The U.S. Embassy in Muscat, Oman, issued a security alert on Monday, urging American citizens to remain vigilant amid regional tensions.
Embassy officials emphasize options for departure, shelter-in-place guidance, and travel restrictions for sensitive areas.
Americans are advised to maintain communication, secure essential supplies, and follow instructions from local authorities and embassy guidance to ensure safety.
Embassy officials reiterated that there is no higher priority than the safety and security of American citizens, stating that the Department of State is closely monitoring developments in Oman and the wider Middle East.
The debate comes against the backdrop of a widening conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran that has engulfed the Middle East since late February 2026.
The current crisis stems from joint U.S.–Israeli military strikes on Iranian targets, which Iranian forces have retaliated against with missile and drone attacks on Gulf states and U.S. facilities, including in Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, prompting closures of diplomatic posts and urgent travel warnings.
The regional confrontation, often referred to in the media as part of the 2026 Iran war, has caused hundreds of deaths, widespread instability, and disrupted airspace and transport.
According to reporting by U.S. officials, at least six American service members have been killed in related hostilities, contributing to Washington’s decision to urge citizens to leave the region.
Oman itself has seen drone strikes on ports and maritime targets, part of the spill‑over from the broader conflict.
In this security context, the embassy’s guidance, including departure options, shelter‑in‑place instructions near Duqm and Salalah, and travel restrictions, aims to protect Americans amid rising risks as the U.S.–Israel–Iran confrontation intensifies.
Americans in the country are urged to remain vigilant, follow instructions from local authorities, and review the latest guidance provided by the embassy.
The embassy outlined multiple options for Americans wishing to depart Oman. Commercial flights are currently operating from international airports, and citizens are encouraged to consider these departures if it is safe to do so.
The embassy advises checking airport and airline websites for flight availability and purchasing tickets directly.
For those unable or choosing not to depart, the embassy has issued shelter-in-place guidance, particularly for residents near Duqm or within a 100-kilometer radius of Salalah.
Americans in these areas are instructed to remain in secure structures, avoid windows, and maintain access to essential supplies such as food, water, and medications.
Travel restrictions have also been imposed for U.S. government employees in certain regions. The Musandam Governorate and Masirah Island have been designated as high-risk areas due to their proximity to Iran and Duqm, and U.S. citizens are strongly advised to avoid these locations.
Additionally, recreational maritime activities beyond 25 kilometers offshore have been restricted because of risks to commercial maritime traffic and potential naval activity.
The embassy continues to provide routine and emergency services for American citizens. In case of an emergency, individuals can contact [email protected] or call the embassy directly.
The Department of State also authorized non-emergency U.S. government employees and their family members to leave Oman as of March 3, 2026.
Citizens are advised to maintain communication with family and friends to provide status updates, ensure travel documents are up to date and easily accessible, and identify a secure location within their residence or another safe building.
Supplies of food, water, and medications should be maintained to prepare for extended periods of sheltering.
Americans are urged to avoid protests and demonstrations, maintain a low profile, and remain aware of their surroundings.
The embassy recommends that citizens monitor local news outlets for official guidance and enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive real-time safety and security updates.
Cell phones should be kept charged, with emergency numbers pre-programmed for rapid access.
Emergency assistance in Oman is available by dialing 9999. Americans can also contact the U.S. Embassy in Muscat at +968 2464-3400 or via email at [email protected].
The U.S. Department of State can be reached at +1-202-501-4444 from abroad, or 888-407-4747 from the U.S. and Canada.
The embassy emphasized that American citizens should be prepared to make informed decisions regarding their safety and consider departure options if deemed necessary.
Those who remain are advised to shelter in place with sufficient supplies and follow all local and embassy instructions.
The alert reflects ongoing concerns for American security in Oman and the wider Middle East.
By providing detailed guidance on departure options, travel restrictions, and emergency protocols, the embassy aims to ensure citizens are well-informed and able to respond to any potential threats swiftly and safely.
