As families in Oman care for ageing parents at home, a trained elderly caregiver has become one of the most valuable domestic roles. This 2026 guide covers the cost, the salary, and how to hire one legally in Oman.
Why families in Oman hire an elderly caregiver
A dedicated caregiver supports daily living in Muscat, Salalah and Sohar — mobility, hygiene, medication reminders, meals and companionship — so an elderly relative can stay safely at home. Families look for patience, basic health-care knowledge, and experience with conditions like limited mobility or dementia.
Elderly caregiver salary in Oman (2026)
Caregiving is a specialist role. A trained elderly caregiver in Oman typically earns OMR 120–170 per month — above the general housemaid rate, reflecting the skills and responsibility involved. Caregivers with nursing training sit at the top of the range.
| Live-in role | Monthly salary (OMR) |
|---|---|
| Elderly caregiver (trained) | 120–170 |
| Private driver | 130–170 |
| Cook | 110–150 |
| Nanny | 120–160 |
The real cost of hiring — beyond the salary
The salary is only part of the cost. Budget also for the recruitment-office fee, the work visa, a medical examination, residence-permit issuance and renewal, a return air ticket, and medical insurance. In Oman, labour clearance comes from the Ministry of Labour and the employment visa is issued by the Royal Oman Police (ROP).
How to hire an elderly caregiver in Oman (step by step)
- Choose a licensed recruitment office authorised by the Ministry of Labour (MOL).
- Select the profession and nationality. Common source countries are the Philippines, India, Indonesia, Kenya and Ethiopia.
- Review and sign the contract, which fixes the salary, duties, working hours and weekly rest day.
- Complete the paperwork — a labour clearance, an employment visa from the Royal Oman Police, a medical examination, and a residence card.
- Set up salary payment and keep documented monthly transfers.
Compare government-verified recruitment agencies in Oman on our directory before you commit.
What to look for in a good caregiver
Prioritise genuine experience with your relative’s specific needs, references that speak to patience and reliability, and any first-aid or nursing training. Where there are medical conditions, prioritise someone who can follow a care plan.
Your duties as a sponsor
Pay the agreed salary on time, provide suitable accommodation and food, allow a weekly rest day and daily rest hours, and cover medical insurance and the residence permit. Fair treatment is also the best way to keep a good caregiver.
Frequently asked questions
How much does an elderly caregiver earn in Oman in 2026?
OMR 120–170 per month for a live-in caregiver, depending on experience, nationality and skills.
Do I have to hire through the Ministry of Labour (MOL)?
Yes. Domestic-worker recruitment in Oman is handled through a licensed recruitment office under the Ministry of Labour (MOL).
Can I hire a caregiver with nursing training?
Yes. You can request caregivers with health-care or nursing backgrounds through a licensed office; expect to pay toward the upper end.
Is a caregiver the same as a housemaid?
No. A caregiver is hired primarily to support an elderly or unwell person — a specialist role, usually paid more than general housekeeping.
Related: hire a driver in Oman · hire a cook in Oman · Oman domestic-worker guide · Oman work-permit process · the same guide for the UAE · free GCC Domestic academy.
