Airbnb has become a go-to source for tourists the world over as an alternative to traditional hotels. The subletting website – allowing users to rent out rooms or their entire homes to tourists for short-term stays – has become popular throughout the Gulf as well.
The site has become especially popular in the United Arab Emirates, despite an article published by The National last August citing an expert who said the practice was a "legal gray area." Now, Oman has come out against the new trend.
"It is against the law and we take it as a violation," an official from the Muscat Municipality said, according to Times of Oman . "There are many greedy people who rent every room on their properties to make more money. However, we will initiate serious action if we find anyone doing that."
A quick search of the Airbnb website turns up at least 78 properties currently listed in Oman. The properties range from bunk beds and single rooms to entire villas.
Experts have said, however, that these individuals could face large fines if the lease is not officially licensed, according to the Times of Oman. Additionally, tenants in Muscat who sublet flats without the consent of their landlords or the municipality may face eviction.
A senior official at the municipality also warned that building owners could face penalties as well if their tenants were found to be subletting without the municipality's knowledge.
"This way, they are also evading paying tax. According to the tenancy law, all property rentals are subject to 3 percent tax, and both the landlord and the tenant must sign a contract and get it registered at the municipality," he said.
An article by Times of Oman last August noted that many residents had recently received notice that their rent would increase by 20 to 30 percent. With the cost of living increasing, it seems only natural that tenants would look for alternative ways to cover their expenses.