Working in Oman: Complete Expat Job Guide 2026

Why Work in Oman?

Oman, the Sultanate on the southeastern tip of the Arabian Peninsula, offers expatriate professionals a distinctly different Gulf experience. With a population of approximately 5.1 million — about 42% of whom are expatriates — Oman combines the economic benefits of a GCC oil state with stunning natural beauty, a rich cultural heritage, and a famously welcoming attitude toward foreigners. Known as the most laid-back and culturally authentic of the Gulf states, Oman appeals to professionals who value quality of life alongside career advancement.

The country's economy is anchored by oil and gas, but Oman Vision 2040 is driving aggressive diversification into tourism, logistics, mining, fisheries, and manufacturing. Unlike the UAE or Qatar, Oman has chosen a more measured path to development — one that preserves its cultural identity and natural landscapes while modernizing its economy. This creates unique opportunities in sustainable tourism, eco-development, port logistics, and resource extraction beyond hydrocarbons.

Oman's appeal extends beyond economics. The country boasts dramatic landscapes ranging from the Al Hajar Mountains and the Wahiba Sands desert to pristine coastlines along the Arabian Sea. Muscat, the capital, is one of the most beautiful cities in the Gulf, with its traditional architecture, harbor setting, and absence of the hyper-urbanization found in Dubai or Doha. For professionals seeking a meaningful cultural experience alongside their career, Oman offers something no other GCC country can match.

The country levies no personal income tax, and while salaries are generally lower than in the UAE or Qatar, the significantly lower cost of living means that purchasing power and savings potential remain competitive.

Top Industries Hiring in Oman

Oil and Gas

Petroleum Development Oman (PDO), jointly owned by the government and Shell, is the country's largest oil and gas producer and one of its biggest employers. PDO operates in the vast interior of Oman, managing oilfields, gas plants, and water injection facilities. Other major players include OQ (formerly Oman Oil Company), Daleel Petroleum, and Occidental Petroleum. International service companies like Schlumberger, Halliburton, and Baker Hughes maintain significant operations.

The oil and gas sector offers some of Oman's best compensation packages. Petroleum engineers earn OMR 1,200-2,500 monthly, while senior technical specialists and project managers can command OMR 2,500-5,000. PDO packages often include housing, education allowances, and remote location premiums for desert postings. Given the Omani Rial's peg to the USD at 0.385 OMR per dollar, an OMR 2,000 salary equals approximately USD 5,195.

Tourism

Oman's tourism sector is one of the most exciting growth areas in the GCC. Unlike Dubai's modern attractions or Saudi Arabia's mega-projects, Oman offers nature-based and cultural tourism: mountain trekking in Jebel Shams, desert camping in the Sharqiyah Sands, turtle watching in Ras Al Jinz, diving and snorkeling in the Daymaniyat Islands, and exploring ancient forts and villages. The government's Tourism Strategy 2040 targets significant growth in international arrivals.

The Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN) develops flagship projects including the Yiti tourism development, Mina Sultan Qaboos waterfront, and Ras Al Hadd eco-tourism complex. Hotels, adventure tourism operators, and destination management companies seek hospitality professionals, tour operators, eco-tourism specialists, and marketing professionals. Mid-level hospitality roles offer OMR 600-1,200 monthly, with general managers and directors earning OMR 2,000-4,000.

Logistics and Ports

Oman's strategic location at the mouth of the Strait of Hormuz and along major shipping routes makes logistics a priority sector. The Port of Salalah is one of the largest container ports in the Middle East, operated by APM Terminals. The Port of Sohar, developed as a major industrial and logistics hub in partnership with the Port of Rotterdam, hosts refining, petrochemical, and manufacturing operations. The Special Economic Zone at Duqm (SEZAD) is a massive development project creating an industrial city with a port, drydock, refinery, and free trade zone.

Logistics professionals, port operations specialists, supply chain managers, and maritime engineers find strong opportunities. Salaries range from OMR 800-1,500 for mid-level roles to OMR 2,000-4,000 for senior positions.

Mining and Minerals

Oman has significant mineral resources beyond hydrocarbons, including copper, chromite, gypsum, limestone, and marble. The mining sector is growing under Vision 2040, with the government encouraging exploration and extraction. Oman's geological diversity creates opportunities for geologists, mining engineers, environmental specialists, and operations managers.

Fisheries and Agriculture

Oman has the longest coastline in the Arabian Peninsula, and the fisheries sector is a traditional pillar of the economy that is being modernized. Commercial fishing, aquaculture, and seafood processing are growing, with government investment in fishing ports, cold storage facilities, and export infrastructure. Agricultural development in the Batinah coast region and Dhofar also creates specialized roles.

