What are the property prices in Oman? 2025 Guide

For several years, Oman has been attracting the attention of investors and those looking for a second home in the Persian Gulf region. Stable market growth, attractive residential projects in Muscat and coastal resorts, and increasingly foreigner-friendly regulations make real estate in this country an interesting alternative to Dubai or Qatar. In 2024, the value of real estate transactions increased by over 28%, and in the first half of 2025, further price increases were recorded – on average by over 10% year-on-year.

Why is it worth investing in Oman now?

Oman combines several factors that make the current moment exceptionally favorable for investors. On one hand, there is growing demand for apartments and villas in attractive locations – both among residents and foreigners. On the other hand, the authorities have introduced facilitations for foreigners, allowing them to purchase properties in special ITC (Integrated Tourism Complexes) zones, which further increases the market's attractiveness. Economic stability, the development of tourism, and strategic infrastructure investments indicate that the upward price trend may continue in the coming years.

Real estate prices in Oman in 2025 — how much does a square meter cost?

In 2025, the real estate market in Oman continues to develop dynamically. Asking prices for apartments and villas are systematically rising, and available data show a clear increase in value in key locations. Below is current information regarding average prices and example ranges, which allow for a better understanding of the market situation and an assessment of investment potential.

Key data and price trends

• In Q1 2025, residential property prices in Oman rose by approximately 7.3% year-on-year. This growth was driven mainly by an increase in the value of residential land (approx. +6.5%) — a component that strongly influences the total price of a property.
• The Savills Oman Property Report – Q2 2025 notes a moderate but stable improvement in the housing market, albeit with regional variations.
• According to the Properstar portal, the median price of an apartment in Oman is approximately OMR 171 per sq ft (which translates roughly to about OMR ~1,840 / m² — depending on the conversion rate).
• In Muscat, the median asking price for an apartment (flat) is – according to another Properstar compilation – OMR 1,633 per m².
• The Imtilak website stated that houses in Muscat (2025) in standard zones cost in the range of USD 207,000 – 312,000 — which, when converted at current exchange rates and depending on the location, may represent price ranges for the upper-middle segment.

Example price ranges

** "Offer" = prices from listings / developer projects, not always transactional.*

Notes and market context

• Asking prices are often higher than those actually closed in transactions — one must account for a negotiation margin and consider the difference between developer shell-and-core and move-in-ready states.
• The increase in land value (residential areas) is a key driver of price pressure in cities and suburban areas.
• Peripheral markets (such as Sohar, Duqm) often offer lower prices but also greater growth potential as infrastructure develops.
• It is worth noting that listing data is sometimes published in different units (OMR/m², OMR/sq ft, USD, etc.), so conversions and clarification of methodology are necessary when making comparisons.

Where are the most expensive and cheapest properties in Oman?

Real estate prices in Oman vary depending on the region and the nature of the location. The most expensive apartments and houses can be found in the country's capital – Muscat – especially in districts located near the coast and in prestigious residential complexes. This is where the greatest demand from both residents and foreigners is concentrated.

Conversely, in smaller towns, as well as in locations far from major business and tourist centers, prices are significantly lower. They offer more affordable purchase conditions while providing potential for future growth, especially where infrastructure and economic projects are being developed.

For investors, this means a wide selection – from luxury apartments in prestigious Muscat districts to more budget-friendly options in the country's developing regions.

How to buy property in Oman step by step?

Buying property in Oman, especially as a foreigner, requires going through several stages. Although the procedure is relatively simple, it is worth preparing well for the entire process to avoid legal and financial problems.

1. Choosing the location and type of property

At the beginning, it is worth deciding whether you are interested in purchasing in prestigious Muscat districts, coastal resorts, or the country's developing regions. For foreigners, properties are primarily available in special ITC (Integrated Tourism Complex) zones, where full ownership rights apply.

2. Document verification and due diligence

Before signing any contract, it is necessary to verify the property's legal title, ownership status, and any potential encumbrances. It is also worth reviewing the homeowners' association regulations or additional maintenance costs (so-called service charges).

3. Preliminary agreement (MoU) and negotiations

After selecting a property, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) is usually signed, i.e., a preliminary agreement that specifies the terms of the transaction and the deposit amount. This is the time to clarify all details and negotiate the price.

4. Financing and mortgage

If the purchase is to be financed with a loan, you should check the offers of banks operating in Oman. There is usually an LTV (loan-to-value) limit, which is the maximum percentage of the property value that can be covered by a loan. In addition, there are extra costs associated with registering the mortgage.

5. Registration with the Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning

The final stage is registering the property with the appropriate government body and paying the transfer tax (approx. 3% of the property value). Once the formalities are completed, you receive the title deed, which serves as confirmation of the right to the property.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about real estate in Oman

Can a foreigner buy property in Oman?

Yes, but only in designated ITC (Integrated Tourism Complex) zones. There, a foreigner can purchase an apartment or villa with full ownership and receive residency rights associated with the purchase.

Is there a property tax in Oman?

No, there is no annual property tax in Oman. The buyer only pays a transfer fee (approx. 3% of the purchase value) and any potential administrative and bank costs.

What are the additional costs when buying property?

Apart from the aforementioned transfer fee, one must account for a broker's commission (approx. 3–5%) and community fees in residential complexes.

Can a purchased property be rented out for short-term stays (e.g., on Airbnb)?

In many ITC projects, this is possible, but it requires checking the community regulations and obtaining the appropriate permits.

Are property prices in Oman rising?

Yes, a clear upward trend has been observed in recent years – in 2024, the value of transactions increased by over 28%, and in the first half of 2025, apartment and house prices jumped by an average of over 10% year-on-year.

Does buying property in Oman grant residency?

Yes, purchasing property in designated ITC zones provides the opportunity to obtain a residence permit for the owner and their family.

Sources

1. https://www.savills.com/research\_articles/255800/379696-0
2. https://www.properstar.com/oman/house-price
3. https://www.properstar.mu/oman/muscat/house-price
4. https://www.imtilak.om/en/articles/house-prices-muscat
5. https://www.arabnews.com/node/2604568/business-economy
6. https://www.savills.co.uk/research\_articles/229130/376346-0
7. https://www.omanobserver.om/article/1175620/business/economy/oman-real-estate-market-holds-steady-report
8. https://www.zawya.com/en/economy/gcc/muscats-property-market-holds-steady-amid-economic-growth-ow4yxgeh
9. https://omandesignandbuildweek.com/newfront/news/muscats-real-estate-property-shows-steady-growth-savills-2025-report