Why Oman?

Free Trade & Business Framework in Oman

Strategic location near key maritime routes linking Asia, Africa, and Europe

Free Trade Zones

Salalah Free Zone (focus: logistics, industry)

Sohar Free Zone (industry, petrochemicals, trade)

Duqm Special Economic Zone (SEZAD) – one of the largest SEZs in the MENA region, focused on infrastructure, heavy industries, and maritime services.

100% foreign ownership allowed in Free Zones

No import/export duties within Free Zones

Full repatriation of capital and profits

Ease of doing business through the Invest Easy portal and Public Authority for Investment Promotion & Export Development (ITHRAA)

Oman–Africa Economic Relations

Historical and cultural ties with East Africa (e.g. Zanzibar, Tanzania)

Maritime and port partnerships (e.g. Port of Duqm’s strategic positioning)

Development finance and G2G discussions (notably in agriculture, energy, and logistics)

Gateway positioning to reroute African commodities (gold, agriculture, etc.) through Oman, taking advantage of lower logistics congestion than UAE

Sectors of growing interest:

Agri-food imports and investment

Minerals and precious metals trade

Renewable energy & desalination

Islamic finance partnerships with African institutions

Tax Optimization Opportunities

For corporates

Standard corporate tax: 15% (lower than many global peers)

Free Zone incentives include: tax holidays up to 25 years, 0% customs duties, no restrictions on capital repatriation

Companies in Duqm SEZ enjoy: 30-year tax exemption, no minimum capital requirement, fast-track licensing and permits

For individuals

No personal income tax

No capital gains or inheritance tax

Expatriates can benefit from: residency tied to business incorporation, cost-effective living compared to UAE

Growing interest in citizenship by investment discussions (still limited, but residency solutions exist)

Double Tax Treaties & France–Oman Tax Agreement

Oman has signed 35+ Double Taxation Agreements (DTAs), including with France (signed in 1989, updated)

Prevention of double taxation for individuals and companies operating between Oman and France

Reduced or zero withholding tax on dividends, interest, and royalties

Recognition of Omani-source income in France with possible tax credits or exemptions