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Oman is a beautiful country in the Arabian Peninsula, known for its rich culture, natural wonders, Prestigious universities and friendly people. Oman offers a balanced lifestyle with a reasonable cost of living compared to other major cities and Countries in the West Asia region. But how much does it cost to live in Oman as an international student?
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the various aspects of the cost of living in Oman, such as food, housing, transportation, utilities, healthcare, education, and entertainment. We will also provide some tips on saving money and budgeting wisely in Oman. So dive in to get a clear picture of what to expect in living expenses in Oman.
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Cost of Living in Oman: Overview
The monthly average cost of living in Oman for a single person is around OMR 283.4, excluding rent, according to recent data from Numbeo. However, when factoring in rent for an apartment, total expenses range from OMR 141.06 to OMR 211.42. The living expenses in Oman vary depending on lifestyle choices and accommodation preferences.
The amount of living expenses in Oman is more affordable than in other Asian or Gulf countries. Students can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without financial strain at this cost. To give you a quick overview of important categories that contribute to the average cost of living in Oman, we have provided a general breakdown in the table below:
| Category | Approx Cost |
| Accommodation (Per-month) | OMR 141 to OMR 450 |
| Food (Per-month) | OMR 135 |
| Entertainment (Per-month) | OMR 50 |
| Utilities (Per-month) | OMR 38 |
| Transportation (Per-month) | OMR 22.25 |
Also Read: Cost of Living in Bangkok for International Students: A Comprehensive Guide
Now, that you have got an idea about the average cost of living in Oman. Let’s cover these costs one by one in detail.
Cost of Accommodation in Oman
When calculating the cost of living in Oman, accommodation is undoubtedly a major and crucial factor. Housing expenses vary based on location, size, and type of residence you choose. Typically, a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre of Oman, can cost approximately OMR 211.42.
It’s a good idea to thoroughly research and compare different accommodation options in Oman to find one that suits your needs and budget. Larger apartments or those with additional amenities may incur higher costs. For your convenience, we have collected data on the average cost of housing for various apartments both within and outside the city centre in Oman.
| Type of Apartment | Approx Monthly Cost |
| University dormitories | OMR 50 – OMR 150 |
| Shared apartments | OMR 150 – OMR 300 |
| Studio apartments | OMR 250 – OMR 400 |
| Apartment (1 bedroom) in City Centre | OMR 211.42 |
| Apartment (1 bedroom) Outside of Centre | OMR 141.06 |
| Apartment (3 bedrooms) in City Centre | OMR 359.46 |
| Apartment (3 bedrooms) Outside of Centre | OMR 245.94 |
Costs of Dining in Oman
Eating out in Oman offers a range of options, from budget-friendly eateries to upscale restaurants. Dining out can be pricier than cooking in your room and it may impact your overall budget for the cost of living in Oman.
The monthly cost of food in Oman is around OMR 135.43. For your reference here’s an approximate estimate of the average cost of a meal at restaurants in Oman:
| Type of Restaurant | Approx Cost of Meal in Restaurant |
| Meal for 2 person (in a Mid-range Restaurant) | OMR 10 |
| Meal at an inexpensive restaurant | OMR 2 |
| Equal meal. to McDonald’s | OMR 3 |
| (Regular Coffee) Cappuccino | OMR 1.85 |
Cost of Grocery in Oman
Another expense that contributes to the cost of living in Oman, is groceries cost. It’s a wise idea for students to consider cooking at home. Grocery prices are a bit high in Oman so students can save money by buying groceries from local markets. However, it is essential to compare prices to get the best value for your money.
