The Best Places To Teach English In Oman

Oman is one of the Gulf’s most underrated destinations for teaching English. While neighboring countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia often dominate the spotlight, Oman quietly offers something refreshingly different. It blends ancient traditions with a warm, welcoming culture and some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the region—think dramatic mountains, sweeping deserts, and untouched beaches.

For TEFL teachers, Oman presents a diverse and meaningful range of opportunities. Whether you're looking to teach in modern colleges in the capital or contribute to community education in a more rural setting, the teaching landscape is surprisingly varied. Unlike the corporate or high-pressure environments common elsewhere in the Gulf, many teachers in Oman find the work environment to be more relaxed and community-focused.

Each region of the country has its own distinct vibe. From the lively energy of Muscat to the subtropical tranquility of Salalah or the mountain-framed streets of Nizwa, where you choose to live and teach can deeply shape your experience. For adventurous educators who care about culture, lifestyle, and work-life balance, Oman stands out as a rare gem in the Middle East.

🏙️ 1. Muscat – The Capital and Education Hub

Muscat is the heart of Oman’s educational and economic activity, making it the top destination for English teachers in the country. As the capital, it hosts a large number of international schools, private colleges, and language training centers that cater to both locals and expatriates. Teachers here can find positions ranging from young learner classrooms to university-level instruction, often with solid salaries and benefit packages.

Living in Muscat means enjoying a laid-back coastal lifestyle with access to everything from modern shopping malls to traditional souks. The city stretches along the Arabian Sea and is framed by rocky hills, offering a dramatic landscape that blends urban convenience with natural beauty. It’s easy to go from a classroom to a beach or hiking trail in under an hour.

Muscat also has a strong and welcoming expat community. Many teachers appreciate the city’s relatively easy adjustment curve, with Western-style housing, international supermarkets, and familiar routines. At the same time, Muscat retains an authentic Omani character—mosques echo with the call to prayer, and locals remain deeply rooted in tradition and hospitality.

Best for: Teachers looking for strong job prospects and an accessible introduction to Oman.
Expect: Competitive pay, organized schools, and cultural blend of modernity and tradition.

🏖️ 2. Salalah – Subtropical Greenery and Cultural Richness

Salalah, located in the southern Dhofar region, feels worlds apart from the rest of the Arabian Peninsula. During the annual Khareef (monsoon) season, the landscape transforms into lush green hills, misty waterfalls, and cool breezes—an environment rare in the Gulf. This subtropical setting draws both local and international visitors, but remains quieter and more traditional than Muscat.

Teaching jobs in Salalah are less plentiful than in the capital, but they do exist—mainly in local colleges, vocational schools, and government-sponsored education initiatives. These roles often come with stable hours and decent housing support, though the competition may be lighter than in major cities. The slower pace of life makes it appealing for educators who want to focus on their teaching while enjoying nature and cultural depth.

Life here moves at a gentler rhythm. Teachers will find friendly, conservative communities, scenic coastal drives, and opportunities to learn about Oman’s unique southern heritage. The town’s strong tribal traditions, frankincense history, and open landscapes offer a rewarding cultural immersion—especially for those willing to adapt to a quieter, less commercial lifestyle.

Best for: Nature lovers and teachers seeking a laid-back lifestyle with fewer crowds.
Expect: Fewer job openings, warmer local interactions, and a strong sense of place.

🏫 3. Sohar – Industrial City with Growing Demand

Sohar, historically known as the birthplace of Sinbad the Sailor, has grown into a major industrial port city on Oman’s northern coast. It’s strategically located between Muscat and the UAE, making it a convenient base for regional exploration while offering a quieter, more affordable alternative to the capital.

The city is home to a growing number of language centers, private schools, and vocational colleges—especially those linked to the nearby free zones and industrial complexes. This economic development has driven increased demand for English teachers, particularly in business English, technical training, and general ESL instruction. Though not as competitive or cosmopolitan as Muscat, Sohar offers stable teaching roles with lower cost of living and modern infrastructure.

While it lacks the cultural buzz of larger cities, Sohar strikes a comfortable middle ground. You'll find malls, cafes, and seafront promenades, but also a strong local character and welcoming communities. Teachers who enjoy structure and a slightly quieter lifestyle—without going fully rural—often find Sohar to be a rewarding choice.

Best for: Teachers who want a mid-sized city with expanding opportunities.
Expect: Balanced lifestyle, industrial surroundings, and modern infrastructure.

🌄 4. Nizwa – Culture, Mountains, and a Slower Pace

Nizwa is one of Oman’s most historically significant cities—once a center of Islamic learning and trade, and still a place where tradition is proudly preserved. Nestled near the Al Hajar mountain range, it offers a blend of cultural richness and natural beauty that attracts travelers and long-term residents alike.

Teaching opportunities in Nizwa are generally concentrated in colleges, vocational training centers, and institutions supported by the government. While the number of schools is smaller than in larger cities, the demand for English remains steady. Teachers here often find their roles more relaxed and community-oriented, with fewer distractions and a deeper connection to local life.

