MUSCAT: The Sultanate of Oman has reached competitive levels in facilitating business start-ups, reducing the average time to establish a company to just four to five days — significantly faster than the regional average of 10 days. With only four key procedures and no minimum capital requirement, Oman continues to strengthen its position as an attractive investment destination.
Driven by Oman Vision 2040, the government has implemented extensive legislative and regulatory reforms alongside digital transformation initiatives that have improved efficiency, transparency and investor confidence. The entire company registration process is now streamlined through the “Oman Business” platform, operated by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion (MoCIIP), offering a one-stop digital solution for entrepreneurs.
The Business Start-Up Index, managed by a national team under the National Competitiveness Committee, reflects Oman’s goal to create a vibrant and competitive investment environment. This effort aims to stimulate private sector growth, expand exports and strengthen collaboration between public and private institutions.
Digitalisation remains central to these reforms. By adopting smart, unified platforms, Oman has successfully integrated over 17 government entities, providing services such as company registration, trade name reservation, licensing and financing applications — all online. The use of artificial intelligence and advanced digital tools has enhanced transparency, reduced bureaucracy and accelerated service delivery.
Mubarak bin Mohammed al Dohani, Director General of Planning and Head of the Digital Transformation Team at MoCIIP, stated that more than 50 integrated electronic services are now available under one digital umbrella. The “Oman Business” platform alone has enabled the issuance of over 1.26 million licences since its launch in April 2021, with 89 per cent of commercial activities automatically licensed.
From a labour perspective, Saqr bin Saeed al Rubaie, Director of Employment Applications and Job Opportunities Analysis at the Ministry of Labour, highlighted that the availability of skilled Omani professionals remains vital for the stability and growth of private enterprises. The Ministry continues to implement employment support schemes, including wage subsidies for new entrants and various training and qualification programmes aimed at aligning workforce skills with market needs.
In the special economic and free zones, Dr Saeed bin Khalifa al Quraini, Director General of Investment Sector Development and Official Spokesperson for the Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones (OPAZ), noted that integrated infrastructure, digital solutions and competitive incentives have positioned Oman strongly on the global investment map.
These incentives include 100 per cent foreign ownership, long-term tax and customs exemptions, competitive usufruct land rates and streamlined labour recruitment procedures. OPAZ also operates an electronic one-stop shop to handle all investor needs efficiently.
Collectively, these initiatives underscore Oman’s transformation into a modern, business-friendly economy — a regional hub for innovation, trade and sustainable investment. — ONA
Oman Observer is now on the WhatsApp channel. Click here
