Your Travel Questions, Answered
Have questions about your next journey? Find answers to common questions about our travel packages, bookings, destinations, payments, and services. We're here to make planning your perfect trip simple, stress-free, and enjoyable!
Vehicle selection and driving in Oman
Which vehicle is best suited for exploring Oman?
Travel Store Oman offers different vehicle categories to suit different travel styles.
- Standard Self-Drive: Sedan, AWD and 4WD options, suitable for guests who prefer hotels and
conventional road trips. - Rooftop Tent 4WD: Fully equipped automatic 4x4 vehicles, ideal for travellers who want to
explore Oman's deserts, mountains and remote camping locations.
For the best overall experience exploring Oman's varied landscapes, we recommend a Rooftop Tent 4WD.
Do I need a 4WD vehicle to explore Oman, or is a standard SUV sufficient?
A standard sedan or SUV is sufficient for most main roads, highways and popular tourist destinations. However, a genuine 4WD is strongly recommended for desert driving, sand dunes, certain mountain
roads and remote locations.
Our Rooftop Tent fleet consists exclusively of 4WD vehicles.
Can I drive the rental vehicle off-road?
Yes. Travel Store Oman's dedicated Rooftop Tent 4WD vehicles are designed for self-drive adventures, including desert and off-road exploration.
Off-road and dune driving are covered under the rental insurance arrangements, subject to completing the required vehicle briefing and complying with the rental conditions.
Are there restrictions on driving in the desert, mountains, wadis or sand dunes?
You can explore many of Oman's desert and mountain environments with an appropriate 4WD vehicle.
However, you must follow the vehicle's operating instructions, local regulations and safety
recommendations. Avoid flooded wadis, unsafe terrain and restricted or protected areas. Do not attempt routes beyond your driving ability or the vehicle's capabilities.
Can I drive to destinations such as Jebel Shams, Jebel Akhdar and Wahiba Sands?
Yes. These are among the popular destinations for self-drive travellers in Oman.
- Jebel Shams: Famous for its dramatic mountain scenery and spectacular canyon views.
- Jebel Akhdar: Known for mountain villages, terraced gardens and cooler temperatures. A
suitable 4WD is required for the mountain access checkpoint. - Wahiba Sands: A spectacular desert destination where a proper 4WD is recommended for dune
driving.
Our team can advise on suitable routes and driving conditions before departure.
Do I need previous 4WD driving experience to rent an off-road vehicle?
Previous experience is beneficial, particularly for desert and mountain driving, but we provide a vehicle handover and briefing before departure.
Our team explains the vehicle's 4WD functions, recovery equipment and camping accessories. We recommend that drivers unfamiliar with off-road driving begin with easier routes and avoid challenging dunes without appropriate experience.
Where am I permitted to drive the rental vehicle? Are there any restricted areas?
You can explore approved roads, established tracks and permitted off-road destinations within Oman.
Certain military areas, private properties, protected areas and restricted access zones are prohibited. Customers should also respect local regulations and environmental restrictions.
Please consult our team before travelling to remote or unusual destinations.
Do I need a professional guide for desert drives, mountain routes or challenging terrain?
A professional guide is not required for every self-drive journey.
Our self-drive packages are designed for independent travellers, with suggested routes and route notes
available. However, for challenging desert dunes, desert crossings remote mountain tracks and technically difficult terrain, we strongly recommend hiring an experienced local guide.
Can I take the rental vehicle across the border into the UAE or other neighbouring countries?
Cross-border travel may be possible depending on the vehicle, insurance arrangements and rental
conditions.
You must obtain prior approval from Travel Store Oman. Additional insurance, documentation and border requirements may apply. Never cross an international border without written confirmation.
Can you recommend scenic driving routes, attractions and places to visit in Oman?
Absolutely! Oman offers some of the most beautiful road-trip experiences in the region.
Our recommended routes include:
- Classic Oman Loop: Muscat, Nizwa, Wahiba Sands and back to Muscat.
