Private sector investment in Oman's space sector has increased from 20 million Omani Rials in 2023 to 65 million Omani Rials in 2024 and then to 74 million Omani Rials in 2025. This 270% growth compared to 2023 signifies remarkable progress in this field.
Increase in Employment and Number of Companies
The number of employees in government and private entities active in this sector has risen from 152 in 2023 to 241 in 2024 and then to 400 in 2025, representing a 163% growth. Additionally, the number of active companies in the space sector has increased from 11 companies in 2023 to 20 companies in 2024 and then to 26 companies in 2025, marking a 136% growth.
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These statistics indicate the rapid movement of Oman's space sector from the establishment phase to the market-building phase. This transformation is driven by increased private sector investment, a rise in the number of companies and employees, the launch of strategic satellite projects, infrastructure development, and programs to enhance national capacity and stronger international presence.
Significant Advances in Infrastructure and International Cooperation
Engineer Said Hamoud Al-Maawali, Minister of Transport, Communications, and Information Technology, emphasized that this sector is rapidly developing and acts as a facilitator for the digital economy. He added that this sector supports economic diversification and strengthens national capacity in line with Oman 2040 goals.
According to the report "National Space Program Product 2023-2025" published by the National Space Center, Advanced Technologies, and Artificial Intelligence in the relevant ministry, this sector has attracted national attention since 2020. In the three years following the launch of the national space policy, this sector has transitioned from the establishment phase to the market-building phase, which includes the initiation of infrastructure projects and the launch of capacity-building programs, development of international relations, and attracting investment.
According to this report, about 65% of space projects under the policy and executive program of this sector have been implemented. National capacity-building programs are also underway, along with projects related to space governance, satellites, and space launches.
The national space program is linked to the national digital economy program and Oman 2040 vision, utilizing space applications and spatial data to support digital transformation and innovation of smart services. It also contributes to strengthening national capacities, empowering the private sector, and diversifying revenue sources.
The national space policy focuses on ground-based space applications and includes 14 key projects and initiatives along with investment and business opportunities that enable active participation from the private sector. Its main pillars include capacity building, economic diversification, environment and natural resources, and national governance and security.
In terms of infrastructure, this report emphasizes that the government focuses on developing infrastructure that aids in building and localizing national capabilities while also increasing sustainable investment and business opportunities.
One of the prominent projects in this regard is the OmanSat-1 communications satellite, which is a strategic step towards strengthening Oman's position as a regional gateway for space services and programs. In November 2025, an agreement was signed with Airbus Defence and Space for the design, construction, and launch of this satellite, with design, construction, testing, and launch activities scheduled from 2026 to 2029.
This project is designed to enhance national governance over the communications and digital data ecosystem, improve communication coverage across Oman, and accelerate the growth of the space sector.
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