MUSCAT: The Sultanate of Oman continues to strengthen its position as a regional hub for investment by enhancing infrastructure, simplifying regulations and expanding digital services across key sectors.
Over the past years, the government has invested heavily in ports, free zones, logistics and road networks, while also enacting new laws supporting public-private partnerships and business reforms. These initiatives are designed to attract more foreign direct investment and improve the ease of doing business in the country.
Real estate registration and building permit procedures have become simpler and faster, thanks to digital systems that minimise paperwork and shorten processing times. Municipalities, including Muscat Municipality, now coordinate permits electronically, aligning with international ease-of-business standards.
Significant progress has also been made in the energy and electricity sectors, with the introduction of modern prepaid systems and precise power delivery schedules for new developments. Meanwhile, the rollout of 5G networks and robust digital infrastructure has further boosted Oman’s competitiveness, backed by its security, stability and high quality of life.
Among the most transformative projects is the Unified Municipal System, which integrates more than 300 municipal procedures and 93 electronic services under one platform. Supported by artificial intelligence and smart city applications, the initiative aims to enhance efficiency, streamline processes and improve the investor experience.
The “Amlak” platform represents another major milestone, offering more than 140 services covering urban planning, real estate and housing. Projects are also now environmentally categorised to ensure compliance with sustainability standards through environmental impact assessments or commitment forms.
Dr Yousef bin Hamad al Balushi, founder of the Smart Investment Gateway, noted that Oman’s business environment is evolving rapidly but still offers room for improvement. “Continuous reform and a shift in service culture are needed to sustain progress”, he said, emphasising the importance of training and mindset transformation among government officials and investors alike.
Similarly, Dr Abdul Salam Faraj Yahya from the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI) highlighted that legislative reforms — such as the Foreign Direct Investment Law, PPP Law and Bankruptcy Law — have created a more secure and attractive environment for investors. He also praised national initiatives like the Fiscal Balance Plan and the Nazdar Programme for supporting economic resilience.
Yahya added that the OCCI continues to support private sector growth through strategic initiatives, including the establishment of business councils and specialised centres such as the Commercial Arbitration Centre and the Entrepreneurship and Franchise Centre. These collective efforts, he said, have helped boost GDP, improve credit ratings, reduce the fiscal deficit and expand employment opportunities for Omanis. — ONA
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