Strong growth in business activities in Al Dhahirah

IBRI: Al Dhahirah Governorate is strengthening its position as one of Oman’s emerging economic centres, supported by rising investment activity, expanding commercial registrations and continued infrastructure development.
Data for the first quarter of 2026 showed that the number of new commercial registrations in the governorate increased by 49.5 per cent to 139, compared with 93 during the same period last year. The cumulative number of commercial registrations has now reached 10,234.
Saleh bin Said al Musalhi, Director of the Department of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion in Al Dhahirah Governorate, said the growth reflects increasing confidence in the governorate’s investment environment and the success of ongoing efforts to improve services and streamline procedures for investors and entrepreneurs.
He noted that Al Dhahirah’s strategic location and economic advantages continue to support the expansion of commercial, industrial and service activities, while coordinated efforts among government entities are helping to create a business-friendly environment that encourages local and foreign investment.
At the wilayat level, Ibri recorded the highest number of new commercial registrations with 114, representing a 46.2 per cent increase. Dhank registered the fastest growth rate, rising by 116.7 per cent to 13 registrations, while Yanqul recorded 12 new registrations.
The governorate also issued 1,687 commercial licences during the quarter, bringing the cumulative total to 16,130. In addition, 2,077 automatic licences were issued, raising the overall number to 23,947.
Industrial activity remained robust, with 318 industrial licences issued during the period. Ibri accounted for the largest share with 253 licences, followed by Dhank with 36 and Yanqul with 29.

Investment activity spans a wide range of sectors, including oil and gas, building materials, logistics, warehousing, manufacturing, food processing and light and medium industries. The governorate is also making progress in renewable energy, with the number of registered renewable energy projects reaching 453.
Construction contracting remained the most active licensed sector, recording 179 new licences, an increase of 77.2 per cent compared with the same period last year.
A key driver of future growth is the Al Dhahirah Special Economic Zone, which is being developed as a major logistics and industrial hub. The project is expected to strengthen trade links with Saudi Arabia, attract domestic and foreign investment, and enhance the movement of goods between Oman and GCC markets through its proximity to the Empty Quarter border crossing.
Several strategic projects are already under way within the zone, including the development of dry port infrastructure, a veterinary quarantine facility, administrative and commercial complexes, roads and stormwater drainage networks, laying the foundation for long-term industrial and logistics growth in the governorate. — ONA