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Oman has emerged as one of the most compelling destinations in the Gulf for entrepreneurs and investors looking to establish a commercial presence in the region. With a stable political environment, a strategic location connecting the GCC, Asia, Africa, and Europe, and a government actively reforming its regulatory framework to attract foreign capital, the Sultanate offers a genuinely competitive environment for business in 2026. Whether you are an Omani national launching a startup, a foreign investor entering a new market, or a multinational establishing a regional presence, understanding how to set up a business correctly from the outset is essential. MFN Auditing covers every aspect of the process, from choosing a legal structure and registering your company through to licensing, banking, and staying compliant after launch. Why Start a Business in Oman? Oman’s appeal as a business destination rests on several converging advantages that distinguish it from other markets in the region. Strategic location: Oman sits at the crossroads of GCC trade routes, with proximity to South Asia, East Africa, and Europe. The Port of Salalah and Port Sultan Qaboos are major logistics hubs supporting regional and international trade. Economic diversification: Vision 2040 is driving sustained investment in non-oil sectors, including tourism, manufacturing, logistics, technology, and renewable energy, creating new commercial opportunities across industries. Investor-friendly reforms: Recent amendments to the Foreign Capital Investment Law allow 100 per cent foreign ownership in most sectors, removing one of the most significant historical barriers to international investment. Modern infrastructure: Oman has invested heavily in road networks, ports, airports, special economic zones, and digital infrastructure, providing a reliable operating environment for businesses of all sizes. Stable business environment: Oman’s political stability, rule of law, and consistent regulatory framework reduce risk for long-term investors and business owners. Sector opportunities: Growth is concentrated in logistics, tourism, healthcare, IT, renewable energy, and professional services, with government incentives available in priority sectors. Types of Business Entities in Oman Choosing the right legal structure is one of the most consequential decisions in the business setup process. Each structure carries different implications for ownership, liability, capital requirements, and regulatory obligations. Limited Liability Company (LLC) The LLC is the most widely used structure for both Omani and foreign investors. It requires a minimum of two shareholders and limits each shareholder’s liability to their capital contribution. LLCs are suited to trading, services, manufacturing, and most commercial activities. Foreign investors can own up to 100 per cent in most sectors. Single Person Company (SPC) The SPC allows a single individual or corporate entity to establish a company with limited liability. It is available to Omani nationals and provides a straightforward structure for sole founders who want the protection of a corporate entity without a partner. Sole Proprietorship A sole proprietorship is the simplest structure available to Omani nationals only. The owner assumes full personal liability for the business. It is suited to small-scale trading, professional services, and individual commercial activities. Partnership Company A partnership involves two or more individuals sharing ownership, profits, and liabilities according to a defined agreement. General partnerships hold all partners jointly liable, while limited partnerships restrict liability for certain partners. Partnerships are common in professional services. Branch Office A branch office allows a foreign company to operate in Oman under its parent company’s name and legal identity. The parent company bears full liability for the branch’s activities. Branch offices are commonly used by multinational companies entering the Omani market. Representative Office A representative office allows a foreign company to conduct market research and promotional activities in Oman without engaging in direct commercial trading. It cannot generate revenue locally and is primarily used for business development and market assessment. Free Zone Company Businesses established in Oman’s free zones, such as the Sohar Free Zone, Salalah Free Zone, and Knowledge Oasis Muscat, benefit from full foreign ownership, tax exemptions, and simplified import and export procedures. Free zone companies are generally restricted to trading within the zone or internationally, with limitations on direct access to the Omani domestic market. Mainland vs Free Zone Business Setup Understanding the differences between mainland and free zone registration is essential for selecting the structure that best matches your commercial objectives. Ownership rules: Mainland companies can now be 100 percent foreign-owned in most sectors. Free zone companies have always permitted full foreign ownership without restriction. Tax considerations: Free zone entities typically benefit from corporate tax exemptions and customs duty relief for a defined period. Mainland companies are subject to standard corporate income tax, currently set at 15 percent. Business activities: Mainland companies can conduct business anywhere in Oman and with government entities. Free