Oman (OM)
Oman is one of the most welcoming and stable expat destinations in the Middle East, offering a unique blend of ancient Arabian heritage, dramatic natural landscapes, and a rapidly modernising economy.
Daily Life
Practical day-to-day information for living in Oman.
🛒 Supermarkets
The most popular supermarket chain among Oman's expatriate community and one of the busiest retail destinations in the country. Lulu Hypermarkets are very large-format stores offering an enormous range of groceries including fresh produce, meat (halal-certified), seafood, bakery, and a vast selection of Indian, Pakistani, Middle Eastern, Filipino, and international products. Multiple branches across Muscat (Al Khuwair, Qurum, Seeb, Ruwi) and in Sohar, Nizwa, Salalah, and other cities. Consistent pricing, reliable quality, and strong promotions make it the go-to weekly shop for many expats. Good for bulk buying and household goods.
A globally recognised hypermarket chain with a strong presence in Muscat, primarily within major shopping malls including Muscat City Centre and City Centre Qurum. Carrefour offers a wide international product range with a particularly strong selection of French, European, and Western imports. Competitive pricing with frequent promotional offers. The in-store bakery and fresh food sections are well-regarded. Carrefour online delivery is available in Muscat through the Carrefour Now app, offering same-day delivery.
A Gulf-based supermarket chain with a reputation for quality and a strong range of fresh produce, deli counters, and imported goods. Popular with mid-to-upper-income expats and Omani families. Found in well-located Muscat neighbourhoods. Slightly higher pricing than Lulu but the range of Western and premium international products is notably better. Good for specialty ingredients and quality meats.
A Qatari cooperative-style retail chain with a growing presence in Oman. Al Meera operates medium-sized supermarkets across residential Muscat neighbourhoods and is valued for its community-focused approach, competitive prices on everyday essentials, and consistent product quality. Convenient for neighbourhood shopping without the scale of a hypermarket. A reliable middle-ground option for weekly grocery runs.
Al Fair is a long-established Omani supermarket chain, part of the W.J. Towell Group, operating under the Spar international franchise. It offers a solid range of everyday groceries, fresh produce, and a reasonable selection of Western imported goods. Al Fair stores are found in various Muscat locations including Al Khuwair and Madinat al-Sultan Qaboos. Good for convenience shopping and familiar Spar-branded products. Prices are competitive and the stores are generally well-stocked.
Nesto is a budget-oriented hypermarket chain extremely popular with South Asian expatriates (Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, Sri Lankan) due to its extensive range of South Asian groceries, spices, pulses, fresh curry leaves, and regional staples at competitive prices. Nesto also stocks fresh meat, vegetables, and household goods. Branches in Muscat (Ruwi, Ghala industrial area) and other Omani cities. An excellent destination for authentic South Asian ingredients at low prices.
A budget-friendly local hypermarket chain operating across Oman, particularly well-represented in Muscat. Al Safeer is valued for its low prices on everyday groceries, bulk produce, and household essentials. It caters to a broad demographic with a focus on affordability. A practical choice for budget-conscious expats, particularly for staple goods where brand variety is less important. Product range is functional rather than premium.
The premium supermarket of choice for Western expats, particularly British and European residents seeking familiar products from home. Spinneys stocks a carefully curated range of high-quality fresh produce, premium meats (including pork products in its licensed sections), specialty cheeses, artisan bread, UK and European branded products, wines and spirits (in licensed outlets), and organic/health-food ranges. Prices are significantly higher than other chains. Found in upmarket Muscat locations. Essential for those who want Western groceries and are willing to pay for them.
Opening Hours
Shopping hours in Oman follow a traditional split-shift pattern, particularly in traditional markets, local shops, and smaller retailers: typically open from 8:00am–1:00pm (morning session) and 4:00pm–10:00pm or later (evening session), with a midday closure during the hottest part of the day. Large shopping malls and hypermarkets (Lulu, Carrefour, City Centre) operate continuous hours from approximately 10:00am–10:00pm Saturday–Thursday, and 2:00pm–10:00pm on Friday (opening later to allow for Friday prayers). Some supermarkets are open until midnight or 24 hours. During Ramadan, restaurant and café operating hours shift significantly: food outlets close during daylight hours and open after iftar (sunset), with peak hours running from about 8:00pm–2:00am. Government offices operate Sunday–Thursday, typically 7:30am–2:30pm.
