21 Secrets About Living In Oman To Know Before Moving

Moving abroad to the Middle East might seem like a daunting prospect, yet it needn’t be.

Find out everything you need to know about being an expat living in the country with our list of 21 secrets you need to know that will make you fall in love with Oman!

Sections

1. English is the unofficial second language of Oman

Arabic is the most commonly spoken (and official) language in Oman, but luckily, English is considered the unofficial second language of many Omanis.

It’s always recommended that you learn at least a little bit of the Arabic language if you live abroad for some period. This will make you popular with the locals (many of which respect tourists and expats for at least having a go at it), but it will also help you in terms of job hunting and daily life.

2. The cost of living

The cost of living in Oman is not overly high and is reasonable compared to many neighboring countries in the Arabian Peninsula. Rent and utility bills are generally cheaper, and so is food.

On top of this, many expats are offered an attractive employment package, including accommodation, car, and health insurance, although this does vary between occupations.

Many major banks make handling your money and international bank transfers easy.

3. The importance of religion and family

As with many other Arab nations, Omani culture is closely tied to the religion of Islam, which is the country’s official religion. Almost all Omanis are Muslim and go to mosques.

Omanis are very humble and down-to-earth and emphasize and appreciate their close family bonds. Food is very much a part of their culture, and eating as a group is expected. Being welcomed into someone’s home is seen as a great honor.

4. Visas and permits

Knowing what visas and permits you need before you travel is a must, yet it is something that commonly trips up expats!

If you are traveling from a country, not in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), a tourist visa must be obtained from the Royal Omani Police website before traveling to Oman.

If you are hoping to take up employment in Oman, you can only do so under a work permit. To qualify, you must be a foreign national between the age of 21 and 60 and have a confirmed job offer from a company in the country.

5. Education in Oman

In Oman, education up to the secondary level is free.

While some expats send their children through this public education to local schools, other expats prefer private schools or international schools such as the much sought-after American British Academy.

6. Prepare yourself for an extreme climate

Oman has dessert-like conditions, with the weather very much reflecting this. Those living in Muscat, Oman’s capital, regularly see temperatures of 86°F and more. However, on the coast, temperatures have been known to be as high as 122°F.

If you aren’t a fan of too much heat, fear not, as almost every public building and many homes now have air conditioning, which can be a lifesaver in the humid summer months.

7. Accommodation and housing in Oman

Employers in Oman often provide their foreign workers with accommodation or give them housing allowance as a standard part of their contract.

However, if this isn’t the case, there are many online property portals to choose from, or you could speak to a real estate agent regarding the Oman property market for foreign employees.

8. Private medical insurance is essential for expats

To receive emergency medical treatment, health insurance is a must if you plan on moving to Oman.

As an expat, you do have an automatic right to public healthcare, but you will have to pay if you find yourself in need of emergency treatment. This type of treatment is only available for free for Omani nationals.

Private health insurance with a recognized provider in Oman is now mandatory for overseas/expat workers with additional options to be treated in private hospitals.

9. Social etiquette in Oman

The Omanis are some of the friendliest people around, making it essential not to cause any offense.

Always being polite is the #1 rule of thumb: dignity and respect are essential aspects of the country’s culture. Even name-calling can be legally punishable. As well as this, any form of criticism is generally not appreciated.

During Ramadan, both Muslims and non-Muslims must abide by a set of rules, including no eating, drinking, smoking, singing, playing music, or dancing in any public place. These rules are enforceable by law and come with hefty punishments if ignored.

10. Traveling around Oman

The best way to truly appreciate Oman in all its splendor is by car; most expats have one. The roads are considered safe and are well-maintained; however, watch out for flooding during the monsoon months, which can often impact road travel.

While there is a public transport system in Oman, it is generally hectic and not always 100% reliable, but it’s there if you require it.

11. Spectacular mountains & sandy beaches

Oman is the perfect place to live and work for those who love the outdoors. The country has a wide variety of stunning scenery, including impressive mountains to hike and unspoiled beaches to lounge on your days off.

12. Delicious Cuisine of Oman

It’s safe to say that the cuisine of Oman is mouthwatering!

Omani cuisine is heavily influenced by Indian, Mediterranean, and Persian cooking, so it’s packed with flavor, spices, and a wide variety of herbs. Staple meats include chicken and lamb (no pork, as it’s a Muslim country), made into sumptuous curries and hearty stews and usually accompanied by rice or bread.

Fish is prevalent given the country’s proximity to the sea, and sharks are considered a delicacy!

The day’s main meal is usually consumed at lunchtime, with dinner being a lighter affair.

