Finding a tradesman in Muscat is easy. Finding one who turns up, quotes honestly and does the job properly takes more work. Here is what to look for and what to expect to pay.
AC Servicing & Repair
The single most important service in a Muscat household. Between May and September, a failed AC is not an inconvenience — it is an emergency.
Typical rates: OMR 8–15 per unit for a standard service; OMR 25–60 for gas refilling or a compressor repair. Annual maintenance contracts covering two services per unit run around OMR 20–30.
What to check: that the company is licensed, that the quote covers parts, and that they will come back within the season if the same fault recurs.
Plumbing
Typical rates: OMR 10–20 for a call-out and a simple fix (tap, trap, cistern). Larger jobs — pipe replacement, water tank work, drainage — quoted per job.
What to check: villa water tanks need cleaning roughly twice a year. Most plumbing companies do it; agree the price before they arrive.
Electrical
Typical rates: OMR 10–25 for standard call-outs — sockets, fittings, breakers, fan installation.
What to check: anything touching the distribution board should be done by a licensed electrician. Landlords are usually responsible for fixed wiring; confirm before you pay.
Cleaning
Typical rates: OMR 3–5 per hour for regular domestic cleaning; OMR 40–100 for a full deep clean depending on villa or apartment size. Sofa and carpet shampooing quoted per piece.
What to check: use a licensed company rather than an informal arrangement — it matters for liability, and for the worker.
Pest Control
Typical rates: OMR 15–40 for a standard apartment or villa treatment, with a warranty period of one to three months.
What to check: ask which chemicals are used and how long the property needs to be vacated, particularly with children or pets.
How to Avoid the Bad Ones
- Get the quote in writing before work starts — WhatsApp is fine
- Check the company is registered, not an individual moonlighting
- Ask about the warranty on the specific repair
- Read recent reviews, not the oldest ones
- Pay on completion, never fully in advance
Browse verified home service providers across Al Khuwair, Ghubra, Azaiba, Seeb, Ruwi and the rest of the governorate on Muscat Directory.