Oman – Complementary and Alternative Medicine

What types of complementary and alternative medicine are available in Oman?

The CAM landscape across Oman is remarkably varied, spanning herbal medicine, acupuncture, homeopathy, naturopathy, chiropractic care, Ayurveda, cupping therapy (Hijama), Traditional Arabic and Islamic Medicine, and yoga. This breadth reflects both the country’s own well-established healing heritage and the influence of sizeable expatriate populations, particularly those with South Asian backgrounds.

Both Omani nationals and expatriates are increasingly turning to complementary and alternative approaches, a trend evidenced by the steady growth of homeopathy and Ayurveda clinics throughout the country. Demand for Ayurvedic services has been especially strong among the South Asian diaspora, and a number of established hospital groups now operate dedicated integrative medicine units to meet this need.

Acupuncture is accessible in Oman, though it has not yet achieved the same level of uptake as some other CAM therapies; certain healthcare centres and hospitals do provide acupuncture treatment. This stands in contrast to countries like Australia, where acupuncture ranks among the most frequently sought CAM treatments and is delivered through thousands of clinics across the country.

Naturopathy — a comprehensive, whole-body approach drawing on nutritional guidance, herbal treatments, and lifestyle adjustments — is also present in Oman, though it occupies a smaller niche and the number of registered naturopathic practitioners remains relatively modest.

Several notable providers offer integrative and CAM services, among them the Royal Oman Police Hospital’s Ayurveda and CAM Clinic, KIMS Oman Hospital’s Integrative and Ayurveda Services, Burjeel Hospital Muscat’s Wellness and CAM Services, and Starcare Hospital Muscat’s Homeopathy and CAM Services. The majority of these are concentrated in Muscat, and access to CAM treatments varies considerably across different regions of the country.

Religious and cultural values play a meaningful role in shaping CAM usage throughout the region. Widely practised approaches include therapies grounded in Islamic teachings, the use of honey and black seed (Nigella sativa), and prophetically sanctioned practices such as Hijama (cupping). Hijama in particular holds deep cultural significance and is among the most frequently sought CAM therapies in Oman.

Is complementary and alternative medicine regulated in Oman?

In 2023, the Omani government reinforced its policy framework for integrating Traditional Complementary and Alternative Medicine (TCAM) into the national healthcare system. Key instruments include the Oman Health Vision 2050 and Ministry of Health regulatory provisions governing private health establishments and traditional medicine practices, which establish standards for licensing, practitioner qualifications, and CAM facility operations.

Under ministerial decree, no individual may practise CAM in Oman without holding a valid Ministry of Health licence. Practitioners of homeopathy, Ayurveda, and other complementary systems must pass both written and oral examinations administered by the Ministry of Health Oman. This positions Oman’s approach closer to a formal state-authorised licensing model than to the voluntary self-regulatory frameworks found in some other jurisdictions.

Notwithstanding this framework, significant regulatory gaps persist: as of 2023, only an estimated 25% of practitioners hold licences under existing health regulations. A further complication is that over 60% of practitioners reportedly lack formal training, resulting in inconsistent treatment standards. This represents a notable contrast with countries such as the UK, where statutory regulation of specific therapies — for example, osteopathy and chiropractic governed by their respective Councils — makes practising without registration a criminal offence.

With respect to CAM products — encompassing herbal preparations, Ayurvedic preparations, Chinese herbal preparations, and homeopathic medicinal products — the Directorate General of Pharmaceutical Affairs and Drug Control within the Ministry of Health issues regulations and guidelines to ensure that these products are available within a lawful framework, prioritising consumer protection and guaranteeing the quality of imported preparations.

The Ministry of Health’s Drug Safety Center carries responsibility for strengthening the oversight of medicines, medical devices, and medical supplies. Its remit includes licensing pharmacists and pharmaceutical institutions, monitoring pharmaceutical service quality, overseeing product registration, and carrying out post-marketing surveillance. Herbal and alternative medicine products offered for sale in Oman must be registered through this body prior to legal distribution.

Ambiguities in the guidelines governing certain CAM practices create obstacles for new practitioners seeking to enter the market and restrict consumer access to properly qualified services, while the absence of comprehensive regulation for some herbal medicines adds further complexity. The regulatory environment is continually evolving, so expats should verify current requirements directly with the Ministry of Health Oman.