13. The Arabian Oryx is the national animal of Oman

The Arabian Oryx (or the White Oryx as it is also known) is the national animal of not just Oman but the UAE, Jordan, Qatar, and Bahrain.

The Oryx is distinguished by its luminous white coat, with brown legs and black stripes from neck to head. They have a black ornamented tail and black-tipped ears. They can weigh up to a whopping 90 kgs!

14. They have four UNESCO World Heritage sites

UNESCO sites have been granted the legal protective status due to their importance. And Oman has, yes, that’s right, FOUR World Heritage sites. These are:

Bahla Fort
Bat
Al Khutm
Al Ayn

15. The alcohol laws are STRICT

It is possible to drink alcohol in the country, but strict laws exist.

Certain restaurants, bars, and nightclubs have been granted special licenses to sell alcohol; most of these premises are located in hotels and tourist areas.

No alcohol is allowed to be consumed during the month of Ramadan.

And remember, being drunk in public in Omani Law is strictly prohibited.

16. Kahwa is the national beverage of Oman

Kahwa translates as coffee in Arabic and is a super popular beverage in Muslim countries. Usually mixed with cardamon powder, it has a distinct and warming taste that the Omanis can’t get enough of!

It’s seen as an essential part of hospitality. It is usually served with dessert in family homes and restaurants alike, although many people (including expats) like to bring a freshly brewed pot to friends’ houses.

17. Mountain Dew is extremely popular, too

Somewhat incredibly, Mountain Dew is known as a popular beverage, not just in Oman but throughout the rest of the Arab world too! In fact, it has one of the highest rates of consumption here, far outdoing other major brands such as Coca-Cola.

It is often referred to as the “alcohol of Oman” sold in many supermarkets, restaurants, and social clubs.

18. Omani architecture is the jewel of the Middle East

Most expats have heard that Omani architecture is among some of the most stunning anywhere on the planet, but it’s not until you get to Oman that you will truly appreciate its splendor. Photos really don’t do it justice!

There are many historic and beautiful castles and palaces. Still, even traditional Omani homes are designed with their exterior beauty in mind, even down to the fine details, like the doors, which are uniquely decorated and captivating in their original designs.

19. The importance of Frankincense

Practically anywhere you go in the country, you will smell the pungent, aromatic smell of Frankincense, which is a symbol of national pride and steeped in ancient tradition.

Commonly referred to as “White Gold,” Frankincense is frequently burnt in homes, shops, and businesses.

20. This is a super safe country

Oman is commonly described as a safe country, with the threat of terrorism low.

Although there is slight political unrest in the country, it’s advised that expats should stay away from demonstrations and protests.

Thankfully violence in the country is rare, but it’s always best to employ common sense, such as being extra careful after dark, keeping a close eye on your money and valuables when out and about, and not entering unfamiliar neighborhoods.

21. Work-life balance in Oman

According to one Omani newspaper, the country ranks amongst the top ten countries with the best work-life balance. The low cost of living is partly responsible for the findings.

Like the Western lifestyle, most spend less than 45 hours per week at work and generally finish work around 5 PM. Their evenings and weekends typically revolve around Omani citizens relaxing and spending time with family and friends.

FAQs

What should I wear in Oman?

It’s advised that when you visit Oman, men wear pants and shirts that are ideally light, but they should cover your ankles and be worn up to your shoulders. This is generally the case, but there are situations where other forms of dress may be acceptable.

Women are expected to wear loose-fitting clothes and generally be well covered up. It may be possible to wear a swimsuit or bikini at certain hotels, but it’s always important to check first to avoid causing any offense.

What is Oman famous for?

Oman is famous for its friendly welcome, delicious food, stunning scenery, excellent education system (including acclaimed international schools), warm climate, and rich history woven with tradition.

No wonder so many expats love it there!

Is Oman safe for females?

Yes, this Arab country is considered a very safe country for females, with violence against women being very low.

But let’s not forget that it is also, at least by Western standards, a Muslim country and very conservative. So there are specific rules that must be obeyed. Being disrespectful is a huge no-no, so please abide by Omani regulations.

Can foreign nationals get by just knowing English?

You can certainly get by. Although English is considered pretty much the country’s second language, expats should be able to speak at least a small amount of Arabic when living abroad.

Final Thoughts

We hope our guide to living in Oman has helped inspire you to make a move! After all, what’s not to love? Expats enjoy fantastic food, friendly people, a variety of both excellent public and private schools for expat children, access to international banks, and an outstanding work-life balance, all in this beautiful country.

Do you feel like you love Oman already? So, what’s stopping you from joining them? Make the move today!