Business activities in Oman continued to grow in the first half of 2026 due to ongoing efforts to develop the business environment, facilitate processes, and strengthen trade and investment.
Growth of Gross Domestic Product
According to data from the National Center for Statistics and Information in Oman, the Gross Domestic Product of the wholesale and retail trade sector at current prices grew by 5% in the first half of 2026, reaching approximately 1.735 billion Omani Rials, showing an increase compared to the same period in 2025.
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Increase in Foreign Investment
Foreign investment in business activities also increased by 9.7% to nearly 305.3 million Omani Rials, reflecting a continuous flow of investment into this sector and the opportunities available in the Omani market. Re-exports grew by 13.6% to about 1.14 billion Omani Rials, indicating Oman's growing role in regional and international trade. This increase is well-supported by its strategic location, logistical infrastructure, and a network of ports, airports, and land crossings.
Development of Business Infrastructure
Nisra bint Sultan Al-Haibi, Director General of Trade at the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion, stated that these indicators reflect the ongoing expansion of business activities and the importance of developing an efficient and flexible business environment that supports investment and strengthens Oman's ties with regional and global markets.
She added that the growth in re-exports indicates increased utilization of Oman's commercial and logistical capacities. The ministry, in coordination with relevant authorities, is working to facilitate trade through various ports, simplify import, export, and re-export processes, and enhance synergy among government services provided to the private sector.
Al-Haibi emphasized that the ministry is seeking to attract quality investments and is working to connect available opportunities with the benefits offered by economic, free, and industrial zones, as well as Oman's transport and logistical infrastructure. Additionally, the ministry continues to facilitate exports and re-exports, address challenges faced by traders and exporters, and develop digital services and regulations governing business activities.
The indicators for the first half of 2026 confirm the growing links between business activities, investment, and foreign trade, with re-exports recognized as a significant driver of business activities and a contributor to economic diversification and Oman's position as a regional hub for trade, investment, and logistical services.
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