Visiting Oman as a female tourist is an opportunity to explore both natural wonders and cultural sites, while enjoying peaceful solitude. Whether you’re visiting centuries-old forts, going into the desert, or
Admiring the coast, Oman welcomes women tourists with kindness and respect.
The best way to do this is by renting a car straight from the airport. This lets you travel at your own pace, take breaks when you want, and explore destinations that might otherwise be inaccessible. Oman rent a car services can be found right at the terminal, meaning getting from the plane to the adventure is quick, safe, and easy. For women travelers, this is even more appealing as it gives you added safety, freedom, and comfort to travel independently.
Here, we will explore the best car rental itineraries in Oman for female tourists. Whether you’re traveling solo, on a girls’ trip, or just want some time away, these routes offer the best of easy, safe, and scenic travel.
Why Renting a Car is Best for Female Travelers
Oman has excellent road quality, a culturally respectful environment, and low crime rates. This makes it an ideal self-drive destination, especially for women. In many other places, there is little public transportation and sometimes crowded conditions. Renting a car, however, gives you smooth roads, scenic drives, and friendly locals.
You can drive at your own pace
You can visit lesser-known places or places you wouldn’t have access to
You can choose privacy and comfort throughout the entire journey
With your own vehicle, you can make stops wherever and whenever you please. Whether it’s a local souq, a picture-perfect mountain view, or a beach you hadn’t heard of before.
The best way to do this is by renting a car straight from the airport. You can start your journey right away and avoid a shuttle, avoid long waiting times, and you have the freedom to visit whichever destination you please.
Smart Itinerary 1: Muscat Airport to Nizwa and Jebel Akhdar (2–3 Days)
Best For: Solo female travelers, culture-lovers, and travelers who love cooler temperatures and mountain landscapes.
Day 1: Pick up your rental car at Muscat International Airport. Drive straight to Nizwa, the historical capital of Oman (about 1.5–2 hours). Explore the Nizwa Fort, stroll the souq, and try traditional dishes such as shuwa or halwa.
Day 2: Drive to Jebel Akhdar (“Green Mountain”). You will need a 4×4 to go up the mountain—check with your rental provider beforehand. Here you will enjoy cooler temperatures, hiking trails, rose gardens, and gorgeous views. The area is peaceful and perfect for journaling, meditation, or simply absorbing the beauty of nature.
Day 3: Return to Muscat, making a stop at Birkat Al Mouz village on the way back.
Pro Travel Tips:
Book accommodations in advance during weekends or holidays.
Pack some layers for mountain temperatures.
Download offline maps in case of weak cell signal.
Smart Itinerary 2: Salalah Airport to Khareef Wonderland (3 Days)
Best For: Travelers who love lush landscapes, waterfalls, and tropical weather.
Day 1: Fly into Salalah Airport and pick up your rental car. Drive to Ayn Razat or Ayn Athum, oases that come alive during the Khareef (rainy season). Stop at Mughsail Beach to see the sunset in the evening.
Day 2: Visit Wadi Darbat and its waterfalls in the season. Next, go to the Jabal Samhan plateau to look at views above the clouds. Female travelers traveling alone often appreciate the quietness and stunning views here.
Day 3: Go to the Salalah Haffa Souq to shop, the Al Baleed Archaeological Park, and then enjoy the last part of the drive along the coast lined with coconut trees.
Pro Travel Tips:
The Khareef season is between June and September, so book your cars in advance.
Pack a raincoat and insect repellent.
Follow signs and abide by rules in protected natural reserves.
Smart Itinerary 3: Muscat Airport to Wahiba Sands via Wadi Bani Khalid (2 Days)
Best For: Adventure-seeking women who want to experience the magic of the desert.
Day 1: Drive from Muscat Airport to Wadi Bani Khalid (about 2.5–3 hours). This beautiful oasis is great for a swim in the middle of the day. After lunch, drive to the Wahiba Sands for a desert experience. Stay at one of the many eco or Bedouin-style camps for stargazing, camel rides, and a traditional dinner.
Day 2: Wake up for a sunrise dune walk, breakfast in the desert, and then start your drive back to Muscat.
Pro Travel Tips:
Make sure your car is equipped for desert travel—some areas require a 4×4.
