Relocating to Muscat: A Step-by-Step Expat Checklist

okay, so i did it. i actually booked a one-way ticket to muscat. just… wow. it’s less ‘desert oasis’ and more ‘organized spice market meets surprisingly modern tech hub.’ i’m still figuring it all out, but i figured i’d lay down some…well, more like ramble… thoughts. think of this as a friend venting (and maybe slightly panicking) before diving headfirst into a whole new life.

i'm going to try and make this as real as i can, not some Pinterest-perfect guide. because, let’s be honest, Pinterest never prepares you for the constant heat and the sheer abundance of dates. seriously, the dates, man. everywhere. and the humidity? forget about it. it’s like being perpetually in a lukewarm sauna. but hey, the sunsets are pretty spectacular.

*first things first: the practical stuff. the flight itself was shockingly cheap - around $600 round trip, which is insane. renting a car is a no-go - traffic is a nightmare, and the roads are… well, let's just say they’re not exactly designed for aggressive driving. public transport is decent, but you’ll need to get a Omani SIM card ASAP. basically, you're reliant on taxis or ride-sharing (which is surprisingly affordable, like $5-7 for a ride). i’m currently exploring the idea of getting a scooter - maybe a little less stressful than navigating the roads. check out Yelp Muscat for taxi and ride-share options.

gear list (because i’m a mess):

*clothing: pack light. think breathable fabrics - linen, cotton, maybe some moisture-wicking stuff. desert clothes are essential. i'm thinking loose pants, long-sleeved shirts to protect from the sun, and a good hat. sandals are a must - you’ll be doing a LOT of walking.
*sun protection: sunscreen (multiple SPF!), sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and maybe even a parasol for those truly brutal afternoons.
*electronics: a universal adapter (the plugs are different), a portable charger (you’ll be glued to your phone for planning adventures), and maybe a good quality camera.
*first aid kit: band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers. you never know what’ll happen.
*packable water bottle: seriously. hydration is key.
*a good book: because you’ll need something to do during those long, dusty drives.

cost of living (rough estimates, as of late 2023 - prices can fluctuate):

the gossip (overheard near the spice souk): apparently, there's a new art collective popping up in the old town. and someone mentioned there's a hidden cafe serving the BEST cardamom coffee in the entire country. i'm hoping to find it. also, someone warned me about a specific area near the coastline being a bit… lively. let’s just say, “lively” isn’t the word i’d use to describe it.

visa and residency: this is a big one. you need to apply for a visa before you arrive. it's a lengthy process, so start early. i’m still wading through all the paperwork. check out the Muscat Municipality website for more info.

safety: muscat is generally a safe city. but, as with any major city, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings. don't flash expensive jewelry or cash. and avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas. TripAdvisor Muscat has some helpful safety tips.

cultural norms: dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. public displays of affection are frowned upon. and it’s always polite to ask before taking someone’s photo. i'm still trying to figure out the etiquette around dates - apparently, offering dates is a sign of hospitality, but you have to do it right. (i’m failing, tbh.)

things to do: the desert safaris are a must. the beaches are beautiful (though the water can be a bit chilly). the museums are surprisingly good. and don’t miss the souks - they’re a sensory overload in the best way possible. try to get lost in the labyrinthine alleys; you might discover a treasure or two (or at least a really good cup of coffee).

ooh, and i overheard someone say that there's a new botanical garden opening next month near the airport. apparently, it's going to be a huge deal. maybe i'll check it out. i'm also trying to learn some basic Arabic phrases - it’s a lot harder than you think. “Shukran” (thank you) is a good start.

blockquote:

“The expats here all say the same thing,” said a guy at the coffee shop, “it’s a good place to get away from everything. But it’s also… different. You gotta be open to it.”

a local's perspective (from a little old lady i met in the souk):* she said, “Muscat is like a sleeping giant. It’s calm and peaceful, but it has so much potential. You just have to be patient and let it unfold.”

okay, i’m rambling now. but seriously, it's a wild ride. a totally different pace of life. and i’m… excited? maybe a little terrified? but mostly excited. stay tuned for more updates. i'm going to head off and try to find that cardamom coffee before it’s all gone. wish me luck!

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