Oman Joins World Free Zones Organization to Boost Global Investment Opportunities

Oman Joins World Free Zones Organization to Boost Global Investment Opportunities
By Atefa Saleh

In a strategic move to strengthen its global investment profile, the Sultanate of Oman, through the Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones (OPAZ), has officially joined the World Free Zones Organization (WFZO). This significant step is part of Oman’s broader vision to enhance the competitiveness and visibility of its economic zones on the international stage.

Why Oman’s Membership in WFZO Matters

Joining the WFZO — a global network of over 1,600 free zones and institutions from more than 140 countries — gives Oman access to a platform for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and best practice sharing with leading economic zones worldwide.

  • Enhance the global competitiveness of Oman’s special economic zones, free zones, and industrial cities
  • Attract high-value investments and projects with significant economic impact
  • Promote Oman as a flexible, business-ready destination with world-class infrastructure
  • Adopt international standards in zone development and management

Strategic Impact on Oman’s Economy

Oman is currently home to 23 special economic, free, and industrial zones, which collectively attracted investments exceeding 21 billion OMR by the end of 2024. These zones are pillars of Oman Vision 2040, offering investors:

  • Competitive tax incentives
  • Streamlined regulatory processes
  • Strategic geographic positioning
  • Access to modern logistics and infrastructure

OPAZ’s membership in the WFZO will help promote these zones internationally, strengthen global partnerships, and align Oman’s development with best practices in sustainable and smart zone management.

A Gateway for International Investors

For international investors and multinational companies looking to expand into the Middle East, Oman presents a compelling value proposition:

  • Political and economic stability
  • Investor-friendly legal frameworks
  • Skilled local workforce and training support
  • Strong connectivity to regional and global markets

Membership in the WFZO is expected to amplify these advantages and position Oman as a trusted, forward-thinking hub for global business and trade.

About the World Free Zones Organization (WFZO)

Headquartered in Dubai, the WFZO is the world’s leading organization for free and economic zones. It provides a collaborative knowledge platform and serves as a global advocate for zone development, innovation, trade facilitation, and investment attraction.

About OPAZ

The Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones (OPAZ) is the regulatory body overseeing the planning, development, and management of Oman’s economic zones. It manages key areas including:

  • Duqm Special Economic Zone
  • Salalah Free Zone
  • Sohar Free Zone
  • Knowledge Oasis Muscat

OPAZ plays a central role in executing Oman’s national strategy for economic diversification and private sector growth.

© 2025 Omanspire. All rights reserved. | Article by Atefa Saleh

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Ahmed Al Harthi

BSc in Software Engineering with Multimedia and Masters of Business Administration in Project Management. Ahmed works as an IT manager and content creator at Omanspire.

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