Nasima bint Yahya Al-Baloushi, Director General of the Investor Services Center at the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion (MoCIIP), affirmed that the Golden Residency Program is a key initiative under Oman’s economic diversification plan. The program aims to attract investors with both capital and expertise by offering them long-term residency, enabling them to play an active role in driving national economic growth. Al-Baloushi explained that through this program, Oman seeks to boost foreign direct investment flows and accelerate the growth of promising sectors such as tourism and renewable energy, while also supporting SMEs through knowledge transfer and technology exchange. She highlighted that with a minimum investment requirement of OMR 200,000, the program fosters innovation, skills transfer, and higher Omanization rates by linking certain tracks to job creation. Its ten-year renewable residency ensures long-term stability and lasting partnerships, aligning with Oman Vision 2040 in building a diversified and sustainable economy. She stressed that trust lies at the heart of the program: “Golden Residency sends a clear message that Oman is committed to long-term relationships with investors.” Investors benefit from full ownership rights, legal security, family inclusion, and access to government e-services through a unified platform. Oman’s strategic location at the crossroads of Asia, Africa, and the Middle East provides gateway access to over 2.6 billion consumers, while its global ranking as fourth in quality of life adds to its appeal. The program also enhances legal security through transparent application procedures and strong governance standards, positioning Oman as a competitive investment destination in the region. Unlike other regional programs, Oman’s Golden Residency offers distinctive features: a renewable 10-year residency, full ownership of businesses and real estate, family inclusion without restrictions on age or number, and a streamlined digital application system with dedicated relationship managers. Additional privileges include property ownership outside Integrated Tourism Complexes, special immigration lanes, the right to employ three domestic workers, and a politically stable, secure environment. On the most attractive investment tracks, Al-Baloushi noted that real estate ownership and business establishment are expected to drive the highest demand. Real estate investors can acquire ready-made units within Integrated Tourism Complexes, while entrepreneurs can establish companies with 100% ownership, offering full management flexibility and profit control. Other tracks include investment in stocks and bonds, or establishing firms that employ at least 50 Omanis, combining economic value with social impact. She added that the program is expected to stimulate both the real estate and financial markets. Higher demand for residential and commercial properties will spur construction activity, while Muscat Stock Exchange will benefit from increased capital inflows through investment in equities, bonds, and bank deposits, enhancing liquidity and market depth. Investments in government development bonds will further support public spending and economic stability. Oman guarantees full legal rights for capital and profit repatriation, backed by a stable legislative framework and one of the world’s strongest currencies, the Omani Rial, which boosts long-term investor confidence. Al-Baloushi also underlined the government’s commitment to continuous development of the program, with periodic reviews of eligibility criteria and investment thresholds to ensure alignment with evolving economic conditions. New tracks or incentives may be introduced, particularly for investors generating higher employment or innovation levels, ensuring the program remains a competitive tool supporting national development. Regarding the role of the Invest in Oman Platform, she explained that it serves as the official investment gateway, offering integrated services from exploration to expansion. With representatives from more than 22 public and private entities under one roof, the platform allows investors to submit documents, track applications, connect with dedicated relationship managers, obtain licenses, and access aftercare services such as expansion support and economic data. This integrated system enhances transparency, reduces duplication, and ensures a seamless investor journey. The program is also designed to promote knowledge transfer and family stability. By attracting investors with diverse global expertise, it will help develop local workforce skills and strengthen innovation across sectors. Tracks linked to hiring Omani nationals will expand training and career opportunities. Meanwhile, family inclusion ensures investors can settle in a safe, high-quality environment with access to healthcare, education, and modern infrastructure—encouraging long-term residency and integration into Omani society.
