Market snapshot
Oman offers a steady, government-led construction pipeline and one of the most relaxed lifestyles in the Gulf. It is smaller than Saudi Arabia or the UAE, but Oman Vision 2040 is driving long-term investment in rail, new cities, housing, tourism, logistics and green energy.
The construction sector is forecast to grow by around 4.4% a year from 2026 to 2029. Housing is a major driver: more than 62,000 new homes are projected by 2030, and property sales rose 16% in 2025 to around $3.4bn.
Major projects driving hiring
| Project | Value | What it involves |
|---|---|---|
| Great Blue City | $18–20bn | A 32 km² waterfront city near Muscat, with Phase 1A underway |
| Hafeet Rail | About $3bn | A 238 km railway linking Sohar Port with Abu Dhabi, with around 60 bridges |
| Sultan Haitham City | $2.6bn (Phase 1) | A 14.8 km² smart city with 20,000 homes for around 100,000 residents |
| AIDA by Dar Global | $2.4bn | A luxury mixed-use development due in 2028 |
| Al Khuwair Waterfront | $1.3bn | A planned high-rise waterfront district in Muscat |
| Sustainable City Yiti | $1bn | A net-zero community with more than 3,000 homes |
| Duqm Special Economic Zone | RO 6.3bn invested to date | Refinery, port expansion and the Hyport Duqm green hydrogen project |
Oman also plans six new regional airports by 2029 and around 40 new hotels, keeping demand strong for aviation, hospitality and infrastructure specialists.
Working and living in Oman
Roles in demand. Rail, new cities and Duqm drive demand for project and programme managers, rail and systems engineers, infrastructure and utilities engineers, planners, cost managers, and HSE professionals. Omanisation targets mean many employers look for specialist expatriate skills that complement local teams.
Cost of living. Muscat is one of the more affordable Gulf capitals for families.
| Cost | Typical range |
|---|---|
| 2-bedroom apartment | OMR 450–700 per month |
| 3-bedroom apartment | OMR 600–1,000 per month |
| 3-bedroom villa | OMR 700–1,200 per month |
| International school | OMR 1,500–4,000 a year, or OMR 4,000–8,000 at premium schools |
| Utilities | OMR 30–80 per month |
| Family of four, all-in | Around OMR 1,500–2,500 per month |
Bringing your family. Most professionals need a salary of at least OMR 600 a month to sponsor their family, plus a registered tenancy contract. Applications go through the Royal Oman Police and typically take 6–12 weeks, with attested marriage and birth certificates usually the slowest step.
Tax. There is currently no personal income tax. From January 2028, Oman will introduce a 5% tax on annual income above OMR 42,000 (about $109,000), the first of its kind in the GCC. Most professionals will be unaffected, but senior hires should factor it into package discussions.
Lifestyle. Oman is known for its welcoming culture, natural beauty and calmer pace. Mountains, beaches and wadis are all within easy reach of Muscat, making it a popular choice for families who want space and an outdoor lifestyle.
Frequently asked questions
Are there construction jobs in Oman in 2026?
Yes. Oman Vision 2040 is driving projects such as Hafeet Rail, Sultan Haitham City, Great Blue City and the Duqm Special Economic Zone, and the construction sector is forecast to grow around 4.4% a year to 2029.
What are the biggest construction projects in Oman?
They include the $18–20bn Great Blue City, the $3bn Hafeet Rail link to Abu Dhabi, the $2.6bn Sultan Haitham City and continued investment at Duqm.
How much salary do I need to bring my family to Oman?
Most professionals need at least OMR 600 a month, plus a registered tenancy contract. Check the current threshold for your job category with your employer.
Is there income tax in Oman?
Not currently. From January 2028, a 5% tax will apply to annual income above OMR 42,000.
Is Muscat expensive to live in?
It is more affordable than Dubai or Doha. A family of four typically spends around OMR 1,500–2,500 a month, including rent.
Considering a move to Oman?
One95 Global supports construction and infrastructure professionals and employers across the GCC. Talk to us about opportunities in Oman and what a move could mean for you and your family.
Speak to our team or browse our latest roles.
Sources: BlackRidge Research, AGBI, Gulf Construction, Wathim, Oman Business Setup, EY. Figures are indicative and change often.