Healthcare

The Ministry of Health operates government hospitals and health centers across the country, including the Royal Hospital and Sultan Qaboos University Hospital in Muscat. Private healthcare is growing, with institutions like Muscat Private Hospital, Starcare Hospital, and Badr Al Samaa Group of Hospitals expanding. International doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and medical technologists are in demand, particularly in specialties where local expertise is limited. Medical licensing through the Oman Medical Specialty Board (OMSB) is required.

Salary Expectations

Omani salaries are quoted in monthly OMR (Omani Rial), pegged to the US dollar at a rate of 0.385 OMR per USD. The Omani Rial is the third highest-valued currency in the world. There is no personal income tax in Oman, though the government introduced a 5% VAT in April 2021.

Typical monthly salary ranges by experience level:

• Entry Level (0-2 years): OMR 300-700
• Mid Level (3-7 years): OMR 700-1,500
• Senior Level (8-15 years): OMR 1,500-3,000
• Executive/Director: OMR 3,000-6,000+

While nominal salaries in Oman are generally lower than in the UAE or Qatar, the cost of living is also substantially lower. Housing in Muscat costs 30-50% less than equivalent properties in Dubai, and daily expenses are more affordable. Benefits packages typically include housing allowance, annual flights, and medical insurance. Oil and gas sector packages are the most generous, often including remote location allowances, compound accommodation, and education benefits.

Visa and Work Permits

Oman's visa system is employer-sponsored, managed through the Royal Oman Police (ROP) and the Ministry of Labour:

• Employment Visa: Sponsored by your employer, who must obtain a labour clearance from the Ministry of Labour before applying for the visa. Valid for 2 years, renewable. The employer handles all costs and processing.
• Investor Visa: For individuals investing in Omani businesses, with minimum investment thresholds depending on the sector and business type.
• Dependent Visa: For spouses and children, requiring the sponsoring employee to earn above a minimum salary threshold (typically OMR 300/month).
• Visit Visa: For short-term business visits, tourist purposes, or job-seeking, available through the online e-Visa portal.

Oman has implemented reforms to the traditional kafala system, making it easier for workers to change employers under certain conditions. However, the process still requires coordination between the old and new employer and approval from the Ministry of Labour. The labour clearance system means employers must demonstrate that a position cannot be filled by an Omani national before hiring an expatriate, which ties directly to the Omanisation program.

Key requirements include a valid passport, medical fitness test, police clearance certificate, and attested educational certificates. Healthcare professionals need OMSB verification, and engineers may need to register with the Oman Society of Engineers.

Cost of Living

Oman offers one of the most affordable costs of living in the GCC, particularly in housing:

Housing (Monthly Rent)

• 1-bedroom apartment in Al Khuwair (Muscat): OMR 200-350
• 2-bedroom apartment in Bausher: OMR 280-450
• 3-bedroom villa in Al Mouj (The Wave): OMR 500-900
• 3-bedroom villa in Seeb: OMR 350-600
• Sharing accommodation: OMR 80-150 per room

Other Expenses

• Groceries: OMR 80-150/month for a couple
• Dining out: OMR 2-6 for a mid-range meal
• Transportation: OMR 30-60/month fuel (car is essential)
• Utilities (electricity and water): OMR 20-50/month
• Health insurance: Mandatory for all expatriates, provided by employer or privately arranged (OMR 150-400/year)
• International school fees: OMR 1,500-5,000/year per child

A comfortable single lifestyle in Muscat typically requires OMR 500-800 monthly (approximately USD 1,300-2,080), while families should budget OMR 1,000-2,000. Salalah and other cities outside Muscat are even more affordable. The combination of no income tax, low housing costs, and reasonable daily expenses makes Oman an excellent destination for professionals prioritizing savings and quality of life.

Working Culture

Oman's working culture is warm, respectful, and distinctly Omani:

• Work week: Sunday to Thursday for government entities and most private sector companies. Friday and Saturday are the weekend.
• Working hours: 8 hours per day, 45 hours per week maximum (lower than the 48-hour standard in most other GCC countries). During Ramadan, working hours are reduced to 6 hours per day.
• Annual leave: 30 calendar days per year after completing 6 months of service (Oman Labour Law). This includes 15 days after 6 months, with the full 30 days available after one year.
• Public holidays: Key holidays include Eid Al Fitr, Eid Al Adha, Islamic New Year, Prophet's Birthday, National Day (November 18), and Renaissance Day (July 23).

