Oman Launches 10-Year Golden Visa for Investors and Families

Oman has officially launched a 10-year Golden Residency Programme designed to attract foreign investors, skilled professionals, and their families. This initiative is part of the country’s long-term Vision 2040 reform strategy, which aims to diversify the economy, reduce reliance on oil revenues, and create more opportunities for both locals and expatriates.

The programme was announced during the “Sustainable Business Environment” forum held in Salalah. The event was attended by several key figures, including Sayyid Marwan bin Turki Al Said, Governor of Dhofar, and Qais bin Mohammed Al Yousef, Minister of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion (MoCIIP).

Purpose of the Golden Residency

Officials explained that the new residency scheme is not just about bringing in money. It is also about creating a stronger private sector, encouraging job creation, and ensuring knowledge transfer from international experts to local talent. Most importantly, it provides long-term security for expatriates who want to make Oman their home while contributing to its economy.

Key Benefits for Golden Residency Holders

The Golden Residency offers several advantages for those who qualify:

• 10-year renewable residency permit covering the applicant, their spouse, children, and even first-degree relatives. There are no age limits or restrictions on the number of dependents.
• Fast-track airport services, making travel smoother and faster for residents.
• Permission to employ up to three domestic workers for household needs.
• Property ownership rights beyond integrated tourism complexes, giving expatriates more flexibility in choosing where to live and invest.

These benefits make Oman’s residency programme one of the most attractive options in the Gulf region for families and professionals seeking long-term stability.

Eligibility Pathways

To qualify for the Golden Residency, applicants must make a minimum investment of RO200,000 (around USD $520,000). There are seven main routes to eligibility:

1. Establishing a company with assets and capital worth at least RO200,000.
2. Purchasing property in integrated tourism complexes.
3. Buying government development bonds with at least a two-year maturity period.
4. Investing RO200,000 or more in listed equities on the stock market.
5. Keeping a five-year fixed deposit of RO200,000 in Omani banks.
6. Owning a firm with at least 50 Omani employees and RO200,000 in capital.
7. Being nominated by qualified companies under the Foreign Investment Law.

The Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion emphasized that these pathways are designed to attract capital into priority sectors, which will strengthen Oman’s reputation as a safe and investor-friendly country.

Distinguished Companies” Recognition

At the same forum, the government also announced a new initiative called “Distinguished Companies.” This programme is a joint effort between the Ministry of Labour, the Tax Authority, the Royal Oman Police, and the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Companies will be evaluated on factors such as:

• Corporate governance and transparency
• Omanisation (employment of Omani nationals)
• Revenue growth and export achievements
• Compliance with laws and regulations

Firms that perform well will be rewarded and recognized, encouraging businesses to contribute more effectively to the national economy.

Push for Digital Transformation

Oman is also moving towards a more digital economy. As part of this effort, the government introduced a new online service through the Oman Business Platform that allows the transfer of commercial registration ownership. This service, currently available for sole proprietorships and one-person companies, is expected to expand further. It reflects Oman’s larger goal of creating a modern, digital-first business environment.

Global Marketing and Promotion

To make the Golden Residency a success, Oman has partnered with Alam Al Hijrah (Migration World), a licensed consultancy that operates in over 60 countries. The marketing campaign will include:

• Digital promotions targeting investors worldwide
• International investor conferences
• Strategic partnerships coordinated with MoCIIP

Through these efforts, Oman hopes to position itself as one of the leading destinations in the Middle East for long-term residency and investment.

Competitive Edge in the Gulf

Oman’s Golden Residency is also more competitive compared to its earlier rules. The government has reduced the minimum investment requirement from RO250,000 to RO200,000, making it more accessible and in line with similar programmes offered by other Gulf states.

Speaking about the programme, Nasima bint Yahya Al Balushi, Director General of the Investors Services Centre, said:

“The Golden Residency is not just a visa or a permit; it represents Oman’s commitment to creating a balanced environment of opportunity, safety, and quality of life.”

She also pointed out that Oman ranked fourth globally in the 2024 Quality of Life Index, showing that the country already provides a high standard of living for its residents.

In short, Oman’s Golden Residency Programme is a major step in shaping the future of the country. It not only opens the door for foreign investment but also strengthens the local economy, rewards high-performing companies, and supports a digital business ecosystem. With its lower investment threshold, long-term benefits for families, and global outreach strategy, Oman is positioning itself as a top choice for investors and expatriates in the coming decade.

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