zone companies are generally limited to activities within the zone or international trade. Market access: Mainland registration provides unrestricted access to Oman’s domestic market. Free zone entities wishing to sell into the Oman mainland market may need a local distributor or agent. Which option suits your business: Free zones are well-suited to logistics, manufacturing, trading, and export-oriented businesses. Mainland registration is preferable for businesses targeting the domestic market, government contracts, or professional services. Can Foreigners Start a Business in Oman? Yes. Oman’s regulatory reforms have significantly improved the environment for foreign investors. Foreign ownership rules: Amendments to the Foreign Capital Investment Law now permit foreign nationals to own 100 per cent of a business in most commercial sectors without requiring an Omani partner. Sectors allowing full foreign ownership: Trading, technology, consulting, manufacturing, logistics, hospitality, and many professional services sectors are open to complete foreign ownership. Activities with additional approval requirements: Certain sectors, including healthcare, education, financial services, legal services, and telecommunications, require prior approval from the relevant regulatory authority and may have Omani participation requirements. Investor considerations: Foreign investors must hold a valid residency visa or entry permit, register a legal address in Oman, and comply with sector-specific licensing conditions. Working with a licensed business setup consultant is strongly advisable to identify any ownership restrictions applicable to a specific activity before committing to a structure. Best Business Opportunities in Oman Oman’s Vision 2040

  Oman’s 2026 residency reform has rewritten the rules for foreign property investors across the Gulf. Ownership of qualifying property in the Sultanate now secures a sponsor-free residency permit directly eliminating the dependency that blocked thousands of buyers from long-term legal stability. The amendments were published in Official Gazette No. 1653 on June 21, 2026, under Decision No. 87/2026 issued by Inspector General of Police and Customs Lt. Gen. Hassan bin Mohsin Al Shuraiqi, coming into effect the following day. MFN Auditing has analyzed this reform in full here is the complete legal, eligibility, and investment breakdown.  What Decision No. 87/2026 Actually Changed Before this decision, every foreign national including property owners needed a local Omani sponsor to maintain residency. That dependency is now removed for eligible buyers. Under Decision No. 87/2026, eligible foreign property owners can obtain visas and residency permits without a local sponsor. Approval is based on a certificate from the competent authority instead. Three specific changes came into effect: The “Owner Visa” was revised so foreign nationals who own real estate can apply directly to the competent authority without any sponsorship Foreign nationals whose properties are still undergoing registration procedures are now also eligible, based on certification from the competent authority Eligible sponsor categories were expanded to include GCC nationals, licensed foreign investors, foreign property owners, and foreign employees working for government entities Who Qualifies Under the New Rules Eligible Applicants Not Eligible Foreign nationals who own registered residential units in Oman Tenants or long-lease holders without confirmed freehold title Foreign nationals who own land designated for construction Buyers of properties outside designated foreign-ownership zones Buyers whose properties are still in the registration process (subject to authority certification) Applicants who cannot produce certification from the competent authority Spouses and first-degree relatives of eligible property owners Legal representatives of companies that own land plots or real estate units in Oman   Which Properties Actually Unlock Residency This is where most investors make costly mistakes. Not every property in Oman qualifies. ITC Properties: The Primary Route ITCs are licensed real estate projects where foreigners are granted full freehold ownership. These developments include residential units, hotels, malls, and leisure areas in gated communities. Owning property in an ITC grants the investor and their family eligibility to apply for a property-based residency permit. Foreign investors can purchase property in designated ITCs including Al Mouj Muscat, Muscat Bay, Muscat Hills, and AIDA. Pre-Registration and Under-Construction Properties Eligible ownership includes both built properties such as villas, apartments, or commercial units, and undeveloped plots designated for construction. Where land is purchased in an undeveloped state, the law requires the owner to commence construction within four years of title registration. The revised regulations allow residency permits to be granted for both registered and certain unregistered properties, subject to approval by the competent authorities. Outside ITC Zones Outside ITCs, foreigners in Oman can buy apartments on a usufruct basis a long lease, not full ownership in specific locations approved under Ministerial Decision 357/2020. These usufruct arrangements do not carry the same residency rights as ITC freehold ownership. How the System Works: From Purchase to Permit The process follows a direct ownership-verification-activation