Local markets offer fresh produce at lower prices than supermarkets. The cost of groceries can significantly impact the overall cost of living in Oman. Given below is the list of grocery items and their prices available in the country:
| Grocery Item | Approx Costs |
| Milk (regular), (1 liter) | OMR 0.70 |
| Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g) | OMR 0.45 |
| Rice (white), (1kg) | OMR 0.70 |
| Eggs (regular) (12) | OMR 0.92 |
| Local Cheese (1kg) | OMR 2.06 |
| Apples (1kg) | OMR 0.89 |
| Banana (1kg) | OMR 0.68 |
| Oranges (1kg) | OMR 0.70 |
| Tomato (1kg) | OMR 0.45 |
| Potato (1kg) | OMR 0.37 |
| Onion (1kg) | OMR 0.35 |
| Lettuce (1 head) | OMR 0.36 |
| Water (1.5 liter bottle) | OMR 0.21 |
Also Read: Cost of Living in Finland: A Guide on Expected Expenses for International Students
Cost of Utilities in Oman
The monthly utility cost for a one-bedroom apartment in Oman is usually around OMR 38.80. This expense can vary based on usage and the apartment’s size. When budgeting your monthly living expenses in Oman, it’s essential to consider utility costs, as they cover a significant portion of your cost of living in Oman. Below is a table offering an overview of the average utility bills in Oman:
| Utility Type | Utility Name | Approx. Cost |
| Basic Utility Bills | Water, Electricity, Heating, Cooling, and Garbage | OMR 38.80 |
| Monthly Plan Mobile Phone | including Calls and 10GB+ Data | OMR 15.77 |
| Internet | Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL monthly | OMR 28.92 |
Cost of Transportation in Oman
Public transportation in Oman is gradually improving, offering an affordable and convenient option for both residents and visitors. The main modes of public transport include buses, taxis, and shared taxis (also known as “maxi taxis”). Evaluating transportation expenses is crucial as they significantly influence the overall cost of living in Oman.
Transportation contributes to around OMR 22.25 per month in Oman’s overall cost of living. Here’s how much the different modes of transportation cost:
| Mode of Transport | Approx Cost |
| One-way Ticket (Local Transport) | OMR 0.50 |
| Public Bus | OMR 15 – OMR 30 |
| Taxi Start (Normal Tariff) | OMR 1.50 |
| Bicycle | Free |
| Monthly Public Transport Pass | OMR 22.25 |
| Gasoline (1 liter) | OMR 0.24 |
Miscellaneous Costs in Oman
In addition to the primary categories of the cost of living in Oman, there are several other essential expenses to consider. These include costs for items and activities that you’ll likely need or want after spending some time in Oman, such as clothing, entertainment, and minor healthcare services. Below is a breakdown of some miscellaneous expenses:
| Miscellaneous Activity | Approx Cost |
| Movie Ticket | OMR 3.50 |
| Brand Jeans | OMR 17.70 |
| Fitness Club | OMR 17.95 |
| Summer Dress | OMR 15.14 |
| Pair of Sports shoes | OMR 29.43 |
| Doctor’s visit | OMR 12.76 |
| Museum entry | OMR 3 |
Cost of Living in Oman Compared to Other Countries/Cities
Oman is generally considered a relatively affordable city to live in. While living expenses in Oman are 1.05 times more expensive than world’s average cost of living. When compared to some other cities or countries like Dubai, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Muscat, UAE, South Africa, the UK, Canada and Bahrain it boasts of a slightly lower cost of living but still it boasts a standard of living.
To give you an idea of how the cost of living in Oman, compares to these cities and countries, we have provided a detailed comparison below. Please have a look:
| Cost of Living City/Country Wise | Average Cost of living (including rent) | Comparison with Cost of Living in Oman |
| Cost of Living in Dubai | OMR 418.32 | Higher than Oman |
| Cost of Living in Kuwait | OMR 307.38 | Higher than Oman |
| Cost of Living in Saudi Arabia | OMR 307.21 | Higher than Oman |
| Cost of Living in Qatar | OMR 350.86 | Higher than Oman |
| Cost of Living in the US | OMR 448.88 | Higher than Oman |
| Cost of Living in Muscat | OMR 289.52 | Approximatly equal to Oman |
| Cost of Living in Dubai | OMR 373.70 | Higher than Oman |
| Cost of Living in South Africa | OMR 229.47 | Lower than Oman |
| Cost of Living in the UK | OMR 400.03 | Higher than Oman |
| Cost of Living in Canada | OMR 407.72 | Higher than Oman |
| Cost of Living in Bahrain | OMR 337.79 | Higher than Oman |
As shown in the table, Oman offers a cost of living that is generally more affordable than many of its neighboring countries and other popular global destinations. This makes it an attractive option for those looking to balance a comfortable lifestyle with manageable living expenses.
