Moving to Oman from UAE

The first step in moving to Oman from UAE is securing a visa that suits your purpose—whether that’s employment, family sponsorship, or investment. Most expats begin with an Oman work visa for UAE residents, sponsored by an Omani employer. After your visa is approved, you’ll enter Oman on an entry permit and begin the Oman residence permit process, which includes biometric registration and a medical fitness test.

Documents you’ll need include a valid passport, UAE residence visa copy, offer letter from an Omani employer, passport-sized photos, and attested educational certificates. For family sponsorships, marriage and birth certificates will be required. It’s important to have all documents attested by UAE and Omani authorities in advance. At Khimji Ramdas Relocation Services, we guide you through this step to eliminate delays and paperwork stress.

Shipping household items to Oman from UAE requires careful planning. Start by sorting essentials and items you’ll no longer need. Items like electronics, furniture, and personal effects should be packed securely for long-haul road or sea freight. A professional moving company will conduct a pre-move survey and help you determine the best method and volume for shipment.

When relocating to Oman from Dubai or other emirates, customs documentation must be prepared accurately. You’ll need an itemized inventory list, a copy of your Oman entry permit, and proof of residence. Oman restricts certain items such as alcohol, religious materials, and specific medications. Khimji Ramdas Relocation Services ensures that all your shipments meet Omani import regulations, preventing unwanted delays at the border.

Many UAE-based insurance plans don’t cover medical services in Oman, so it’s smart to arrange temporary international travel insurance for your first few weeks. Once your Oman residence permit process is complete, you’ll be eligible for long-term private insurance or company-sponsored coverage. This ensures continuous protection and peace of mind.

While Oman and UAE both have high health standards, registration procedures vary. In Oman, expats must complete a government-mandated medical check to qualify for residence. It’s essential to carry original medical records, vaccination certificates, and prescriptions. Khimji Ramdas Relocation Services helps clients manage these steps efficiently, reducing the chances of administrative issues during onboarding.

If you’re moving to Oman from UAE with children, early school selection is vital. In Muscat, areas like Madinat Sultan Qaboos, Al Hail, and Qurum offer access to top-rated international schools with British, American, and Indian curricula. Selecting a home near your preferred school minimizes daily commute times and simplifies routine scheduling.

School applications typically require your child’s passport, transfer certificate from their current UAE school, previous academic records, and updated immunization history. Some schools may also require assessment tests or interviews. Khimji Ramdas Relocation Services assists parents in comparing schools, preparing documents, and meeting application deadlines without added stress.

After moving to Oman from UAE, you’ll need to open a local bank account. Requirements typically include your Oman residence card, employment contract, and tenancy agreement. Until that’s complete, using multi-currency debit cards or exchanging cash before your move is helpful for initial expenses. Currency exchange rates between the Omani Rial and UAE Dirham are relatively stable, but understanding transfer fees and limits is key to budgeting accurately.

Initial costs during your move—such as security deposits, temporary housing, school fees, and setup charges—can add up quickly. It’s wise to plan for at least 2–3 months of living expenses during your transition. Khimji Ramdas Relocation Services helps clients forecast relocation costs and streamline expenses with transparent budgeting tools and end-to-end financial guidance.

As you begin your relocation journey, temporary housing is often the best short-term solution. Serviced apartments and hotel residences in Muscat, Al Khuwair, or Ruwi offer flexibility and comfort during the transition phase. These allow you to focus on settling other logistics while you complete your Oman residence permit process and begin the search for permanent housing.

Expats moving to Oman from UAE typically start by renting. Leases in Oman are usually annual and require a security deposit of one to two months’ rent. Villas, apartments, and townhouses are available across various budgets, with options ranging from city-center living to suburban peace. Foreign ownership of property is allowed in designated areas such as The Wave and Muscat Hills, but many prefer to rent during the first few years of expat life in Oman.

If you’re moving to Oman from UAE for employment, begin by researching industries in demand. Popular online job portals and recruitment agencies in Oman specialize in placing candidates with Gulf experience. Key industries include logistics, oil & gas, healthcare, education, and hospitality. Knowing where your skills align ensures a faster job search and better placement opportunities.

While many UAE-acquired qualifications are accepted in Oman, some professions—especially in education, engineering, and medicine—may require equivalency certification. Pre-attesting your documents in UAE will streamline this step. Employers in Oman highly value GCC work experience, and Emirate-trained professionals often enjoy a smoother transition into local roles.

Oman has a hot desert climate, similar to UAE, but with more variation between coastal and inland regions. Lightweight, breathable, and modest clothing is suitable for daily wear. Public spaces, especially government offices and religious sites, may have specific dress expectations. Those relocating to Oman from Dubai will find these norms familiar, with a slightly more traditional undertone.

Omanis are known for their warmth, humility, and respect for tradition. Greetings are important, and it’s common to engage in friendly small talk. Public conduct is conservative—public displays of affection are discouraged, and cultural norms are observed widely. As an expat, embracing local values helps you build lasting community ties and enjoy a meaningful expat life in Oman.

Upon arrival, expats can drive in Oman using an International Driving Permit (IDP) for a limited period. UAE license holders may convert their licenses once the Oman residence permit process is complete. The process is straightforward but requires your residency card, passport, UAE license, and eye test certificate.

Personal transport is essential in Oman, especially outside of central Muscat. Car prices are comparable to those in UAE, and fuel is subsidized, making driving affordable. Leasing is a smart option if you’re unsure how long you’ll stay. Insurance and registration are mandatory and typically arranged through dealerships or brokers. Khimji Ramdas Relocation Services offers vehicle purchase and registration support as part of our relocation services.

Book your one-way flight to Oman after confirming your visa or work permit status. Most direct flights from UAE to Oman take just over an hour, with generous baggage allowances offered by major airlines. Be sure to label all luggage clearly and carry essential documents—including passport, visa, and tenancy agreement—in your hand luggage.

Before moving to Oman from UAE, wrap up any legal, financial, or utility obligations. This includes terminating your UAE tenancy agreement, cancelling Etisalat or DEWA services, clearing credit card dues, and informing your employer or school. Preparing closure letters and obtaining no-objection certificates will protect you from issues during future travel or re-entry to UAE. Khimji Ramdas Relocation Services provides relocation checklists to ensure nothing is overlooked.