RO 22.4 Billion Investments in Oman Zones: Key Insights on the 325 Deals Shaping Business Opportunities in 2025
MUSCAT: The Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones (OPAZ) has reported that new investments in special economic zones, free zones, and industrial cities surpassed RO 1.4 billion in 2025. This increase brings the total committed investment to RO 22.4 billion, marking a 6.8% rise compared to the previous year.
These details were shared during a media briefing on February 16, 2026, led by Qais bin Mohammed al Yousef, Chairman of OPAZ. The authority announced it signed 325 new investment agreements across various sectors in 2025.
OPAZ emphasized its commitment to creating a business-friendly environment by offering targeted incentives and maximizing the added value of projects, alongside utilizing free trade agreements and comprehensive economic partnerships.
In efforts to enhance its international presence, OPAZ has joined the World Free Zones Organisation. Eng Ahmed bin Hassan al Dheeb, Deputy Chairman of OPAZ, reported that the authority engaged with over 500 companies last year to attract foreign investment.
A strategic project tracking platform has been implemented to oversee projects from negotiation to the signing of usufruct agreements and the commencement of construction. By the end of 2025, 294 projects had been registered in various sectors, including renewables, petrochemicals, food and fisheries, and minerals.
In the Al Dhahirah Special Economic Zone, OPAZ highlighted progress on phase-one works for main roads and drainage channels, which includes 11 agreements between the main contractor and SMEs, valued at RO 5.7 million. Completion stands at approximately 14.9% as of the end of 2025.
For the Al Rawdah Special Economic Zone, a development and operations agreement was signed with Mahdha Development Company to initiate phase one over 14 square kilometers. The site has been handed over to the developer, and the master plan has been approved, with tenders issued for drainage works and project supervision.
On the employment front, OPAZ reported that its zones provided 4,467 job opportunities for Omanis in 2025, exceeding the annual target of 2,500. Total Omani employment reached 30,780 workers out of approximately 85,000, resulting in a localization rate of 36%. Additionally, 4,774 SMEs are now operating within these zones.
The authority launched an updated OMap Platform, serving as a central reference for spatial data and master plans, featuring interactive 2D and 3D maps to facilitate decision-making and expedite procedures. Madayn also introduced the RABT platform, designed to connect local suppliers with industrial procurement needs.
The one-stop-shop initiative for 2025 recorded the issuance of 2,509 economic activity licenses, 1,125 public service licenses, 2,605 commercial registrations, 131 environmental licenses, and 225 environmental permits. Moreover, 419 investor visas, 7,114 work permits, and 284 building permits were granted.
Regarding governance and service performance, OPAZ achieved 75% in an institutional excellence evaluation, received ISO 9001:2025 certification, and automated 25 internal and external services. The Tajawob platform managed 167 requests by the end of 2025.
Special Analysis by Omanet | Navigate Oman’s Market
The recent surge in investments within Oman’s special economic zones, exceeding RO 1.4 billion in 2025, underscores a favorable climate for business expansion in the region. Strategic opportunities arise for investors in sectors like renewables and petrochemicals, particularly as OPAZ integrates advanced tracking platforms and enhances connectivity between local suppliers and industrial needs. Smart entrepreneurs should focus on aligning with government initiatives and leveraging the appeal of Oman’s growing localization efforts to maximize their investment potential.