Omani business culture is characterized by genuine hospitality and courtesy. Meetings often begin with the traditional Omani coffee (qahwa) and dates, and rushing through pleasantries is considered disrespectful. Omanis are known for their politeness and patience, and this extends to the workplace. Hierarchy is respected, but communication tends to be more consultative than in some other Gulf states.

The pace of business in Oman is notably slower than in the UAE or Saudi Arabia. Patience is not just appreciated — it is essential. Government processes, approvals, and decision-making take time, and attempts to rush outcomes can be counterproductive. Building trust and personal relationships with Omani colleagues and clients yields better long-term results than aggressive business tactics.

Omanisation

Omanisation is Oman's workforce nationalization program, and it is one of the most actively enforced in the GCC. The Ministry of Labour sets specific Omanisation targets by sector, with some industries required to have 35-90% Omani employees. The government has been particularly aggressive in mandating Omani employment in banking, insurance, telecommunications, and retail sectors.

In recent years, the government has intensified Omanisation efforts, periodically announcing bans on expatriate hiring in specific occupations. Roles such as HR, administration, sales, customer service, and data entry have been closed to expatriates in many sectors. The government has also restricted work visas for certain nationalities and age groups in specific occupations.

For expatriate professionals, Omanisation means that demonstrating specialized skills is essential. The positions most secure for expatriates are those requiring technical expertise that is not yet widely available in the Omani workforce — senior engineering roles, specialized healthcare positions, IT architecture, and management consulting. Professionals who can demonstrate a clear training and knowledge-transfer role are particularly valued, as companies can argue that expatriate hires contribute to developing local talent.

Top Cities for Expat Professionals

Muscat

The capital and primary employment center, Muscat is one of the most visually stunning cities in the Gulf. Nestled between mountains and the sea, Muscat has strict building height restrictions that preserve its character — no building can exceed eight stories, giving the city a distinctly different feel from the tower-dominated skylines of Dubai or Doha. Key areas include the Central Business District (CBD) in Ruwi, the diplomatic and government area of Al Khuwair, the modern commercial hub of Ghubrah and Azaiba, and the luxury waterfront development of Al Mouj (The Wave). The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Royal Opera House, and Mutrah Souq are cultural landmarks. Most professional opportunities are concentrated in the Greater Muscat area.

Sohar

Located 230 kilometers north of Muscat on the Batinah coast, Sohar is Oman's major industrial city. The Port of Sohar and its associated free zone host heavy industries including aluminum smelting (Sohar Aluminium), refining, petrochemicals, and metals processing. The city is growing as a logistics and manufacturing hub, attracting engineers, operations managers, and industrial professionals. Living costs in Sohar are lower than Muscat, and the city has a more close-knit community feel.

Salalah

The capital of the Dhofar region in southern Oman, Salalah is unique in the Arabian Peninsula for its monsoon season (khareef), which transforms the arid landscape into lush greenery from June to September. The Port of Salalah is a major container terminal, and the Salalah Free Zone attracts logistics and manufacturing companies. The city also serves as a base for the growing tourism industry in the Dhofar region. Salalah offers a quieter, more affordable lifestyle than Muscat, with a distinct cultural identity influenced by its proximity to Yemen and East Africa.

Tips for Job Seekers

1. Understand Omanisation deeply: Before targeting specific roles, research which occupations and sectors have been restricted for expatriates. The Ministry of Labour regularly updates these lists, and violations can result in penalties for employers. Focus on roles where your specialized expertise fills a genuine gap.
2. Target PDO and energy sector opportunities: Petroleum Development Oman and its contractors offer the strongest compensation packages and the most structured career paths. PDO's recruitment process is rigorous but rewards those who are accepted with excellent benefits and professional development.
3. Leverage the tourism boom: Oman's tourism sector is growing rapidly and is less subject to Omanisation restrictions for specialized roles. Eco-tourism development, adventure tourism operations, and luxury hospitality management are areas of active hiring.
4. Explore Duqm and Special Economic Zones: The Special Economic Zone at Duqm (SEZAD) is one of the Middle East's largest industrial development projects. Companies establishing operations there often seek international professionals for startup and operations roles, with attractive packages that include relocation support.
5. Negotiate based on Omani market realities: Beyond base salary, discuss housing allowance (should cover at least a 2-bedroom apartment in Muscat), car allowance or company vehicle, annual flights for family, medical insurance, and children's education support. Remote location premiums apply for postings in oil field areas, Duqm, or Sohar.
6. Embrace the Omani pace: Interviews and hiring processes in Oman can take longer than in the UAE. Government approvals, labour clearances, and administrative procedures require patience. Maintain follow-up contact without being pushy, and use the waiting period to learn about Omani culture and business norms.
7. Get OMSB registration early: Healthcare professionals should begin the Oman Medical Specialty Board registration process as early as possible. The DataFlow verification and OMSB evaluation can take 3-6 months, and you cannot practice without clearance.

