Location: Oman
With the recent killing of Al Qaeda leader al-Zayahiri on July 31 and the 9th anniversary of the Westgate shopping mall attack in Nairobi, Kenya on September 21, the U.S. Embassy would like to remind U.S. citizens of various personal security practices that can help protect you in case of an emergency as local and U.S. holidays approach.
Please note that the threat level in Oman has not changed, but these events and others like them highlight the importance of practicing personal security at all times, in all places. While these practices cannot completely eliminate risk, they can help reduce the risk to keep you safe.
Actions to Take:
- Be alert to what is going on around you. Make sure to look around (and occasionally behind) yourself.
- Exercise vigilance when visiting malls, hotels, supermarkets, or crowded areas.
- If you notice someone is following or watching you, move to a public location and call the local police at 9999.
- Make sure your family is aware of your daily plans and how to reach you.
- If staying in a hotel, be aware of the hotel’s evacuation plan and know how you would exit in case of an emergency.
- Park your vehicle in locations near or easily accessible to exits. During emergencies it may be difficult to quickly exit shopping centers or crowded parking lots.
- Vary your times and routes to and from work and other frequently visited places.
- Keep your residence doors locked and windows closed.
- Check the interior and exterior of your vehicle prior to getting in, and look for things that are irregular or abnormal.
- Communication is key. Develop a PACE (Primary, Alternate, Contingency, Emergency) communication plan with friends and family.
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Assistance:
U.S. Embassy Muscat, Oman
Jamiat A’Duwal Al Arabiya Street,
Al Khuwair Area (Shatti Al-Qurum),
Muscat, OmanTel: +(968) 2464-3400; For after-hours emergencies, dial +968-2464-3400, and press zero.
Email: ConsularMuscat@state.gov
Website: https://om.usembassy.gov/
State Department – Consular Affairs
888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
Oman Country Information
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