Oman’s port capital has a rich history and there’s plenty to see and do here. Whether you’re travelling on business or for leisure, renting a car in Muscat is the easiest way to get around, particularly during the hot summer months. You’ll find the National Travel and Tourism Hertz branch on Ghala Street, close to the Muscat Expy and Ghala Industrial Estate, around a 20-minute drive from Muscat International Airport.
Muscat is made up of three smaller cities which have merged together over time to form the bustling metropolis we see today. With limited public transport available and modern roads signposted in English and Arabic, car rental in Muscat is the ideal way to see all the sights.
The minimum age to rent a car with Hertz in Muscat is 25 for all vehicle groups, with the exception of group L, for which the minimum age is 30. When collecting your vehicle, you will need to present a copy of your passport showing the stamped page, your visa and driving licence (held for a minimum of 1 year). If you do not have a valid licence, stamped passport and visa, you will need an IDP (International Driver’s Permit). All UK drivers (except Northern Ireland) will need to provide evidence of driving endorsements and you should bring a print out of your licence summary when collecting your vehicle.
Muscat is a fairly easy city to navigate, although traffic can be busy during rush hour, as you’ll find in most cities. Parking in Muscat is generally paid and in metered bays, with paid parking hours running from 8am to 1pm and 4pm to 9pm (excluding official holidays and weekends).
Driving in Muscat is on the right, and speed limits are strict and must be adhered to at all times.Visit Al Jalali Fort and Al Mirani Fort or take a 40-minute drive east to see the spectacular Nakhal fort. On sunny afternoons, a stroll along the Corniche is a great way to relax. Admire the 50m dome of the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque or explore the National Museum. For shopping, you’ll find designer brands at Oman Avenues Mall or traditional handicrafts, jewellery and souvenirs at Mutrah Souk.
A guided tour of one of Muscat’s perfume factories is also something you must experience, and the Amouage perfume factory creates the most expensive perfume in the world. Car rental in Muscat means you can get out of the city and take advantage of some if the excellent scuba diving at Bandar Jissah, enjoy camel racing, or even take off on a night safari if you’re feeling adventurous.
Minimum car rental age: You must normally be a minimum of 25 years of age to rent a car in Muscat, depending on the vehicle group. For some vehicles, a minimum age of 30 applies.
Correct side of the road: In Muscat, you drive on the right-hand side of the road and overtake on the left.
Speed limits: Muscat speed limits can vary considerably but for most urban areas, expect to see speed limits of 40km/h to 80km/h. On the motorway, the speed limit is generally 120km/h.
Driving with children: Child seats are recommended in Muscat, although they are not mandatory. Children in the rear passenger seats must use appropriate car seats and seat belts.
Toll roads: Hertz vehicles are fitted with a Salik tag which will register each time you use a toll road. On returning your vehicle, you will be given a breakdown of this and be charged accordingly.