Oman Expat News

Oman has one of the largest expatriate populations anywhere in the world. No wonder then that over the last few months we have repeatedly reported changes (and potential changes) to the rules surrounding expats. This month more changes have been approved; this time they will affect expat housing. Broadly speaking the new rules outlaw the sharing of properties in Oman. Until recently many expatriate workers have sought to avoid the rapidly-rising costs of rent in the Kingdom by squeezing ever more people ... Read more

However despite these new rules many expats have yet to leave, and the Omani government seems to getting impatient. Targets that have been set for the optimum expat population are some way from being reached. Drug-related offences will result in an automatic ban from any subscribing member while all other reasons will be treated on a case-by-case basis. That said, the fact that an official will have to personally consider your case means likely delays for those found lacking. In addition, scrutiny ... Read more

All is not well in Oman at present. Falling oil prices - which currently sit 20% lower than their high earlier on in 2014 - are a major cause for concern for a country in which oil makes up the vast majority of exports. In the absence of a considerable rebound in the near future, the public purse is likely to start feeling the strain in Oman shortly. As a result of this potential shortfall new revenue-generation models are being considered, particularly in relation to new sources of ... Read more