Qatar Press Centre showcased investment opportunities in the Sohar Free Zone during Oman’s Economic Media Forum. The forum, hosted by North Al Batinah Governorate, ran from January 21 to 22 and aimed to highlight economic developments in the region.
The Centre was represented by Mubarak Al-Khiyarin, a journalist and economic researcher. He presented a working paper outlining the advantages of investing in the Sohar Free Zone. The zone, established in 2010, offers strategic connectivity to Sohar Port and the Gulf of Oman. This positioning provides competitive advantages for both regional and international investors.
According to Al-Khiyarin, the Free Zone encourages investment through multiple incentives. These include 100% foreign ownership, corporate tax exemptions for up to 25 years, and customs duty exemptions for import and re-export operations. Furthermore, the one-stop shop system simplifies approvals and speeds up investment processes, strengthening the business environment.
The working paper emphasized that these measures attract local and international private sector investors. They also promote capital inflows into productive, export-oriented projects that support Oman’s economic diversification efforts.
Al-Khiyarin highlighted operational data showing that the Sohar Port and Free Zone contribute roughly 2.6% to Oman’s GDP. The zone handles over 75 million tonnes of cargo annually and receives more than 3,000 vessels per year. This underscores the integrated logistics network that supports trade and commercial activity efficiently.
Globally, the Sohar Free Zone has earned recognition as one of the top three free zones worldwide, according to fDi Magazine. This ranking reflects strong investor confidence, effective infrastructure, and a stable regulatory environment.
The Free Zone’s objectives align with Oman’s Tenth Five-Year Plan (2021–2025). The plan focuses on expanding the private sector, diversifying income sources, and strengthening economic infrastructure. By providing a platform for sustainable investment, the Free Zone plays a vital role in achieving these national priorities.
Through this participation, Qatar Press Centre reinforced its commitment to highlighting economic transformation in the Gulf. Experts believe that ongoing promotion of strategic investment zones like Sohar can attract global investors and sustain long-term growth.
Looking ahead, analysts expect the Sohar Free Zone to continue expanding industrial and commercial activity. With its incentives, strong logistics network, and international recognition, the zone remains a key gateway for investment in Oman’s non-oil sectors.
