OMAN
  • Population:
    7.1 million
  • Capital:
    Muscat
  • Official Language:
    Arabic
  • Currency:
    Omani Rial (OMR)
  • Government:
    Unitary absolute monarchy
  • Weekends:
    Friday and Saturday
Oman is one of the attractive business destinations in the Persian Gulf. Its strategic location, economic stability and flexible conditions for foreign investors create unique opportunities for entrepreneurs.
Let's consider the key aspects of doing business in Oman:

Geographical location and strategic importance

Located in the southeast of the Arabian Peninsula, Oman is an important point for international trade routes due to its direct access to the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea. The country borders the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Yemen, which facilitates the development of regional economic ties and facilitates access to key markets.

Free Trade Zones: Benefits for Business
Oman has established several free trade zones (FTZs) that offer a range of benefits to foreign companies. The main zones include:
  • Salalah Free Zone
    This zone specializes in industrial manufacturing and logistics, giving companies access to major transportation routes, making it ideal for global commerce.
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  • Sohar Free Zone
    The zone focuses on heavy industry and metalworking, thanks to its close proximity to the port of Sohar, one of the largest seaports in the region.
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  • Al Mazunah Free Zone
    Located on the border with Yemen, it specializes in logistics and international trade. This zone attracts companies involved in export and re-export.
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  • Duqm Special Economic Zone (SEZ)
    One of the largest in the region, the Duqm SEZ focuses on the development of heavy industry, oil and gas processing, and maritime logistics.
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  • Knowledge Oasis Muscat SEZ
    A special zone in Muscat focused on the development of information technology and innovation. It is home to technology parks and incubators for startups.
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Advantages of registering a business in the Omani SEZ:
These conditions make the SEZ attractive to companies operating in the fields of logistics, manufacturing, high technology and trade.
100% foreign ownership of the business
Full repatriation of profits and capital
No import and re-export duties
Simplified process of opening a bank account (in just 1 week)
Other types of companies and registration
In addition to companies registered in the SEZ, there are other forms of doing business in Oman. The most popular form is the Limited Liability Company (LLC), which requires the participation of an Omani who owns 30% of the shares if the company operates outside the free zones. However, there are preferential conditions for companies operating in priority sectors of the economy, such as tourism, logistics and manufacturing.

Foreign companies can also register a branch or representative office, allowing them to operate in Oman without having to set up a local company. These structures are most useful for international corporations looking to expand their business in the region.
Investment Directions
The Omani government is actively working to diversify the economy, which opens up ample opportunities for investors. As part of the Oman Vision 2040 program, the main areas of development are:
Logistics:
Oman's transport hub connects Europe, Africa and Asia, which creates excellent conditions for businesses related to global supply chains.
Innovative technologies:
The country creates favorable conditions for startups in the field of IT and digital technologies.
Tourism:
The government supports the development of the hotel business and tourism infrastructure.
Renewable energy:
Investments in solar and wind energy are actively supported by the state.
Banks in Oman
When doing business in Oman, it is important to choose a reliable bank that provides quality financial services. Some of the most popular banks for corporate clients are:
  • Bank Muscat

    One of the largest banks in Oman with a strong reputation. Offers a wide range of services for businesses, including corporate loans and wealth management.
  • National Bank of Oman (NBO)
    This bank provides special programs for small and medium-sized businesses, as well as services for international companies.
  • Oman Arab Bank (OAB)

    Specializes in corporate banking, offering convenient solutions for companies operating in the FEZ and beyond.
  • HSBC Oman

    A global bank that offers international financial services and banking products to global companies operating in Oman.
Oman is a country with broad prospects for business due to economic stability, favorable conditions in the FEZ and actively developing infrastructure. Free economic zones provide unique conditions for foreign companies, and a stable tax system and developed banking network make Oman attractive for investment. With active growth and diversification of the economy, Oman is becoming a key player in the MENA market and opens up wide opportunities for international business.