A Landmark Step for Oman’s Investment Future
Oman is preparing to take a transformative leap in its economic development with the official launch of its Golden Visa programme on August 31, 2025. This initiative marks a turning point in the Sultanate’s ambition to position itself as a leading global hub for investment, entrepreneurship, and long-term residency.
The Golden Visa scheme introduces long-term residency permits of 5 or 10 years, offering foreign investors and entrepreneurs the ability to establish a secure base in Oman. By pairing this initiative with new digital trade reforms, Oman is signaling its determination to create a business environment that is modern, transparent, and globally competitive.
Features and Benefits of the Golden Visa
The Golden Visa offers a range of advantages for investors, entrepreneurs, and their families:
- Residency Security: Long-term visas of 5 or 10 years, renewable upon meeting criteria.
- Tax Incentives: Holders enjoy exemptions that ease financial burdens for businesses and individuals.
- Property Ownership: Investors can buy property in freehold zones, ensuring secure real estate investments.
- Family Sponsorship: Spouses, children under 25, and dependent parents can be included in the residency.
- Access to Services: High-quality healthcare, education, and the right to work and study in Oman.
- Full Business Ownership: Golden Visa holders can own businesses outright, a rare advantage in the Gulf region.
Pricing is set competitively, with the 10-year visa available at OMR 551 (approx. SGD 1,842) and the 5-year visa priced at OMR 326 (approx. SGD 1,090). These costs are attractive compared to similar schemes in the region, making Oman’s offering highly appealing to global investors.
New Reforms to Boost Business Competitiveness
Alongside the Golden Visa, Oman is unveiling a series of reforms aimed at modernizing its economy and empowering local businesses.
- Al Majida Companies Initiative: A national effort to support high-performing Omani enterprises, giving them the tools to scale globally.
- Oman Business Platform: A digital hub designed to simplify the transfer and registration of businesses, reducing bureaucracy and increasing efficiency.
These measures reflect Oman’s broader strategy to diversify its economy away from oil dependency, strengthen entrepreneurship, and enhance the ease of doing business. By fostering a transparent and digital-first system, the government is positioning Oman as an investor-friendly market ready to compete with its regional neighbors.
Eligibility and Investment Pathways
To qualify for the Golden Visa, investors can choose from multiple channels that align with Oman’s economic priorities:
- Real Estate Investments: Purchasing property in approved freehold zones grants eligibility, offering both a stable asset and residency benefits.
- Company Ownership: Establishing or owning a business in Oman is a direct route to qualification, with the advantage of 100% ownership.
- Capital Investments: Targeting strategic sectors such as renewable energy, tourism, IT, and construction aligns with Oman’s diversification goals.
This flexible approach ensures that both individual entrepreneurs and large investors can find pathways into Oman’s growing market.
Strategic Partnerships at the Launch
The Golden Visa programme will be officially unveiled in Salalah with a high-profile launch event. During the event, Oman will announce partnerships with institutions including Sultan Qaboos University, the German University of Technology, the Oman Energy Association, and Ebinaa. These collaborations emphasize the nation’s focus on sustainable development, innovation, and knowledge-sharing.
By aligning with leading educational and industry bodies, Oman is signaling its readiness to support innovation in key growth sectors while nurturing homegrown talent.
Broader Economic Vision
Oman’s Golden Visa and related reforms are part of a wider national vision to build a diversified, future-ready economy. Key areas of focus include:
- Tourism: Expanding attractions and infrastructure to make Oman a sought-after destination for global visitors.
- Renewable Energy: Leveraging natural resources to develop solar and wind power projects that align with global sustainability trends.
- Technology and Innovation: Encouraging startups and investors to bring cutting-edge solutions to Oman’s market.
This holistic approach blends traditional strengths with modern opportunities, ensuring that the country remains resilient in a rapidly changing global economy.
Why Oman Stands Out
Unlike some neighboring countries, Oman’s Golden Visa offers full ownership rights, a major incentive for entrepreneurs seeking independence and control. Coupled with its safe living environment, rich cultural heritage, and strategic location at the crossroads of Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, Oman has all the ingredients to become a thriving destination for global investors.
Furthermore, the competitive cost of residency compared to other Gulf states makes the Golden Visa both accessible and attractive. Investors will not only benefit from business opportunities but also enjoy Oman’s high quality of life, from modern healthcare systems to world-class education facilities.
Looking Ahead
With the launch of the Golden Visa programme, Oman is setting the stage for a dynamic future as a global investment hub. The programme provides a secure residency option, generous business incentives, and a modernized regulatory framework designed to inspire confidence among foreign investors.
For entrepreneurs, investors, and families seeking stability in a region of growing opportunities, Oman’s Golden Visa offers a gateway to long-term prosperity. By coupling strategic reforms with forward-looking policies, Oman is making a bold statement: the Sultanate is open for business and ready to welcome the world.
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