Strong Growth in Al Dhahirah Business Activities: What Investors and Entrepreneurs Need to Know
IBRI: Al Dhahirah Governorate is solidifying its status as a key emerging economic hub in Oman, driven by increased investment, a surge in commercial registrations, and ongoing infrastructure development.
In the first quarter of 2026, new commercial registrations in the governorate rose by an impressive 49.5%, reaching 139 compared to 93 in the same period last year. The total number of commercial registrations now stands at 10,234.
Saleh bin Said al Musalhi, Director of the Department of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion in Al Dhahirah Governorate, attributed this growth to heightened investor confidence and the effective implementation of measures to enhance services and simplify processes for entrepreneurs and investors.
He emphasized that Al Dhahirah’s strategic location and economic benefits continue to fuel the growth of commercial, industrial, and service sectors. Additionally, collaborative efforts among government agencies are fostering a business-friendly environment that attracts both local and international investment.
At the wilayat level, Ibri led with 114 new commercial registrations, marking a 46.2% increase. Dhank experienced the fastest growth rate, soaring by 116.7% to 13 new registrations, while Yanqul recorded 12 new registrations.
During the quarter, the governorate issued 1,687 commercial licenses, bringing the cumulative total to 16,130. Furthermore, 2,077 automatic licenses were granted, raising the overall total to 23,947.
Industrial activity remained strong, with 318 industrial licenses issued. Ibri accounted for most of these with 253 licenses, followed by Dhank with 36, and Yanqul with 29.
Investment spans various sectors, including oil and gas, building materials, logistics, warehousing, manufacturing, food processing, and light to medium industries. Notably, renewable energy initiatives are advancing, with 453 registered projects in this sector.
Construction contracting continued to be the most active licensed sector, recording 179 new licenses—an increase of 77.2% compared to the previous year.
A major catalyst for future development is the Al Dhahirah Special Economic Zone, envisioned as a premier logistics and industrial hub. Expected to enhance trade links with Saudi Arabia, attract investment from domestic and international sources, and facilitate the movement of goods between Oman and GCC markets, the zone’s strategic location near the Empty Quarter border crossing is key to its potential success.
Several strategic projects are already underway within the zone, including the construction of dry port infrastructure, a veterinary quarantine facility, administrative and commercial complexes, road networks, and stormwater drainage systems. These initiatives lay the groundwork for sustained industrial and logistics growth in the governorate.
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Al Dhahirah Governorate’s surge in commercial registrations and industrial licenses, driven by strategic infrastructure and streamlined investor services, positions it as a burgeoning economic hub in Oman. The development of the Al Dhahirah Special Economic Zone presents significant opportunities for investors and businesses in logistics, manufacturing, and renewable energy, while enhancing regional trade connectivity, particularly with Saudi Arabia. Smart investors should focus on capitalizing on this growth corridor early, especially in sectors like construction, logistics, and renewable projects, to leverage the region’s expanding market and government support.
