• The biggest health warning is to drink a lot of water. This is two thirds desert after all. And protect yourself from the sun with all known methods possible to man.
• If you are driving in the sand dunes, be warned that motion sickness can be an issue. It doesn’t occur to many people to bring sea sickness tablets to the desert.

For police, fire authorities or ambulance in Oman, call 9999.

Temperatures soar into the high 40’s in parts of Oman in the summer months. Always carry a lot of water, especially when exploring the deserts. 1 and 0.5L bottles are available in supermarkets. It is good to carry snacks too, as you might not see a shop or stall for miles.

Never go offroad alone, unless you are au fait with recovery methods in the event of an accident. These include the use of spades, ropes sand mats, ladders, two spare tyres….we could go on but, really, you are best to have a good guide.

If you do a self-guided trip in Oman, make sure you deal with an expert agency to provide you with route maps, detailed notes and support.

Always check the weather when you are travelling in Oman. Rainfall can cause sudden and severe flooding in dry riverbeds and on roads that cross them. Even 4X4’s can be knocked over by rainfall gushing down the dry valleys.

Just in case of flash floods, head to high ground, dry ground or shelter if the rain starts. Most wadi crossings have red and white poles to show where you can cross in the event of a flood. If the water has hit the red bit it’s a no go zone, no matter how big your vehicle. Unless it’s a boat.

Oman’s forts are favourites with families, rails or ropes are not always available. So, keep your eye out for any danger points to children.

As tempting as the oceans might appear, sea currents can be very strong on the coast of Oman. Always seek advice about safe swimming areas.

If you are taking a day trip on a tourist boat, always ensure that lifejackets and safety procedures are in place.

Anyone sailing around Oman will probably already be aware that the FCO advises against all but essential travel by yacht and leisure craft more than 12 nautical miles from shore in the Gulf of Aden, Arabian Sea and part of the Indian Ocean. See their website for more details.