MoE Unveils Strategic Programmes for Five-Year Plan: Key Opportunities for Investors and Entrepreneurs in Oman
MUSCAT: The Ministry of Economy (MoE) has unveiled a comprehensive portfolio of strategic programmes for Oman’s Eleventh Five-Year Development Plan (2026–2030), providing a detailed framework to implement national priorities outlined in Oman Vision 2040. This announcement follows the issuance of Royal Decree No. 1/2026, which formally approved the plan. The portfolio encompasses 190 strategic programmes across 12 national priorities, structured under four main pillars: People and Society, Economy and Development, Sustainable Environment, and Governance and Institutional Performance.
The document serves as a key reference for government bodies and stakeholders, clearly defining programme objectives, implementation strategies, timelines, and the responsibilities of both executing and supporting entities. Its purpose is to improve planning efficiency, enhance coordination, and ensure clarity in achieving development outcomes through well-defined processes and measurable targets.
Developed through a rigorous scientific methodology aligned with international best practices, the strategic programmes utilize advanced analytical tools to evaluate the current economic and social landscape, identify challenges and opportunities, and design precise interventions. Each programme is accompanied by specific performance indicators to facilitate effective monitoring, evaluation, and continuous improvement, ensuring alignment with national objectives.
Dr. Nasser bin Rashid al Maawali, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Economy, emphasized that these programmes represent a tangible translation of Oman Vision 2040 during its second implementation phase. He highlighted the plan’s importance at a crucial juncture, aiming to address existing challenges while leveraging emerging opportunities to strengthen sustainable development and elevate the competitiveness of Oman’s national economy.
The plan was formulated through a broad participatory process involving government institutions, private sector stakeholders, and civil society organisations. This inclusive approach has contributed to more comprehensive and realistic outcomes, supported the development of legislative and institutional frameworks, and maintained a balance between fiscal and monetary policies.
Investment priorities are directed toward high-impact sectors with significant growth and employment potential, notably manufacturing, tourism, and the digital economy. Additionally, the plan supports enabling sectors such as mining, food security, renewable energy, transport and logistics, education, and healthcare, reflecting a holistic approach to economic diversification.
A distinctive feature of the plan is the integration of the spatial dimension, which aims to ensure balanced development across all governorates. By leveraging each region’s comparative advantages, the strategy seeks to bolster competitiveness within a unified national framework while promoting decentralisation and empowering local communities to actively shape their economic and social priorities.
The planning framework is divided into two primary tracks: the economic track focuses on diversification, enhancing competitiveness, encouraging innovation, and ensuring fiscal sustainability to reduce dependence on oil revenues; the developmental track prioritizes infrastructure completion alongside social and environmental advancement to support inclusive growth.
Implementation will occur in three phases: the first phase (2026–2027) includes 118 strategic programmes; the second phase (2028–2029) involves 72 programmes; and the final year (2030) serves as a preparatory phase for the subsequent five-year plan.
Programmes are distributed as follows: 52 under the People and Society pillar, focusing on building a knowledge-based society, improving education and healthcare, and preserving national identity; 95 under the Economy and Development pillar, aimed at enhancing economic leadership, improving the investment climate, and supporting labour market efficiency; 21 under the Sustainable Environment pillar, promoting green and digital transitions, efficient resource use, and environmental protection; and 22 under Governance and Institutional Performance, which focus on improving public sector efficiency, transparency, accountability, and the quality of government services through advanced administrative and technological practices.
Overall, these strategic programmes are designed to deliver measurable economic and developmental outcomes, building on past achievements while accelerating progress toward a diversified, sustainable, and competitive economy in line with Oman Vision 2040. — ONA
Special Analysis by Omanet | Navigate Oman’s Market
Oman’s Eleventh Five-Year Development Plan (2026–2030) presents a strategic, data-driven blueprint focused on economic diversification, targeting high-growth sectors like manufacturing, tourism, and the digital economy. For businesses, this means new opportunities in emerging industries and regional markets, alongside increased emphasis on innovation and sustainability. Smart investors should consider positioning themselves early in these priority areas while monitoring government initiatives that support decentralization, competitive advantage, and a balance between fiscal sustainability and social development.
