MUSCAT: Al Mouj Muscat’s Young Entrepreneur Market attracted 25,700 visitors to Al Mouj Walk over two evenings, as the community came out in force to support 100 young entrepreneurs aged 11 to 18. With participation doubling since its inaugural edition, the market demonstrated both the growing ambition of Oman’s young business talent and the public appetite to support their entrepreneurial journeys.

Held on 23 and 24 October under the theme “Youth Inspired”, the market showcased emerging local brands and youth-led businesses offering homemade food and beverages, accessories, handcrafted products and more. From developing products and setting prices to managing sales and engaging directly with customers, participants gained first-hand experience in running a business.

Ahmed Al Massan, Acting CEO of Al Mouj Muscat, said: “A strong entrepreneurial economy begins with a generation that has the confidence to create, take initiative and learn through experience. That confidence cannot be developed through education alone; young people also need opportunities to test their ideas, make decisions and discover what they are capable of achieving. Creating these pathways early is an investment in Oman’s future business leaders and in the entrepreneurial culture that will help drive the Sultanate’s economic diversification.”

Ahmed Jasim Al Zadjali, founder of Little Makers, said: “I was nervous at first because I didn’t know if people would like what I had made. But when someone bought my product, it made me feel really proud. I learned that you have to believe in your idea, explain it well and not give up if someone says no. Now I want to keep improving my business and see how far I can take it.”

Abdullah Humaid Al Badi, founder of Bloomatcha, added: “Running my own stall was harder than I expected, but I really enjoyed it. I had to think about my prices, keep track of what I sold and make sure customers were happy. I learned a lot in just two days, especially how important it is to listen to people and understand what they want. It has made me think more seriously about starting my own business in the future.”

The Young Entrepreneur Market forms part of Al Mouj Muscat’s broader commitment to supporting homegrown brands and local businesses at different stages of development. This will continue with the upcoming edition of THE MARKET at Al Mouj Walk, running from 7 November 2026 to 6 February 2027. Through initiatives such as these, Al Mouj Muscat continues to strengthen its position as a platform for Oman’s next generation of talent, creating a dynamic environment where ambition is translated into enterprise and entrepreneurs can realise their full potential.