Oman is a fairy tale destination. Petrol is ridiculously cheap on this side of the world. In addition, roads quality is superb. Traffic is light outside big cities and drivers are usually attentive and tolerant to tourists. A convenient and effective way to see Muscat and gorgeous surroundings is definitely by car. Although car rentals are widely available all over Oman, rental costs could escalate if you don’t pay attention to small details. Here are two tips how to save money on car rental in Muscat. Keep them in mind when booking your next car in Muscat.
Tip nr. 1: Saving Starts With Right Car Choice – 4×4 For Desert Safari or Smaller Car?
Muscat is usually a starting point for desert safari tours in Wahiba Sands. Many first time visitors to Muscat book a huge 4×4 vehicle with hope to drive in the desert. No need to book an expensive and huge vehicle like 4×4. Desert safaris could be arranged in travel agencies with vehicles specially customized for driving in the sands with skilled and experienced drivers. In addition, car rental terms from Thrifty Oman won’t allow you to drive rented cars nowhere except on tarmac roads.This way one can save up to 50 percent only on right car choice!
Tip nr. 2: Don’t Spent Money On Extras
Having a GPS navigation in Oman is not necessary and presents unnecessary cost. All areas around Muscat are easy to get around and a simple paper map will save you some money – at least 15 US Dollars per day. So, if you intend to stay more than one week in Muscat, you will save a nice amount of money that you can use for shopping. In addition, all routes to Nizwa, Jabrin, Tenuf, Rusayl, Haima, Thumrait or Salalah are in good condition and well sign- posted.
Before renting a car in Muscat downtown make sure of office hours or you might get charged for out of working office fee, specially if you intend to pick up car in areas like Ruwi. Seeb Airport is open 24/7 and so are car rental offices.
Avoid one way car rentals.In case you would like to explore Muscat and then head to Dubai and drop off the vehicle in United Arab Emirates – think twice. This kind of one way international car rental will cost you almost 300 US Dollars. In case you would like to start your trip in Muscat and drop off the car in Salalah will add costs to your final receipt for roughly 40 US Dollars.
