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Muscat, Oman
Capital City

Follows Oman Residency Rules. Check Digital Nomad & Retiree Pathways →
Est. Monthly Cost (1 Person)
$1,600
Retiree Score
100.0
Safety Index
88.4
Healthcare
81 facilities

The population of Muscat is 695,432, but don't let that fool you - this Omani capital is a bureaucratic headache, with a notoriously oppressive climate that can reach 45°C in the summer. Despite its strategic location on the Gulf of Oman, Muscat's economy is dominated by trade, petroleum, and natural gas, with the city's port handling a modest 1.6 million tons annually. Muscat may appeal to those seeking a tranquil, traditional Middle Eastern experience, but the constant paperwork and relentless heat are persistent challenges.

Can I afford Muscat?

$

Muscat

You could save

1,400/mo

Savings Rate47%

Monthly Costs

Rent $750
Living (Country Average Adjusted)$850

Attractiveness Scores

FIRE Score
(i)
47/100
Retiree Score
(i)
100/100
Lifestyle Score
(i)
50/100
💻Nomad Score
(i)
50/100
Meets Oman Digital Nomad Visa Income Rule.
88
Safety
81
Healthcare
100
Walkability
50
Nomad

Grocery Basket

Milk (1L) $2
Bread (loaf) *$1
Eggs (12) $3
Rice (1kg) *$1
Chicken (1kg) *$3

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Eating Out

Meal (Inexpensive) *$5
Meal (Mid-range) $83
Cappuccino $5
Water (0.33L) *$0

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Utilities & Lifestyle

Utilities (mo) $130
Mobile Plan (mo) $34
Gym (mo) *$58
Cinema Ticket $10

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Housing

1BR Center (mo) $750
1BR Outside (mo) *$389
3BR Center (mo) $1,600
3BR Outside (mo) *$684

* Estimated based on regional averages.

🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Widely Spoken
Expat Community
Large & Active
Top Neighborhoods
Madinat Al Sultan Qaboos, Al Qurum, Al Mouj
Best For
families, oil & gas professionals

Expat Life Notes

Muscat is one of the most welcoming cities in the Gulf, offering a high quality of life with a authentic Omani character.

Pros

  • ✓ Safe and clean
  • ✓ Friendly locals
  • ✓ Stunning natural scenery

Cons

  • ✗ Hot summers
  • ✗ High cost of living
  • ✗ Public transport is lacking

🌐 Infrastructure & Lifestyle

Avg Internet
—
Temperature
17°C°C - 40°C°C
Annual Rainfall
61 mm
Coworking Spaces
—
Best Months to Visit
May, Jun, Jul, Aug

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Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Muscat

Click any question to expand the answer.

Muscat has a population of approximately 695,432 people.

A single person can expect to spend around $1,875 per month in Muscat, including rent. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $750/month.

The nearest airport to Muscat is MCT, approximately 13km away.

Muscat is considered relatively safe, with a safety index of 88.4. As with any city abroad, expats should research specific neighborhoods before committing to a location.

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