Is CAM covered by health insurance or the public healthcare system in Oman?

The majority of CAM services fall outside the scope of Oman’s public healthcare system, though a number of private health insurers do provide coverage for selected therapies. This mirrors the situation in many countries worldwide, where CAM typically sits beyond the boundaries of state-funded healthcare except in limited or pilot contexts.

Certain private insurers operating in Oman — including Oman Insurance and AXA Insurance — have offered coverage for complementary and alternative medicine treatments across various modalities. However, the extent of cover, the specific therapies included, and applicable limits or co-payments differ considerably from one policy and insurer to the next. It is essential to read policy documents thoroughly and confirm directly with your insurer which CAM therapies are covered before beginning any treatment.

Oman has been implementing a mandatory health insurance programme known as Dhamani, designed for private sector employees, expatriates, and foreign visitors. The standard benefit tables within the Dhamani scheme focus primarily on conventional medical care, and CAM coverage under this programme is not guaranteed. Expats should contact their designated insurer under Dhamani directly to establish whether any CAM benefits are included in their particular plan.

If you hold an international private health insurance policy arranged prior to relocating to Oman, examine your policy documents with care — many international plans exclude or impose caps on CAM benefits. Given that policy terms are subject to frequent change, always confirm coverage thresholds and eligible therapies directly with your insurer, and consult the Ministry of Health Oman portal for any updated guidance on recognised and reimbursable treatments.

How much does complementary and alternative medicine cost in Oman?

The cost of CAM consultations and treatments in Oman fluctuates considerably depending on the therapy, the practitioner’s level of qualification, the clinic’s location, and whether it is an independent specialist practice or a department within a larger private hospital. Prices in Muscat generally run higher than in other parts of the country. The figures presented below are indicative estimates based on market observations as of 2024–2025 and should be confirmed directly with individual practitioners or clinics before making an appointment.

The Oman CAM market as a whole has been valued at approximately USD 160 million (as of 2023), propelled by increasing rates of chronic disease, heightened consumer awareness, and government efforts to integrate CAM into the healthcare system. This growth trajectory suggests that while fees remain comparatively accessible relative to purely private medical care, rising demand may push prices upward over time.

For the most current pricing information, contact clinics directly or reach out to professional associations for specific therapies. The Ministry of Health Oman publishes guidance on licensed practitioners and facilities, which can also assist in identifying regulated providers with transparent fee structures.

How do I find a qualified CAM practitioner in Oman?

Identifying a properly qualified and licensed CAM practitioner in Oman calls for careful research, particularly given that only a fraction of those currently in practice hold formal MOH licences. The steps outlined below provide a recommended approach.

1. Check MOH licensing status. All alternative medicine practitioners in Oman must be registered with the Ministry of Health, which has made registration of CAM practitioners and the preparations they dispense a mandatory requirement. You can enquire about a practitioner’s registration status by contacting the Ministry of Health directly through its official portal.
2. Seek referrals from conventional medical providers. As of 2023, approximately 40% of healthcare professionals in Oman now recommend CAM as a complementary approach. Your GP or specialist may be well placed to suggest a licensed CAM practitioner, particularly for therapies such as Ayurveda, homeopathy, or treatments that overlap with physiotherapy.
3. Choose hospital-based or accredited clinic services where possible. Oman has developed a number of healthcare centres that offer complementary medicine services alongside conventional treatments; wellness clinics providing acupuncture, physiotherapy, and relaxation therapies alongside traditional remedies are available. Hospital-based CAM departments are more likely to employ registered practitioners and uphold quality standards.
4. Verify qualifications and training. Ask practitioners directly about their educational background, the institution where they trained, and their MOH licence number. Practitioners trained in India, for instance, may hold a BAMS (Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery) or BHMS (Bachelor of Homeopathic Medicine and Surgery), both of which are recognised within Oman’s MOH licensing framework.
5. Consult the Drug Safety Center for product safety. If a CAM practitioner recommends particular products or preparations, verify that these are registered with the Ministry of Health Drug Safety Center. The Drug Safety Center classifies products as pharmaceutical, herbal, health, or other categories based on active ingredients and regulatory status in reference countries.
6. Watch for red flags. Exercise caution with any practitioner who is unable to provide a MOH licence number, makes claims about curing serious illnesses, or sells unregistered products directly from their premises. The absence of clear guidelines for certain CAM practices can leave consumers vulnerable, making personal due diligence especially important.

