Al Sharqiyah South sees surge in commercial growth

SUR: Al Sharqiyah South Governorate has recorded robust growth in trade, industry and investment promotion during the second quarter of 2025, according to data from the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion. The figures underscore the governorate’s growing importance as a dynamic contributor to Oman’s economic diversification.
Khalid bin Hamad al Saadi, Director of the Department of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion in Al Sharqiyah South, said that economic indicators point to strong activity in construction, contracting; and small and medium-sized industries, especially in the wilayats of Sur, Jaalan Bani Bu Ali and Masirah. He attributed the progress to the governorate’s strategic location, its industrial and tourism assets; and the advantages of the blue economy, which continues to attract investors.
He added that the Department is working to enhance communication with entrepreneurs and investors through various support, promotion and awareness programmes. These efforts are designed to foster business sustainability and diversify sources of local income, in line with Oman Vision 2040.

Official data shows that 348 new commercial registrations were recorded in the second quarter of 2025, bringing the total to 20,044 by mid-year. Construction and contracting activities topped the list with 300 new licences — an increase of more than 229 per cent compared with 91 licences in the same period in 2024. This reflects strong urban expansion in Sur, Jaalan Bani Bu Ali, Jaalan Bani Bu Hassan, Al Kamil W'al Wafi and Masirah.
In total, 3,617 commercial licences were issued in the governorate in the second quarter, with cumulative licences reaching 51,596 by the end of June. Automatic licences also grew to 53,865, while industrial licence applications reached 850 for the quarter, raising the cumulative total to 18,990.
Additionally, 23 new foreign investment records were registered in the second quarter, representing 1.54 per cent of all national investment licences. This highlights Al Sharqiyah South’s growing appeal as a hub for new projects in production and services.
The governorate is expected to see continued expansion in construction, tourism and industry in the second half of 2025, supported by increasing investment in Masirah and coastal areas, particularly in fisheries and logistics. These developments are set to strengthen Al Sharqiyah South’s role as a key driver of Oman’s sustainable development. — ONA