chain: Purchase a qualifying residential unit or designated construction land in an approved ITC zone Complete legal registration and obtain title documentation Apply for a competent authority certificate confirming ownership Submit the Owner Visa application to the Royal Oman Police no sponsor needed Enter Oman within three months of the visa issuance date Residency activates upon entry and remains valid as long as ownership is maintained. Visa Validity, Permit Tiers and Stay Rules Oman’s property residency now operates across multiple tiers depending on investment value and registration status. Standard ITC Owner Permit As soon as the property is registered in the Ministry of Housing and the title deed is issued, a residency is granted with a visa for 2 years, renewable, covering the owner and immediate family. Pre-Registration and Unregistered Property Permits These visas are issued for periods ranging from six months to one year, renewable for similar durations. Holders are permitted to stay in Oman for up to three months per visit. Golden Residency Tier A 10-year renewable residency requires a minimum property investment of OMR 500,000. A 5-year renewable residency requires a minimum investment of OMR 250,000. The Hard Cancellation Rules Read Before You Buy This clause ends residency with zero grace period. Most investors discover it too late. Residency permits granted to foreign property owners will automatically terminate if ownership of the real estate unit is transferred through any legal transaction. The residency permits of accompanying spouses and eligible relatives are also cancelled as a consequence. Additional conditions that trigger cancellation or rejection: Failure to enter Oman within three months of visa issuance Documentation mismatch during authority verification Property transfer to another party including inheritance transactions in some cases Non-compliance with ITC governance rules (Airbnb-style short-term letting without approval, for example) The Investment Case Behind This Reform Oman’s move is calculated, not accidental. The Sultanate is directly targeting the same pool of international investors currently flowing into Dubai and Abu Dhabi. According to official data, foreign purchases in ITCs accounted for approximately 22% of total real estate activity in 2023, and over 1,200 investors obtained residency through property ownership in the same year. Property value growth is projected at 4 to 7 percent in 2026, with rental yields ranging from 6 to 9 percent in central Muscat areas. Removing the sponsor barrier adds a non-financial stability incentive on top of those returns making the long-term case for Oman significantly stronger than it was twelve months ago. Key Limitations Every Investor Must Accept Not permanent residency. This is a renewable permit. It does not lead to citizenship Oman does not offer a citizenship-by-investment pathway, and applying for Omani nationality requires formally renouncing your current passport. ITC dependency. Residency eligibility is almost entirely confined to ITC-zone properties. General free-market purchases outside these zones do not qualify. Ownership = residency. The moment you

Starting a business in Oman begins with one essential legal step: obtaining a Commercial Registration (CR) Certificate. Whether you are an Omani entrepreneur launching a new venture, a foreign investor entering the market, or an established company opening a branch office, the CR is the foundation of your legal identity in Oman’s commercial landscape. Without a valid CR, a business cannot open corporate bank accounts, enter into formal contracts, apply for licences, or participate in government tenders. In 2026, the process has been significantly streamlined through the Oman Business Platform, making registration more accessible and efficient than ever before. MFN Auditing covers every stage of the process, from eligibility and documentation through to receiving your certificate and staying compliant. What Is a Commercial Registration (CR) Certificate in Oman? A Commercial Registration Certificate is an official government document that legally recognises a business as a registered commercial entity in Oman. It records the business name, legal structure, registered activities, shareholder details, and registered address, serving as the business’s legal identity for all regulatory and commercial purposes. The Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion (MOCIIP) issues the CR through the Oman Business Platform. Every business operating commercially in Oman is legally required to hold a valid CR. Operating without one exposes the entity to financial penalties, forced closure, and ineligibility for contracts and government approvals. It is important to note that the CR is distinct from a business licence. The CR establishes who the business is, while the licence authorises what the business may do. Most businesses require both before commencing operations. Who Needs a Commercial Registration Certificate? The CR requirement applies broadly across entity types and ownership structures. The following categories all require a valid CR before operating in Oman. Omani entrepreneurs setting up sole proprietorships, LLCs, or general partnerships. Foreign investors establishing wholly foreign-owned companies or joint ventures under the Foreign Capital Investment Law. SMEs and startups across all sectors, regardless