Why buying property in Oman has become more attractive than ever

For years, international investors viewed Oman as one of the Gulf's best-kept secrets — political stability, exceptional quality of life, and a location connecting the Middle East, Asia and Africa. Today, that reputation is sharpening into something far more concrete.

Progressive legislation, investor-friendly policies and ambitious national projects are reshaping how international buyers view Oman. Property ownership is no longer simply an acquisition—it is a gateway to residency, lifestyle and participation in one of the region's most significant urban transformations.

Oman's Integrated Tourism Complex (ITC) framework allows eligible foreign nationals to own freehold property within designated developments. Beyond ownership, the framework provides long-term residency pathways for eligible investors and their legal family members, in accordance with the applicable regulations. This includes spouses, children — including adult children over the age of 18 — and eligible parents, enabling entire families to benefit from residency rather than the investor alone. Buyers are no longer limited to completed homes in established communities. They now invest at the earliest stages of entirely new destinations, positioning themselves to benefit from phased infrastructure delivery and long-term capital appreciation as communities mature.

Recent regulatory developments have further strengthened this proposition. New residency provisions for eligible foreign property owners have eliminated the requirement for a local sponsor, reinforcing Oman's commitment to international investment and economic diversification. For overseas buyers seeking both lifestyle and financial security, the case for Oman has become compelling.

International buyers today are looking beyond luxury alone. They seek legal certainty, transparent regulation, long-term residency options, sustainable urban planning and stable environments in which to live, work and invest. Oman delivers on all fronts—with a reputation for safety, economic stability and measured, purposeful development. The greatest difference today: investors are no longer buying into individual developments. They are buying into the future of an entire city.

Sultan Haitham City represents one of the Sultanate of Oman's most ambitious urban projects and is rapidly establishing the standard for next-generation master-planned communities. Built around smart infrastructure, sustainable mobility, green open spaces and integrated mixed-use neighbourhoods, it reflects Oman's Vision 2040 commitment to future-ready urban environments that enhance quality of life and economic opportunity. As construction progresses, international investors have a rare opportunity: to participate in growth from the earliest stages. Rather than purchasing into a mature development, buyers are investing alongside the delivery of new infrastructure, commercial districts, schools, parks, healthcare and community amenities — creating genuine potential for long-term value.

This new generation of development is being brought to life by leading private-sector developers, among them Sarooj Development Company. Its flagship project, Sarooj Oasis, is shaping the future of residential living within Sultan Haitham City. Sarooj Oasis is a carefully planned, integrated gated community featuring villas, apartments and commercial spaces, complemented by landscaped public areas, pedestrian-friendly streets, community facilities and a dedicated business centre. It reflects growing demand for neighbourhoods that combine contemporary architecture with walkability, connectivity and everyday convenience, while advancing sustainable urban development. For international buyers, this creates a distinctive proposition: rather than investing solely in a property, purchasers are becoming part of one of Oman's most significant new urban destinations. They gain access to modern planning principles, flexible purchasing opportunities and residency pathways under the applicable regulatory framework.

As Oman continues to implement Vision 2040, its real estate sector is entering a new chapter. Progressive legislation, expanded foreign ownership opportunities and landmark developments such as Sultan Haitham City are creating a more competitive and internationally attractive investment environment than ever. For global investors seeking stability, long-term growth and a high quality of life, Oman is no longer an emerging market. It is becoming one of the Gulf's most compelling real estate investment destinations.

AYA AL SIYABI

The writer is a well-known Omani entrepreneur and published author