Salalah: Oman has unveiled two landmark programmes aimed at enhancing its investment climate and empowering the private sector: the 10-year Golden Residency visa for investors and the Elite Companies initiative. The announcement was made by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion (MoCIIP) during its “Sustainable Business Environment” event in Salalah, held under the patronage of H.H. Sayyid Marwan bin Turki Al Said, Governor of Dhofar, and attended by H.E. Qais bin Mohammed Al Yousef, Minister of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, alongside senior officials, investors, and business leaders.

Golden Residency programme
The Golden Residency programme grants renewable 10-year residencies to investors and their families, offering multiple pathways to eligibility. These include property ownership in Integrated Tourism Complexes, establishing companies in Oman, investing in government bonds or shares in the Omani market, and fixed bank deposits. Another route allows companies that create 50 jobs for Omanis to nominate their partners or key employees.

Nasima bint Yahya Al Balushi, Director General of the Investors Services Centre at MoCIIP, said the initiative reflects Oman’s long-term commitment to investors. “The Golden Residency is not merely a permit; it is a promise of stability, opportunity, and quality of life,” she noted, highlighting Oman’s global ranking in the Quality of Life Index.

The Elite Companies initiative, developed in partnership with the Ministry of Labour, Tax Authority, Royal Oman Police, and the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry, seeks to recognise and support Omani firms that drive national economic growth.

Companies will be classified into three categories (A, B, C) based on strict standards covering governance, Omanisation, exports, revenues, and market reach. Those on the Elite list will benefit from a package of incentives such as participation in policy-making, customs facilitation, and enhanced credibility with international stakeholders.

Tariq bin Nasser Al Harrasi, Project Manager, said the initiative aims to foster “a positive competitive environment that rewards excellence and presents elite companies as role models for the private sector.”

H.E. Ibtisam bint Ahmed Al Farooji, Undersecretary for Investment Promotion, said both initiatives are designed to align with Oman Vision 2040. “They will not only attract foreign investments but also empower Omani companies, create quality jobs, and localise modern technologies,” she said.

Together, the Golden Residency and Elite Companies programmes position Oman as a dynamic, sustainable, and investor-friendly economy, opening new opportunities for growth and international partnerships.