Bids for Sohar Airport Terminal: Key Opportunities and Impacts for Investors in Oman’s Aviation Sector
During the first year of the 11th Five-Year Development Plan (FDP), the Omani government is focused on completing the development projects carried over from the 10th FDP. To support this, the State General Budget for 2026 has allocated RO 900 million for annual expenditure on various development initiatives. Notably, RO 400 million of this budget is designated for advancing key economic transformation projects, including those within the Civil Aviation Sector.
Significant developments planned for the sector include the tendering process for the expansion of the Sohar Airport passenger terminal, the implementation of the Oman Airspace Strategic Project, and the completion of the aircraft maintenance building and cargo facilities at Muscat International Airport. Additionally, consultancy studies continue for the construction of a Backup Runway at Salalah International Airport.
Sohar Airport handled just 238 international and domestic flights through November 2025, serving over 18,500 passengers—a marked decline compared to the previous year. Opened on November 18, 2014, Sohar International Airport acts as an emergency alternative to Muscat International Airport and operates under the IATA code OHS.
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The RO 900 million allocation in the 2026 State General Budget for development projects, with RO 400 million dedicated to economic transformation in civil aviation, signals strong government commitment to upgrading Oman’s aviation infrastructure. This opens significant opportunities for businesses in construction, aviation services, and logistics, especially around Sohar and Muscat airports. Smart investors should consider ventures in airport-related services and innovative airspace management solutions to capitalize on this strategic national focus.