Sunday Rules
Sunday is a regular working day in Oman. Oman's weekend falls on Friday and Saturday, not Saturday and Sunday as in most Western countries. Government offices, ministries, banks, and public institutions are closed on Friday and Saturday and open Sunday–Thursday. Many private sector companies follow the same Sunday–Thursday schedule, though an increasing number of international companies and multinationals operating in Oman have adopted a Monday–Friday work week to align with global business. Shopping centres, restaurants, and entertainment venues are open and busy on Sundays. There are no Sunday trading restrictions of any kind. New expats from Western countries should be mindful of this schedule difference when arranging appointments or expecting services from government bodies.
Recycling
Recycling infrastructure in Oman is still developing and significantly less comprehensive than in Europe, North America, or parts of East Asia. Most homes and apartment buildings have a single general waste bin with no mandatory source separation. Muscat Municipality and Oman Environmental Services (Be'ah — بيئة) manage the country's waste collection and disposal. Be'ah operates the national integrated waste management system and has been developing materials recovery facilities. Designated recycling collection points for paper, plastic, glass, and metal are available at some major shopping malls (Muscat City Centre, Avenues Mall), select petrol stations, and at certain residential community areas in Muscat. There is no bottle deposit (Pfand-style) return system. Many expats separate recyclables at home and drop them at collection points. E-waste recycling is available through a small number of collection campaigns. The situation is gradually improving under the government's sustainability goals linked to Oman Vision 2040.
Dining Out
Oman's dining scene is dominated by Indian, Pakistani, Arabic, and Filipino cuisine, reflecting the country's large South and Southeast Asian expat population. This means budget dining options are excellent and numerous: a full meal at a South Asian restaurant costs OMR 1.000–3.000 per person and is often of outstanding quality. Arabic cuisine — grills, mezze, flatbreads, hummus, shawarma — is ubiquitous and affordable. Mid-range restaurants (international cuisine, casual dining chains, Thai, Chinese, Italian) typically cost OMR 5–15 per person. Fine dining at five-star hotel restaurants ranges from OMR 20–50+ per person. All restaurants in Oman must serve halal food; pork is available only at a small number of licensed international hotel restaurants (such as Intercontinental, Crowne Plaza, Grand Hyatt). Alcohol is served exclusively in licensed hotel bars and restaurants — it is not available in standalone restaurants, shopping malls, or public venues. The Muscat dining scene has grown significantly, with increasingly diverse and high-quality offerings in areas such as Al Mouj (The Wave), Shatti al-Qurum, and Madinat al-Sultan Qaboos.
Utilities & Internet
Electricity in Muscat and northern Oman is supplied by OPAL (Oman Power and Water Procurement Company) and distributed through the Muscat Electricity Distribution Company (MEDC). Southern Oman (Dhofar region) is supplied by Dhofar Power Company (DPC). Water is managed by NAMA Group and its subsidiaries. Utility tariffs are regulated by the government and are subsidised for Omani nationals; expatriates pay standard (higher) market rates. An average two-bedroom apartment in Muscat typically incurs a combined electricity and water bill of OMR 30–80 per month depending on season and usage — summer bills are significantly higher due to intensive air conditioning use. District cooling systems are available in some modern residential developments (such as Al Mouj). Gas is used less widely in homes; most cooking uses electric hobs or portable gas canisters. Setting up utilities requires your Civil ID (Residence Card), tenancy contract, and a connection fee. Online payment via bank transfer or the respective utility apps is convenient.
Cultural Tips for Expats
- → Ramadan etiquette is paramount. During the holy month of Ramadan (the dates of which shift approximately 11 days earlier each year), Muslims fast from dawn (Fajr) to sunset (Maghrib). Non-Muslims are expected to refrain from eating, drinking, or smoking in public places during daylight hours out of respect — doing so can result in a fine or police attention. This includes inside cars in public. Working hours for government employees are reduced to six hours per day during Ramadan. Restaurants close during the day and reopen with great energy after iftar (the sunset meal). Evenings become lively with extended family gatherings and suhoor (pre-dawn meal) traditions. Shopping malls and entertainment venues extend their evening hours. Expats should embrace this month as a time of community and reflection.
