MUSCAT : The nationwide survey, conducted in collaboration with the World Health Organisation, covered more than 10,000 people aged 15 and above across all 11 governorates in 2025. While overall tobacco use remains relatively low compared to global averages, officials highlighted a noticeable upward trend and growing exposure to risk factors.

The findings show that nearly 40 per cent of smokers attempted to quit within the past year.

Manufactured cigarettes remain the most commonly used tobacco product, followed by pipes and shisha. Around 2 per cent of adult males reported using electronic cigarettes, while a similar percentage use smokeless tobacco.

Second-hand smoke exposure remains a concern, with approximately 16 per cent of adults exposed at home and around 20 per cent in the workplace.

At the same time, the survey revealed strong public backing for tougher tobacco control measures. About 90 per cent of Omanis support increasing taxes on tobacco products, and a similar proportion favour banning smoking in open public spaces.

Data from the National Center for Statistics and Information also indicate a shift in the retail landscape. The number of establishments offering shisha fell by 3 per cent in 2024 to 3,292 outlets, while tobacco and smoking supply stores declined sharply to around 1,007, compared with 2,600 the previous year.

The Health Ministry stressed that noncommunicable diseases remain one of the most significant health, economic and social challenges facing Oman. The survey, conducted using internationally recognised scientific methodologies, provides critical evidence to support health planning, strengthen early detection programmes and advance the objectives of Oman Vision 2040.

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