Cost of living in Oman

• I have been offered a job on a expatriate package in Oman. Can any one out there help me to know the cost of living. The following is provided,
  
  Furnished house with utilities paid for, School fees upto 3 children.

  06 Jun 2008, 07:59 Charles

Replies

• Response - Cost of living in Oman

  I'm currently not in Oman, however leave in a few weeks. I did a large amount of research on all the costs before I accepted anything. The following points are what I considered to be major factors. I do not know exactly where you are from so I'm not aware of your "home country costs" so I'm not sure on the comparison.
  - Housing rental is the biggest cost, as you are supplied with furnish accommodation you do not need to consider this, but you should probably still know that this can range from 350-1500 rial a month depending on the area.
  - School fees depending on which school is of high value too, as the private international schools can be expensive. But this is covered too, im just trying to indicate the benefit in your contract.
  - Food, depending on what you wish to buy can range cheap for one (less than 100 Rial per month, possible get away with 50), but if you want to stick to common UK brands expect to pay a premium
  - Cars - Much cheaper over here, best site i have found is bestcarsoman for 2nd cars, you will have to google it for the address as it escapes my memory now. Petrol is dirt cheap and 20 rial will get you through a month... or longer.. depending on your level of driving.
  - Entertainment will be up to you, but many people join clubs at the 5star hotels, but there is a large variety of outdoor activities. Best thing I did was buy a travel book.
  - Misc, clothes etc - Can get cheaper clothes however alot of stores are the top of the range,
  - Overall, as an expat you should save 3 times the rate as in your home country, Oman is a really nice country and you will enjoy yourself, but remember it is very hot in Summer. Money wise really depends on your lifestyle. Obviously if you plan on travelling up to Dubai every weekend your going to burn through all your money very quickly.

  Michael 12 Nov 2008, 06:39 - Report