Daily costs per person in Omani Rial. Sur is affordable — the real treasures (wadis, beaches, dhow yard) are free or nearly free.
Daily cost breakdown
Currency: OMR (Rial) (1 USD ≈ 0.385 OMR)
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Splurge | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | OMR 5–12 | OMR 20–40 | OMR 60+ | Hostel/camping → guesthouse → boutique hotel |
| Food | OMR 3–5 | OMR 7–12 | OMR 20+ | Local cafeterias & fish markets → restaurants → hotel dining |
| Transport | OMR 5–10 | OMR 12–20 | OMR 35+ | Shared car → rental car → 4x4 with driver |
| Activities | OMR 1–7 | OMR 10–25 | OMR 40+ | Free sites + 1 turtle visit → desert camp + wadis → luxury camp + snorkelling |
| Daily Total | OMR 14–34 | OMR 49–97 | OMR 155+ | $36–88 → $127–252 → $403+ |
Money-saving tips
Fresh seafood
Sur is a fishing town — grilled fish with rice and salad for OMR 2–3 at local restaurants. Buy from the harbour and have your guesthouse cook it for even less.
Free sights
The dhow shipyard, Al Ayjah quarter, watchtowers, corniche, Bimmah Sinkhole, and many beaches are all free. Sur's charm is in walking and exploring.
Wadi Shab cost
The entire Wadi Shab experience costs just OMR 1 (boat crossing). The hike, swim, cave, and waterfall are free. Bring your own water and snacks.
Desert camps
Basic Wahiba Sands camps cost OMR 25 including dinner and breakfast — a full desert experience. No need for the OMR 80+ luxury camps unless you want a pool.
Fuel is cheap
Petrol is OMR 0.21/litre. A full tank costs around OMR 10–12 and covers most of the region. Sur to Muscat round trip is under OMR 10 in fuel.
Turtle timing
Ras Al Jinz visits are OMR 7. Book one visit (morning for hatchlings or evening for nesting) rather than both unless turtles are your priority.
