Frequently Asked Questions

1. Payment Plan Option

VetPD offers flexible payment plans to make registration fees more manageable. If you would like to split your payment, please contact Ruth Harrington at accounts@vetpd.com to make individual arrangements. A few important points to note:

1. Payment plans must be arranged before the final balance is due.
2. The number of instalments and payment schedule will be agreed with you directly.
3. The full course fee must be settled before the start of the event to confirm your place.
4. Payment plans are available for both card and bank transfer payments.
5. Please allow at least 5 working days for bank transfers to clear.

2. Family & Group Bookings

Families and small groups are warmly welcomed! The event offers tailored experiences, family-friendly accommodations, and support services. For group quotes or special arrangements, please contact us directly — we’ll tailor your package to make your stay effortless and memorable.

3. Visa & Entry Requirements

• Passport Validity – Must be valid for at least six months beyond your travel date with at least one blank page.

• Visa-Free Entry (14 days) – Citizens of many countries can enter visa-free for up to 14 days with confirmed accommodation, return/outbound ticket, and proof of funds.

• e-Visa (30 days) – Many nationalities can apply online for a 30-day tourist visa via the Royal Oman Policeportal.

• Conditional e-Visa – Travelers holding valid visas or residency from countries like the US, UK, or Schengen area may be eligible for simplified entry.

• Important – Regulations can change; always confirm the latest requirements before travel.

4. Vaccinations & Health

• Routine Immunisations – Stay up-to-date on tetanus, MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), and other standard vaccines.

• Yellow Fever – Required only if arriving from a yellow fever risk country.

• Healthcare Standards – Oman has excellent healthcare facilities in urban areas like Muscat. Carry any personal medications you may need, as pharmacies in smaller towns may have limited stock.

5. Safety & Local Security

• General Safety – Oman is regarded as one of the safest destinations in the Middle East, with low crime rates and a welcoming culture.

• Practical Advice – Keep valuables secure, be mindful in crowded markets, and follow guidance from local organisers.

• Travel Caution – Avoid travel near the Yemen border due to ongoing security concerns.

6. Money & Currency

• Currency – Omani Rial (OMR).

• Cards & Cash – Credit cards are widely accepted; smaller purchases may require cash. ATMs are available in cities and larger towns.

• Currency Declaration – Check rules before arrival if carrying large sums of cash.

7. Connectivity & Power

• Wi-Fi – Available in most hotels and some cafes, though desert locations may have limited connectivity.

• Electricity – Oman uses 240 V, 50 Hz with Type G (UK-style) plugs. Bring adapters and voltage converters if required.

• Mobile Data – Local SIM cards from Ooredoo or Omantel are affordable and widely available.

8. What to Wear

• Respecting Cultural Norms – Oman is a conservative country, and modest dress is essential in public areas:

  • Women: Cover shoulders, upper arms, and knees. Loose tops with sleeves and trousers or skirts below the knee are ideal. Carry a light scarf to cover your hair when entering mosques.

  • Men: Avoid sleeveless shirts and shorts in public; wear lightweight trousers and short- or long-sleeved shirts.

• At Cultural/Religious Sites – Both men and women should cover arms and legs; women should also cover hair. Clothing should be loose, opaque, and non-clingy.

• Event & Leisure Wear:

  • Desert – Light, breathable clothing for the day, warm layers for cooler nights.

  • Beach/Pool – Swimwear is fine in hotel pools and private beaches; cover up when walking outside those areas.

9. Tipping

• Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service.

• In restaurants, a 10% tip is customary if service isn’t already included.

• Guides/drivers: US $10–15/day; tour guides: US $20–30/day for a group.

• Small tips of 500 baisa to 1 OMR are common for everyday assistance.

10. Local Customs & Etiquette

• Greet with “Salaam aleikum” — it’s polite and appreciated.

• Public displays of affection are discouraged.

• Always ask before photographing people, especially in rural areas.

• Remove shoes before entering a mosque or private home.

• During Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours.

11. Alcohol Rules & Duty-Free Allowance

• Alcohol is available only in licensed venues (mainly hotels and private clubs). Public drinking is illegal. Please note, that there is no alcohol sold at the desert camp but you may bring your own. Also note, this may not be consumed at the dinner table but discreetly in your room.

• You may bring up to 2 litres of wine or 48 cans of beer into Oman duty-free when arriving by air.

• Alcohol purchases at land borders are prohibited and may be confiscated.

• Prices in hotels can be high — buying at duty-free on arrival is often more economical.