Healthcare in Oman: hospitals, insurance and costs for expats

Oman has a well-organised health system with modern hospitals in Muscat and a referral network that reaches every governorate. Omani citizens receive government care largely free of charge. Expatriates usually rely on private hospitals and clinics paid for by health insurance, and they can also use government hospitals for a fee.

Government hospitals

The Ministry of Health runs a three-level network:

• Health centres in every wilayat for primary care.
• Regional hospitals in each governorate, such as Sohar, Nizwa, Sur, Ibri and Salalah.
• National referral hospitals in Muscat: the Royal Hospital, Khoula Hospital and Al Nahdha Hospital.

Sultan Qaboos University Hospital and the cancer and haematology centres now belong to the University Medical City, created by royal decree in 2024. The Armed Forces Hospital and the Royal Oman Police hospital serve their own personnel and families.

Private hospitals

Muscat has a growing private sector, including Aster Royal Al Raffah, Burjeel, KIMSHEALTH, Starcare, Muscat Private Hospital and NMC. Most expats use these for routine care because waiting times are short and insurance is accepted directly.

Health insurance

Employers usually provide health insurance for expatriate staff, and Oman has been introducing a mandatory employer-paid scheme for private-sector expatriates (known as Dhamani). Check what your policy covers: maternity, chronic conditions, dental and treatment abroad are often limited. Retirees and property-owner residents generally need their own international or local policy.

Emergencies

Call 9999 for police, ambulance and fire. Government emergency departments treat everyone in an emergency, and serious trauma cases in Muscat go to Khoula Hospital.

Costs

A private GP visit typically costs a modest fee, and specialist consultations and scans cost more. Without insurance, inpatient care at a private hospital can be expensive, so a good policy is essential for anyone living in Oman.

Good to know

Departments, opening hours and referral rules change. Call the hospital or check the Ministry of Health before you go. In an emergency in Oman, call 9999.

Living nearby

Easy access to good hospitals matters when you choose where to live. R2LUX sells homes in communities where foreigners can own; three current listings are below.