The Gulf country nobody talks about that costs 30% less than Dubai

Hello borderless souls,

This week we are looking at Oman, specifically Muscat, the Gulf's most overlooked base for location-independent earners. No personal income tax, a cost of living 25 to 35 percent below Dubai, and a city that consistently ranks in the top five globally for personal safety. The nomad mainstream has not found it yet. That may be the point.

Let's dive in!

Oman is emerging as a top choice for remote professionals in the Gulf, offering several routes to extended stays despite not having a specific digital nomad visa.

The Freelance Permit lets self-employed foreigners work and live in Oman without needing a local sponsor, provided they meet education, health, and security checks.

Those looking to invest can opt for the Investor Residency, which grants renewable residency to company founders, starting from OMR 980.

For longer commitments, the relaunch of Golden and Silver Visas in August 2025 offers 5- or 10-year residencies for investments of OMR 250,000 or OMR 500,000.

Expatriates benefit from no personal income tax and the stable Omani Rial, which is pegged to the US Dollar.

Living costs in Muscat are moderate, with diverse neighborhoods like Al Azaiba, Al Qurum, and Al Mouj suiting various budgets and lifestyles.

Oman's attractive visa options and tax-free income make it ideal for remote workers seeking a Gulf base.

Discover exclusive deals on accommodations and flights to top destinations worldwide.

Book now and enjoy a seamless booking experience with Avia Hotels and Flights.