Life in Nizwa moves at a calm, deliberate pace. The city is known for its well-preserved fort, lively souqs, and surrounding wadis and mountains, which are perfect for weekend hikes and exploration. While modern conveniences exist, they’re more modest than in Muscat, and the social atmosphere tends to be more conservative. For educators who prioritize cultural immersion and a grounded lifestyle, Nizwa offers an experience that’s both enriching and serene.

Best for: Teachers drawn to heritage-rich, peaceful environments.
Expect: Modest facilities, a conservative tone, and beautiful landscapes.

🏘️ 5. Sur – Coastal Town Life with Educational Opportunities

Sur is a picturesque coastal town on Oman’s eastern edge, famous for its traditional dhow (wooden ship) building and its proximity to stunning beaches, wadis, and sea cliffs. The pace of life here is gentle, shaped by centuries of maritime heritage and a strong sense of community.

Teaching positions in Sur are fewer than in Muscat or Sohar, but they do exist—especially in public schools, government-run training centers, and occasional NGO or short-term contract roles. It’s not the place for rapid career advancement, but for teachers who prefer meaningful work in a peaceful setting, Sur delivers a uniquely fulfilling experience.

You’ll likely find yourself teaching highly motivated students in smaller class sizes, with a deeper cultural exchange than what you might experience in larger cities. Outside the classroom, the natural surroundings offer snorkeling, hiking, and quiet weekend escapes that feel worlds away from urban stress. While modern amenities are more limited, daily life is simple, affordable, and deeply connected to the rhythms of local culture.

Best for: Independent educators who value nature and cultural depth over big-city perks.
Expect: Quiet surroundings, a slower pace, and rewarding student engagement.

🧭 6. Other Notable Mentions

Not every great teaching opportunity in Oman is in a major city. Several smaller towns and regional centers are emerging as interesting options for teachers who want to explore less conventional paths while still making an impact.

• Ibri: Located inland near the UAE border, Ibri is home to technical colleges and vocational institutes that often seek English instructors. The town is quiet and deeply traditional, with desert landscapes and historical forts creating a unique backdrop for daily life.

• Rustaq: Nestled near the Al Hajar mountains, Rustaq is a growing town with a strong cultural identity and proximity to natural hot springs and hiking trails. A handful of training centers and schools occasionally hire foreign teachers here, offering a peaceful alternative to busier cities.

• Buraimi: Situated right on the border with Al Ain in the UAE, Buraimi benefits from cross-border influences. Some international and private schools operate in the area, catering to both local and expat families. Its location offers potential flexibility for those interested in Gulf travel or regional mobility.

These locations are best suited for independent-minded teachers—people who don’t mind fewer amenities or nightlife in exchange for cultural immersion, tight-knit expat groups, and a slower, more reflective lifestyle. Though job openings are less frequent, competition is lower and the impact you make in the classroom can be truly lasting.

Best for: Experienced teachers seeking unique placements or looking to avoid oversaturated markets.
Expect: Smaller expat circles, rural or semi-rural living, and tight-knit communities.

💡 7. How to Choose the Right Location in Oman

Oman offers a surprising amount of variety for a country of its size—from modern capital life in Muscat to quiet desert towns like Ibri or mountain retreats near Rustaq. Picking the right teaching destination depends heavily on your priorities, both personal and professional.

If job availability is your top concern, larger cities like Muscat or Salalah will give you access to more schools, better infrastructure, and well-established expat communities. These cities tend to offer competitive salaries, a wider range of student demographics, and easier access to Western comforts.

On the other hand, if you’re drawn to cultural immersion and a slower pace of life, towns like Nizwa, Sur, or Buraimi might be more appealing. While roles in these areas are fewer and may pay slightly less, they provide a deeper connection to traditional Omani life and lower day-to-day expenses.

Also consider practical elements:

• Do you prefer coastal living or mountain scenery?
• Do you need regular flights abroad or prefer to stay grounded and local?
• How comfortable are you navigating life in places where English isn’t commonly spoken outside the classroom?

Ultimately, there's no "best" location—just the one that fits your goals. Whether you're looking for savings, serenity, or a new challenge, Oman offers diverse settings to match different teaching styles and personal values.

✅ Conclusion: A Beautiful, Understated Teaching Destination

Oman might not be the first name that comes to mind when thinking of teaching in the Gulf, but for many educators, that’s exactly what makes it so appealing. It offers a rare combination of traditional charm, modern stability, and stunning natural landscapes—from coastal cliffs and ancient forts to green mountains and desert oases.

Whether you’re drawn to the professional opportunities of Muscat, the peaceful rhythm of Salalah, or the cultural heritage of Nizwa and Sur, Oman has a place that fits. Teaching here is more than just a job—it’s a chance to engage deeply with local life, make a difference in growing education sectors, and enjoy a lifestyle that balances simplicity with authenticity.

For teachers who value meaningful experiences over flashy city living, and who are excited by the idea of working in a welcoming yet less-traveled corner of the Middle East, Oman might just be the perfect fit.

👉 Learn More About Teaching English in Oman