5 Things You Should Know Before Teaching in Muscat

1. Location

Oman has about 2.8 million people and is 105,000 square miles. Muscat is the capital of Oman and is a port. It is the largest city in Oman, though the smallest capital city in the world.

Muscat is located in the Gulf of Oman surrounded by rugged mountains not very tall but picturesque, unspoilt ‘wadi’s’ and desert sands. Unlike its neighbouring countries, Muscat has its own unique character to the city. Very few high rise buildings and most buildings reflect traditional architectural elements. Muscat means ‘safe anchorage’ and the sea is a major part of the city.

2. Attractions

Muscat has many sights and landmarks to visit. From mountain climbing to view all the old historical forts and old villages, sand dunes, wadi bashing, camping out in the desert, bar-be-que on unspoilt strikingly beautiful beaches, scuba diving, dolphin cruises, sailing and much more.

They are plenty of exotic restaurants with traditional food; in some, you eat on the floor with cushions and eat with your hands as this is their tradition. If you are craving for something recognisable there plenty of options available from McDonald’s, Subway, Pizza Huts, KFC and much more.

Museums and traditional Omani markets are fascinating to visit and to learn more about the Omani culture and the people.

3. Teaching in Muscat

Teaching in Oman, Muscat gives you a relaxed culturally rich lifestyle while experiencing the Middle East. Teachers earn tax-free salaries and the jobs are normally for a 2-year contract.

The standard of education in Oman is quite high and schools have excellent facilities and many extra-curricular activities. Most expats consider working in Muscat as the friendliest Gulf state. As Muscat is a small city you can drive from one end to the other in forty minutes.

Teaching jobs available in Oman, Muscat varies from Kindergarten, Elementary, Middle and High school positions in International schools. Schools tend to offer furnished accommodations or accommodation can be found at small costs. Teacher’s contracts will include return airfare, paid vacations, medical insurance, tuition for dependents, etc.

Omani people are very hospitable and are open to foreigners. Teachers are held in high regard and you will get respect and good behaviour in the school and in your classrooms.

4. Culture

Oman, Muscat is more liberal than its neighbours but it is still a Muslim country and respect should be shown to their customs.

Displaying of affection in public is not illegal but frowned upon. Like in other Muslim countries, it is not advisable to shake the hand of an Omani lady. Men can wear shorts but should be till their knees. Women’s skirts and dresses should be till their knees as well. Women should have their shoulders covered.

Omani women wear the ‘Abaya’ a long black dress covering everything including eyes, hair and head. Men wear Kandura it is like a long white dress, and on the head they wear Ghutra.

Sultan Qaboos the ruler of Oman has invested large amounts of money in the arts of Muscat so there is a large choice of entertainment available. The Royal Opera House reflects contemporary Omani architecture and has the capacity to accommodate 1100 people in it.

5. Living in Muscat

Life in Oman, Muscat has a high quality and standard of life, no traffic, uninterrupted water and electricity, good roads and no crime, a perfect place to spend time with the family and bring up children.

As it is small city most expats find it easy to get to know one another. There are a lot of expats social and sports clubs. Western shopping malls, bars and enough activities to keep one busy. The standard of healthcare is high in both the private and public sectors.