Alcohol in Oman
Alcohol is a sensitive issue in Oman as the use of it is frowned upon and not allowed to be consumed by any Muslim.
Rules around the use of alcohol
- You are not allowed to consume any alcohol in the public except in a bar
- Being “drunk and disorderly” can result in a running with the ROP (Royal Oman Police) and may even get you visiting the jail
- Driving under the influence is not allowed (Legal limit = 0%)
- You can only buy alcohol at bottle stores with a special licence.
How can I obtain a licence?
- You can’t get a licence if you are Muslim
- Receiving a licence is a privilege and not a right
- It has a lifespan of 2 years
- You need to have the approval from your sponsor - discuss with your PRO to help
- You need to have a minimum salary of RO 300 (~ZAR 6 000) to obtain a licence
- You can only get an allocation of not exceeding 10% of your monthly salary.
And if I have a licence?
- You can only buy alcohol at a few outlets
- You have to have your licence present when buying alcohol
- You can only buy for own home consumption
- You are only allowed to travel with the alcohol from the store to your home with the permit in the vehicle
- The alcohol has to be out of sight while travelling.
And other places?
- Most of the hotels have bar facilities where you can sit and drink
- There are a limited number of non-hotel restaurants with liquor licences.