The best time to visit Oman is typically during the British winter, between October and April. This is the ideal time climate-wise as the temperatures range between 24C and 35C, January and February being the coolest months. In summer, even coastal temperatures can frequently hit 40C.
The exception to this rule is Salalah. Here, the Khareef, or monsoon season, occurs from June through to September. Temperatures are cooler and, although it may be wet, the whole region is transformed into a lush, green paradise. There is also the colourful Khareef Festival in June/July: a lively programme of music, dance, films and festivities.
The other event to take note of is Ramadan, the holy month of fasting for all Muslims. The timings of when Ramadan begins and ends depends on the phases of the moon, so be sure to enquire for your dates. Muslims abstain from eating, drinking and smoking in public places between sunrise and sunset. During this time, alcohol is generally not served in hotels and restaurants (although exceptions are sometimes made for room service and minibars) and tourists are requested to refrain from eating, drinking and smoking in public places (including hotel swimming pool areas and beaches). Some tours do not run during this period.