Starting a business in Oman is a smart move. The country offers an investor-friendly climate, 100% foreign ownership in many sectors, and quick registration processes. But before diving in, it’s important to understand one question—how much does it cost to register a company in Oman?
In this guide, you’ll get a complete overview of all possible costs involved in setting up a company. Whether you’re forming a Limited Liability Company (LLC), a Free Zone entity, or a branch office, this article will walk you through the real costs of company formation in Oman.
Why Oman is Ideal for Business Setup
Oman is part of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and offers stable governance, a growing non-oil sector, and strong infrastructure. It’s ideal for investors looking for long-term business opportunities. The strategic location and tax benefits make Oman company registration a top choice in the region.
Key Reasons for Foreign Investors
- 100% foreign ownership allowed in many sectors
- No personal income tax
- Fast business incorporation process
- Access to growing regional markets
What Are the Key Costs for Company Registration in Oman
Setting up a business involves multiple cost components. Below is a complete breakdown of the cost to register a company in Oman, categorized for easier understanding.
Commercial Registration (CR) Fee
Every business in Oman must obtain a Commercial Registration (CR). This is the first legal step in company formation in Oman.
Estimated Cost: 150 OMR
Purpose: Legal business recognition
Municipality License Fee
You’ll need a municipality license to operate legally in your chosen location.
Estimated Cost: 100 OMR
Varies by city and business activity
Chamber of Commerce Fee
Registration with the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry is mandatory.
Estimated Cost: 50 OMR
Depends on the capital and business size
Name Reservation Fee
Before registration, you must reserve a unique business name.
Estimated Cost: 25 OMR
One-time government fee
Notarization and Legal Translation
All documents must be translated into Arabic and notarized.
Estimated Cost: 75 OMR
Depends on document volume
Additional Setup Costs for Businesses in Oman
Some costs aren’t compulsory for everyone but apply in most standard business cases.
Bank Account Opening Deposit
To open a corporate account in Oman, a minimum deposit is often required.
Estimated Range: 1000 OMR or more
Depends on the bank and type of account
Office Space or Virtual Office Rent
You’ll need a registered office—physical or virtual.
Estimated Cost: Starting at 300 OMR/year
Virtual offices cost less and are faster to arrange
Investor Visa & Medicals
If you’re residing in Oman, you’ll need an investor visa and go through medical testing.
Estimated Cost: 500 OMR
Includes medical exams and Emirates ID equivalent
PRO Services for Documentation
Hiring a Public Relations Officer (PRO) can simplify government paperwork.
Estimated Cost: 250 OMR
Optional but helpful
VAT Registration (if applicable)
If your business crosses the VAT registration threshold in Oman, you must register.
Estimated Cost: 100 OMR
Only for VAT-eligible businesses
Total Cost to Register a Company in Oman
So, how much does it cost to register a business in Oman?
| Cost Component | Estimated Cost (OMR) |
| Commercial Registration (CR) Fee | 150 |
| Municipality License Fee | 100 |
| Chamber of Commerce Fee | 50 |
| Name Reservation Fee | 25 |
| Notarization & Legal Translation | 75 |
| Bank Account Deposit | 1000 |
| Office Rent (Virtual/Physical) | 300 |
| Investor Visa & Medical | 500 |
| PRO Services (Optional) | 250 |
| VAT Registration (if required) | 100 |
| Total (Approximate) | 2550 OMR |
Note: These are estimated costs and may vary depending on your business activity and choice of location.
Types of Legal Structures and Their Cost Impact
Different business structures come with different costs. Let’s take a look.
LLC (Limited Liability Company)
- Most popular structure
- Minimum capital: often waived but depends on activity
- Full liability protection
Branch Office
- Requires parent company documents
- Typically higher registration fees
Sole Proprietorship
- Only available to Omani nationals or GCC citizens
- Lower cost but limited scope
Sector-Specific Company Registration Costs
The cost to register a company in Oman varies by sector. Industries like trading, manufacturing, and logistics often require higher investment due to licensing, infrastructure, or approvals. Meanwhile, consultancy and IT services offer lower entry costs, making them ideal for startups seeking affordable business setup.
Retail and Trading
- May involve import/export license
- Municipality approvals and warehouse rent
IT and Consultancy
- Can be started with a virtual office
- Requires minimal infrastructure
Manufacturing and Industrial
- Higher initial capital
- Requires land or warehouse facilities
Annual Renewal Costs in Oman
Renewing your company registration involves some recurring costs:
- CR Renewal Fee – ~100 OMR
- Municipality License Renewal – 75 to 150 OMR
- Chamber of Commerce Annual Fee – based on business size
- Visa Renewal (if applicable) – ~300 to 500 OMR
Plan for at least 300–600 OMR annually in renewal fees.
How to Reduce Business Setup Costs in Oman
- Use a virtual office instead of a physical one
- Register a low-cost activity like consulting
- Work with experienced business setup consultants
- Avoid penalties by filing VAT and renewals on time
Benefits of Company Registration in Oman
- Strategic location between Asia and Europe
- No personal income tax
- 100% repatriation of profits
- Access to free trade agreements
- Ease of doing business with streamlined government processes
Conclusion
Starting a business in Oman doesn’t have to break the bank. With careful planning and the right support, the cost to register a company in Oman can be quite affordable—especially compared to other GCC countries. Whether you go for an LLC or a branch office, knowing your estimated costs helps avoid surprises.
If you’re planning your setup, always consult experienced business setup consultants in Oman who understand your activity type and can give you accurate cost estimates.
FAQs
What is the minimum capital required to start a business in Oman?
For most activities, the minimum capital requirement has been relaxed, but some activities may still require proof of funds.
Do I need a physical office to register a company?
No. You can opt for a virtual office, which reduces costs and speeds up the process.
Is it possible to own 100% of a business in Oman?
Yes, many business activities now allow 100% foreign ownership in Oman.
How long does it take to register a company in Oman?
The process can take anywhere from 7 to 14 business days, depending on the business activity and document readiness.
What’s the cost of getting an investor visa in Oman?
Approximately 500 OMR, including medical tests and visa fees.
Is VAT registration mandatory for all companies?
No, only businesses crossing the VAT threshold must register.
What happens if I don’t renew my business license?
Late renewal can lead to penalties and temporary suspension of your business license.
