From its exciting shorelines to majestic mountains, from the vast deserts to its architectural grandeur, the Sultanate of Oman, without doubt, one can say is a slice of paradise on earth.
Though it may seem like an exaggeration, having lived in Oman for over two-and-a-half decades, I can confidently say that the country embodies all these qualities. My deep passion for Oman stems from both personal experiences and professional engagements during my time here.
With its fascinating maritime history and seafaring traditions spanning millennia, and the Omani empire once stretching as far south as Zanzibar in the late 17th century, and maintaining political neutrality, the Sultanate of Oman today is one of the safest countries amid its location in a volatile region.
Oman follows a policy that is based on a vision of peace and maintaining friendship with all countries. It is a policy of non-interference and diplomatic balancing. And it embraces dialogue and tolerance as guiding principles in addressing all issues.
Oman offers a lot for expats whether they are from Europe, Asia, or Africa. Those who are looking for relocation, the country has many professional opportunities, from corporate positions to hospitality, a high standard of living and an advantageous tax system, and for others, Oman is undoubtedly one of the best-kept secrets with its stunning beauty.
The country is peaceful, quiet and safe and its people are incredibly friendly, respectful and welcoming.
Oman offers a blend of traditional Arabian culture with a touch of modernity. This balance provides a comfortable environment for expatriates, making it an attractive place for those who appreciate cultural richness without feeling overwhelmed by rapid modernisation.
Home to nearly 2.2 million foreigners from different countries, equalling over 43 per cent of the total population, Oman is consistently ranked as one of the best countries for expats.
In the Expat Insider 2024 survey, Oman ranks 12th with high marks for friendliness, security and ease of settling in.
The survey by InterNations gathered responses from over 12,500 expatriates of 175 different nationalities living in 174 countries or territories.
“Expats in Oman are highly satisfied with the friendliness of locals, ease of settling in and personal finance," InterNations confirmed in its report.
The survey ranks the best countries to live in based on factors such as quality of life, ease of settling in, working abroad, personal finance and expat essentials.
In 2024, the survey covered 53 destinations, with Panama topping the list, followed by Mexico, Indonesia, Spain and Colombia rounding out the top five. Kuwait ranks last, with Turkiye, Finland, Germany and Canada also placing in the bottom five.
Oman’s ranking in the Peace Index has climbed to 37th position in 2024, marking a significant improvement in its global standing. This rise underscores its on-going efforts to foster peace and stability within its borders.
For any expat, building a home is one of the most exciting and rewarding thing that can be done in a foreign country. However, the process can be complex due to the various laws and regulations involved.
In Oman foreigners are allowed to buy and can have full ownership of the land or building for both residential and commercial purposes in the Integrated Tourism Complexes (ITCs).
When it comes to the cost of living in the country, it is relatively low, and expats can find affordable housing in most cities. They can enjoy a variety of leisure activities, from shopping in the mega hypermarkets and traditional souks to exploring an array of unique sights and attractions.
However, the cost of living in Oman very much depends on several factors, including lifestyle, location, salary, personal habits and preferences, and family situation. In conclusion, Oman is a good country for expats to live and work in, with a supportive and friendly local community blessed by its beautiful landscapes, vibrant culture, and a range of job opportunities!
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