Sur, Oman
Capital City

Follows Oman Residency Rules. Check Digital Nomad & Retiree Pathways →
Est. Monthly Cost (1 Person)
$1,130
Retiree Score
70.0
Safety Index
88.5
Healthcare
3 facilities

With a population of 120,000, Sur is no quaint seaside town. This former trading hub has struggled to adapt since the collapse of its maritime economy, and the bureaucratic inertia is a persistent headache for residents. The climate is unforgiving, with Sur battered by cyclones that regularly disrupt daily life. Yet the city's ancient forts and shipbuilding heritage offer a unique window into Oman's past, drawing visitors eager to explore its rugged charms. Sur may appeal to the historically-inclined, but those seeking modern comforts should look elsewhere.

Can I afford Sur?

$

Sur

You could save

1,870/mo

Savings Rate62%

Monthly Costs

Rent $510
Living (Country Average Adjusted)$620

Attractiveness Scores

FIRE Score
(i)
62/100
Retiree Score
(i)
70/100
Lifestyle Score
(i)
50/100
💻Nomad Score
(i)
50/100
Meets Oman Digital Nomad Visa Income Rule.
89
Safety
3
Healthcare
100
Walkability
20
Nomad

Grocery Basket

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

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Eating Out

Meal (Inexpensive) *$4
Meal (Mid-range) $83
Cappuccino $5
Water (0.33L) *$0

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Utilities & Lifestyle

Utilities (mo) $79
Mobile Plan (mo) $23
Gym (mo) *$86
Cinema Ticket $10

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Housing

1BR Center (mo) $306
1BR Outside (mo) *$233
3BR Center (mo) $576
3BR Outside (mo) *$411

* Estimated based on regional averages.

🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Common in Tourist Areas
Expat Community
Small
Top Neighborhoods
Sur City Centre, Corniche Area
Best For
industrial workers, heritage enthusiasts, maritime sector expats

Expat Life Notes

Sur is an ancient port city in eastern Oman (Al Sharqiyah Governorate), historically famous for dhow building and as a departure point for Musandam and East Africa trade. Tourism, fishing, and a small expatriate industrial community exist near the Sur Industrial Estate.

Pros

  • Authentic Omani maritime heritage
  • Sur Industrial Estate employment
  • Safe Omani environment

Cons

  • Remote eastern Oman
  • Very limited English
  • Limited urban amenities

🌐 Infrastructure & Lifestyle

Avg Internet
Temperature
Annual Rainfall
61 mm
Coworking Spaces
Best Months to Visit
May, Jun, Jul, Aug

Also Consider

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Sur

Click any question to expand the answer.

Sur has a population of approximately 120,000 people.

A single person can expect to spend around $1,275 per month in Sur, including rent. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $510/month.

The nearest airport to Sur is MCT, approximately 171km away.

Sur is considered relatively safe, with a safety index of 88.5. As with any city abroad, expats should research specific neighborhoods before committing to a location.

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