of size or revenue. Branch offices of foreign companies registered to operate in Oman. Professional firms, trading companies, industrial entities, and technology ventures. In short, if a business conducts any commercial activity in Oman, it requires a CR. The specific documentation and fee requirements vary by entity type, but the registration obligation is universal. Benefits of Obtaining a Commercial Registration Certificate Beyond meeting a legal requirement, the CR unlocks a range of practical and commercial benefits that are essential for doing business in Oman. Legal recognition: The CR establishes the business as a recognised legal entity capable of entering into contracts and issuing invoices. Corporate bank accounts: Banks in Oman require a valid CR before opening any business account. Government approvals and tenders: Public sector contracts and ministry approvals are inaccessible without a CR on file. Import and export activities: Customs authorities require a CR for commercial clearances. VAT registration: The Tax Authority requires a valid CR as part of the VAT registration process. Investor and customer trust: A registered business signals credibility and regulatory compliance to partners, clients, and investors alike. Eligibility Requirements for Obtaining a Commercial Registration Certificate  For Omani Nationals Omani citizens can register as sole proprietors or through partnership and corporate structures. Sole proprietors must be at least 18 years of age. LLCs require a minimum of two shareholders unless registering as a Single Person Company, which is available to Omani nationals. For Foreign Investors Following amendments to the Foreign Capital Investment Law, foreign investors can now own 100 percent of a business in most sectors. However, certain restricted activities still require Omani participation or a minimum Omani shareholding percentage. Foreign investors must hold a valid residency visa or entry permit where applicable, and a registered legal address in Oman is required for all entities. Business Activity Requirements The business activity must appear on MOCIIP’s approved list of commercial activities. Regulated activities such as healthcare, education, financial services, and telecommunications require prior approval from the relevant ministry or authority before the CR can be finalised. Trade Name Availability The proposed business name must be unique, must not conflict with existing registered entities, and must not include prohibited words or terms. MOCIIP’s name reservation system, accessible through the Oman Business Platform, allows applicants to check availability and reserve a name before submitting the registration application. Documents Required for Commercial Registration Preparing the correct documentation before submission significantly reduces delays. The following are required for most registrations. Valid Omani national identity card for Omani shareholders, or a valid passport for foreign shareholders. Residency visa or entry permit for foreign nationals residing in Oman. Shareholder details including full names, nationalities, and shareholding percentages. Proposed trade name confirmation following successful reservation. Proof of registered business address, typically a commercial lease agreement or property ownership document. Articles of Association for LLCs and partnerships, prepared and notarised by a licensed notary. Regulatory approval letters for activities in restricted or regulated sectors. For foreign-owned companies: parent company registration documents and a board resolution authorising establishment of the Oman entity, both attested and translated into Arabic where required. Step-by-Step Process to Obtain a Commercial Registration Certificate in Oman To legally operate a business in Oman, you must secure a Commercial Registration (CR) Certificate from the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion (MOCIIP). This certificate is your company’s legal identity, enabling access to banking, property leasing, employee visas, and government tenders. Step 1: Choose Your Business Activity Begin by identifying the commercial activity you intend to conduct and locating its corresponding code in MOCIIP’s classified activity list. Selecting the correct activity code determines which regulatory approvals are required and which authority has oversight of your sector. Step 2: Select the Appropriate Legal Structure Choose the legal structure that best suits your ownership arrangements, liability preferences, and business objectives. Common structures include the Limited Liability Company (LLC), Sole Proprietorship, General Partnership, and Single Person Company. Each carries different capital, liability, and ownership requirements, so this decision should be made carefully and ideally with professional guidance. Step 3: Reserve a Business Name Submit

