How to start a business in Oman for Indians

India and Oman have deep trade and community ties, and Indian nationals form one of the largest expatriate communities in Oman. Since the Foreign Capital Investment Law took effect in 2020, Indian investors can own 100% of an Omani company in most activities, with no local partner.

Starting from India? See our company formation in Oman or LLC company formation, or book a free consultation and get a written quote within one business day.

Choosing a structure

Documents from India

• Individuals: passport copy and photograph. If you are already resident in Oman, add your resident card.
• Indian companies as shareholders: certificate of incorporation, MOA and AOA, a board resolution, the list of directors and shareholders, and a power of attorney.

India and Oman are both parties to the Apostille Convention, so Indian corporate documents can generally be apostilled by India's Ministry of External Affairs rather than going through embassy legalisation. Arabic translation may still be required. See the documents checklist.

Registration steps

1. Check that your activities are open to foreign ownership.
2. Reserve the trade name and prepare the articles.
3. Obtain the Commercial Registration, chamber membership and municipality licence.
4. Register with the Oman Tax Authority and the Ministry of Labour.
5. Open a corporate bank account. See bank account opening.
6. Apply for your investor visa and, if needed, family visas.

The full sequence is in our registration process guide.

Tax considerations

• Omani companies pay 15% corporate income tax, or 3% for qualifying small companies.
• India and Oman have a double taxation avoidance agreement (DTAA), which can reduce withholding taxes and prevent double taxation of the same income.
• Indian tax residents who own foreign companies have reporting obligations in India, for example under overseas direct investment rules and the disclosure of foreign assets. Take Indian tax advice alongside Omani setup advice.

Costs

A small SPC with a flexible office and one investor visa typically costs OMR 2,000–4,000 in the first year. See the setup cost guide or use the calculator.

Frequently asked questions

Can an Indian citizen own 100% of a company in Oman?

Yes. For most activities, Indian investors can own 100% under the Foreign Capital Investment Law, without an Omani partner.

Do Indian documents need attestation for Oman?

Corporate documents usually need an apostille from India's Ministry of External Affairs, plus Arabic translation where required. Individual passport copies generally do not.

Can I move my family to Oman after starting a business?

Yes. Once you hold investor residence through your company and meet the sponsorship conditions, you can sponsor your spouse and children.

Is there a tax treaty between India and Oman?

Yes. India and Oman have a double taxation avoidance agreement covering income taxes.