- → Dress code in public is a legal and cultural requirement. Women should cover their shoulders and knees when outside hotel properties, beach resorts, private pools, or designated leisure areas. Tight-fitting or revealing clothing in public causes genuine offence and can attract unwanted attention or even official intervention. A long, loose tunic or dress is ideal for public spaces, souqs, and government offices. Men should avoid sleeveless shirts and very short shorts in traditional neighbourhoods, souqs, and formal settings. Swimwear should never be worn outside the poolside or beach areas.
- → Photography laws and norms must be respected. Photographing people — especially women and elderly men — without their explicit permission is considered rude and intrusive. Never photograph military installations, police stations, Royal Oman Police (ROP) checkpoints, government buildings, or border crossings. Such photographs have led to detention and equipment confiscation. When in doubt, ask permission; most Omanis are happy to be photographed once consent is established.
- → Respect for the Sultan and the royal family is non-negotiable. Criticising Sultan Haitham bin Tariq, the wider royal family, or the Omani government — whether in conversation, online, or on social media — is a criminal offence under Omani law and can result in arrest, imprisonment, and deportation. Expats should exercise extreme caution with political commentary, both publicly and privately in digital spaces. This applies equally to WhatsApp groups, Facebook, and Instagram.
- → Friday prayers and the call to prayer are sacred parts of daily life. The Jumu'ah (Friday congregational prayer) takes place between approximately 12:15pm and 2:00pm. During this period, many businesses, shops, and restaurants close briefly, particularly in traditional or residential areas. Traffic around mosques increases significantly. The adhan (call to prayer) is broadcast five times daily from mosque minarets — this is a normal and expected part of life in Oman that expats should embrace as part of the local soundscape.
- → Omani hospitality is legendary and sincere. If invited to an Omani home or office, you will invariably be offered kahwa (Omani cardamom coffee) and a plate of dates. Accepting is an expression of respect and appreciation for their generosity — declining outright can cause mild offence. The custom is to drink one to three small cups; to signal you have had enough, gently tilt or shake the cup from side to side. Bringing a small gift (dates, sweets, or pastries) when visiting an Omani home is appreciated but not mandatory.
- → Gender interactions in public are governed by conservative norms, though the atmosphere has become more relaxed in recent years, particularly in Muscat's modern developments (Al Mouj, Shatti al-Qurum, Mall of Oman area). Public displays of affection between couples are not acceptable outside strictly private settings — this applies to both expatriate and local couples. Mixed-gender socialising is common in professional settings and at expatriate gatherings. Women expats generally move freely and safely throughout Oman; solo female travel within the country is considered very safe by regional standards. Unaccompanied women in traditional souqs may encounter persistent attention but generally face no genuine threat.
Quiet Hours
Oman does not have a single national codified quiet hours law equivalent to the German Ruhezeit or Singaporean noise regulations. However, Muscat Municipality and the Royal Oman Police (ROP) do enforce noise regulations under the Oman Penal Code and Municipal regulations, particularly in residential areas. Noise complaints are handled by the ROP or the relevant municipal authority. The general expectation in residential neighbourhoods is that excessive noise (loud music, parties, construction, car stereos) should cease by 10:00pm, with the hours of 10:00pm–6:00am treated as a de facto quiet period. During Ramadan, additional community sensitivity is expected, particularly around the times of Fajr (dawn prayer, approx. 4:30–5:30am) and Suhoor. Friday afternoon, during and after Jumu'ah prayer (approximately 12:00pm–3:00pm), is a time of heightened community peace in residential areas near mosques.
All residential areas, apartment buildings, and neighbourhoods across Oman. Applies to music, gatherings, construction, and vehicle noise.
Residential areas and streets near mosques. Community convention expects reduced noise and respectful behaviour. Parking near mosques is restricted. Avoid hosting loud social events during this window.