Many businesses in Oman look successful on the outside, yet serious financial problems quietly grow behind the scenes. Cash flow becomes difficult to manage. VAT deadlines create stress. Financial reports stay incomplete, and business owners struggle to understand where profits actually go. Small accounting mistakes slowly turn into costly decisions. That pressure increases even more as the business grows. MFN Auditing supports businesses in Oman by turning financial confusion into clear direction. Expert guidance helps companies manage reporting, stay aligned with VAT rules, and understand real financial performance in simple terms. Better control over numbers brings stronger planning and fewer mistakes. That is how businesses move forward with more confidence and stable growth. What Does an Accounting Consultant Actually Do? Many business owners think accounting consultants only record numbers, but the role goes far beyond basic bookkeeping. An accounting consultant studies business finances in detail, checks financial reports, and spots gaps that can affect profit. Cash flow becomes clearer when proper analysis is done, and expense control improves over time. A better understanding of numbers helps owners make stronger financial decisions without confusion.  Consultants also support VAT work, audit preparation, and compliance needs in Oman. Financial mistakes that often stay hidden in daily operations get identified early. Business owners gain clearer direction and more control over planning. Simple reporting and practical advice help companies manage growth in a stable way and reduce financial pressure in day-to-day operations. Top Signs Your Business Needs an Accounting Consultant Many businesses in Oman keep running for years without realizing their finances are slowly becoming unbalanced. Problems do not appear all at once. They build up quietly through small gaps in records, planning, and reporting. At some point, the pressure becomes hard to ignore, and daily decisions start feeling uncertain. That is often the moment where accounting support becomes important for stability and control. Cash Flow Problems Cash may look fine on paper, yet the reality feels different. Payments come late, expenses move fast, and planning gets difficult. This creates constant pressure on daily operations. An accounting consultant helps track money movement in a clear way so business owners can see what is actually happening behind the numbers. VAT Filing Confusion VAT rules can feel complicated for many business owners. Small errors in filing or missing records often create stress during reporting periods. Consultants help organize data properly and reduce mistakes that can lead to penalties or delays. Rapid Business Growth Growth sounds positive, but it brings financial pressure too. More clients, more expenses, and more transactions can quickly become hard to manage without proper systems. Financial guidance helps bring structure during expansion. Poor Financial Visibility Some businesses only see sales numbers but do not clearly understand profit, cost, or real performance. Decisions then get based on guesswork instead of facts. Better reporting changes that situation. Audit or Tax Penalty Risks Small errors in records may not look serious at first, but they can create trouble during audits or tax reviews. Financial support reduces these risks by keeping records accurate and organized. Delayed Financial Reports Reports that arrive late make planning difficult. Business owners end up reacting instead of planning ahead. Timely reporting helps bring control back into decision-making. Benefits of Hiring an Accounting Consultant in Oman Clear financial guidance helps businesses stay stable, reduce mistakes, and make better decisions in daily operations. An accounting consultant brings structure to financial work and helps business owners understand real performance without confusion. Better control over cash flow so money movement becomes easier to track and manage  Stronger VAT compliance support that reduces filing errors and lowers risk of penalties  Clear financial reports that help owners understand profit, cost, and business health  Smarter decision-making based on accurate numbers instead of guesswork or estimates  Less pressure on business owners by handling complex financial work in a structured way  Improved planning for growth through budgeting and forecasting support  Higher confidence during audits and tax reviews due to clean and organized records  Why Omani SMEs Struggle Without Professional Accounting Guidance Many small and medium businesses in Oman face financial pressure not because they lack sales, but because their accounting systems are not strong enough to support daily operations. Without proper financial guidance, small gaps turn into bigger issues over time and affect overall stability. Weak Financial Tracking: Weak financial tracking leads to unclear profit and expense understanding, which makes planning difficult Manual Bookkeeping Errors: Manual bookkeeping increases the chance of errors that affect reports and tax calculations Poor Cash Flow Control: Poor cash flow control creates delays in payments and interrupts smooth business operations Limited Financial Reporting: Limited financial reporting makes it hard for owners to see real business performance Compliance Gaps: Lack of compliance knowledge increases risk during VAT filing and audit checks H2: Industries in Oman That Benefit Most From Accounting Consultants Different industries in Oman face different financial challenges. Some deal with daily transactions, others manage large project costs, and many struggle with reporting and compliance. Accounting consultants help bring structure and clarity to these financial tasks. Retail businesses that need better control over inventory, sales tracking, and daily cash flow Construction companies that manage project costs, subcontractor payments, and long billing cycles Logistics firms that deal with fuel costs, transport