Living in Oman guide for expats

Oman has a strategic location

Oman's official name is the Sultanate of Oman. It is located on the southeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula. It is a country with a wealthy past thanks to trading and oil and gas, beautiful outdoor scenery, and a lively, unique culture. Oman is strategically located, with the United Arab Emirates in the northwest, Saudi Arabia in the west, and Yemen in the southwest, with views overlooking the Arabian Sea, the Sea of Oman, the Persian Gulf, and the Indian Ocean. Its location has always played a major role in the country's development.

The nation is officially split into 11 governorates (muhafazat): Musandam, Al Buraimi, Al Batinah North, Al Batinah South, Muscat, A'Dahirah, A' Dkhiliya, A'Sharqiyah North, A'Sharqiyah South, Al Wusta, and Dhofar, which are then divided into wilayats (districts).

Oman is a monarchy

Oman functions as a complete monarchy, where the Sultan holds roles as both the head of state and the head of government. The Al-Said family has governed Oman since the middle of the 18th century. Sultan Haitham bin Tariq, who became ruler in 2020, has carried on the same agenda as Sultan Qaboos, concentrating on modernization and economic diversification. Oman is famous for its impartial and practical approach to foreign relations.

The nation has upheld positive relationships with nearby countries and the global community, frequently serving as a peacemaker in local disputes. Oman is known for its diplomatic approach, which focuses on conversation and refrains from interference.

Although Oman has accomplished a lot, it is still facing various challenges. Heavy reliance on oil revenues makes the country susceptible to changes in global oil prices. This has emphasized the need for diversifying the economy. Another urgent concern is the high unemployment rate, especially among young people. The government is focused on generating job opportunities by supporting entrepreneurship and encouraging growth in the private sector.

Oman has a strong local currency

The local currency in Oman is the Omani Rial, represented in Arabic by the symbol ر.ع. and with the international code OMR to differentiate it from the other currencies with similar names. One rial is divided into 1000 Baisas with two major Baisa notes: 100 and 500 Baisas. The main rial has also different notes of 1, 5, 10, and 50 rials. The coins are used to divide Baisas but tend not to be used much, and they are expected to disappear in the future.

Good to know:

The Omani Rial is pegged to the USD, which makes the conversion rate very stable and makes it easy to trade internationally.

Oman has an enchanting coastline

The coastline of Oman is one of its most defining and incredible features, stretching approximately 3,165 kilometers along the Arabian Sea, the Sea of Oman, and the Persian Gulf. This extensive coastal expanse is not only vital for the country's economy through fisheries and trade but also offers a wealth of natural beauty and cultural history. The Omani coastline is characterized by a unique range of landscapes, including pristine beaches, rugged cliffs, serene coves, and bustling ports.

Oman's northern coastline starts on the Musandam Peninsula, known as the "Norway of Arabia" for its beautiful fjord-like scenery. The rocky cliffs of Musandam descend dramatically into the transparent waters of the Strait of Hormuz, forming stunning views and a favorite location for dhow cruises and snorkeling. The small, charming towns of Khasab and Dibba can also be found in this area, providing a peek into the traditional way of life in Oman.

Musandam can easily be reached from the United Arab Emirates, but also by taking a ferry boat or a flight from Oman.

Heading towards the south, the coastline leads to the vibrant city of Muscat, the capital of the country. In this area, the coast is defined by a mixture of sandy shorelines and rocky formations. Muscat's shoreline features well-known beaches like Qurum Beach and Al Bustan Beach, along with the historic Muttrah port, which has a lively corniche and a busy traditional souq, and the Sultan Qaboos Port, where the royal ships are docked along with a few cruise ships during the winter.

Traveling further down the east coast, Al Sharqiya is renowned for the beautiful turtle nesting sites at Ras Al Hadd and Ras Al Jinz. Those areas are protected, and it is absolutely forbidden to camp on the beaches. To the south, the Barr Al Hikman Peninsula is well known for its large intertidal flats and diverse bird species, attracting birdwatchers to visit. It is considered the Maldives of Oman. It can become very windy in the summer months, so it is better to visit in the winter.

Oman experiences monsoons in the south

The coastline of the Dhofar region stands out from the rest of the country due to its distinct monsoon climate, which is called the Khareef. This seasonal occurrence changes the area into a green environment with refreshing temperatures and misty mountains. Salalah, Oman's second-largest city, is on the southern coastline.

The sea is very rough during the summer months in Dhofar, and sea swimming is not allowed on many beaches.

The famous cliffs and blowholes at Al Mughsail, known for shooting seawater into the air, are well-liked tourist spots. All GCC citizens and residents rush to Salalah as soon as the temperatures drop and the drizzling starts. It becomes a very crowded hotspot during July and August, requiring advance bookings to visit.

The coastal plains in Salalah have coconut groves, banana plantations, and traditional Omani houses, providing unique and picturesque scenery on the Arabian Peninsula. It is usually compared to Kerala by the many South Indian expatriates during the monsoon.

Oman has a preserved marine environment

Oman's shores are filled with a wide variety of sea creatures, attracting many diving and snorkeling enthusiasts from all around the world. The marine environment is inhabited by a variety of sea creatures, such as dolphins, whales, turtles, and different types of fish. The Daymaniyat Islands (30 minutes from Muscat), especially the coral reefs surrounding them, provide a wide array of colors and are recognized as top diving locations in the area.

Oman's dedication to marine conservation is emphasized by the islands being designated nature reserves. The Omani government has put in place various steps to safeguard its coastal and marine environments, acknowledging their significance both ecologically and economically. Efforts consist of creating marine reserves, controlling fishing methods, and addressing pollution through various initiatives. The conservation initiatives are essential to protecting the wellness of Oman's marine ecosystems, which play a crucial role in the country's biodiversity and tourism.