Do not drive too deep into the dunes on your own—get a guide or stay at one of the camps for a safe experience.
Pack sunscreen, a scarf, and water.
Smart Itinerary 4: Muscat Airport to Sur and Ras Al Jinz (2–3 Days)
Best For: Coastal-loving women and wildlife-watchers.
Day 1: After picking up your rental car, drive to Sur, a quaint town known for its dhow-building heritage. The coastal drive to Sur is one of the most scenic in Oman.
Day 2: Drive to Ras Al Jinz, home to a protected turtle reserve. Stay for a night and go on a guided walk to watch turtles nesting or hatching on the beach.
Optionally, Day 3: Drive back to Muscat, stopping at the Bimmah Sinkhole and Wadi Shab for a quick hike and swim.
Pro Travel Tips:
Wear modest swimsuits in public natural pools.
Go on a night tour at the reserve, which starts late at night—bring a flashlight and warm clothing.
Book your spot at the reserve in advance to make sure you have space.
Smart Itinerary 5: Muscat Airport to Al Rustaq and Nakhal (1-Day Trip)
Best For: Women with little time who want heritage and a break from the city.
This is a simple but enjoyable itinerary. Drive from the airport to Nakhal Fort, and then on to Al Rustaq, two historical towns in the foothills. Finish the day by soaking your feet in the Ain Al Thowarah hot springs.
This mini-road trip is great for travelers who don’t want to travel far but still want to experience a cultural adventure.
Pro Travel Tips:
Go on a weekend to avoid crowds.
Wear comfortable walking shoes for the forts.
Keep some small change for tickets and snacks.
Smart Itinerary 6: Muscat Airport to Jebel Shams and Misfat Al Abriyeen (2 Days)
Best For: Hiking enthusiasts, women who love mountain air, and those who want a traditional village experience.
Day 1: Drive to Misfat Al Abriyeen, one of the oldest mud-brick villages in Oman. Stay here for a traditional experience and walk along the falaj irrigation trails.
Day 2: Drive to Jebel Shams (“Mountain of the Sun”). Hike the Balcony Walk trail for amazing views and a deep sense of serenity.
Pro Travel Tips:
Choose a 4×4 vehicle.
Bring food and water—there are few options on the mountain.
Check the weather conditions before going on the hike.
Practical Tips for Renting and Driving in Oman
For first-time travelers, renting and driving in Oman may seem like a scary thing to do. But in reality, the roads are some of the best in the Middle East, the signs are clear, and Omani drivers are usually calm and courteous.
Important Driving Tips:
Drive on the right side of the road.
Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers.
No alcohol in the car unless you have a license.
Stick to the speed limit—speeding is strictly enforced by radar.
Do not use your phone while driving unless you have a hands-free device.
Required Documentation:
Valid international or Omani-compatible driver’s license.
Passport and visa.
Credit card for the deposit and payment.
You can usually find rental companies for your car right at the airport or next to it. That means you can pick up your keys and head out quickly. Booking online in advance also helps ensure you get the right vehicle for your trip, whether it’s a compact car or a rugged 4×4.
Why Renting a Car is Empowering for Female Tourists
While traveling in Oman, you aren’t just getting from point A to point B—you’re experiencing the journey. For women, especially women traveling alone, having your own vehicle provides:
Safety: You’re in control of your own surroundings.
Flexibility: You choose your own routes, stops, and schedules.
Privacy: You have peace or music without interruption.
Empowerment: You navigate a new land independently and confidently.
Having the freedom to explore the mountains in the morning, the coast at sunset, and the desert at midnight makes Oman Rent a Car Services an asset, not just a convenience.
Whether you’re on a short break or a longer cultural experience, having your own car opens up parts of Oman that would otherwise be unreachable, all while ensuring your comfort and safety as a woman on the road.
Final Thoughts
Oman is a treasure trove of natural beauty, history, and tranquility—and female travelers are increasingly discovering this through self-guided road trips. From the moment you step off the plane, your journey is in your hands.
Starting your trip by picking up a car rental from the airport gets you started on your journey quickly. You avoid the wait, gain instant mobility, and jump right into the adventure. With Oman rent a car services easily available and tailored to different travelers’ needs, you don’t need to wait for a guide, a tour, or a friend. All you need is curiosity, some planning, and the courage to drive your own story.