Are there traditional or indigenous medicine systems practised in Oman?

Traditional medicine forms an integral part of Oman’s cultural identity, with a rich variety of plant-based remedies and healing techniques transmitted across many generations. Omanis hold their cultural practices in high regard, including the traditions of healers known as hakims, whose knowledge has been passed down orally through family lineages.

The philosophical underpinning of Omani traditional medicine draws heavily on Unani Tibb — the foundation of traditional Islamic medicine — which is rooted in the humoral system, a Graeco-Arab medical tradition derived from ancient Greek principles. Good health is understood as a state of equilibrium among the four humors, and any disruption to this balance is seen as the cause of illness.

Omani traditional medicine incorporates around thirty-three different plant species, prepared in various forms including pastes, decoctions, and infusions to address a wide array of ailments, from everyday complaints such as colds to chronic conditions like diabetes. Frequently used ingredients include limes, garlic, frankincense, and ginger.

Frankincense — known locally as luban — holds a place of particular cultural and historical importance, with the Dhofar governorate in southern Oman being celebrated throughout history for its frankincense trade. Frankincense oil is commonly employed in aromatherapy and relaxation contexts — for example, someone experiencing migraines may use frankincense oil aromatherapy in conjunction with conventional medication for symptom relief.

A study carried out by the Omani Ministry of Health in collaboration with the World Health Organization in 2009 found that close to 53% of surveyed Omani households kept a traditional remedy at home, nearly 10% of Omanis relied exclusively on traditional treatments, and over 81% used traditional medicine at least occasionally. These statistics convey just how deeply embedded traditional medicine remains in everyday Omani life.

Ethnomedicinal knowledge in Oman is not transmitted through written records but is passed verbally from one generation to the next within families. Traditional medicine continues to be widely employed for managing minor ailments such as colds, fevers, digestive complaints, and headaches, even where primary and secondary healthcare facilities are accessible.

The government supports traditional medical practices by funding clinics that provide free services, thereby encouraging the preservation of this dimension of Oman’s heritage. Universities and research institutions within the country are also actively working to document and investigate traditional medicine. Nevertheless, formal statutory regulation of traditional healers remains limited and inconsistent — a notable contrast with traditional medicine systems that have been formally codified in countries such as China or India.

What should expats know about using CAM alongside conventional medicine in Oman?

Attitudes within Oman’s mainstream healthcare sector are shifting in a positive direction: as of 2023, approximately 40% of healthcare professionals now recommend CAM as a complementary approach, signalling a meaningful cultural movement towards integrating these therapies into routine care. This growing openness means that many conventional doctors in Oman are more willing than before to discuss CAM options, though perspectives vary between individual practitioners and facilities.

There is an increasing appetite within the Omani healthcare system to bring CAM and conventional medicine closer together, and a number of hospitals and healthcare centres now offer CAM services alongside standard medical treatments. If you are looking for an integrative care approach, asking your primary care physician to refer you to a hospital-based CAM department is a sensible starting point.

Despite these encouraging developments, meaningful challenges to integrating traditional and modern medicine persist. Safety concerns arise from the potential for certain herbal remedies to interact adversely with pharmaceutical drugs. Standardisation remains problematic, as dosages and preparation methods can differ considerably among traditional healers. There is also a risk that some individuals may self-administer traditional treatments without appropriate professional oversight.

Having both Western medical care and CAM available under the same roof would significantly reduce the risk of harmful CAM-drug interactions. Where this is not possible, it is crucial that you inform your conventional doctor about any herbal supplements or CAM treatments you are receiving, as such interactions can compromise both the effectiveness and safety of prescribed medications. This is of particular importance for patients managing ongoing conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, or thyroid disorders.

