MUSCAT: The Ministry of Awqaf and Religious Affairs (MoARA) has managed an investment portfolio exceeding RO123 million for orphans’ and minors’ funds while supporting 31,642 families through 66 community zakat committees in 2025, officials announced during the ministry’s annual media briefing.
Dr Mohammed bin Said al Maamari, Minister of Awqaf and Religious Affairs, said the orphan and minors’ fund recorded an investment return of 5.15 per cent, reflecting prudent financial management and strengthened governance frameworks. He noted that the ministry’s performance aligns with the directives of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik to enhance transparency and keep the public informed about institutional achievements in line with Oman Vision 2040.
“The achievements realised reflect the deep trust between the government and society and demonstrate the effectiveness of religious and endowment programmes in strengthening values and supporting sustainable development,” Al Maamari said.
The ministry operates under four key pillars: contributing to sustainable development goals, strengthening community partnerships, investing in religious resources, and promoting moderation and responsible citizenship. In 2025, beneficiaries of religious activities and fatwa services exceeded 10 million, surpassing targets, while revenues from endowments and zakat recorded notable growth.
Digital transformation remained a major focus, with 95 per cent of services now fully digitised and beneficiary satisfaction reaching the same level. The Government Institutions Performance Measurement Unit rated the ministry ‘Excellent’ in 35 out of 68 evaluated indicators.
During the year, 167 new endowment assets valued at over RO 50 million were registered, and contracts worth approximately RO 6 million were signed for 16 new investment projects. The ministry also expanded investments through the Ishraq and Ghiras Endowment Funds, alongside diversified ventures in technology, tourism and space-related initiatives.
Community partnerships continued to play a central role. A total of 339 projects for the reconstruction of mosques and Quranic schools were implemented at a cost exceeding RO 32 million. The ministry has also sponsored temporary employment contracts in more than 400 religious positions and, over the years, spent around RO 16 million supporting employment for over 2,550 members and volunteers.
Looking ahead, 2026 has been designated the ‘Year of Mastery,’ focusing on enhancing service quality, operational efficiency and expanding social impact.
Among key upcoming initiatives is the launch of the Prophet’s Biography Museum, which will highlight the historical relationship between Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and the people of Oman.
Further plans include expanding digital services, introducing a unified services application, strengthening zakat governance, developing selected historic mosques, and improving the Haj experience for Omani pilgrims through continued coordination with Saudi authorities.
The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening partnerships with civil society and the private sector to advance national development priorities and reinforce public trust.
KABEER YOUSUF & SAUD AL ANSARI
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