- Wahiba Sands & Coast: Desert driving, overnight camping and a scenic coastal return.
- Into the Mountains: Nizwa, Jebel Akhdar and the historic interior.
- Oman Coast to Mountains: Muscat, Sur, Wadi Bani Khalid, Wahiba Sands, Nizwa and Jebel
Akhdar.
Other highlights include Wadi Shab, Bimmah Sinkhole, Ras Al Jinz, Misfat Al Abriyeen, Bahla Fort, Jabreen Castle and Nakhal.
We also offer ready-made self-drive itineraries with the vehicle, rooftop tent and suggested route included.
Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Oman?
Your original home-country driving licence is recommended for international visitors. An International
Driving Permit is always advisable. Drivers must hold a valid licence that is legally accepted in Oman. We recommend checking the requirements applicable to your nationality before travelling.
What is the minimum age requirement for renting a vehicle?
Our general rental requirement is that drivers should be at least 20 years old and have held a valid driving licence.
Additional drivers and rental documentation
Can I add an additional driver to my rental agreement?
All Travel Store Oman vehicle rentals automatically include two authorised drivers at no additional cost.
This means you and your travel companion can share the driving responsibilities throughout your Oman
adventure, making long-distance journeys and road trips more comfortable and enjoyable.
What documents do I need to provide when collecting the vehicle?
Please bring the following documents:
- Original, valid driving licence.
- International Driving Permit, if available
- Passport or other accepted identification.
- Booking confirmation.
All drivers must meet the rental eligibility requirements.
Insurance, security deposit and roadside assistance
What is included in the vehicle rental insurance coverage?
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) is included as standard with every rental.
CDW limits your financial liability for accidental damage to the rental vehicle, subject to the applicable
insurance conditions and excess.
Does the insurance cover damage to tyres, windscreens and the vehicle undercarriage?
Yes. Our rental insurance includes cover for damage to tyres, windscreens and the vehicle undercarriage.
As our 4WD vehicles are designed for exploring Oman's deserts, mountains and off-road destinations, we understand the importance of having additional peace of mind during your adventure.
Our team will explain the insurance coverage, exclusions and applicable excess during the booking process and vehicle handover, so you know exactly what is covered before setting off.
What is the insurance excess, and how much am I liable for in the event of an accident?
An insurance excess applies to damage claims. This is the amount you may be responsible for paying in
the event of an insured incident.
The standard insurance excess is USD 195 for all vehicle categories.
In the event of an insured accident or damage claim, the maximum amount you are liable for is USD 195.
This fixed excess applies across all our vehicle categories, giving you clarity and peace of mind when choosing your rental vehicle.
Is additional insurance available to reduce my financial liability?
CDW is included as standard. If you would like additional protection or a lower excess, please contact
our team to check the available options for your selected vehicle.
Is a security deposit required, and when will it be refunded?
No, Travel Store Oman does not require a security deposit for any of our vehicle rental categories.
Enjoy a hassle-free rental experience with no security deposit and no funds blocked on your credit card. We believe in transparent and straightforward rental terms, allowing you to start your Oman
adventure with complete peace of mind.
What should I do if the vehicle breaks down or is involved in an accident?
We provide 24-hour support throughout your rental.
In the event of a breakdown:
- Move to a safe location if possible.
- Contact our support team using the direct contact number provided at handover.
- Follow our instructions and do not attempt repairs beyond your ability.
In the event of an accident:
- Ensure everyone's safety.
- Contact the Royal Oman Police where required.
- Obtain the necessary official accident documentation.
- Notify Travel Store Oman immediately.
- Our team will assist with the next steps.
What happens if the rooftop tent or camping equipment is damaged during the rental?
All camping equipment is inspected before handover, and its condition is checked again when the
vehicle is returned.
Customers are responsible for damage caused by misuse, negligence or failure to follow operating
instructions, subject to the rental agreement.
