Muscat – The newly introduced mining license management service is now available on the ministry’s comprehensive digital platform, ‘Taqa’. This service is in addition to the platform’s existing functions, including managing auctions for public sites and concession areas.

The new service on the ‘Taqa’ platform aims to enhance the overall investment experience by introducing advanced technologies. These include a user-friendly guide that outlines all applicable procedures, and a message and notification centre to keep investors updated with all relevant information. The platform is designed to automate bidding processes, streamline company registration, and facilitate the collection of fees, making it a crucial tool for investors in the mining sector.

The ‘Taqa’ platform operates on four core services to improve efficiency, promote transparency in investment activities, and create a comprehensive digital database. These services include archiving and bidding, licensing and revenue management, contract management, and inspection and site visits.
In addition to the platform’s mining license management capabilities, the Ministry has introduced a range of digital services related to licensing, such as issuing and renewing prospecting and mining licenses, as well as managing the closure or cancellation of sites and licenses. This aims to streamline mining activities and foster investment growth in the sector.

Saeed bin Awad Al Shukri, Director of the Information Technology Department at the Ministry, emphasised that the Ministry is continuously enhancing the ‘Taqa’ platform to provide services that align with regulations and stimulate investment in Oman’s mining sector. These digital tools will improve the monitoring and management of mining operations, ensuring efficiency and transparency.

To apply for mining opportunities, investors must meet specific technical and financial requirements, including providing an executive summary, initial business plans, and proof of financial capabilities.
Through the ‘Taqa’ platform, the Ministry has announced six mining concession areas. These areas, located across various governorates and wilayats of Oman, are rich in minerals such as silica, salts, sandstone, limestone, barite, and manganese. The Ministry is offering incentives to investors interested in exploring and exploiting these resources, with investment opportunities covering over 100 square kilometres.