How does healthcare work in Oman, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

How does the healthcare system work in Oman?

Over the past 50 years, Oman has given their healthcare system a huge boost.
Oman now has a well-developed healthcare system that is accessible to both locals and expats. The Ministry of Health (MoH) manages the public system, while there is also a growing number of private healthcare facilities. Healthcare in Oman is known for its high standards and good hygiene.
Oman relies on foreign expertise, imported medicines and equipment.
Pharmacies are widespread in cities and larger towns. In major cities such as Muscat and Salalah, 24/7 pharmacies are available, with a wide range of medicines.
Many medicines that are available on prescription in the West are available over the counter in Oman. However, stronger medicines such as antibiotics and painkillers require a doctor’s prescription. In addition to Western medicines, traditional Arabic and Indian remedies are sometimes sold, depending on the pharmacy.
Pharmacists usually speak good English, making it easy for expats to explain their medication needs. Oman has a well-functioning ambulance system, managed by the Ministry of Health. In case of emergency, you can call 9999 to reach an ambulance.
In addition to the government-owned ambulances, private ambulance services are available for faster or more specialized care, at an additional cost.

The quality of public healthcare in Oman is excellent and is regularly inspected by the Ministry of Health. There are modern hospitals with advanced equipment and a strong focus on preventive care.
Public healthcare is not accessible to all expats. Public healthcare is free for all residents of Oman and the Gulf Cooperation Council countries and expats working for the government.
Other expatriates often do not have access to free public healthcare, and must rely on private healthcare. Public hospitals are available, but they have to pay extra.
Free healthcare covers all primary care, specialist appointments, and almost all necessary medical treatments. Doctors generally speak good English due to their education abroad or because they are expats themselves.

Expats therefore usually rely on private hospitals and clinics. These institutions have shorter waiting times and modern facilities, but are more expensive. Therefore, having comprehensive health insurance is essential for expats.
The capital Muscat has many large and good hospitals.
Medical clinics, hospitals and pharmacies can be found everywhere. Not all medication is easily available.
Since 2023, Oman has been introducing the Unified Health Insurance Policy, also known as Dhamani. This is a mandatory private health insurance, separate from the public system, which provides basic coverage for, among other things, doctor's visits, medical treatments, outpatient services and hospital admissions up to a certain limit.
Under this introduction, employers in the private sector are obliged to take out private health insurance for their employees. Check the coverage carefully, especially for major medical procedures. Many expatriates still have their own private insurance.

In Oman, GPs are available in both public and private clinics.
Expats often choose private clinics, because they offer more flexibility.
You do not always have to register with a specific GP; walk-in appointments are common in private clinics.

Both public and private dental care are considered good.
For long-term stays, additional insurance that covers dental care is recommended.

Oman offers excellent maternity care in both public and private hospitals.
Most births take place in hospitals, but home births are also possible.
Many expats choose private care because of the luxurious facilities and personal attention.
Breastfeeding is strongly encouraged in Oman. Public breastfeeding is permitted, but women usually do so discreetly due to cultural sensitivities.
Abortion is not permitted in most cases and there is a general opposition to abortion for cultural and religious reasons.
Women working in the private sector are entitled to 50 days of maternity leave.

Oman is considered one of the safest countries in the Middle East and even the world. The country is also politically stable.
The country has very low crime rates and even petty crime such as pickpocketing is rare.
Tropical cyclones and flooding can occur, especially during the rainy season.
Oman is a conservative Islamic country. Although it is slightly less strict than some of the surrounding countries, it is important to respect local traditions and avoid public displays of affection or inappropriate clothing, for example.
Also watch out for scorpions and snakes in desert areas.

The greatest danger in Oman is the heat. Sunstroke, dehydration and exhaustion. Prepare well for the heat and drink enough.
It is possible to drink tap water in the cities, but most foreigners still drink bottled water.
Protect yourself well against mosquitoes, there are several mosquito-borne diseases.
Discuss with your vaccination doctor which vaccinations you may need.

What should you pay attention to in terms of traffic in Oman?
Roads in cities such as Muscat are well maintained, but in rural areas you may encounter unpaved roads.
Driving is on the right side of the road.
Seat belts are mandatory.
Speed limits are strictly enforced, and violations can lead to high fines.
Local drivers sometimes drive recklessly, especially on highways. Be alert and defensive.

Is the trip to Oman and your return sufficiently covered? Are you sufficiently covered before, during and after your activities? Which insurance best suits your trip and your activity? Read more about insurances for abroad on JoHoinsurances.org.

Your own private insurance is strongly recommended for Oman, as the costs can be quite high, especially in emergencies. Read more about insurances abroad on Expatinsurances.org.

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