Vaccines to Travel to Oman: Requirements and Recommendations

Vaccinations Required for Oman

There are several recommended vaccinations for Oman. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends the following vaccines:

Recommended Vaccinations for all Travelers to Oman

All travelers to Oman should ensure they have had the following vaccinations and are up-to-date before setting off for Oman:

Measles

Measles vaccinations are necessary. Many travelers will have had MMR vaccinations during childhood. If not, the necessary doses of the measles vaccine depend on age.

6-11 months: 1 dose of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine before travel. This does not count as the first dose of routine childhood vaccinations.

+ 12 months (no previous doses): 2 doses of MMR vaccine before travel. They must be given at least 28 days apart.

+12 months (singular previous dose): 1 additional dose before travel, at least 28 days after the previous dose.

Routine vaccinations

Travelers should make sure they are up-to-date on routine vaccinations before every trip. These vaccinations include the following:

Recommended Vaccinations for Most Travelers

The following vaccinations are highly recommended as there are risks of catching these diseases in Oman.

Hepatitis A

You can catch through contaminated food or water in Oman. Oman generally has good health and sanitation infrastructure, especially in places like Muscat. The risk is higher in rural areas.

Typhoid

You can also catch typhoid through contaminated food and water. It is especially recommended for travelers staying with friends or family or for people staying in smaller towns and rural areas.

COVID-19

You no longer need proof of COVID-19 vaccination to travel to Oman. However, full vaccination against COVID-19 is recommended for international travel, including to Oman.

Recommended Vaccines for Some Travelers

Certain groups of people are at a higher risk of catching certain diseases, depending on where they are going and what they will be doing.

Malaria

The risk of malaria is relatively low in Oman. Certain travelers, such as pregnant women, may need to take extra precautions. Antimalarial medication is an option, but it often has side effects. It is recommended to see a medical professional beforehand.

Higher-risk areas of Oman include Dakhliyah, North Batinah, and North and South Sharqiyah.

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is transmitted through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood. Travelers who are likely to have sex with a new partner, have a medical procedure or get a tattoo or piercing should get a Hepatitis B vaccination before going to Oman.

Rabies

Rabies can be found in dogs, bats, and other animals though it is not a major risk to most travelers. However, the rabies vaccine is recommended for the following groups:

• Travelers who may be in close contact with animals. This includes children, people who will spend long periods outdoors, and those on longer trips.

Yellow Fever

This is only a requirement for travelers coming from countries where yellow fever is prevalent. It may be required to present a yellow fever certificate if this is the case.

Additional Health Measures for Oman

As well as getting the recommended vaccines, consider taking the following precautions for a safe trip to Oman:

Consult a Travel Health Clinic

Visit a travel health clinic or your healthcare provider at least 6 to 8 weeks before your trip to discuss your specific travel plans, receive the necessary vaccinations, and get personalized health advice.

Mosquito Protection

Oman's climate makes it susceptible to mosquito-borne diseases. Use mosquito repellent, wear long sleeves and pants, and use a bed net if you'll be in areas with a higher risk of mosquito exposure.

Food and Water Safety

Practice good food and water hygiene. Drink bottled or purified water and be cautious when eating street food.

Travel Insurance

Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and repatriation in case of illness or injury.

Other Requirements for Entering Oman

In addition to getting the recommended vaccinations, travelers should also make sure they have the correct documentation to enter the country, which often includes having a tourist visa.

The process is easier using the Oman eVisa system. To apply, you need to complete the online eVisa application, which only takes a few minutes. Applicants must meet the eVisa requirements to be eligible.