Oman's stunning blend of tradition and modernity attracts travellers with its majestic mountains, golden deserts, and vibrant souks. Before embarking on your journey, understanding the local currency, carrying cash efficiently, and using a forex card are crucial to ensure hassle-free travel. Oman's official currency is the Omani Rial (OMR), subdivided into 1000 baisa. The Rial is one of the world's strongest currencies, reflecting the country's robust economy.

Apply for your Oman e-visa through Atlys and receive it within the promised timeframe, ensuring a smooth start to your trip!

Carrying cash in Oman can feel unmanageable, especially with currency conversion concerns and security risks. Here’s where a Forex card for Oman steps in as the perfect travel companion. A Forex card is a prepaid card loaded with foreign currency, offering better exchange rates and added safety compared to cash or credit cards. This blog will help you navigate the best Forex card options for Oman and equip you with essential tips to maximise travel funds.

What are the best forex cards in India for Oman?

Here are the best forex cards in India for Oman: 

1. AtlysX Global FX Card

2. HDFC Multicurrency Forex Card

3. Orient Exchange Multi-Currency Forex Card

4. Niyo Zero Forex Card

5. Standard Chartered Multi-Currency Forex Card

1. AtlysX Global FX Card

The AtlysX Global FX Card is a hassle-free solution for travellers, offered free to all Atlys customers with no issuance fees. Enjoy zero markup on your first load and access transparent, competitive exchange rates. Valid for years, this card is perfect for multiple trips, and you can reload it anytime through the Atlys app, even while travelling. With a fully digital process, there's no need for paperwork or branch visits.

• Issuance Fee: Free (For Atlys customers)

• ATM Withdrawal Charges: USD 3 / transaction

• Supported Currencies: You can load USD onto a Global FX Card and use it to spend in any currency without incurring cross-currency charges. The card supports currencies, including AUD, CAD, Euro, GBP, HKD, JPY, NZD, etc. 

• Markup Fees: No fee on the initial load; a 2% markup is applied on subsequent loads. 

• Exchange Rates: Real-time exchange rates

• Customer Support: Get 24/7 support through the Atlys app, chat, email, or hotline for card usage, balance checks, and emergencies.
  

2. HDFC Multicurrency Forex Card

The HDFC Bank Multicurrency ForexPlus Card is a universal solution for international travellers, allowing you to carry up to 22 currencies, including the Omani Rial (OMR), on a single card. 

• Issuance Fee: ₹500 plus applicable GST per card

• Reload Fee: ₹75 plus applicable GST per reload transaction

• ATM Withdrawal Charges: For Omani Rial, OMR 0.70 per transaction

• Supported Currencies: The card supports multiple currencies, including AUD, CAD, EUR, GBP, HKD, JPY, NZD, OMR, and more, totalling 22 currencies.

• Markup Fees: No fee for transactions made in the currency loaded on the card; however, a cross-currency markup of 2% is applicable for transactions in a currency not loaded on the card.

• Exchange Rates: Competitive exchange rates at the time of loading/reloading

• Customer Support: 24/7 assistance through HDFC Bank PhoneBanking services, accessible via international toll-free numbers across 32 countries.

3. Orient Exchange Multi-Currency Forex Card

The Orient Exchange Multi-Currency Forex Card is a convenient and cost-effective solution for international travellers, allowing you to carry multiple currencies on a single card.

• Issuance Fee: Zero issuance charges

• Reload Fee: Zero reloading charges

• ATM Withdrawal Charges: While Orient Exchange does not charge for ATM withdrawals, some foreign banks and ATMs may impose additional fees.

• Supported Currencies: The card supports multiple currencies, including OMR, USD, EUR, GBP, AUD, CAD, SGD, AED, and more, totalling 14 currencies.

• Markup Fees: No markup fees; transactions are processed at interbank rates with zero markups.

• Exchange Rates: Competitive interbank rates are available during loading/reloading.

• Customer Support: Available during business hours through Orient Exchange's customer care services.