Average Tuition Fees in Oman
Apart from getting information about the cost of living in Oman, did you know that it is also becoming an increasingly popular destination for higher education? The answer is, yes, it is and Oman offers a wide variety of programs and degrees through its prestigious universities and colleges. Therefore, understanding the average tuition fees is essential for prospective students planning their studies in Oman, ensuring they can study peacefully without any financial disturbances.
Please note that tuition fees may vary based on the chosen university, level of study, and field of study. See the table below for a summary of some of the tuition fees at selected Oman universities from various Courses:
| Course Type | Average Tuition Fees |
| Undergraduate | OMR 1,000 – OMR 3,500 per year |
| Postgraduate | OMR 2,000 – OMR 5,000 per year |
Why Live and Study in Oman?
In terms of education, Oman houses some of the world’s top universities that provide top-notch courses with international recognition, such as Sultan Qaboos University and Muscat University. Known for its reputation in the oil and gas industry, it offers many job opportunities to aspiring students in the sector.
With warm and sunny weather throughout the year, Oman has a pleasant climate. Also, the Arabian country is considered safe with little to no crime, and has English spoken in most of its areas.
Things to Consider Before Moving to Oman
Moving to a new country for studies can be exciting and enriching, but it’s essential to be well-prepared. Besides finalizing the budget for the cost of living in Oman, here are some key things international students should consider before moving to the Arabic country for their higher studies:
- Research and apply for the appropriate student visa well in advance.
- Be familiar with tuition fees, living expenses, and any additional academic costs. Also, consider scholarships and financial aid opportunities.
- Familiarize yourself with Omani culture, customs, and social norms. Respecting local traditions is essential.
- While English is spoken to some extent, learning basic Arabic phrases can be helpful for daily life and cultural immersion.
- Research healthcare options and consider purchasing health insurance, if necessary.
- Open a local bank account for managing finances and expenses.
- Research local phone and internet service providers and choose a suitable plan.
- Be aware of your surroundings, take precautions, and familiarize yourself with emergency contact information.
- Seek out resources and support from the university’s international student office or online communities.
- Embrace the opportunity to learn about a new culture, make new friends, and broaden your horizons.
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FAQs on Cost of Living in Oman
Answer: The cost of living in Oman for a single person is approximately OMR 283.4 per month without rental cost. However, this cost may includes various expenses such as, food, transportation, and other daily necessities. The estimated cost of housing rent ranges from OMR 141 to OMR 450.
Answer: Compared to other countries in the world, Oman is a relatively affordable place for students to live with a monthly cost of living around OMR 283.4 per month.
Answer: Several strategies can help you reduce the cost of living in Oman, such as:
1. Choosing affordable housing options like shared apartments or student dormitories.
2. Utilizing public transportation or alternative options like cycling when feasible.
3. Cooking meals at home instead of eating out frequently.
4. Taking advantage of student discounts on various services and activities.
Answer: Accommodation, tuition fees, and food are typically the biggest expenses in Oman for international students.
Ans: The rent for apartments in Oman, varies based on where you choose to live. If you prefer a 1-bedroom apartment in the City Centre, it costs about OMR 211.42 per month. But if you decide to live outside the City Centre of mman, the rent drops to around OMR 141 per month for a similar apartment.
We hope that this blog gave you a complete insight into the cost of living in Oman for international students in 2024. For more such content on student life abroad, subscribe to Leverage Edu today. Thank you for reading!
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