- Purchase the complete Expat Arrivals Oman Guide (PDF)
The cost of living in Oman is more reasonable than in many neighbouring countries, and income is generally tax-free. Prices are highest in the capital city and, according to the 2022 Mercer Cost of Living Survey, Muscat ranks 119th out of 227 cities, making it more expensive than Athens and Montreal but cheaper than Buenos Aires and Lisbon.
Expat packages in Oman for highly skilled Western workers still seem to be generous and tend to offer good salaries, accommodation, a car, bonuses, flights home and medical insurance. But some things are too good to be true: As comprehensive as these contracts seem, there are always unforeseen costs. Watch out for the added cost of things like visa-related health checks. School fees are also a big add-on cost. Another thing that has been a big problem in the recent past and could be a financial issue for expats when working in Oman is the relative job insecurity. While this is being addressed, it is not an easy fix and could be more of a concern for expats than employment packages and cost of living.
Cost of accommodation in Oman
Expats will be happy to find that accommodation costs are much more affordable than many expat destinations, with lower rent and utility expenses. New homes are constantly popping up, so it is easy to find a place that fits any budget, mood and style. That said, costs do vary with size, facilities and area. Many rentals come unfurnished, so shipping and buying furniture are additional costs, and utilities such as water, gas and electricity are generally excluded from the quoted rental price.
New arrivals should note that some landlords may ask for advance lump sums equivalent to four, six or 12 months' rent in advance. In some cases, it's possible for rent to be paid monthly too, so it is important to understand the lease contract.
Cost of transport in Oman
The cost of using a car in Oman is much cheaper than in Europe. As a result, virtually every expat drives, and few use public transport – though buses are a cheaper alternative. Taxis are also good value – there is a metered fare to gauge the price, and passengers can often negotiate this if they are not satisfied with the amount.
Cost of food and entertainment in Oman
European expats will find the cost of food and drink to be cheaper in Oman, while others may find it more expensive. Regardless, though, if one is willing to buy local products instead, it's an easy way to save money.
That said, Oman has introduced a 'sin tax' on certain products – such as tobacco, alcohol, pork and energy drinks among others – that have increased the prices of these items dramatically. Purchasing these products will therefore be extremely expensive in Oman.
Alcohol
Buying alcohol in Oman can be complicated and costly, and there are strict laws and lifestyle customs to abide by. Expats who would like to buy and drink alcohol in Oman must procure a liquor permit. An authorised residence card is required to get a permit.
Alcohol can only be bought and consumed in establishments and restaurants that have a proper licence to sell it, and if rules are not followed, expats can face hefty fines. With a liquor permit, expats can also buy alcohol from bottle stores for home consumption.
Entertainment
Eating out can be costly, and if they want a drink, expats will have to frequent expensive Western-style hotels. If someone doesn't mind forgoing alcohol, there is a wide array of independent ‘dry’ establishments where meals are excellent and reasonably priced.
Sadly, tourist activities are highly overpriced. On the flip side, beach activities cost next to nothing, cinema tickets are relatively cheap and the Royal Opera House, a must-see, has internationally competitive prices.
Cost of healthcare in Oman
Citizens of Oman and other member countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council can access public healthcare for free. Other expats get a subsidised rate with public healthcare, but tend to opt for private options. Health insurance is a must when moving to Oman, and most companies will offer it to the entire family as part of the employment package. Be sure to check the terms and conditions of any insurance offered to ensure it covers dental and mental health too.
Cost of schooling in Oman
The cost of schooling is a huge expense if your employer does not cover it – especially if an expat has several children. While there are public schools, expats generally opt for costly international and private schooling, and many schools require fees to be paid before the first day of the term.
Cost of living in Oman chart
Note that prices may vary depending on location and service provider. The table below is based on average prices for Muscat in September 2022.
Accommodation (monthly rent) |
|
One-bedroom apartment in the city centre |
OMR 250 |
Three-bedroom apartment in the city centre |
OMR 450 |
One-bedroom apartment outside the city centre |
OMR 170 |
Three-bedroom apartment outside the city centre |
OMR 300 |
Shopping |
|
Milk (1 litre) |
OMR 0.88 |
Dozen eggs |
OMR 1.57 |
Loaf of white bread |
OMR 0.43 |
Rice (1kg) |
OMR 0.83 |
Pack of chicken breasts (1kg) |
OMR 3.24 |
Pack of cigarettes |
OMR 1.77 |
Eating out |
|
Big Mac Meal |
OMR 2.81 |
Coke (330ml) |
OMR 0.35 |
Cappuccino |
OMR 1.88 |
Local beer (500ml) |
OMR 1.86 |
Three-course meal for two at mid-range restaurant |
OMR 15.00 |
Utilities |
|
Mobile call rate (minute-to-minute) |
OMR 0.05 |
Internet (uncapped – average per month) |
OMR 27.75 |
Utilities (gas, electricity, water – one month for small apartment) |
OMR 37 |
Transport |
|
City-centre bus fare |
OMR 0.50 |
Taxi (rate per km) |
OMR 0.30 |
Petrol (per litre) |
OMR 0.22 |
Further reading
►For more on managing your finances in Oman, see Banking, Money and Taxes in Oman
Expat Experiences
"With the introduction of the sin tax, beverages, alcohol, pork, cigarettes and imported food are at least double the price compared to that in my home country." Read more about what Caroline, a Kenyan expat, has to say about life in Oman.
Are you an expat living in Oman?
Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Oman. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute.
Expat Health Insurance
Cigna Global
If you’re thinking about taking out private health insurance, our trusted partner Cigna Global is very aware of all the difficulties that expats can face when it comes to healthcare in a new location, so they have created a range of international health insurance plans specifically designed for expats, which you can tailor exactly to the needs and ensure access to quality care for you and your family.
Moving Companies
Moving Internationally?
Sirelo has a network of more than 500 international removal companies that can move your furniture and possessions to your new home. By filling in a form, you’ll get up to 5 quotes from recommended movers. This service is free of charge and will help you select an international moving company that suits your needs and budget.