OPA investments hit RO 22.4bn: What This Means for Business Growth and Opportunities in Oman
MUSCAT: The Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones (OPAZ) has announced that cumulative investment in Oman’s economic and free zones has reached RO 22.4 billion, with an additional RO 1.4 billion invested recently.
In 2025, OPAZ signed 325 agreements across all zones, as revealed during its latest media briefing. The authority is also operating a digital platform that monitors the progress of 294 strategic projects, tracking phases from negotiation and memorandum signing to the commencement of construction. These projects span sectors such as renewable energy, petrochemicals, food and fisheries, and minerals.
In the Al Dhahirah Special Economic Zone, phase-one developments for main roads and water drainage, valued at RO 5.7 million, are underway. So far, 11 agreements have been awarded to SMEs, with the project completion rate reaching 14.87%.
Regarding the Al Rawdah Special Economic Zone, OPAZ has finalized a development and operations agreement with Mahdah Development Company. Phase one covers an area of 11 square kilometers and focuses on logistics and industrial activities. The development plans have received approval, and a tender will be issued soon for water-drainage channel works.
The authority reported a total workforce of 84,979 employees across the zones, including 30,780 Omanis, resulting in an Omanisation rate of 36%. SMEs have been awarded contracts and procurements totaling approximately RO 8 million. Additionally, there have been 72 initiatives to enhance entrepreneurial skills, 29 training programs, and 18 investment opportunities aimed at development.
OPAZ’s one-stop-shop services facilitated the following outputs: 2,605 commercial registrations, 2,509 economic activity licenses, 7,114 work permits, 419 investor visas, 284 building approvals, 225 environmental permits, 131 environmental licenses, and 1,125 public services permits.
Special Analysis by Omanet | Navigate Oman’s Market
Oman’s robust investment growth in its Special Economic and Free Zones, reaching RO 22.4 billion, underscores strong opportunities for businesses, particularly in renewable energy, petrochemicals, logistics, and SMEs. The strategic focus on infrastructure development and Omanisation, with 36% local workforce participation, mitigates risks related to labor and operational sustainability. Smart investors should leverage the expanding digital tracking platform and favorable regulatory environment to capitalize on emerging sectors and streamlined project execution.
