looking for advice about moving to sunny Muscat :)

Hi @Steviesp1, I'm also considering a move to Oman. From what I gather Muscat is a great place.

About driving, work visa is not required but you would need to have an Omani driving license.

I'm interested to hear what the others have to say too.

Hi Stevie!
Oman is a beautiful country with a rich cultural heritage. You'd certainly like the place apart from the few things that you have mentioned. You wouldn't face a problem with the culture adaptability as far as you follow the norms. Wearing a bikini at the beach is not really welcomed, however, modesty is a part of the culture under specific norms.

You wouldn't face a problem while driving because you can purchase a private vehicle based on the UK license which is also easily converted to Omani driving license. The offered salary inclusive of the house rent is relatively good for a couple and you'd surely have a comfortable lifestyle. There are certain areas where the population of Britishers, Americans and most of the western people is relatively large, e.g,  'Madinat Qaboos',   'Madinat Illam', Azaiba and the seashore part of "Alhail" area. You can find these via google. Customer care services are not really good not just because of the communication but many other factors which you'll only know when you experience yourself. But apparently, things are manageable at the end.

Heat is a huge factor during the summers, especially from Mid April till the end of October when the temperatures can go as high as 48 and sometimes even beyond. But since everything is "Air conditioned",  that can overcome many concerns though.

Rest is all good. Best of luck and enjoy your time out there.

Thanks for the info   just a couple more questions, i like to do a lot of pedal bike riding (im thinking about bringing my bike with me on the plane) are there any local bike rides around Muscat, are Muscat roads safe to bike on. Also seeing my wife is the one working, what would be a typical day to keep myself content! beach time, gym, sightseeing etc, is Muscat a busy city and easy to meet friends.

Thanks

Steve

Biking in Muscat is indeed a nice experience, however, the main roads are not bike friendly due to high-speed limits. There are spots, particularly near or alongside the beaches or the Qurum coastal path/bikeways where you and your partner can experience a wonderful bike ride.

Being a Freebird, you'll be certainly enjoying the beautiful natured mountain regions that are very much accessible to people. I would suggest you have a look at a few topics on this forum where like-minded people make travel plans to beautiful WADIS (riversides) or the mountain hikes etc.  I would also suggest you purchase a 4x4 vehicle instead of a saloon because the offroad terrains are very much welcoming to he travellers.