Oman blends desert, mountains and coast with communities where daily life tends to move at an unhurried pace; for many visitors and residents, personal safety is a key part of that appeal. Knowing which cities have the lowest risks makes planning easier, whether you’re sightseeing, relocating, or doing business.
There are 9 Safest Cities in Oman, ranging from Al Buraimi to Sur. For each city, you’ll find below Country,Crime rate (per 100k),Main safety factors.
How safe is Oman for tourists and expats?
Oman is generally regarded as safe for visitors and expatriates, with low rates of violent crime compared with regional averages; ordinary precautions—watching belongings, avoiding poorly lit areas at night, and respecting local customs—are usually sufficient. Emergency services are accessible in urban areas, and travelers should register with their embassy if staying long-term.
What should I look at besides the crime rate when choosing where to stay?
Crime rate per 100k gives a quick comparison, but also consider local policing presence, street lighting, healthcare access, transport options, and recent news or travel advisories; checking community forums and recent visitor reports can reveal neighborhood-level issues that raw numbers might miss.
Safest Cities in Oman
| City | Country | Crime rate (per 100k) | Main safety factors |
|---|---|---|---|
| Muscat | Oman | 700 | Strong police presence, low violent crime, petty theft hotspots, safe tourist areas |
| Seeb | Oman | 650 | Close to capital, airport security, occasional petty theft, road safety concerns |
| Sohar | Oman | 400 | Industrial policing, expat compounds, low street crime, road incidents |
| Salalah | Oman | 500 | Tourist-season crowds, low violent crime, seasonal petty theft, solid policing |
| Nizwa | Oman | 350 | Historic area policing, low crime, tourist pickpocketing rare, road safety |
| Sur | Oman | 300 | Coastal town safety, low violent crime, maritime patrols, tourist-friendly |
| Al Buraimi | Oman | 450 | Border policing, family-oriented, low violent crime, petty theft possible |
| Khasab | Oman | 250 | Remote policing, low crime, tourist boat safety, limited medical facilities |
| Barka | Oman | 380 | Residential policing, low violent crime, occasional property crime, road safety issues |
Images and Descriptions
Muscat
Muscat is Oman’s safest urban hub for residents and visitors: low violent crime, visible policing and reliable emergency services. Petty theft in busy markets can occur; use standard precautions, avoid poorly lit streets at night and secure valuables.
Seeb
Seeb benefits from proximity to Muscat and good emergency response. Reports show low serious crime but traffic accidents are the main hazard. Tourists and expats should watch busy market areas and follow local driving rules.
Sohar
Sohar is known for strong workplace security and family-friendly neighbourhoods with low street crime. Main risks are road accidents and occasional property crime; expats cite good community policing and compound security as reassuring.
Salalah
Salalah is popular with tourists and relatively safe year-round. Low levels of violent crime but petty theft can rise during festivals. Stay vigilant in crowded markets and beachfronts; emergency services are accessible in city areas.
Nizwa
Nizwa is small and tranquil with low crime rates and friendly local policing. Tourists enjoy the fort and souq; occasional petty theft around busy markets is the main risk. Day trips to rural areas require cautious driving.
Sur
Sur is a calm coastal city with low crime and active maritime security. Ideal for travellers seeking quieter towns; common risks are petty theft and road accidents when driving to nearby attractions. Basic emergency services are available.
Al Buraimi
Al Buraimi, on the UAE border, has strong policing and a family-focused atmosphere. Cross-border traffic increases petty theft risk; otherwise violent crime is uncommon. Keep documents secure and expect prompt emergency response in town.
Khasab
Khasab in Musandam is very safe with minimal street crime and strong community oversight. Main concerns are boat-safety and limited medical facilities for emergencies — travellers should plan accordingly and follow marine-safety guidance.
Barka
Barka is a growing coastal city with low levels of violent crime and active local policing. Property-related offences and traffic accidents are the most common incidents; newcomers should choose well-lit neighbourhoods and secure housing.
