Driving in Oman

I've read some interesting and funny tidbits about driving in Oman that I want to share:

• Vehicles are driven on the right side of the road, and it's compulsory to wear seat belts. 
• It's actually illegal to drive around in a dirty car in Oman. You may get stopped by the police who can fine you OMR5, although they are more likely to just tell you to wash your ride.
  
• Driving around Oman in your own rented car is quite easy. A six-lane highway connects Muscat and Nizwa and a single lane partially lit road, goes from Muscat to Sur. 
• There are still large parts of the Sur - Muscat route that has no mobile phone signal. If you break down be prepared to wait it out or hitch a ride to the next town and find a mechanic to bring back to your vehicle.
• Driving at night may be hazardous because of the risk of hitting camels that stray onto the road.
• Women should wear a headscarf when driving in these parts as it aids in deterring local males from following your vehicle and trying to make contact with you while you are driving. Yes this does happen, and there seems to be nothing discouraging them. They are friendly, but don't seem to understand that this kind of attention is unwanted.
• If you intend to drive in wadis (unsealed valley roads in river beds) a 4WD is highly desirable. You can never be sure how the road will be and if it starts raining the wadis will turn into rivers quickly.
• Oman has been experiencing severe flash flooding annually, since about 2001. The force of the water rushing down the rock hard treeless mountains can push cars and 4WDs off the road and upside down. So be careful! If you see dark clouds or rain starts, then find high dry ground, shelter and stay put. 
• If you managed to get a map of Oman makes sure you understand that maps generally reflect how Oman would like to have the roads. Some roads might be drawn as well-built streets but are not even paved. Roads not being visible on the map might just end and may even be painted till the end!

The Royal Oman Police even have an online test so that people are aware of the 4 categories of traffic signs: guiding, mandatory, preventative and warning. Test yourself here: http://www.rop.gov.om/english/trafficsignsmain.asp