expenses, and complex payment schedules Hospitality businesses that face seasonal income changes and high operating expenses Manufacturing companies that handle raw material costs, production expenses, and profit margins Startups that need budgeting support, financial planning, and early-stage cost control E-commerce businesses that manage online payments, refunds, and platform-related fees How Accounting Consultants Help Businesses Stay Compliant in Oman? Businesses in Oman work under clear financial rules that need careful handling. Even small mistakes in records or tax filings can lead to penalties and delays that affect daily operations. Accounting consultants help businesses stay on track by keeping financial records accurate and organized throughout the year. They support VAT filing, prepare reports in the correct format, and check that every transaction is recorded properly.  This reduces stress

Oman’s Golden Visa 2026 marks a significant milestone in the country’s journey toward economic diversification and global integration. Designed to attract investors, entrepreneurs, retirees, and high-net-worth individuals, the program offers long-term residency options that strengthen Oman’s appeal as a secure and prosperous destination. By aligning with Oman Vision 2040, the initiative supports sustainable growth, enhances competitiveness within the GCC, and positions Oman as a hub for international business and lifestyle opportunities. MFN Auditing plays a pivotal role in guiding investors and businesses through the complexities of the Golden Visa application process. With expertise in compliance-driven advisory, documentation support, and investment structuring, MFN Auditing ensures applicants meet eligibility requirements while maximizing the benefits of Oman’s Golden Residency. Their professional consultancy services provide clarity, efficiency, and confidence for those seeking to secure long-term residency in Oman. What Is the Oman Golden Visa? The Oman Golden Visa is a long-term residency program introduced to provide foreign nationals with stability, independence, and investment-driven opportunities in Oman. Unlike standard residence visas, which typically require sponsorship from a local employer or Omani entity, the Golden Visa removes this dependency, granting holders greater autonomy to live, work, and invest in the country. It is designed to attract investors, entrepreneurs, retirees, and high-net-worth individuals who seek secure residency while contributing to Oman’s economic growth. The program offers renewable 5-year and 10-year residency options, customised to different investor categories. These permits come with significant advantages, including property ownership rights, family sponsorship privileges, and continued access to Oman’s growing economy. By providing a structured pathway to long-term residency, the Golden Visa strengthens Oman’s position as a competitive destination within the GCC, while offering foreign nationals a secure and prosperous future. Oman Golden Visa Categories in 2026 Oman’s Golden Visa program is structured into two main residency tiers, each designed to cater to different investor profiles and financial capacities. These categories provide flexibility while ensuring that applicants contribute meaningfully to Oman’s economy. Tier 1 – 10-Year Residency The 10-Year Residency option is designed for high-net-worth individuals and large-scale investors. Applicants must meet higher financial thresholds and commit significant capital into approved sectors such as real estate, business ventures, or government bonds. This route provides long-term security while granting investors greater independence and access to Oman’s growing economy. Tier 2 – 5-Year Residency The 5-Year Residency option is designed for mid-level investors, entrepreneurs, and retirees seeking long-term stability in Oman. It requires applicants to meet moderate financial and compliance criteria, making it more accessible compared to the 10-year category. With a lower investment threshold, this route allows individuals to secure residency while contributing to Oman’s economy through property ownership, business ventures, or other approved investments. Residency can be renewed upon maintaining qualifying investments and fulfilling compliance obligations, offering a practical pathway for those seeking sustainable residency in the Sultanate. Oman Golden Visa Eligibility Requirements The eligibility criteria for Oman’s Golden Visa are designed to ensure applicants meet financial, legal, and compliance standards while contributing positively to the economy. General Eligibility: Minimum age requirement, valid passport, clean criminal record, proof of funds, and verified source of wealth. Investor Eligibility: Includes business investors, real estate investors, shareholders, and bond investors. Entrepreneur Eligibility: Requires establishing a business, meeting employment generation criteria, and contributing to Oman’s economic growth. Retiree Eligibility: Applicants must demonstrate sustainable income and financial stability to support long-term residency. Employment Creation: Investors who generate jobs for Omani nationals can qualify under this route. Property Ownership: Applicants investing in designated real estate projects are eligible. Compliance with Regulations: Applicants must adhere to Oman’s financial, legal, and residency laws to maintain eligibility.  