Employment Law Essentials

Oman's Labour Law (Royal Decree 35/2003, with subsequent amendments) governs private sector employment:

• Probation period: Maximum 3 months. Either party can terminate during probation with 7 days' notice.
• Notice period: 30 days for employees with less than 5 years of service; 60 days for those with 5+ years. The contract may specify longer periods.
• End-of-service gratuity: 15 days' basic salary for each of the first 3 years of service, and one month's salary for each subsequent year. Calculated on the last basic salary. Payable upon termination or resignation after completing one year of service.
• Working hours: 8 hours per day, 45 hours per week (lower than the 48-hour standard in most GCC countries). During Ramadan, 6 hours per day for Muslim employees.
• Overtime: Paid at 125% of the hourly rate for daytime overtime and 150% for nighttime or holiday work. Maximum 12 hours of overtime per week.
• Social insurance: Oman requires social security contributions for Omani employees, but expatriates are not covered under the social insurance system. End-of-service gratuity serves as the primary financial protection for expatriate workers.
• Workplace safety: The Labour Law includes provisions for workplace safety, heat stress protection (outdoor work restrictions during peak summer hours), and employer responsibilities for worker accommodation standards.

Insider Tips: Building a Fulfilling Career in Oman

Long-term Oman residents share these strategies for maximizing both your career and your quality of life in the Sultanate:

PDO and the Interior Posting Strategy

Many oil and gas professionals start their Oman careers with a posting to PDO's interior operations — remote field locations in the desert where living conditions are basic but compensation is significantly enhanced through hardship and remote location allowances. While not glamorous, these postings typically last 1-3 years and offer accelerated savings, intense technical experience, and strong professional networks within PDO. Professionals who perform well in interior postings are often fast-tracked to more senior roles at PDO's headquarters in Muscat, where the quality of life is excellent. This interior-to-Muscat career path is a well-established progression that many successful Oman-based professionals have followed.

The Omanisation Knowledge Transfer Angle

Smart expatriate professionals in Oman position themselves not just as skilled workers but as knowledge-transfer agents. Companies can more easily justify expatriate hires to the Ministry of Labour if the expatriate role includes a formal component of training Omani staff. Developing training curricula, mentoring Omani graduates, and documenting knowledge for local teams demonstrates value beyond your individual contributions. This approach not only secures your position but also builds genuine relationships with Omani colleagues who will advocate for your continued employment.

Exploring Oman for Career Advantage

Oman's natural beauty is not just a lifestyle benefit — it can be a career advantage. The tourism sector is actively seeking professionals who understand and appreciate Oman's landscapes and culture. Spending your weekends exploring wadis, mountains, deserts, and coastal areas gives you firsthand knowledge that is invaluable in tourism-related roles. Professionals who have explored Oman's geography, engaged with local communities, and understand the country's cultural heritage bring authentic insights that purely desk-bound candidates cannot match. This is particularly relevant for roles in destination management, eco-tourism development, and heritage conservation.

Cost of Living Optimization in Muscat

Muscat's cost of living can be further optimized with local knowledge. Areas like Al Amerat, Barka, and Seeb offer spacious housing at 30-40% less than Al Mouj or Shatti Al Qurum. The Muttrah Fish Market offers fresh seafood at wholesale prices. Local bakeries (called khaboos shops) provide fresh bread at a fraction of supermarket prices. Joining cooperative buying groups within expat communities can reduce grocery costs significantly. For transportation, buying a reliable used vehicle (the market is well-supplied) rather than leasing through a dealer can save OMR 100-200 per month. These optimizations can increase your savings rate from 40% to 60% of salary.

Building Relationships Through Cultural Engagement

Omanis are proud of their culture and heritage, and professionals who engage genuinely with Omani traditions build deeper and more productive professional relationships. Learn about the significance of the khanjar (traditional dagger), attend a traditional Omani wedding if invited, visit the Nizwa cattle market, and understand the importance of frankincense in Dhofari culture. Omanis are typically more reserved than Emiratis or Bahrainis in initial business interactions, but once trust is established, the relationships are exceptionally loyal and supportive. Many long-term expatriates in Oman describe their Omani professional relationships as the most genuine and rewarding in their careers.