All alternative medicine preparations dispensed and sold in Oman must now carry Ministry of Health approval. Expats should only use products that bear evidence of MOH registration, and should exercise caution when considering unlicensed herbal or supplement products available through informal channels or online marketplaces. The MOH Drug Safety Center maintains lists of banned and adulterated products, which is a valuable resource to consult before purchasing any health product.

Oman’s overarching policy direction aims to standardise CAM practices, guarantee quality control and patient safety, and raise public awareness of the benefits and appropriate use of complementary therapies, fostering a genuinely holistic approach to healthcare. As this framework matures, expats can expect steady improvements in the consistency and safety of CAM services — though for the time being, exercising personal due diligence remains indispensable.

Frequently asked questions about CAM in Oman

Are complementary and alternative medicine practices legal in Oman?

Yes, CAM practices are entirely legal in Oman. That said, no individual may offer these services without first obtaining a licence from the Ministry of Health under the relevant ministerial decision. This requirement applies across all CAM modalities, from homeopathy and Ayurveda to Hijama (cupping) and acupuncture. Practising without a licence constitutes a regulatory offence, so verifying a practitioner’s licensing status before proceeding with treatment is always advisable.

How do I check whether a CAM practitioner in Oman is properly licensed?

The Ministry of Health Oman serves as the central licensing authority for CAM practitioners. You can reach the MOH directly through its official portal to confirm a practitioner’s registration status. You should also request the practitioner’s MOH licence number in person — any legitimately licensed professional should be able to supply this information without hesitation.

Can I find CAM practitioners who consult in languages other than Arabic in Oman?

Both Omani nationals and expatriates actively engage with complementary and alternative medicine in Oman. Given the substantial expatriate community — particularly from South Asia — many Ayurveda, homeopathy, and herbal medicine clinics conduct consultations in languages such as English, Hindi, Malayalam, and Urdu. For less widely available therapies like chiropractic or naturopathy, it is advisable to contact clinics in advance to confirm which languages are spoken.

Is Hijama (cupping therapy) widely available and safe in Oman?

Hijama (cupping) is recognised as a form of prophetic medicine and carries strong religious and cultural significance in Oman. It is broadly accessible throughout the country, but as with all CAM therapies, treatment should only be received from a licensed practitioner who uses sterile, single-use equipment. Cupping performed under inadequate hygiene conditions carries a genuine risk of infection, so confirming a practitioner’s qualifications and standards of practice before proceeding is essential.

Are herbal and CAM products sold in Oman safe to use?

The Directorate General of Pharmaceutical Affairs and Drug Control within the Ministry of Health oversees the regulation of alternative medicine preparations — including herbal, Ayurvedic, Chinese herbal, and homeopathic products — with an emphasis on consumer protection and ensuring that imported preparations conform to quality standards. However, unregistered products do find their way into circulation. Always confirm that products are MOH-registered, and refer to the Drug Safety Center’s list of banned products before making any purchase.

Will my private health insurance cover CAM treatments in Oman?

Most CAM services lie outside the scope of Oman’s public healthcare system, though certain private health insurers do offer coverage for selected therapies. The extent of any coverage depends entirely on the terms of your individual policy. Review your policy documents carefully and contact your insurer directly to establish which therapies are included, whether session limits apply, and whether the practitioner must hold an MOH licence in order for claims to be processed.

How does the Omani medical community generally view CAM?

As of 2023, approximately 40% of healthcare professionals in Oman recommend CAM as a complementary approach, reflecting a growing willingness to embrace integration. There is wider acknowledgement that doctors should proactively enquire about patients’ CAM use and engage with the subject openly, in order to identify potential safety risks and interactions with prescribed treatments. Views do vary from one practitioner to another, however, so maintaining open communication with your doctor about any CAM therapies you are using is strongly recommended.

Is traditional Omani medicine the same as CAM, or is it treated differently?

Traditional medicine in Oman constitutes a cornerstone of the country’s cultural heritage, drawing on plant-based remedies and healing techniques handed down through the generations. It coexists alongside — and at times overlaps with — imported CAM modalities such as acupuncture or homeopathy. The government supports traditional healing through clinics that provide free services, reinforcing the preservation of this aspect of Oman’s identity. However, the formal statutory regulation of traditional healers (hakims) is less developed than that governing imported CAM therapies, and this sector retains a partially informal character.