Oman

Introduction

Hoodlum provides expert local film fixer services in Oman, offering comprehensive support to international production teams. With in-depth local knowledge and hands-on expertise, our dedicated fixers take care of every aspect of your shoot—from securing film permits and visas to location scouting, crew coordination, equipment rental, customs clearance, transportation, accommodation, still photography, and post-production services.

Oman’s diverse landscapes, from rugged mountains and vast deserts to stunning coastlines and traditional architecture, create the ideal setting for commercials, feature films, TV series, documentaries, reality shows, and still photography.

Planning a shoot in Oman? Let Hoodlum and our skilled local fixers handle all the logistics—securing permits, managing visas, arranging equipment rentals, booking flights and accommodation, coordinating local transport, and overseeing post-production—so you can focus on bringing your creative vision to life.

Country Overview

Oman, located on the south-eastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula, is a country rich in culture, history, and landscapes. Known for its blend of ancient traditions and modern development, Oman is an exceptional filming destination offering a wide range of captivating locations, from rugged mountains and vast deserts to vast coastlines and historic forts.

The country is recognized for its political stability, safety, and welcoming attitude towards international productions, making it an ideal environment for filmmakers. Oman’s architecture, includes traditional mud-brick houses and majestic castles which contrast beautifully with its modern cities.

Oman’s diverse geography includes:

The Desert: Expansive sand dunes in areas like the Rub’ al Khali (Empty Quarter) and Wahiba Sands.
Mountains: The Al Hajar mountain range offers striking highlands, rugged terrain, and scenic valleys.
Coastline: Oman’s coast stretches over 3,000 kilometres, featuring dramatic cliffs, and clear blue waters.
Historic Sites: The country is home to well-preserved forts, castles, and ancient towns like Nizwa and Bahla.

Hoodlum Film Fixers, with its local expertise and over two decades of experience, can manage all aspects of your shoot—from securing permits and visas to location scouting, crew coordination, equipment rental, and post-production services.

Whether you’re shooting in the desert, on the coast, or in a historic city, Oman is a country that offers both for your next project.

Bordering Countries:

Oman is bordered to the southwest by Yemen, to the south and east by the Arabian Sea, to the north by the Gulf of Oman, to the northwest by the United Arab Emirates, and to the west by Saudi Arabia.

Main Cities:

The main cities of Oman include Muscat, Nizwa, Salalah, Bahla, Sohar, Sur, Ibri, Khasab, Barka, and Musandam.

Local Languages:

Arabic

Local Currency:

Omani Rial

Best time to film:

The best time to film in Oman is during the cooler months, from October to April. During this period, temperatures are more moderate, ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), making it more comfortable for outdoor shoots, especially in desert and coastal areas.

The summer months, from May to September, can be extremely hot, with temperatures soaring above 40°C (104°F), particularly in inland areas like the desert. While filming is still possible, it is much more challenging due to the intense heat.

Visa Requirements

General Requirement
International crew members are required to apply for a tourist e-visa to enter Oman.

Required Information/Documentation for Application
A passport valid for at least six months, along with a recent photograph. The crew must be from countries specified by the Oman government.

Processing Time
Visa applications typically take between 48 to 72 hours to process.

Cost
If you would like Hoodlum Film Fixers to process the visa, the cost will be OMR 25 (visa valid for 10 days).

Visa Application Link
You can apply for the visa online through the official portal: https://evisa.rop.gov.om

Visa Application Link
Emirates Visa Information

International crew accreditation

General Accreditation Requirements
There are no specific accreditations required for international crews.

Required Information/Documentation for Application
Only passport copies with photographs are needed during the film permit application process.

Cost
The cost for fast-track accreditation is OMR 70 per person.

General Film Permit

What Organisation Issues the Permits?
The Ministry of Information is responsible for issuing film permits.

Timings
The processing time for film permits is typically 3 to 5 weeks.

Required Information/Documentation for Application

An authorization letter for the office in Oman to handle the project on behalf of the production team.
Details of the film project, such as a script or storyboard, and the genre of production (e.g., TVC, Reality Show).
Information on where the production will be broadcast.
A list of international crew members, their designations, and the bio page of their passports.
A packing list of equipment, including serial numbers, HS codes, and depreciated values.
Photographs of major equipment such as cameras, lenses, etc.

Cost
The cost is 900 Omani Rials for general filming permits and 600 Omani Rials for clearing equipment from the airport.

Private Locations

General Process
Private location permits must be obtained in addition to the general filming permit.

Cost
The cost for private location permits ranges from 300 to 1500 Omani Rials.

Drone Permitting

Drone Regulations
Drones are not allowed to be brought into the country.

Drone Importation Regulations
Importing drones is not permitted.

What Organisation Issues the Permits?
The Civil Aviation Authority is responsible for issuing drone permits.

Required Information/Documentation for Application of Local Drone
Details about the local drone pilot, drone model, and the filming location (GPS coordinates if possible).

Timings
Drone permits typically take 3 to 5 weeks to process.

Cost

Drone permit: 600 Omani Rials
Local Drones: Mavic III + Drone Operator: 500 Omani Rials
Inspire II + Drone Pilot: 650 Omani Rials

Equipment Customs Clearance

Is it a Carnet Country?
No.

General Process for Non-Carnet Country
Airport clearance is required.

Required Information/Documentation for Equipment Customs Clearance
A gear list with serial numbers of major items (such as cameras, lenses, etc.), including their value, HS codes for each item, and photographs of major equipment.

What Organisation Issues the Clearance?
The Ministry of Information is responsible for issuing customs clearance.

Timings
The clearance process typically takes 3 to 5 weeks. For faster processing, refer to the section on International Film Crew Accreditation regarding fast-tracking. This cost applies if you are bringing in equipment.

Cost/Customs
A fee of 5% of the equipment value must be paid for customs clearance.