Best Currency for Indian Travellers to Oman: How to Buy It?

Oman is presently the hottest international destination for travel as well as migration. Whatever your purpose is, having the right currency is essential to have a smooth and trouble-free time in Oman. This blog introduces you to the best currency for Indian travellers to take to Oman and exchange tips gathered from ExtravelMoney’s 9+ years of experience in the forex market.

Also Read: Forex Card or Cash Which is Best for International Trip?

Best Currency to Use in Oman – Omani Rial

The official currency of Oman, the Omani Rial (OMR), is the best currency to take to Oman from India. Exchange Indian Rupees to Omani Rial in India before your trip to Oman to avoid struggles with currency exchange upon arrival.

With Omani Rials in your pocket, you can confidently dine in or shop without the fear of your currency not being accepted.

Omani Rial Rate in India Today

Should You Take US Dollars to Oman?

US Dollars are your second-best option to take to Oman if you face availability issues for the Omani Rial. Since the US Dollar is the global currency, it is widely accepted for exchange.

Once you reach Oman, convert a small amount to OMR at the airport for your quick needs, like a cab and snacks. Later, convert the rest US Dollars at cheaper exchange stores in the city.

Shops and hotels may accept US Dollars for payments, but at the cost of a bad exchange rate.

Can You Take Indian Rupees and Exchange in Oman?

Taking Indian Rupees to Oman is not a good idea because it is not widely accepted for currency exchange and payments in Oman. Even if INR gets accepted, the exchange rate might not be fair enough.

How to Buy Omani Rial in India

There are several places to buy Omani Rial in India. Here’s a list of the most popular and safest options:

Option 1: Airports Exchange Counters

Both Indian and Omani airport exchange stores are operated by reputable forex vendors, but they charge higher rates and fees due to expensive airport rents. Since travellers are in a last-minute rush, exchange vendors take advantage of it.

Option 2: Banks

Most banks in India allow you to buy foreign currency, including OMR. Even though reliable, the exchange rates are higher, and the process can take longer due to paperwork.

Option 3: Local Exchange Stores

Currency exchange stores are common in major cities and offer competitive rates. But always be careful, as some stores may offer counterfeit currencies. Stick to RBI-authorised money changers that have an AD II or FFMC category license.

Option 4: Online Forex Aggregators

Online forex aggregators are an underrated option for currency exchange. They partner with banks and money changers and connect you with their services. Now you may wonder, “Why don’t we directly approach the stores, why through aggregators?” But the advantage that you are going to miss is that forex aggregators create an online market space where the rates are compared and the best is displayed. Additionally, forex aggregators offer wholesale exchange rates rather than retail rates, thanks to their extensive network.

ExTravelMoney, one of the few forex aggregators in India, compares rates from top banks and RBI-authorised exchange houses with AD II or FFMC category license near you. You can complete your currency exchange online and have your currency and Forex card delivered to your home, saving time and effort.

Pro Tip: Keep an eye on the mid-market exchange rate, which is the rate displayed on Google. This rate is the midpoint between the buying and selling prices of two currencies at any given time. Knowing this helps you assess whether the markup charged by forex vendors is reasonable.

Check Today’s Interbank Rates

Best Way to Buy Omani Rial Online

For a convenient transactional experience in Oman, it’s advisable to carry a mix of cash and a travel forex card in a 50:50 ratio. You can purchase these from a online forex aggregator in India, such as ExTravelMoney.

Currency

Carry 50% of your expenses in cash for hotel tips and places like local markets that don’t accept cards.
Oman is advanced in digital transactions, so large cash amounts aren’t necessary.

Forex Card

Load the rest on a single-currency forex card.
Offers better exchange rates than cash.
You can’t load a Forex card with Omani Rial. Instead, you can load it with US Dollars and pay in OMR without cross-conversion charges.
Swipe like a debit card for purchases or withdraw cash at ATMs.
No charges except ATM withdrawal fee of $5.

Consult with our Forex experts to create a forex ratio suitable for your travel budget and destinations.

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Pro Tip: To avoid any last-minute rush, make sure to purchase the necessary Omani Rial currency and Forex card at least three days before your trip.

What to Do with Excess Omani Rial After Travel?

On landing back in India, after your Oman trip, you can sell your leftover currency and unload your forex card with the help of a forex service provider like, ExTravelMoney.

Pro Tip: Omani coins called the Baisa are not accepted by currency exchange vendors in India. So it is better to convert them to Omani Rial notes and bring them back to India.

Sell Omani Rial

How much Currency can You bring In and Out of Oman?

The Omani government imposes no limits on the amount of currency that foreign travellers can take into the country. But if the amount exceeds OMR 6,000
(approx INR 13 lakhs) or its equivalent, you must get prior permission by filling in the Online Oman Customs Declaration Form¹.

However, the Indian government permits Indian travellers to carry foreign currency equivalent to USD 3000 (approx. INR 2,50,000) as cash². On entry to India, Indians can only carry USD 5000 (approx. INR 4,20,000) as cash³. The remaining currency (annual LRS limit USD 250,000) can be loaded in a Forex card.

When travelling to Oman, having 50% of Omani Rial in your wallet and 50% in your Forex card is the best way to ensure a smooth travel experience. Avoid the stress of high exchange rates and last-minute confusion by purchasing with ExTravelMoney.

Buy Currency and Forex Card

FAQ

Can I use US Dollars or Indian Rupees for payments in Oman?

Yes, in tourist-heavy areas or 5-star hotels, you can use currencies like Indian Rupees, US Dollars or even Euros. But you might not often be lucky enough. These places might give you a bad exchange rate. Instead, stick to the Omani Rial and save yourself the headache.

Should I exchange money before I travel to Oman?

It is advisable to exchange currency and purchase Omani Rial before travelling to Oman. This approach helps you avoid the hassle of currency exchange while in Oman and ensures better exchange rates.

What is the cheapest way to exchange Omani currency?

The cheapest way to buy or sell Omani Rial is by booking via an online forex aggregator, like ExTravelMoney. We compare banks and RBI-authorised money changers near you and display the best and cheapest exchange rates.

How can I avoid currency conversion fees when buying Omani Rial?

ExTravelMoney charges no currency conversion fee or service fee. So you can book currency exchange with us and get the most pocket-friendly forex experience.

Is currency exchange cheaper at the airport?

No, currency exchange is more expensive in airports. Since airports charge high rents, forex kiosks impose high exchange rates and conversion fees to cover the costs.

Article Resources:

Ann Mariya Job

Ann Mariya Job is the Associate Content Writer at ExTravelMoney.com. Holding a Bachelor’s in Journalism, she excels in creating deeply researched, engaging, and crisp content. Her work helps readers understand the complexities of foreign exchange, overseas money transfers, and international travel.