Written by
John Spencer
John Spencer is the founder of Compare Expat Plans, focusing on clear, neutral information to help people find health coverage abroad.
Last updated: January 29, 2026
Quick Summary: Health Insurance in Oman
- Health insurance is mandatory for all residents since 2016—employers must provide coverage for work visa holders.
- MOH public healthcare is subsidized for residents at OMR 2-5 ($5-13) per visit, but expats typically face longer waits.
- Private hospitals in Muscat (Muscat Private Hospital, Burjeel, Al Hayat) cost OMR 15-30 ($40-80) per consultation.
- International plans cost $150-350/month and should include UAE evacuation for complex procedures.
- Work Visa requires employer insurance; Investor Residence (OMR 50,000+ investment) needs private coverage.
Do You Need Private Health Insurance in Oman?
Oman mandated health insurance for all residents in 2016, phased in over several years. Employers must provide compliant coverage for work visa holders and their families. Self-sponsored visas (Investor Residence, retirement) require proof of private health insurance meeting minimum coverage standards set by the Capital Market Authority (CMA). The insurance must cover hospitalization, outpatient care, and emergency treatment.
Insurance is required for:
- Work visa holders—employers legally required to provide coverage
- Investor Residence holders (OMR 50,000+ business investment)—must arrange private coverage
- Retirees and dependents on sponsored visas—coverage through sponsor or private plan
- Those wanting access to Muscat's private hospitals without long public waits
- Anyone needing potential evacuation to Dubai or Abu Dhabi for specialized care
Public vs Private Healthcare in Oman
Public Healthcare
Ministry of Health (MOH)
- Access: Omani citizens free, residents with valid Resident Card at subsidized rates
- Cost: OMR 2-5 ($5-13)/visit for residents, full fees for emergency visitors
Royal Hospital Muscat and Sultan Qaboos University Hospital are the main referral centers. Good primary care and emergency services, but specialist appointments often have 2-4 week waits. Outside Muscat, facilities are more limited—Salalah and Sohar have regional hospitals, but rural areas have only basic clinics.
Private Healthcare
International or Local Private
- Access: Open to anyone
- Cost: OMR 15-30 ($40-80)/consultation; OMR 300-600 ($780-1,560)/night hospitalization
Muscat has modern private hospitals: Muscat Private Hospital, Burjeel Hospital, Al Hayat International Hospital, Starcare Hospital. Most have English and Arabic-speaking staff. For complex procedures (cardiac surgery, oncology, organ transplants), patients typically travel to Dubai or Abu Dhabi—a 4-hour drive or 1-hour flight.
Plan Options to Compare
Here are the most popular insurance options for expats in Oman. Each has trade-offs depending on your situation.
Cigna Global
Best for: Worldwide coverage and strong customer service
Not ideal for: Budget-focused expats staying only in Oman
Allianz Care
Best for: High-deductible savings and EU-based service
Not ideal for: Those wanting minimal out-of-pocket costs
BUPA Global
Best for: Pre-existing conditions and mental health coverage
Not ideal for: Those seeking the lowest premiums
IMG Global
Best for: Budget international coverage
Not ideal for: Those wanting premium service levels
Comparison Table: Top Expat Health Plans for Oman
Compare the leading options side by side. Click "Details" to learn more about each provider.
| Provider | Best For | Coverage Style | Includes U.S.? | Notable Limits | Learn More |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cigna Global | Worldwide coverage and strong | International comprehensive | Higher cost than local options | Details → | |
| Allianz Care | High-deductible savings and EU-based | International comprehensive | Deductibles apply to savings | Details → | |
| BUPA Global | Pre-existing conditions and mental | International premium | Premium pricing | Details → | |
| IMG Global | Budget international coverage | International standard | 12-month pre-existing exclusion | Details → |
Common Watch-outs for Oman
Keep these points in mind when choosing coverage:
- Employer-provided insurance often has coverage caps (OMR 10,000-30,000)—supplement with international coverage for major illness.
- Outside Muscat, private healthcare options are very limited—ensure your plan covers medical transport to the capital.
- Summer temperatures exceed 45°C—heat-related illnesses are common and should be covered.
- Pre-existing conditions face 12-24 month waiting periods with most insurers.
- UAE evacuation is essential—complex cases require travel to Dubai/Abu Dhabi hospitals like Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is health insurance mandatory in Oman?
Yes. Since 2016, all residents must have health insurance. Employers are legally required to provide coverage for work visa holders and their families. Self-sponsored residents (investors, retirees) must arrange private coverage meeting CMA minimum standards.
Can expats use Oman's public hospitals?
Residents with a valid Resident Card can access MOH facilities at subsidized rates (OMR 2-5 per visit). However, wait times for specialists can be 2-4 weeks, and most expats prefer private hospitals for faster service and English-speaking staff. Royal Hospital Muscat is the main public referral center.
What are the best private hospitals in Oman?
Muscat has several quality private hospitals: Muscat Private Hospital (oldest and largest), Burjeel Hospital (UAE chain), Al Hayat International Hospital, and Starcare Hospital. For complex procedures like cardiac surgery or cancer treatment, most patients travel to Dubai or Abu Dhabi.
How much does health insurance cost in Oman?
Employer plans typically cost OMR 150-400 ($390-1,040) per year with coverage caps of OMR 10,000-30,000. Comprehensive international plans cost $150-350/month but include worldwide coverage and UAE evacuation. Private consultations run OMR 15-30 ($40-80) without insurance.
Do I need evacuation coverage in Oman?
Strongly recommended. While Muscat has good hospitals for routine and emergency care, complex procedures (organ transplants, advanced cancer treatment, specialized pediatric surgery) require travel to UAE. Dubai and Abu Dhabi are 4-5 hours by car or 1 hour by air—evacuation coverage ensures access to world-class facilities like Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi.
Related: Comparisons and Next Steps
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Healthcare policies, insurance requirements, and visa rules change. We are not insurance brokers, immigration consultants, or licensed advisors. Verify all information with official sources and insurance providers before making decisions.