Muscat, April 27, 2025 — Oman has officially launched its first-ever international investment forum, “Advantage Oman,” signaling a bold move to position itself as a premier global destination for business and investment. The high-profile event, inaugurated under the patronage of senior government officials and industry leaders, drew hundreds of investors, entrepreneurs, and policymakers from across the world to Muscat. Organized by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion in collaboration with key economic stakeholders, Advantage Oman is designed to showcase the Sultanate’s investment potential across sectors such as energy, technology, tourism, logistics, mining, fisheries, and renewable energy.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, H.E. Qais bin Mohammed Al Yousef, Minister of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion, emphasized the forum’s role in boosting Oman’s economy and creating new international partnerships.
” Today, Oman offers a landscape full of opportunity, ” he said. “Through ‘Advantage Oman,’ we are extending an open invitation to the world: come, invest, and grow with us. Our commitment to economic diversification, coupled with a robust regulatory framework and strategic geographic location, makes Oman the ideal destination for forward-looking investors.”
The launch of Advantage Oman comes at a critical time as the country intensifies efforts to achieve the ambitious goals outlined in Oman Vision 2040 — the national strategy aimed at building a sustainable, diversified, and competitive economy. Key discussions during the forum focused on attracting foreign direct investment (FDI), promoting public-private partnerships, and encouraging innovation-driven enterprises.
During various sessions, government representatives presented a series of investment-ready projects across sectors, complete with incentives such as tax exemptions, land grants, and streamlined business registration processes. Notably, several major announcements were made regarding new special economic zones and free zones offering tailored benefits to foreign investors.
The event drew participation from over 1,000 delegates representing 45 countries, including top executives from multinational corporations, financial institutions, and sovereign wealth funds. Representatives from neighboring GCC countries, Europe, Asia, and Africa were notably present, highlighting Oman’s growing relevance on the global economic stage.
A key highlight was the signing of several memorandums of understanding (MoUs) between Omani companies and international firms. These agreements span sectors such as green hydrogen production, AI-based logistics platforms, luxury tourism development, and sustainable aquaculture.
In a panel discussion on emerging markets, CEO of Oman Investment Authority, Abdulsalam Al Murshidi, remarked,
“Oman is no longer just a trade hub; it is a destination for smart capital. Our reforms are not just cosmetic — they are structural and designed to ensure long-term returns for investors.”
True to global trends, sustainability and innovation emerged as key themes throughout the forum. Sessions on green energy projects, carbon-neutral industrial zones, and digital economy initiatives resonated strongly with attendees. Oman’s plan to become a regional leader in green hydrogen production by 2030 was a particular point of interest for energy investors.
Participants also had the opportunity to tour major infrastructure projects, including the Duqm Special Economic Zone, the Port of Salalah expansion, and the Innovation Park Muscat — each offering a glimpse into the future of Oman’s investment landscape.
In his keynote, Undersecretary for Investment Promotion at the Ministry, H.E. Asila Al Samsami, underscored the government’s efforts to simplify the investment process through digital platforms and legislative reforms.
“We have moved beyond rhetoric. Today, investors can set up operations in Oman with unprecedented ease, thanks to the Invest Easy portal and a network of investor support centers across the country,” she said. The inaugural edition of Advantage Oman has set the stage for a new era of economic engagement for the Sultanate. Organizers announced that the forum will become an annual event, growing in scale and ambition each year to reflect Oman’s evolving investment landscape.
As the curtains fell on the first day, the mood among participants was one of optimism and enthusiasm. With its strategic location, youthful population, and clear economic vision, Oman is poised to become one of the Middle East’s most dynamic investment destinations.
The momentum generated by Advantage Oman is expected to translate into tangible deals and long-term partnerships, reinforcing Oman’s role as a bridge between East and West in the global economy.
