Oman today_ The time required to register and establish a company in Oman has now been reduced to around four to five days — a figure that, compared to the average of ten days in some neighboring countries, makes Oman one of the fastest and most competitive destinations in the region for starting a business.
The company establishment process in Oman consists of only four main steps, requires no minimum capital, and licensing fees are capped at three percent of the average income. These reforms are part of the government’s efforts to strengthen the business environment, attract investment, and achieve the goals outlined in Oman Vision 2040.
According to the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, company registration is carried out through the Oman Business Platform. This digital system integrates more than 50 electronic services and connects 17 government entities. Investors can complete all procedures — from trade name reservation to final licensing — entirely online without the need for in-person visits. Since its launch in 2021, the platform has issued over 1.26 million licenses, with about 89% of business activities approved automatically.
Mubarak Mohammed Al-Dohani, Director General of Planning at the ministry, stated that these reforms fall under the national programme Nazdaher, which aims to empower the private sector, expand foreign trade, and make it the main driver of the country’s economic growth.
The Nazdaher initiative focuses on four key areas: enhancing the competitiveness of Omani companies, strengthening trade agreements, developing domestic value chains, and increasing the private sector’s role in economic decision-making. Currently, the programme oversees 15 strategic projects in sectors such as tourism, manufacturing, mining, food security, and aviation.
Oman’s special economic and free zones also play a crucial role in attracting investment. These zones offer incentives such as 100% foreign ownership, tax and customs exemptions for up to 30 years, preferential land lease rates, and fully digital services through a single electronic window — creating an appealing environment for business growth.
In parallel with these developments, the Omani government is also focusing on developing national human capital. The Ministry of Labour has introduced initiatives such as wage subsidies, on-the-job training, and employment support programmes to boost Omani participation in the private sector. These measures form part of the country’s broader strategy to diversify the economy and enhance Oman’s overall competitiveness in the region.