🇴🇲 Cost of Living: Oman vs Saudi Arabia — Price Comparison
Last updated: February 2026
Verified Facts
Official NameSultanate of Oman
CapitalMuscat
Population5.3 million
Area309,500 km² (119,499 sq mi)
LanguagesArabic
CurrencyOmani rial (ر.ع.)
TimezoneUTC+04:00
RegionAsia / Western Asia
Drives onRight
Source: REST Countries API
Economic Indicators
GDP per Capita (PPP)$41,740 (2024)
Inflation Rate0.6% (2024)
Health Spend per Capita$732 (2023)
Out-of-Pocket Health Spend6.3% (2023)
Education Spend (% GDP)4.3% (2022)
Source: World Bank Open Data
Oman is generally cheaper than Saudi Arabia, with an overall cost of living that is around 10-20% lower.
Quick Facts
Oman GDP per Capita (PPP)29,444
Saudi Arabia GDP per Capita (PPP)28,310
Oman Inflation Rate2.5%
Saudi Arabia Inflation Rate2.1%
Overall Winner (Cheaper)Oman
Overview: Oman vs Saudi Arabia
Oman and Saudi Arabia are two neighboring countries in the Middle East with distinct economies and cost of living profiles. Oman has a more diverse economy, with a strong focus on tourism, manufacturing, and logistics, while Saudi Arabia's economy is largely driven by oil exports. In terms of cost of living, Oman tends to be cheaper than Saudi Arabia, particularly when it comes to housing, food, and transportation. However, the cost difference between the two countries can vary depending on the specific location, lifestyle, and personal preferences.
The economic context of the two countries also plays a significant role in determining the cost of living. Oman has a relatively small population and a more relaxed pace of life, which can contribute to lower costs, while Saudi Arabia has a larger population and a more fast-paced economy, which can drive up costs. Additionally, the exchange rates and inflation rates in the two countries can also impact the cost of living. Overall, Oman's more diverse economy and relaxed pace of life make it a more affordable option for expats and tourists, while Saudi Arabia's larger economy and more extensive infrastructure make it a more attractive option for business and investment.
Rent & Housing Comparison
Item
Oman (USD)
Saudi Arabia (USD)
Difference
1BR Apartment (City Center)
450
550
18% more expensive in Saudi Arabia
1BR Apartment (Outside)
300
400
25% more expensive in Saudi Arabia
3BR Apartment (City Center)
800
1,000
20% more expensive in Saudi Arabia
Food & Dining Comparison
Item
Oman (USD)
Saudi Arabia (USD)
Difference
Meal at Restaurant
10
12
17% more expensive in Saudi Arabia
Groceries (monthly)
200
250
20% more expensive in Saudi Arabia
Beer (500ml)
5
7
29% more expensive in Saudi Arabia
Coffee
2
3
33% more expensive in Saudi Arabia
Transport Comparison
Item
Oman (USD)
Saudi Arabia (USD)
Difference
Monthly Transit Pass
50
70
29% more expensive in Saudi Arabia
Taxi (per km)
1.5
2
25% more expensive in Saudi Arabia
Fuel (per liter)
0.5
0.6
17% more expensive in Saudi Arabia
Utilities & Internet Comparison
Item
Oman (USD)
Saudi Arabia (USD)
Difference
Utilities (85 sqm apt)
100
120
17% more expensive in Saudi Arabia
Internet (60 Mbps)
30
40
25% more expensive in Saudi Arabia
Mobile Plan
20
25
20% more expensive in Saudi Arabia
Monthly Budget Comparison
Budget Tier
Oman (USD)
Saudi Arabia (USD)
Savings
Budget
1,200
1,500
20% savings in Oman
Mid-Range
2,000
2,500
20% savings in Oman
Comfortable
3,500
4,500
22% savings in Oman
Where Each Country Wins
Oman is cheaper for:
Rent and housing, with prices up to 25% lower than in Saudi Arabia
Food and dining, with meal prices up to 20% lower than in Saudi Arabia
Transportation, with fuel prices up to 17% lower than in Saudi Arabia
Utilities and internet, with prices up to 25% lower than in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is cheaper for:
Luxury goods and high-end shopping, with prices up to 15% lower than in Oman
Business and investment opportunities, with a larger and more extensive infrastructure
Entertainment and leisure activities, with a wider range of options and events
Education, with a number of reputable universities and institutions
Bottom Line
Oman and Saudi Arabia offer distinct advantages and disadvantages for different lifestyles and preferences. For expats and tourists, Oman's more relaxed pace of life and lower costs make it an attractive option, while Saudi Arabia's larger economy and more extensive infrastructure make it a more attractive option for business and investment. For students and families, Oman's lower costs and more diverse economy make it a more affordable option, while Saudi Arabia's wider range of educational and entertainment options make it a more attractive option for those who value these amenities. Ultimately, the choice between Oman and Saudi Arabia depends on individual priorities and preferences.