Over the past decade, medical tourism in Oman has witnessed significant growth, influenced by healthcare limitations and socio-economic factors. This trend reflects the increasing demand among Omani citizens for advanced medical care, often sought beyond national borders due to specific systemic gaps in the local healthcare infrastructure.
One of the primary drivers of outbound medical tourism is the limited availability of specialised medical treatments within the country. Oman, while equipped with a well-established healthcare system for general and primary care, often lacks the advanced facilities required for treating complex conditions such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and organ failure requiring transplantation. The absence of specialised technology and expertise in these domains compels patients to seek treatment in more medically advanced countries.
Furthermore, economic development and the rise of a health-conscious middle class have played a pivotal role. As household incomes increase and citizens become more aware of medical options and standards of care abroad, there is a growing preference for international treatment options that promise greater reliability, faster recovery, or access to cutting-edge technology. This shift is also encouraged by the global availability of medical information through digital platforms, which empower patients to make informed decisions.
In addition, delays in treatment and the high cost of advanced procedures locally contribute to the decision to travel abroad. Due to limited capacity or wait times in public hospitals for complex surgeries and diagnostics, many patients prefer to bypass local queues in favour of quicker services overseas. In some instances, private healthcare providers within Oman offer high-cost alternatives, prompting patients to explore more affordable international solutions without compromising quality.
Finally, a critical enabler of this trend is the support extended by the Omani government. Recognising the gaps in the domestic healthcare system, authorities often provide funding or logistical assistance for patients to receive treatment abroad, particularly in cases where required care is not available within Oman. This institutional backing not only legitimises but actively facilitates outbound medical tourism for many Omani families.
In recent years, there has been a remarkable rise in the number of Omani citizens travelling abroad for medical treatment- and India has emerged as one of their top choices. This trend is driven by a combination of factors such as rising health awareness, growing demand for specialised care, and strong diplomatic ties between India and Oman.
Why does Oman prefer India over other developed countries?
India offers a unique blend of modern medical technology, globally trained healthcare professionals, and cost-effective treatment options, making it an
increasingly popular choice for Omani patients seeking care abroad. The combination of advanced infrastructure and affordability ensures that patients
don’t have to compromise on quality when looking beyond borders.
- World-Class Healthcare at Affordable Cost
- Top hospitals in India are accredited by the Joint Commission International (JCI) and the National Accreditation Board for Hospitals (NABH). Many of India’s leading hospitals meet global standards and have earned international accreditations like JCI and NABH. These recognitions assure patients of top-tier medical practices, hygiene protocols, and patient safety — giving Omani patients confidence in the care they receive. High-quality treatment at a fraction of the cost compared to Europe or the US. While the standard of treatment matches that of developed nations, the expenses involved are significantly lower. This makes India a practical choice for those who need advanced medical care without the overwhelming costs often found in Western healthcare systems.
- India offers 60–80% cost savings on surgeries like open-heart, organ transplant, or cancer treatment. Whether it’s a life-saving heart surgery, an organ transplant, or long-term cancer care, the savings in India are substantial. Patients from Oman can access these critical treatments while cutting down on costs by nearly two thirds or more — without compromising on quality or results.