Relocating to Muscat: A Step-by-Step Expat Checklist (From a Disillusioned Consultant)

okay, so, muscat. yeah. it’s… a lot. i’m not gonna lie, i didn't exactly picture myself swapping powerpoint presentations for… well, this. but here we are. i’m a disillusioned consultant, which basically means i spent the last decade optimizing other people’s inefficiencies and now i’m optimizing my own life… in the middle of the arabian peninsula. it felt like a drastic pivot, but honestly? the burnout was real. and the promise of a slower pace, coupled with some surprisingly competitive (but not crazy expensive) job offers, sealed the deal.

first things first: the logistics. don't even get me started on the paperwork. it’s endless. but before you dive into that rabbit hole, here’s a quick rundown of things i wished i knew before booking that flight.

*The Essentials - What to Pack (and What to Leave Behind)

*Clothing: lightweight, breathable fabrics are your friend. think linen, cotton, anything that isn't going to make you sweat like a camel in a sauna. modest clothing is appreciated, especially when visiting religious sites. (think loose-fitting pants, long sleeves - especially for guys). I’m talking khakis, not full robes, but you get the gist.
*Adapters: obviously. but get a good one. the power outlets are a mix of types, so a universal adapter is worth its weight in gold.
*Sun Protection: seriously. the sun is intense. sunscreen (high SPF!), a hat, sunglasses… you’ll thank me later.
*Comfortable Shoes: you'll be doing a lot of walking, whether it’s exploring the souqs or just getting around.
*Medications: pack enough of any prescription meds you need, plus a good first-aid kit. pharmacies are readily available, but it’s always better to be prepared.

Pro-Tip: don't overpack! you can buy most things you need in Muscat, and frankly, you'll want to save space for souvenirs (and maybe a few ridiculously patterned scarves).

Cost of Living - A Rough Idea (as of October 2024)

(You can find more detailed cost of living breakdowns on Numbeo and Expatistan.)

Navigating Muscat - The Good, the Bad, and the Slightly Confusing

Okay, so the city itself is… different. it isn’t New York. it isn’t Tokyo. it’s… uniquely muscati. the people are generally incredibly kind and welcoming, but be respectful of local customs. (don’t point your feet at people, for instance. apparently that's a big no-no.) don’t expect a constant buzz of activity like you’d find in a larger metropolis. things run on a different clock here - a much slower clock.

Overheard Gossip: "Honestly, the traffic during prayer time is a nightmare. You’ll spend half your life sitting in your car."

Safety: Muscat is incredibly safe. i mean, seriously. i can walk around at night without feeling anxious, which is a huge relief. but, you know, common sense applies. don’t flash expensive jewelry, and be aware of your surroundings.

Finding a Place to Live: i used Bayt.com and LinkedIn to start my search. be prepared to pay a deposit (usually 2-3 months' rent) and potentially a broker fee. don’t be afraid to negotiate!

The Weather: it's currently… baking. Seriously. It’s that dry, scorching heat that just sucks the moisture right out of you. Picture a hairdryer pointed directly at your face - but for days. But hey, the evenings are surprisingly pleasant, a gentle breeze kicks in, and the air smells faintly of frankincense.

Drunk Advice (from a local): “Don’t try to haggle too hard in the souqs. It’s considered rude. Just enjoy the experience and be prepared to pay a fair price.”

Something a Local Warned Me About: “Be careful with the speed limits. They’re strictly enforced, and the fines are hefty.”

Things I’m Looking Forward To: exploring the ancient forts, diving in the clear waters of the gulf, and (maybe) finally mastering the art of Arabic coffee.

Things I’m Still Figuring Out: the whole prayer schedule thing. it’s… a lot. and figuring out where to find decent vegan options (still searching!).

Final Thoughts: Muscat isn’t for everyone. it’s not a place for those seeking constant excitement or a wild nightlife. but if you’re looking for a slower pace of life, a rich culture, and a genuinely welcoming atmosphere, it might just surprise you. plus, the sunsets are unreal. really. just… really.

Resources:
TripAdvisor Muscat
Yelp Muscat
r/Oman

Anyway. gotta go find some shade. wish me luck.

You might also be interested in:

• https://topiclo.com/post/demographics-of-durango-who-lives-here-in-2026-2
• https://topiclo.com/post/kadunas-bestkept-secrets-even-the-locals-forgot-about
• https://topiclo.com/post/seoul-cold-crowded-and-confusingly-cool
• https://topiclo.com/post/setagaya-the-weird-wonderful-and-totally-unpredictable-story-of-tokyos-most-chill-ward
• https://topiclo.com/post/the-state-of-unemployment-and-economic-growth-in-ulaanbaatar-and-why-im-seriously-considering-a-yak