New Fuel Station Regulatory Framework from May 6: What Investors and Business Owners Need to Know in Oman
Muscat: The Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion (MoCIIP) will enforce the new regulatory framework for fuel filling stations starting Wednesday, May 6, 2026, as outlined in Ministerial Decision No. 142/2025.
This initiative reflects MoCIIP’s ongoing commitment to developing the fuel station sector by improving service quality for consumers and fostering a supportive investment environment. The updated regulations streamline licensing procedures for establishing and operating stations, enhancing sector efficiency in line with Oman’s economic growth objectives.
In 2026, the fuel filling station sector witnessed significant activity with 16 applications submitted for new stations, alongside the issuance of two operating licenses and six construction permits, signaling increased investment interest in this vital sector.
Nasra bint Sultan al Habsi, Director General of Commerce at MoCIIP, stated that the revised regulatory framework aims to simplify licensing processes and classify stations based on modern technical and planning standards. These measures are designed to ensure sustainability, reinforce the local investment climate, deliver comprehensive services to consumers, optimize urban planning, and support economic growth across Oman’s governorates.
Eng. Ahmed bin Mubarak al Balushi, Head of the Petroleum Products Licensing Section at MoCIIP, described the new regulation as a developmental milestone aligned with market needs and urban planning requirements. The framework standardizes licensing and classifies stations into four categories by size and service type: integrated stations (minimum area of 10,000 square meters), commercial stations (3,000 square meters), smart self-service stations (800 square meters), and mobile stations offering services via portable units.
The regulation also sets clear guidelines for minimum distances between stations, requiring at least 5 kilometers between stations on non-dual carriageways, with specific exceptions for Muscat Governorate and the Wilayats of Salalah and Suhar, based on regional economic feasibility. Additionally, integrated stations must maintain a minimum 50-kilometer distance in the same direction, with exceptions granted by a competent committee under defined technical and planning conditions.
To establish a fuel station, applicants must provide proof of ownership, lease agreements, or usufruct rights for sites designated for commercial or mixed residential-commercial use. All sites must meet economic feasibility, safety, technical, and planning standards, and include hydrogen refuelling capabilities.
Integrated stations are required to offer essential services, including service and commercial facilities, parking, solar energy infrastructure, and electric vehicle charging points. The inclusion of hydrogen refuelling services is also permitted under approved regulations.
The licensing process involves submitting applications to marketing companies, which assess and refer sites to relevant authorities. Applicants receive forms to obtain necessary approvals. Operating licenses are granted within 30 days of fulfilling all requirements and are valid for three years, with the possibility of renewal.
Special Analysis by Omanet | Navigate Oman’s Market
The new regulatory framework for fuel stations in Oman signals a transformative shift toward modernization and sustainability, presenting significant growth opportunities for investors in energy infrastructure, especially in integrated and smart self-service stations. Businesses should strategically align with the evolving standards by incorporating renewable energy solutions like solar and hydrogen refueling to stay competitive and compliant. Smart investors must prioritize projects that meet these updated criteria and leverage streamlined licensing to capitalize on the sector’s expanding demand and government-supported growth.