Please report any damage or malfunction to our team as soon as possible.
Passengers, luggage and camping equipment
How many passengers can each vehicle comfortably accommodate?
Passenger capacity depends on the specific vehicle model and configuration.
Our Rooftop Tent 4WD vehicles are equipped with a rooftop tent that sleeps two people. The number of passengers travelling inside the vehicle depends on the vehicle's approved seating capacity.
Please tell us your group size when requesting a quotation so we can recommend the most suitable vehicle.
How much luggage space is available in each vehicle?
Luggage capacity varies depending on the vehicle model.
Our Rooftop Tent 4WD vehicles carry camping and recovery equipment, including a fridge or cooler box, recovery gear, camping furniture and other accessories.
We recommend sharing the number of passengers and approximate luggage quantity when booking so that we can advise on the best configuration.
Which vehicle would you recommend for families or groups of five or more?
For families or groups of five or more, we recommend discussing your requirements with our team before booking.
Our rooftop tent sleeps two people, so additional sleeping arrangements must be considered for larger families.
We can help identify a suitable vehicle configuration based on passenger capacity, luggage and accommodation requirements.
Are rooftop tents suitable for families travelling with children?
Rooftop tents are convenient for couples and small families, but our standard rooftop tent configuration is designed to sleep two people.
Families travelling with children should consider the children's ages, sleeping arrangements and safety requirements before booking.
Please contact us to discuss suitable arrangements.
What camping equipment and accessories are included with the rental?
Our Rooftop Tent 4WD rentals include a comprehensive camping and recovery kit.
The standard equipment includes:
- Rooftop tent with ladder.
- Mattress and bedding.
- Coolbox
- Folding camping table.
- Camping chairs.
- Sand recovery ladders.
- Tow strap.
- Recovery shovel.
- Genuine spare tyre.
- Route notes or a blank map.
The equipment is checked before every handover.
Does the vehicle come equipped with a refrigerator, portable shower or toilet?
These amenities are not included as standard equipment with our rental vehicles. However, we offer
additional camping accessories to make your Oman adventure more comfortable and enjoyable.
The following items can be arranged upon request:
- Electric cool box.
- Portable shower.
- Portable camping toilet.
Each additional item is available at OMR 5 per day.
Simply let us know your requirements when making your reservation, and our team will be happy to
arrange the equipment for you.
Are recovery equipment, a spare tyre and an air compressor provided?
Yes. Our 4WD rental vehicles come equipped with essential recovery equipment to help you enjoy your desert and off-road adventures with confidence.
The standard recovery equipment includes:
- Sand recovery tracks.
- Recovery shovel.
- Tow strap.
- Spare tyre.
Please note: An air compressor is not provided with the vehicle, as there is no need to carry one. Convenient tyre inflation services are available at local shops near popular desert areas, where you can have your tyres inflated for a nominal charge of approximately OMR 1.
This makes it easy and convenient to adjust your tyre pressure when entering or leaving the desert.
Can I request baby seats, booster seats or other additional accessories?
Absolutely! At Travel Store Oman, we want to make your family adventure as safe and comfortable as possible.
Baby seats and booster seats are provided free of charge with every vehicle rental, subject to availability. Simply let us know your requirements when making your reservation, including your child's age, so we can arrange the appropriate seat.
We also offer additional camping accessories upon request to make your journey through Oman even more enjoyable.
We recommend requesting all accessories in advance to ensure availability at the time of vehicle collection.
Will someone demonstrate how to operate the rooftop tent and camping equipment before departure?
Absolutely! At Travel Store Oman, we ensure you are fully prepared and confident before starting your adventure.
Our team will provide a comprehensive vehicle handover and practical demonstration, covering the operation of the rooftop tent, camping equipment and all essential vehicle features.
We will walk you through setting up and closing the rooftop tent, using the camping accessories, operating the 4WD system and handling the recovery equipment.
You will also have the opportunity to ask questions and familiarise yourself with everything before departure.
