Living in Oman: Cost of Living, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in Oman

Summary: The approximate population of Oman is 4.6 million people. The largest cities in Oman are Muscat, Salalah, Sohar, and Nizwa. Expats love living in Oman for its diverse culture, friendly people, and stunning landscapes. People describe life in Oman as peaceful, relaxed, and safe. Popular foods in Oman include seafood, rice, and flatbreads. Popular dishes include shuwa, a slow-cooked meat dish, and harees, a wheat porridge. The cons of living in Oman include the lack of public transportation, the hot climate, and the limited nightlife. The average cost of living for an expat is around $1,500 to $2,000 per month. This includes rent, utilities, food, and other expenses.

What do I need to know about living in Oman?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Oman, they said:

"Before retiring in Oman, expats should be aware of the country's culture and customs. It is important to research the local laws and regulations, as well as the cost of living. Expats should also consider the availability of healthcare and other services, such as banking and transportation. Additionally, expats should be aware of the climate in Oman, as it can be very hot and humid in the summer months. Finally, expats should be aware of the visa requirements for retirement in Oman," said one expat in Oman.

"Bring a lot of humor & an open mind. Do come because it's a fantastic experience and they have the most beautiful beaches I've ever seen. This town is changing quickly and if you want to see a bit of it's original culture you need to be here now and not in 10 years time," said one expat who made the move to Salalah.

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How do I meet people in Oman?

When we asked people living in Oman about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"If there is an American Women's Group (AWG), or other English-speaking group of women, join them, even if it doesn't sound like your thing. You will find a vast amount of knowledge, experience and advice, as well as new friends there. Although it sounds exclusive, our AWG has members from all over the world, including our host country, so you will make new contacts from a variety of locations. Also, if you have school-age children, immediately get involved in the school's parent volunteer or PTA program and volunteer for a committee...you will make friends faster, and that will be your saving grace on those days you feel homesick," commented one expat who made the move to Muscat.

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What is life like in Oman?

When we asked people living in Oman what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Expats come here mainly for management positions and for the rest their life revolves around family and friends. There aren't many social activities that are organized so it's a bit do-it-yourself," explained one expat living in Salalah, Oman.

"The Omani citizens appear to be very family oriented, with God (Allah) playing a major role in their lives. Although Islam is the main religion, there are other houses of worship in this country, including Protestant, Catholic, Hindi and others. We are asked to respect the Muslim holidays. However, we are not expected to fast during Ramadan, just to be respectful of their culture and eat in private, etc. The country has moved into the modern age, with cell phones, email and other modern technology and services," said one expat in Muscat.

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Is there a lot of crime in Oman?

We asked people if there is a lot of crime. They answered:

"Oman is generally considered to be a safe country with low levels of crime. The government has taken steps to ensure the safety of its citizens and visitors, and the overall crime rate is low. However, petty crime such as pickpocketing and theft does occur, particularly in crowded areas. It is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings," remarked one expat living in Oman.

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Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Oman accepting of differences?

"The Omanis are actually a small percentage of the people in this city, as labor is mostly imported from other countries such as India, the Phillipines, Sri Lanka and others. In addition, many of the technical experts here are imported from Europe and the United States. The Omanis appear to be very friendly and tolerant and even interested in the differences of the Europeans and Americans; however, the laborer tend to be looked down upon," wrote a member in Muscat.

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What are the schools in Oman like?

"Don't bother. I can guarantee the one good review on this school on this site was written by a member of staff. If your company pays for your children to be at this school while you wait for a better school then that is fine. Do not waste your own money on this school though, you are better off keeping them at home," explained one expat living in Muscat, Oman.

"The British School Salalah is small but very intimate. This is especially good if English is not your child's first language. The British Curriculum is followed and the level of education seems to be high," said one parent with children at British School Salalah in Salalah.

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Is the cost of living in Oman high?

We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Oman, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Oman is generally considered to be quite reasonable. Basic necessities such as food, transportation, and housing are generally affordable, and the cost of entertainment and leisure activities is also quite reasonable. The cost of living in Oman is lower than in many other countries in the Middle East, making it an attractive destination for expats," remarked one expat living in Oman.

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"The cost of living in Oman is generally considered to be quite reasonable. The capital city of Muscat is the most expensive place to live in the country, with prices for goods and services being higher than in other parts of the country. The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Muscat is around $500 USD per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can cost up to $800 USD per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Oman can cost around $15 USD per person," wrote one expat living in Oman.

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What type of recreational facilities are in Oman?

When we asked people living in Oman about recreational activities, they mentioned:

"Residents of Oman enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, including beaches, parks, and museums. The beaches offer a variety of activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and fishing. Parks provide a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors, with plenty of walking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas. Museums provide a great way to learn about the history and culture of Oman, with many featuring interactive exhibits and displays. Other recreational facilities include golf courses, tennis courts, and bowling alleys. There are also plenty of shopping and dining options, as well as cinemas and theatres," mentioned one expat inOman.

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What is the weather like in Oman?

"The weather in Oman is generally hot and dry, with temperatures ranging from mild to very hot. The summer months are usually the hottest, with temperatures reaching up to 40°C (104°F). The winter months are milder, with temperatures ranging from 15°C (59°F) to 25°C (77°F). Rainfall is rare in Oman, with most of the country receiving less than 100mm (4 inches) of rain per year," commented one expat who moved to Oman.

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Are there good restaurants in Oman?

"One of the most popular restaurants in Oman is the Al Angham Restaurant, located in Muscat. This restaurant serves traditional Omani cuisine, including dishes such as machboos, a rice dish with meat, and harees, a wheat porridge. The restaurant also offers a variety of seafood dishes, such as grilled fish and shrimps. The restaurant has a relaxed atmosphere and is a great place to enjoy a meal with friends and family. Another popular restaurant in Oman is the Al Mina Restaurant, located in Salalah. This restaurant serves a variety of traditional Omani dishes, such as kabsa, a rice dish with meat, and shuwa, a slow-cooked meat dish. The restaurant also offers a variety of international dishes, such as Italian and Chinese. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and is a great place to enjoy a meal with friends and family. The Al Khiran Seafood Restaurant is another popular restaurant in Oman. Located in Muscat, this restaurant serves a variety of seafood dishes, such as grilled fish, shrimps, and calamari. The restaurant also offers a variety of international dishes, such as Italian and Chinese. The restaurant has a relaxed atmosphere and is a great place to enjoy a meal with friends and family," mentioned an expat living in Oman.

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Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Oman?

"People living in Oman typically buy groceries and do other shopping at local supermarkets, convenience stores, and markets. Additionally, many people in Oman shop online for groceries and other items. Shopping malls are also popular places to buy groceries and other items," said one expat living in Oman.

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What are the visa & residency requirements in Oman?

"To apply for a visa to Oman, travelers must submit a valid passport, a completed visa application form, and a passport-sized photograph. Depending on the type of visa, additional documents may be required. Once the application is approved, the visa will be issued and sent to the applicant. To apply for residency in Oman, applicants must submit a valid passport, a completed residency application form, and a passport-sized photograph. Depending on the type of residency, additional documents may be required. Once the application is approved, the residency permit will be issued and sent to the applicant," said an expat in Oman.

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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Oman?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Oman can be expensive, depending on the type of coverage and services required. Generally, the cost of healthcare in Oman is higher than in many other countries, and health insurance premiums can be quite costly. However, the government of Oman provides subsidies for certain medical services, and there are also private health insurance plans available that can help to reduce the cost of healthcare," commented one expat who moved to Oman.

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