4. Niyo Zero Forex Card

The Niyo Global Forex Card, powered by SBM Bank, is a smart and cost-effective solution for international travellers. This zero-markup card allows you to manage your travel expenses seamlessly while offering the convenience of global usability with no hidden fees.

• Issuance Fee: ₹0

• Reload Fee: ₹0

• ATM Withdrawal Charges: No fees from Niyo, but foreign banks or ATMs may impose additional charges.

• Supported Currencies: The card supports multiple currencies globally, making it versatile for travellers visiting any country.

• Markup Fees: Zero Forex markup; transactions are processed at interbank exchange rates.

• Exchange Rates: Competitive real-time interbank rates for every transaction.

• Customer Support: 24/7 assistance through the Niyo app and helpline for a hassle-free experience.

5. Standard Chartered Multi-Currency Forex Card

The Standard Chartered Multi-Currency Forex Card is another secure solution for international travellers, allowing you to load and manage up to 20 currencies on a single card, including Omani Riyal. Additional benefits include contactless payment capabilities, online account management, comprehensive insurance coverage, protection against card misuse up to ₹5,00,000 and personal air accident insurance of ₹50,00,000.

• Issuance Fee: ₹299 (waived for Premium, Priority, and Private Banking customers)

• Reload Fee: ₹99 for branch reloads; online reloads are free

• ATM Withdrawal Charges: Fees vary by currency; for example, USD withdrawals incur a $2.00 fee, while EUR withdrawals have a €1.50 fee

• Supported Currencies: Supports up to 20 currencies, including USD, OMR, EUR, GBP, AED, AUD, CAD, CHF, JPY, SGD, and more

• Markup Fees: A 3.5% cross-currency markup fee applies when transacting in a currency not loaded on the card

• Exchange Rates: Locks in exchange rates at the time of loading, protecting against currency fluctuations

• Customer Support: 24/7 assistance through Standard Chartered's customer care services

Key Factors in Choosing the Best Forex Card

• Supported Currency: Opt for a card that supports the Omani Rial (OMR) to avoid cross-currency charges.

• Zero or Low Markup Fees: Look for cards with zero or minimal markup fees, especially for OMR transactions.

• ATM Withdrawal Fees: Choose cards with low or no ATM withdrawal fees to save on cash access while in Oman.

• Convenient Reload Options: AtlysX and Niyo Forex Cards allow instant reloading via apps for uninterrupted travel.

• Security and Support: Ensure 24/7 customer support, fraud protection, and contactless payment features.

• Additional Benefits: Evaluate perks such as insurance coverage and exchange rate locking for cost efficiency.

 Benefits of Using a Forex Card in Oman

• Safety and Security: A Forex card minimises the theft risk compared to carrying large amounts of cash.

• Cost Efficiency: Enjoy competitive exchange rates and zero or low fees, ensuring maximum transaction savings.

• Multiple Currency Support: Cards like the HDFC Multicurrency Forex Card allow seamless usage across multiple destinations.

• Budget Management: Pre-loading currency helps stick to a budget and prevents overspending.

• Ease of Use: Widely accepted at ATMs, hotels, restaurants, and shops in Oman.

Forex Tips While Travelling to Oman

• Carry a Mix of Payment Options: Use your Forex card for transactions and carry minimal cash for emergencies.

• Reload Before Departure: Load your card with enough OMR before leaving to avoid fluctuating exchange rates.

• Check for Hidden Fees: Be aware of ATM withdrawal charges or inactivity fees imposed by foreign banks.

• Keep Customer Support Details Handy: Save helpline numbers to resolve any card-related issues promptly.

• Activate Contactless Payment: Use contactless features for small transactions for added convenience.

Conclusion

Choosing the right Forex card is key to a hassle-free trip to Oman. Evaluate options based on currency support, fees, and added benefits to ensure maximum savings and convenience. Cards like the HDFC Multicurrency Forex Card or Niyo Zero Forex Card are excellent for their OMR support, low fees, and user-friendly features. Combine a Forex card with smart travel planning to make the most of your journey in Oman!