How to import and sell vehicles in Oman

Importing and selling vehicles is a regulated trading business in Oman. You need the right company activities and premises, vehicles that meet Gulf technical standards, and correct customs and registration procedures for every car you bring in.

1. Set up the right company

Register a company, usually an LLC or SPC, with vehicle trading activities on its Commercial Registration. Examples include the sale of new or used cars and the trading of vehicle parts and accessories. Check foreign-ownership rules for your exact activities: most vehicle trading is open to foreign investors, but some vehicle-related services, such as certain repair activities, have been restricted. See our trading licence guide.

2. Secure suitable premises

Vehicle dealers need a showroom or yard that the municipality licenses for vehicle sales, with Civil Defence approval. A virtual office is not enough for this activity.

3. Check the vehicles meet Omani and Gulf standards

Before you buy stock abroad, confirm that each vehicle can be registered in Oman:

• GCC specification or conformity. Vehicles must meet Gulf (GSO) technical standards. Non-GCC-spec vehicles may need conformity checks.
• Condition rules. Oman restricts the import of vehicles in certain conditions, such as severely damaged, salvage or flood-damaged vehicles, and the rules have tightened over time. Check the current position for each vehicle's history.
• Age and type limits may apply to some categories, such as used heavy vehicles.

A vehicle history report for each used import helps you avoid stock that cannot be registered.

4. Import and clear customs

Each vehicle is declared to customs with its invoice, shipping documents, title or export certificate and, for used cars, condition documents. Charges typically include:

• Customs duty, usually 5% of the CIF value for vehicles from outside the GCC
• Import VAT at 5% on the CIF value plus duty

See how to calculate import tax in Oman and the customs clearance process.

5. Inspection and registration

After clearance, vehicles go through technical inspection and are registered with the Royal Oman Police before sale or transfer to the buyer. Dealers should keep clear records linking each customs declaration, inspection and registration.

6. Selling: dealer obligations

• VAT. Register once taxable supplies pass the threshold and charge 5% VAT on sales. Special rules can apply to used goods. See VAT registration.
• Consumer protection. Pricing transparency, accurate descriptions of condition and mileage, and warranty commitments are enforced by the Consumer Protection Authority.
• Financing. If you offer instalment sales, work with licensed finance companies or banks.

Frequently asked questions

Can a foreigner open a car showroom in Oman?

Most vehicle trading activities are open to foreign ownership. Some vehicle services are restricted, so check your activity codes before you register.

What is the customs duty on cars imported into Oman?

Typically 5% of the CIF value for vehicles from outside the GCC, plus 5% import VAT. GCC-origin vehicles may qualify for duty-free treatment.

Can I import a damaged or salvage car into Oman?

Oman restricts the import of vehicles in certain damaged or salvage conditions. Check the current rules before you buy.

Do I need a showroom to sell used cars?

Yes. Vehicle sales require premises licensed for the activity.