Renting in Salalah: What You Need to Know Before You Move Oman
Looking for a place to live in Salalah? You might find the process a little different from what you're used to. Whether you're relocating for work, seeking a change of pace, or planning your hijrah, here’s what you need to know before starting your rental search in this unique city in southern Oman.
Apartments Are Limited – Especially Larger Ones
In Salalah, 3-bedroom apartments are rare. The apartment market here mostly consists of 1-2 bedroom units, while 3-5 bedroom villas are far more common. If you're looking for more space, especially for a family, you’ll likely need to consider renting a villa.
Rental Types: Daily, Monthly, and Yearly
There are three rental formats available in Salalah:
- Daily
- Monthly
- Yearly
But here’s the catch, 90% of apartments are not available for long-term rent (monthly or yearly) because of the Khareef season. Khareef (the monsoon season from June to September) brings in a flood of tourists, allowing landlords to charge five times the usual rent during this period. That’s why most apartment owners opt for short-term rentals and avoid locking into lower long-term contracts.
The Search for a Clean, Affordable Apartment
If you're hoping to find a clean, furnished or unfurnished 2-bedroom apartment for 150 OMR per month, you may be disappointed. These are hard to come by.
However, lower-quality apartments can still be found at yearly rates around 100 OMR, but they may not meet everyone’s expectations in terms of cleanliness or condition.
Villas Offer More Options
If your budget allows and you don’t mind furnishing your own space, villas are easier to rent on a yearly basis. Prices generally range between 240–375 OMR per month for unfurnished villas.
Don’t Count on Online Listings
Another key thing to know: 90% of available properties in Salalah are not listed online. If you want to find a good deal, you'll need to rely on word of mouth, ask around in the community, talk to shopkeepers, or connect with local residents. It’s the only way to uncover many of the hidden rental gems.
Start Your Search Early
If you wait until April or later, finding a place becomes even more difficult. Khareef begins in June, but landlords start preparing well in advance. If you're serious about settling down in Salalah, start your search before April to avoid disappointment.
In short, the rental market in Salalah is shaped by the seasonal tourist boom and a word-of-mouth-driven local culture. Patience, local connections, and early planning are your best tools for securing a suitable place to live.