All residential areas during Ramadan. Muslims wake for suhoor and Fajr prayer; additional community sensitivity is strongly expected. Noise complaints during this period are taken seriously.
Construction and renovation work in residential areas is generally prohibited outside these hours. Residents experiencing night-time construction noise may report to Muscat Municipality.
- •Playing loud music at evening gatherings or house parties past 10:00pm in residential apartment buildings.
- •Car stereos at high volume in residential streets late at night.
- •Running washing machines, dryers, or other loud appliances late at night in thin-walled apartment buildings, where sound carries between units.
- •Hosting Eid or National Day celebrations with loud music in residential compounds without considering neighbours.
- •Ignoring Friday prayer time by scheduling loud social events or moving activities at 12:00–2:00pm in areas adjacent to mosques.
- •Playing music outdoors during Ramadan daylight hours, which can cause community offence regardless of legal status.
Violations of noise norms in Oman typically begin with a warning from the building management or neighbours. Persistent noise issues may result in a complaint to the Royal Oman Police (ROP). Police officers will visit the premises and issue a formal warning. Repeat offences can result in a fine, and in serious or repeated cases, potential arrest or deportation proceedings for expatriates. Maintaining good relations with Omani neighbours and respecting community norms is both a legal and cultural obligation.
Postal Services
Postal services in Oman are operated by Oman Post (البريد العُماني), a government entity providing domestic and international mail and parcel services. Oman Post operates post offices across the country in all major towns and cities, with the main Muscat General Post Office in Ruwi. A notable quirk of the Omani address system is the historic reliance on PO Box numbers rather than street addresses — many businesses and residents still use PO Box addresses for correspondence. However, the government has now introduced a GPS-based national address system (requiring a physical street address on official documents such as utility bills and government correspondence). DHL, FedEx, Aramex, and UPS provide reliable courier services for international parcels, and all have offices in Muscat.
Oman Post does not currently operate a self-service parcel locker (smart box) network equivalent to Amazon Lockers or DHL Packstations. Most parcel deliveries are made to home or office addresses, or can be collected from post office branches. Aramex has a "Shop and Ship" service popular with expats for forwarding online shopping from the USA, UK, or other countries. DHL and FedEx offer collection points at their Muscat offices for missed deliveries.
Collecting registered mail, parcels, or items requiring signature at Oman Post branches requires presentation of a valid Civil ID (Residence Card) or passport. A third party may collect on your behalf with a written authorisation letter, their own Civil ID, and a copy of the addressee's Civil ID.
Oman Post offers registered mail (tracked) for both domestic and international correspondence. International registered letters to most destinations take 7–14 working days. For urgent international documents, Oman Post's EMS (Express Mail Service) offers faster delivery in 3–5 working days to major countries. DHL, FedEx, and Aramex courier services are generally preferred for important or time-sensitive international documents.
Oman Post does not offer a formal domestic mail forwarding service for residents who move house within Oman. Expats moving between addresses should notify all correspondents directly and update their address with the Royal Oman Police (for Civil ID records), their employer, bank, and utility companies. International mail forwarding from a home country to Oman can be arranged through home country postal services (e.g., Royal Mail in the UK) for a fee.
- →Always include your PO Box number AND your GPS-based physical address on correspondence — many Oman Post deliveries are still routed via PO Box even as the physical address system is being rolled out.
- →For online shopping from international retailers, use a parcel forwarding service such as Aramex Shop and Ship or DHL MyUS — they provide you with a US/UK address and forward purchases to Oman. This is far more reliable than asking international retailers to ship directly, many of whom do not serve Oman.
- →For urgent documents (employment contracts, legal papers, visa applications), always use DHL, FedEx, or Aramex rather than Oman Post, as delivery times and tracking reliability are significantly better.
- →Keep a copy of your Civil ID and passport handy when visiting Oman Post to collect parcels — ID verification is strict.
- →PostNet centres (business support and courier service franchises) in Muscat offer packing, photocopying, courier booking, and postal services as a convenient alternative to Oman Post branches.
- →During Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, postal and courier services experience significant backlogs and delays — plan any time-sensitive shipments well in advance of these holidays.