Muscat vs Dubai

Cost of living comparison for 2026. Muscat is roughly 35% more affordable than Dubai (index 31 vs 47, New York = 100). Data sourced live via AI — updated regularly.

Muscat
More affordable overall
35% cheaper than Dubai · Cost index: 31 vs 47

Life Power at $3,000/mo

The same salary ranks differently depending on where you live — from Beggar to King.

Head-to-Head Stats

31Cost Index47
3,896Median Income /mo3,750
85Safety Index88
0Income Tax %0
45Internet (Mbps)167
250Coworking /mo400

Price Breakdown

MuscatCategoryDubai
$1,655/month
1-BR Apartment (Center)
30% cheaper →
$2,369/month
$2.6/liter
Meal for One
19% cheaper →
$3.2/liter
$13/meal
Restaurant (Mid-range)
35% cheaper →
$20/meal
$78/month
Monthly Transit Pass
13% ← cheaper
$68/month
$122/month
Utilities (Monthly)
51% cheaper →
$250/month
$52/visit
Doctor Visit
53% cheaper →
$110/visit

Digital Nomad Profile

Muscat

Internet45 Mbps
Coworking$250/mo
Café WiFifair
Englishmoderate
Communitysmall
Walkability60/100

Dubai

Internet167 Mbps
Coworking$400/mo
Café WiFigood
Englishhigh
Communitylarge
Walkability72/100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Muscat cheaper than Dubai?

Muscat is cheaper than Dubai. Muscat has a cost of living index of 31/100 compared to 47/100 for Dubai (New York = 100), making it roughly 35% more affordable overall.

How much cheaper is Muscat than Dubai?

Muscat is approximately 35% cheaper than Dubai based on cost index scores (31 vs 47, where New York = 100). A person spending $3,000/month in Dubai could live a similar lifestyle for roughly $1,941/month in Muscat.

What is the rent comparison between Muscat and Dubai?

In Muscat, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $1,655/month. In Dubai, the equivalent is around $2,369/month.

Which city is better for digital nomads — Muscat or Dubai?

Both cities have nomad infrastructure. Muscat offers 45 Mbps internet and coworking at ~$250/month. Dubai offers 167 Mbps and coworking at ~$400/month. Muscat has a cost advantage of 35%.

What is the average income in Muscat vs Dubai?

The median net monthly salary in Muscat is approximately $3,896 USD, compared to $3,750 USD in Dubai.

Compare Muscat with…

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