Cost of Living in Oman

Cost of food and drink in Oman

European expats will find the cost of food and drink in Oman cheaper, while Americans may find it more expensive. Regardless, though, if one is willing to consume local products, one will save money. Lulu is the best value supermarket, and Al Fair is the most expensive – but has highest quality – and Carrefour is mid-range. 

Alcohol

Buying alcohol in Oman can be complicated and costly. As it’s a Muslim country, licences are required to buy booze from an off-licence shop, and the price of this piece of paperwork is set according to how much one intends to buy each month. Furthermore, one's employer has to provide permission, and the quantity of alcohol one is allowed to purchase is related to a person's salary (the maximum that can be spent on alcohol is 10 percent of a person's annual salary). 

Entertainment

Eating out can be costly, and if wanting a drink, one is forced to frequent expensive Western-style hotels. Luckily, there are a number of discount arrangements which means expats rarely pay full price.

If a person doesn't mind foregoing the booze, there is a wide range of independent ‘dry’ establishments, where the food is excellent and reasonably priced. Expats should note that there is a 20 percent tax on the bill in Oman.

Sadly, tourist activities are highly overpriced. On the flip side, though, beach activities cost next to nothing. There is snorkelling, sunset cruises or dolphin sightings available to expats. The boats are well maintained and the crew knowledgeable.

Other entertainment is not costly. Cinema tickets are relatively cheap. Beaches and parks are free. The Royal Opera House is a must-see, and the price and performances are internationally competitive.
 

Cost of healthcare in Oman

Most companies offer health insurance to the family as part of the employment package. However, there are often exclusions, such as mental health and dentistry, and some insurance policies do not provide coverage for the health centres expats prefer, such as Muscat Private Hospital and Medident. This means most people end up paying some health costs irrespective of insurance. These can add up terrifyingly quickly.  

Cost of schooling in Oman

The cost of schooling is a huge expense if the company does not pay – especially if an expat has several children. There is no free education for expats in Oman, and most schools demand that fees are paid prior to the first day of the term. Some institutions require expats pay a refundable deposit.