Oman has diverse climate conditions

Oman typically has a hot and mainly arid climate, which is common in the Arabian Peninsula. Nevertheless, the nation's diverse landscape, including coastal regions and mountainous areas, leads to different temperature patterns throughout various regions throughout the year. Therefore, there is always a place to hide from the heat within the country.

Hot and humid summer

Summer temperatures (April to October) can vary from 35°C to 45°C in coastal regions during the day. Hot and humid conditions are common in coastal regions such as Muscat and Salalah, particularly during the summer months. Closeness to the ocean slightly moderates temperatures while also raising humidity levels. May and June are extremely hot and dry months. May to August are usually the months with the highest temperatures. It is almost impossible without a sea breeze to stay outside during the summer months, even at night with temperatures above 30 degrees. Most summer outdoor activities run at sunrise or focus on shaded areas such as deep wadis with cold water.

An enjoyable winter season

From November to February, the milder winter weather typically sees temperatures between 20°C and 25°C, creating optimal conditions for outdoor activities, especially picnics. Sunset is as early as 5 p.m. during the shortest winter months. Expansive deserts like the Wahiba Sands face higher temperature fluctuations due to the absence of moderating effects from the ocean. These regions can experience extreme heat, with daytime temperatures frequently surpassing 45 °C and sometimes reaching 50 °C. In the desert, winter nights can be very cold, with temperatures possibly falling under 10°C, while daytime temperatures usually vary between 20°C and 30°C. The nation's high temperatures, particularly in desert regions during the summer, may present difficulties, but the cooler winter months offer a more pleasant climate for both locals and visitors.

Escaping summer heat

There are many mountainous areas in the northern and southern parts of Oman. The Hajar Mountains in the north and the Dhofar Mountains in the south offer a more moderate temperature than the nearby lowlands. In elevated areas like Jebel Shams, temperatures are noticeably lower during the summer, with maximums usually not surpassing 30 °C. In these regions, temperatures can drop to 0°C or lower during winter, particularly in the Jebel Akhdar area, where frost may sometimes form. It can freeze or even snow in Jebel Shams.

Oman has a large expatriate community

Oman's population includes both native Omanis and a large expatriate community, highlighting the country's diverse society and its heavy dependence on foreign workers for its economy. According to the latest data, Oman's population is around 5 million.

Around 55–60% of the population in Oman is represented by Omani citizens. This group is defined by having a high number of young individuals, with a significant percentage of inhabitants below 30 years old. In Oman, tribal affiliations and clans are essential in shaping society's social and cultural organization.

Around 40–45% of the population are expatriates, highlighting the diverse international labor force in the country. Most expatriates come from South Asian nations like India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and the Philippines. There is also a large group of foreign nationals from various Arab countries, East Africa, Europe, and the United States. These foreigners are employed in different industries, such as construction, healthcare, education, and service sectors. They are building the country's main infrastructure projects.

Oman is a country with many languages

Oman's linguistic diversity results from its rich cultural heritage, historical connections, and contemporary influences, leading to multiple languages spoken in the country.

Languages in Oman can be classified as official, commonly spoken, regional, and foreign languages. Arabic serves as the official language of Oman and is widely utilized in government, media, education, and daily interactions. Gulf Arabic is the main dialect spoken, with Modern Standard Arabic also utilized in formal situations like official papers, media reports, and educational resources. In Oman, various Arabic dialects differ greatly depending on the region.

In addition to Arabic, Oman has various regional and minority languages, showcasing its diverse cultural and ethnic composition. A different language can often be heard in Oman and is used by the Baluchi people, who have strong historical connections to the Baluchistan region in Iran and Pakistan. Swahili is also spoken by certain Omanis, particularly older generations, due to historical trading and cultural ties with East Africa. This remains a testament to Oman's impact on Zanzibar and the East African coastline.

Due to Oman's diverse expatriate population and global interactions, multiple foreign languages are commonly used. It is, therefore, possible to live in Oman for years without speaking Arabic.

English is frequently used, particularly in business, government, and education. It is also commonly taught in educational institutions and used as a secondary language. It acts as a common language for expatriate groups and for interacting with the global community.

Oman offers an affordable cost of living

In Oman, it is always possible to live on a tight budget, as salaries tend to vary from as low as OMR 100 per month up to several thousand for higher-level positions. The cost of living in Oman is generally affordable compared to other countries in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region but varies widely depending on lifestyle choices, location, and family size. Some of the main expenses are related to accommodation, transportation, and international education. However, many companies provide monthly allowances or shared housing and transportation for low-paid jobs. On the other hand, daily shopping is very affordable, even if most goods are imported. Fruit and vegetable prices in Oman tend to be lower during the winter months. Prices of basic goods are controlled by the government. Therefore, companies should ask for approval and provide proper justification before increasing their selling price. Most of the stores run regular weekend and holiday promotions, mainly focusing on bulk purchases. Grocery costs may vary depending on shopping habits.

Monthly food expenses for a single person can range from OMR 40 to OMR 100, while a family of four can spend between OMR 150 and OMR 400.

Most expatriates choose to settle in Oman to save some money, even if salaries tend to be lower than in other GCC countries. Giving your children a Western education could affect your monthly budget or even make it not affordable at all.

Tuition fees for private and international schools can be quite high, ranging from OMR 1,500 to OMR 7,000 per year, depending on the school and level of education.

Good to know: Many foreigners generally come to settle alone first before bringing their family along.

Useful links:

History of Oman

Oman by region

Visit Oman