Job Discussion Forums

[bertonneau]

The gal I've been coomunicating with in Muscat at TATI has tried to tell me about how things may be, but I see she isn't sure about what is or isn't in Salalah. Can some folks give me some insight on how available furnished apartments are? Are there a few apartment complexes in Salalah that seemed to be preferred by the expat community and how available are rooms there? Any other info on how the expat apartment/accommodation thing works would be great.

[kuberkat]

Salalah is perhaps the easiest place in Oman to find a variety of accommodation. Due to high tourism in khareef season, there is a glut of furnished, semi-furnished and unfurnished accommodation available. To date prices have been reasonable, with furnished two bed/bath flats starting from OMR 120. Surprisingly many teachers rent villas with gardens without grumbling about costs.

Keep in mind that landlords prefer 10 month contracts so they can rent out to tourists in Khareef (July/August). This is perfect for those who stay only one year, or prefer savings over convenience. It does mean moving out each summer, so think carefully, and do discuss it before sealing the deal.

It may be wise to check out the Google Map of Salalah (http://g.co/maps/7ars) before arrival to get the lay of the land. Some accommodation is available on or near the beach in Dahariz and Haffa, but these areas get very humid, so there is a price to pay. Saada is close to the colleges and uni, and accommodation is plentiful. It is less scenic and not terribly convenient. Then there is Salalah (City) and New Salalah, where new buildings are plentiful and most amenities are nearby, but the traffic to work can be heavy.

Every rose has its thorns, but Salalah offers very good, affordable options.