Muscat Accommodation

What are the top factors to keep in mind when searching for a place to live in your city?
Check for proximity of mosques (all of which are fitted with loudspeakers), schools, the airport flight path or rubbish bins. Keep an eye open for buildings under construction and get yourself on the waiting list. A secluded villa surrounded by empty ground is peaceful at first, but if the area is marked for development, you might find yourself surrounded by building sites as the time goes by. Construction work usually starts at around 6:00 a.m. and finishes at around 10:00 p.m., with the occasional midnight concrete pour, six days a week.
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What are the most popular neighborhoods in your city for expats?
There are no specific areas for expatriate housing. The Wave is a very popular area for expats. Muscat is a relatively small city so you should be able to get to most places in less than half an hour, no matter where you live.
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Do expats tend to buy or rent their homes?
Expats can rent property or buy property in dedicated areas, but renting property is more common in Oman.
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Typically, will I be required to pay additional money up front (such as a deposit) before moving into leased housing? If so, how much is common?
A one-month, refundable deposit is common and rent is usually paid in advance for six months or one year.
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Are utilities generally included in the price of rent, or are they extra?
Utilities are generally not included.
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Are there special security concerns I should be aware of in regards to my home or choice of neighborhood?
Oman is a safe country. Just observe normal precautions, e.g., lock your doors and windows.
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I’m not sure if I should bring my appliances. What is the electric current, Hz and plug shape in your city?
220 - 240 V AC and 50 Hz. Plugs are UK standard (3-prong). Adaptors are helpful.
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Do you have any other accommodation information that might help me?
Apartments can be rented on a daily, weekly, monthly or yearly basis and are fully furnished right down to the last detail, with a cleaning and laundry service included. The main contacts for serviced apartments are ASAS Residence, Al Noorah Gardens and Safeer Hotel Suites.
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IMPORTANT NOTE:
Crown Relocations has made every effort to present accurate information. However, regulations, rates and other variables are subject to change and Crown Relocations cannot accept responsibility for the errors that might result. Should you have any questions or need additional information, please contact your local Crown representative.