The Salalah Practical Information guide is packed with facts and figures that visitors ought to know before travelling to the town to familiarize themselves with the region, its language, safety, population, currency and other handy particulars. Here is a practical information guide about visiting Salalah.

Languages

The official and most widely-spoken language in Salalah is Arabic; however there are other Asian and European languages that are spoken by a large expat community and by residents dealing mainly with tourists. Urdu, Hindi, Persian, Malayalam, Sinhalese, Bengali and English are some of the most commonly spoken foreign dialects.

Population

The population of the Salalah metro, according to a 2008 census, is 190,348.

Currency

The currency of Oman is the Omani Rial or OMR and the current conversation rate is 1 OMR= $2.60

Visa Information

Visitors can apply for a tourist visa, business visa or short visit visa in the single Entry Visa category. On arrival at the main terminal of the Sultanate of Oman, travelers are asked to fill a visa application form along with a few other documents prescribed by the Ministry of Oman. A fee of approximately OMR 15  is charged and can be paid in foreign currency.  A single entry visa can also be procured though diplomatic and commercial offices in the county. Visa requirements differ for various nations--for some countries like Iran, Jordan, Morocco and a few others, a visa is issued on arrival only if the visitors have come to visit the nation with a reputed travel company and a have a confirmed return ticket. Others, like the US, are required to apply for the visa in advance from the embassy by submitting relevant documents. The single entry visa is valid for up to 30 days and takes approximately 10 business days to issue. Tourists who have obtained a visa for Dubai are not required to apply for a different visa for Oman.

Electricity

Electric current in the town is 240 volts and 50 Hz with primarily 3-pin plugs being used in most residences and commercial establishments.

Health and Safety

Though the crime rate in Salalah is low, it is best not to venture on unfamiliar streets and deserted roads, especially at night. Violent crimes are very rare but there are many instances of petty crimes like pick pocketing on the crowded streets and markets of the region. Don’t carry too many valuables with you while are walking through the streets of Salalah. To avoid any unwanted incidents, it is best for women tourists to dress modestly according to local customs and etiquette.

Salalah is a pleasant town that can be enjoyed even more once visitors take time to understand its local customs, safety measures, and language.