Oman, officially known as the Sultanate of Oman, is a captivating Arab country nestled in southwest Asia on the southeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula. With its borders touching the United Arab Emirates to the northwest, Saudi Arabia to the west, and Yemen to the southwest, Oman enjoys a prime location. The country’s coastlines are caressed by the Arabian Sea on the south and east, and the Gulf of Oman on the northeast. Additionally, Oman is home to two unique enclaves: Madha, surrounded by the UAE, and Musandam, a stunning region separated from the rest of Oman by Emirati territory.
A Glimpse into History: Oman’s rich history stretches back to the 6th century BC when it was influenced by three Persian dynasties: the Achaemenids, Parthians, and Sassanids. The Achaemenids, in particular, left their mark on the Oman peninsula, likely from the coastal city of Sohar. The arrival of Islam in the 7th century AD further shaped the nation, with the faith spreading during the lifetime of the Prophet Muhammad. The Portuguese also played a role in Omani history, occupying Muscat for 140 years from 1508 to 1648, after Vasco Da Gama discovered the sea route to India.
Geography, Environment, & Climate: Oman’s landscape is a blend of vast gravel desert plains, majestic mountain ranges, and pristine coastlines. The northern region is dominated by the al Jebel al Akhdar mountains, while the southeast coast hosts major cities like Muscat, Matrah, and Sur. In the south, you’ll find the city of Salalah, known for its unique monsoon climate.
Oman’s climate is hot and dry in the interior, with more humid conditions along the coast. Muscat, the capital, receives an average of 10 cm of rainfall annually, mostly in January. The Dhofar region experiences a southwest monsoon, bringing up to 64 cm of rain between June and October. Temperatures can soar to 54°C (129°F) during the hot season from May to October, so staying hydrated is key!
Population: Oman has a population of approximately 5.3 million people.
 Currency: The official currency is the Omani Rial (OMR), which is further divided into 1,000 baisa. Be sure to familiarize yourself with this currency to make your daily transactions smoother.
Living as an Expat: Housing: Finding a place to call home in Oman can be a challenge, particularly in larger cities. As an expat, you’ll likely rent your accommodation, as foreign ownership of land or property is not permitted. Housing options range from apartments to villas, often located within compounds or as standalone units. Compounds are private estates that house multiple residences, providing a sense of community among expats.
Most rental properties in Oman are unfurnished, which could mean anything from bare essentials to semi-furnished spaces that include kitchen equipment and basic appliances. Make sure to check the details before signing a lease to avoid surprises.
Getting There & Around: Your gateway to Oman is the Seeb International Airport, the country’s primary international airport. Once you arrive, you’ll find that getting around is quite convenient. Intercity buses, operated by ONTC, offer daily services to most major towns for as little as OMR 5.
For local travel, Oman has a comprehensive network of shared taxis and microbuses, easily recognizable by their orange and white paint. These taxis and buses operate on flexible schedules, picking up and dropping off passengers along the way. It’s a cost-effective and social way to explore the country.