Investment Options for Oman Golden Visa Oman’s Golden Visa program provides multiple qualifying routes, allowing applicants to choose the investment option that best suits their financial capacity and long-term goals. Each pathway is designed to support national development while offering investors secure residency. Real Estate Investment The real estate investment route allows applicants to qualify by purchasing property that meets the government’s minimum value threshold. Eligible property types include residential, commercial, and mixed-use developments, with investments permitted in designated freehold and approved zones. This option is particularly attractive for those seeking both residency and property ownership benefits. Business Investment Through the business investment route, applicants can establish or expand companies in Oman, including LLCs and public enterprises. This pathway provides opportunities for full or partial ownership depending on sector regulations, making it ideal for entrepreneurs and investors aiming to contribute to Oman’s economic growth. Government Bonds The government bonds route offers a secure investment option by purchasing state-issued bonds. Applicants must hold these bonds for a specified minimum duration, ensuring long-term financial commitment while supporting Oman’s fiscal stability. Listed Shares and Securities Applicants may also qualify through stock market investments in listed shares and securities. This option requires meeting minimum value thresholds set by authorities, providing flexibility for investors who prefer diversified portfolios in Oman’s capital markets. Fixed Deposit Investment The fixed deposit route allows applicants to secure residency by placing deposits in Omani banks. These deposits must be maintained for a minimum period, offering a straightforward and low-risk pathway for individuals seeking financial stability and residency benefits. Employment Creation Route The employment creation route enables investors to qualify by generating jobs for Omani nationals. Businesses must meet minimum job creation requirements, making this pathway particularly valuable for companies committed to supporting local workforce development and contributing to Oman’s Vision 2040 goals. Key Benefits of the Oman Golden Visa The Oman Golden Visa provides a wide range of advantages for investors, entrepreneurs, retirees, and their families, making it one of the most attractive residency programs in the GCC. Long-Term Residency Security: Offers renewable 5-year and 10-year permits, ensuring stability and peace of mind. Family Sponsorship Benefits: Allows inclusion of spouse, children, and dependents under the residency. No Local Sponsor Requirement: Provides independence from Omani employer or sponsor obligations. Business Ownership Opportunities: Enables 100% ownership of businesses in approved sectors. Access to Oman’s Economy: Participation in a growing, diversified economy aligned with Vision

External audits play a vital role in maintaining financial transparency, regulatory compliance, and corporate accountability in Oman. As the country’s business environment continues to evolve, regulators, investors, financial institutions, and other stakeholders increasingly rely on audited financial statements to evaluate a company’s financial performance, governance standards, and overall business reliability. In line with Oman Vision 2040, businesses are expected to maintain accurate financial records and comply with applicable reporting and regulatory requirements. An external audit provides an independent assessment of a company’s financial statements and internal controls, helping organizations identify risks, strengthen financial accuracy, and build stakeholder confidence. Whether an audit is mandatory or conducted voluntarily, understanding external audit requirements is essential for businesses operating in Oman. With professional support from MFN Auditing, companies can improve credibility, support sustainable growth, and reduce potential financial and regulatory risks while ensuring compliance with local regulations. Why External Audits Are Important for Businesses in Oman An external audit is an independent review of a company’s financial statements, accounting records, and related processes conducted by a qualified third-party auditor. Its primary purpose is to verify that financial information is accurate, reliable, and prepared in accordance with applicable accounting standards and regulatory requirements. Unlike internal audits, external audits provide an objective assessment from an independent professional. External audits help businesses in Oman meet regulatory obligations, improve financial transparency, and strengthen stakeholder confidence. Audited financial statements are often required by regulators, banks, investors, and shareholders, while also supporting access to financing and business growth opportunities. In addition, external audits help identify weaknesses in financial controls, improve governance practices, and reduce financial and compliance risks. Legal and Regulatory Framework for External Audits in Oman Several regulatory authorities govern external audit requirements in Oman to promote financial transparency, compliance, and corporate accountability. Commercial Companies Law: Requires certain companies to appoint independent auditors and prepare audited financial statements in line with corporate governance and reporting obligations. Capital Market Authority (CMA): Imposes additional audit, disclosure, and reporting requirements on listed companies to protect investors and maintain market confidence. Oman Tax Authority (OTA): May require audited financial statements to support tax compliance, accurate reporting, and verification of financial information. Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion (MOCIIP): Oversees business regulations, company registration requirements, and professional licensing standards for audit firms and practitioners. External Auditor Requirements in Oman External auditors play a critical role in ensuring the accuracy and reliability of financial reporting. To maintain public confidence in the audit process, Oman has established professional and regulatory requirements that auditors must meet before providing audit services. MOCIIP Licensing Requirements Audit firms and practitioners in Oman must comply with licensing requirements set by MOCIIP. This helps ensure auditors have the necessary qualifications, experience, and professional competence. Companies should verify that their auditor is properly licensed and authorized to provide audit services. CMA Accreditation Requirements For CMA-regulated entities, auditors may need to meet additional professional and regulatory standards. These requirements support audit quality, transparency, and investor confidence. Auditor Independence Rules Auditors must remain objective and free from relationships that could affect their judgment. Independence ensures an unbiased assessment of a company’s financial statements. Auditor Rotation Requirements In certain cases, audit partner or firm rotation may be required to strengthen independence, reduce familiarity risks, and maintain objectivity. Conflict of Interest Restrictions Auditors must avoid activities or relationships that could create actual or perceived conflicts of interest and compromise their independence. Shareholder Approval and Appointment Process Many companies appoint external auditors through shareholder approval at annual general meetings, promoting accountability and confidence in the audit process. Which Companies Require External Audits in Oman? External audit requirements in Oman vary depending on the company’s legal structure, ownership, industry, and regulatory obligations. While some organizations are legally required to undergo annual audits, others choose voluntary audits to improve transparency and business credibility. Mandatory Audit Requirements Several categories of companies are commonly subject to mandatory external audit requirements. Joint Stock Companies (SAOG and SAOC) Joint stock companies are generally required to prepare audited financial statements to comply with corporate governance, shareholder reporting, and regulatory obligations. Audits help ensure that shareholders receive accurate information regarding the company’s financial performance and position. Foreign-Owned Companies Foreign-owned entities operating in Oman may also be required to maintain audited financial statements to satisfy regulatory, tax, and corporate compliance requirements. Audited accounts often support reporting obligations both locally and internationally. Regulated Sector Entities Businesses operating in regulated industries such as banking, insurance, telecommunications, energy, and financial services are frequently subject to additional audit and reporting requirements. These sectors often face stricter oversight due to their economic significance and public interest responsibilities. Companies Meeting Specific Legal Requirements Certain companies may become subject to audit obligations based on factors such as revenue levels, shareholder requirements, financing arrangements, or other legal conditions established by applicable regulations. Voluntary Audits Even when not legally required, many businesses choose to conduct external audits because of the significant benefits they provide. SMEs Seeking Financing Banks and financial institutions often prefer audited financial statements when assessing loan applications. Audited accounts provide greater assurance regarding the accuracy of a company’s financial information. Businesses Attracting Investors Potential investors typically perform detailed reviews before committing capital. Audited financial statements improve credibility and can support fundraising, partnerships, and investment negotiations. Companies Preparing for Expansion Organizations planning to expand operations, enter new markets, acquire funding, or participate in major projects often use external audits to strengthen governance and demonstrate financial stability. Documents Required for an External Audit Proper documentation is essential for a successful external audit. Auditors rely on financial records and supporting evidence to verify transactions, evaluate controls, and confirm the accuracy of financial statements. Document Purpose During Audit Financial Statements Review overall financial performance and position General Ledger and Trial Balance Verify account balances and accounting records Bank Statements and Reconciliations Confirm cash balances and banking transactions Tax Records Assess compliance with tax reporting obligations Payroll Records Verify employee-related expenses and obligations Contracts and Agreements Review commitments, liabilities, and revenue arrangements Fixed Asset Records Validate