Oman is a popular Gulf posting for British professionals in energy, engineering and education, and it has been introducing a unified health insurance scheme that changes how expats are covered. Health insurance here is becoming a compulsory part of working in the country.
This guide explains how healthcare works for British expats in Muscat and the regions, what the Dhamani scheme requires, and why many people add comprehensive international cover on top of the mandated minimum.
Healthcare in Oman: how the system works
Public system: Ministry of Health (public hospitals).
Oman has a well-regarded public health system run by the Ministry of Health, but it is primarily geared to Omani nationals, with expatriates generally using the private sector. To formalise cover for foreign workers, Oman has been introducing a unified health insurance scheme known as Dhamani.
As a British expat you should not rely on free public care — treatment is funded through insurance. A UK GHIC has no validity in Oman, and a domestic UK policy will not cover you as a resident, so your mandated cover or an international policy is what you depend on.
Is health insurance mandatory in Oman?
Oman's unified health insurance scheme, Dhamani, makes health cover compulsory for private-sector expatriate employees, with the premium paid by the employer, and it also extends to visitors. It has been introduced in phases as the supporting electronic systems and hospital links come online, so the exact scope and timing of full enforcement continue to evolve — confirm the current position for your employer, your visa and your dependants.
Why British expats take out private cover
The Dhamani minimum covers essential treatment but comes with benefit limits and a focus on cover inside Oman. Comprehensive international cover gives a wider choice of private hospitals, fuller family benefits and portability, including the ability to be treated back in the UK or elsewhere.
What expat health insurance costs in Oman
Private treatment in Oman is more affordable than the UK private sector for routine care, but serious cases and evacuation are costly. Premiums depend on your age, cover level and whether you want Oman-focused or worldwide protection, with comprehensive plans costing more for wider access.
Good to know before you move
- The Dhamani scheme makes cover compulsory for private-sector expat employees, paid by the employer.
- The scheme has been rolled out in phases, so scope and enforcement have evolved over time.
- Basic mandated cover has benefit limits and focuses on treatment inside Oman.
- Worldwide cover matters if you travel around the Gulf or visit the UK.
Private hospitals and where Britons settle
Oman has an established British community, many working in energy, engineering and education, particularly around Muscat.
Leading private providers include Badr Al Samaa Hospitals, Muscat Private Hospital and Aster Al Raffah Hospitals.
Popular with British expats: Muscat, Salalah, Sohar, Nizwa, Sur.
How a UK broker helps expats in Oman
International private medical insurance is a specialist market, and the right policy depends on your visa, your age, your medical history and how much time you spend outside Oman. A UK-based specialist broker can compare the international insurers available through its service, check that a policy meets any local or visa requirement, and explain what is — and is not — covered before you commit.
A broker can compare only the insurers and policies available through its service, and may receive commission or charge a fee. Ask for the insurer panel, the remuneration disclosure and the total price. Requesting a quote is free and puts you under no obligation to buy.
Expat health insurance in Oman: FAQs
Is health insurance mandatory in Oman?
Oman has been making health insurance compulsory for private-sector expatriate employees through its unified scheme, Dhamani, with the premium paid by the employer. Because it has been introduced in phases, it is worth confirming the current requirements for your role and visa.
What is the Dhamani scheme in Oman?
Dhamani is Oman's unified health insurance scheme, designed to provide a standard level of cover for private-sector expatriate workers and visitors. It sets a minimum benefit package that employers must fund, and it has been rolled out in stages.
Does my UK health insurance work in Oman?
No. A domestic UK policy is built for UK residents and will not cover you once you live in Oman, and a GHIC has no validity there. You need the mandated Dhamani cover or comprehensive international private medical insurance.
Who pays for expat health insurance in Oman?
Under the Dhamani scheme the employer is responsible for funding the mandated cover for private-sector expatriate employees. Many British expats add their own comprehensive cover on top, particularly to insure family members and gain wider hospital access.
How much does expat health insurance in Oman cost?
It depends on your age, the level of cover and whether you want Oman-focused or worldwide protection. The mandated minimum is funded by employers, while comprehensive family cover costs more — a quote is the quickest way to a real figure.
Other expat destinations
Visa, residency and insurance rules change and vary by individual circumstances. This guide is general information, not personal or regulated advice — always confirm the current requirements for your situation before you rely on them. Health Insurance UK is an information and lead-generation service, not an insurer or broker.