Business ideas and licences
Start a business in Oman by industry
Every activity in Oman has its own licence, approvals and cost. Pick your industry to see the route, then talk to us before you file.
Last reviewed 26 October 2026Free first consultation · reply within one business day
The company structure (LLC, SPC, branch or free zone company) is only half of the decision. The activity you choose decides the licence, which authorities approve it, whether foreign ownership is open and what the premises must look like. Use this page to find your industry, then read the licence guide and the how-to article for it.
How to choose the right route
- Pick the activity precisely. "Trading", "restaurant" and "IT" each contain several activities with different approvals.
- Check ownership rules for that activity. See 100% foreign ownership in Oman.
- Choose the structure and location: mainland or free zone.
- Get the cost range before committing: business setup costs.
Trading, import and export
Merchants, traders, wholesalers and importers register under a trading licence. Customs registration is added for import and export.
Technology and e-commerce
- IT and technology licence
- How to start an IT company in Oman
- E-commerce licence
- How to start an e-commerce business in Oman
- Software testing company
Food, restaurants and retail
- Food and restaurant licence
- How to start a restaurant business in Oman
- How to open a coffee shop
- How to start a cloud kitchen
- How to open a supermarket
- How to open a salon
Consultancy and professional services
- Professional consultancy licence
- How to start a consultancy business
- Consultancy company licence
- Management consultancy licence
Construction, real estate and industry
- Construction and contracting licence
- How to start a construction company
- Real estate licence
- How to start a real estate business
- Industrial licence
- How to start a manufacturing business
- Logistics and transport licence
Healthcare, tourism and education
- Healthcare licence
- How to start a medical clinic
- Tourism licence
- How to start a travel agency
- Educational licence
How we help
We confirm the activity code, ownership, premises and approvals first, then prepare and file the Commercial Registration and licences. See our business setup consultants in Oman page for what is included, or book a free consultation.
Frequently asked questions
Which licence do I need to start a business in Oman?
It depends on the activity. Most businesses need a Commercial Registration from MOCIIP plus an activity licence, and regulated activities such as food, healthcare, education or media also need approval from the sector regulator.
Can a foreigner open a restaurant, IT company or e-commerce business in Oman?
Foreign ownership is open for most commercial activities, including IT and e-commerce, and many food businesses. A few activities are restricted or need special approval, so we check the activity before you file.
Is a trading licence the same as a merchant licence?
People use both terms for a licence that allows buying and selling goods. The official activity wording on your Commercial Registration decides what you may trade, so it should be chosen carefully.
How long does it take to start a business in Oman?
A straightforward mainland company is usually operational in three to six weeks once documents are ready. Regulated activities and premises fit-out can add time.
Official sources
Requirements and fees change, so confirm current details with the authority concerned. This page is general guidance, not legal advice.
- Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion (MOCIIP) – licensing, commercial registration policy and the list of restricted activities.
- Invest Easy – the government portal for registering companies and licences.
- Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry – chamber membership linked to the Commercial Registration.
Next steps
Related services and guides
- 01Business LicencesBusiness license in Oman explained: trade license, municipality license and CR activities, cost, renewal, approvals by sector and how to get licensed.
- 02Company FormationCompany formation in Oman: company setup and registration steps, LLC and SPC structures, 100% foreign ownership, documents, costs and timelines for investors.
- 03Setup CostsCompany registration cost in Oman: government fees, Chamber, municipality, office and visa costs with OMR ranges and first-year budgets, including for expats.
- 04Business Setup ConsultantsBusiness setup consultants in Muscat: we choose the structure, file your Commercial Registration, licences, visas and bank account. LLC, SPC, branch and free zone.
- 05Healthcare LicenceLicense a clinic, pharmacy, medical centre or medical equipment company in Oman. Ministry of Health approvals, professional licensing, premises rules and steps.
- 06Food & Restaurant LicenceOpen a restaurant, café, catering or food trading business in Oman. Municipality health licence, food safety rules, premises, staff health cards and setup steps.
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Planning a company in Oman?
Tell us your activity, shareholders and visa needs. We’ll recommend a structure and location, then send a written, itemised quote. The first consultation is free.