety of restaurants for group meals.
 • Entertainment:
    • Magic Planet amusement park (bowling, arcade, rides).
    • VOX Cinemas for downtime.
 • Location: Oman Avenues Mall(https://maps.app.goo.gl/mHwqwefarU9Cx5Tr7)
Muscat City Centre – Convenient by Airport
 • Team Benefits:
    • Near Muscat International Airport (ideal for arrivals/departures).
    • HyperMax Hypermarket for essentials.
    • Restaurants suitable for teams.
 • Entertainment:
    • VOX Cinemas.
    • Magic Planet arcade.
 • Location: Muscat City Centre(https://maps.app.goo.gl/XQJxwYnPgQhxSoEeA)

Sports Shops / Equipment
Decathlon Oman
 • Overview: Affordable and extensive sports gear retailer.
 • Products: training equipment, team apparel, fitness gear.
 • Team Benefits: Cost-effective options for full squads; convenient online ordering.
 • Location: Mall of Oman(https://maps.app.goo.gl/Lum8b9VvUQ9erQZd9)
 • Website: d(https://decathlon.com.om/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)ecathlon.com.om(https://decathlon.com.om/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
Supa Sportsman
 • Overview: Established in 1975, Supa Sportsman is a leading sports goods retailer in Oman, offering a wide range of equipment and apparel.
 • Products: training aids, fitness equipment, and accessories.
 • Brands: Adidas, Babolat, Mikasa, Polar, 2XU.
 • Location: Supa Sportsman(https://maps.app.goo.gl/iGAHGg8mt2cN8K5S9)
 • Website: s(https://supasportsman.com/)upasportsman.com(http://supasportsman.com/)
Oman Rugby – Official Rugby Gear & Accessories
 • Overview: The official governing body for rugby in Oman, also offering branded rugby gear.
 • Products: Rugby balls and branded merchandise.
 • Team Benefits: Official equipment for squads, supporting grassroots and national teams.
 • Location: Online via Oman Rugby official store.
 • Website: omanrugby.com(http://omanrugby.com/)

Question 7

Activities

Accepted Answer

Snorkelling
Oman’s coastline offers some of the best snorkeling in the region, with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.
 • Daymaniyat Islands: A protected marine reserve accessible by boat from Muscat. Known for its crystal-clear waters, healthy coral reefs, and abundant marine life, including sea turtles and colorful fish. 
 • Bandar Khayran: Located just East of Muscat, this area features calm waters and rich marine biodiversity, ideal for snorkeling trips.
 • Shangri-La Al Husn Resort & Spa: Offers snorkeling opportunities directly from the resort, with equipment provided for guests.
For guided tours and equipment rental, consider Nobles Marine Tours, known for their expert guides and quality gear.

Scuba Diving
Oman’s waters are rich in marine life, making it a premier destination for diving enthusiasts.
 • Daymaniyat Islands: Offers some of the best diving spots near Muscat, with opportunities to see reef sharks, turtles, and vibrant coral gardens .
 • Gulf Divers: A PADI-certified dive center in Muscat offering daily dive trips, snorkeling excursions, and PADI courses.
 • Blue Flow Diving: Located at Marina Bandar Al Rowdha, they offer diving trips to sites like Al Fahal Island and Ras Abu Dawood.
These centers cater to both beginners and experienced divers, providing equipment and guided tours.

Beaches
Muscat boasts several beautiful beaches, perfect for relaxation or light training sessions.
 • Qurum Beach – A popular spot with a long stretch of sand, ideal for jogging or casual beach games.
 • Al Bustan Beach – Located near the Al Bustan Palace Hotel, this beach offers a more tranquil setting.
 • Azaiba Beach – A quieter beach east of Muscat, great for team relaxation and small group activities.
These beaches are easily accessible and provide facilities for teams to relax and enjoy the coastal scenery.

Places to Visit
Explore Oman’s rich culture and natural beauty during your visit.
 • Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque – An architectural marvel and one of the largest mosques in the world. Open to non-Muslim visitors during specific hours.
 • Royal Opera House Muscat – A stunning venue for performances, offering a glimpse into Oman’s cultural scene.
 • Mutrah Souq – A traditional market where you can shop for Omani handicrafts, spices, and souvenirs.
 • Wadi Shab – A scenic valley with clear pools and waterfalls, perfect for a refreshing hike.
 • Jebel Akhdar – Known as the “Green Mountain,” it offers cooler temperatures and beautiful terraced farms.
These attractions provide opportunities for cultural immersion and relaxation during your stay.

Question 8

Useful Information

Accepted Answer

Internet Services
Oman has reliable mobile and broadband internet, with excellent 5G coverage in Muscat.
Mobile SIM Cards: Available at Muscat airport and in most malls. Major providers include:
 • Omantel – omantel.om(http://omantel.om/)
 • Ooredoo – ooredoo.om(http://ooredoo.om/)
 • Vodafone Oman – vodafone.om(http://vodafone.om/)
Tips: Buy a prepaid SIM with 5G data for seamless streaming, navigation, and communication during the stay.

Food Delivery
Food delivery services are widely available across Muscat, offering a variety of local and international cuisine.
Popular Apps:
 • Talabat – talabat.com/oman/(http://talabat.com/oman)
    • Apps:
       • Google Play Store(https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.talabat&pcampaignid=web_share)
       • Apple App Store
(https://apps.apple.com/us/app/talabat-food-grocery-more/id451001072)
 • Khedmah Delivery – https://khedmahdelivery.com/(https://khedmahdelivery.com/)
    • Apps:
       • Google Play Store(https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.springtech.orderApp&pcampaignid=web_share)
       • Apple App Store(https://apps.apple.com/om/app/khedmah-delivery/id6738427748)
Tips: Delivery usually takes 30–45 minutes.

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